Astraea's POV
I was just about to close my eyes when I felt it, the slight dip of the mattress near my legs, like someone had taken a seat. My body tensed on instinct, and I turned my head quickly, expecting maybe Draven or a curious servant that didn't know better.
Instead, I saw him.
Therion.
He was sitting at the edge of the bed, with his legs crossed casually and his hands folded on his lap like he belonged there. Like he hadn't just materialized into a realm he was forbidden from interfering with without so much as a shimmer of energy.
He was the only person I knew who could hide his presence so perfectly until he wanted to be seen.
A faint smile played on his face, that same unreadable expression he always wore, equal parts fondness and warning.
"Well," I said, forcing my own tired smile, "this is a surprise."
