For a moment, he was hers again. Heart clenching at the small glimpse of the smirking rascal she fell in love with, Angelica steadied her grin. She could hold the melancholy at bay for him, she hoped. Her spirits faltered slightly at his joke - it must be a joke - that hit too close at her past.

Angelica was a widow before remarrying today, which Emrys knew, but the manner of her late husband's demise was never a topic that rose between them. She didn't talk to Emrys of her first marriage; he didn't ask and she certainly didn't tell. She'd married a monster disguised as a prince and even ten years after taking his life, there were moments when it seemed Viktor had still won. Her irrational mind was certain she'd find a smug, vengeful ghost in the corners if she dared to look. Of course Viktor Voron would manage to intrude on her wedding night because of course he would. Of bloody course.

Attempting nonchalance with minor success, Angelica gave a shrug. "And I intend for you to live a long, prosperous, adventurous life whether you like it or not, sir. Though I rather think you will come to like it."

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