xaden riorson · fourth wing · duke of tyrrendor · dragon rider · ruthless · protective · scars · dark romance · fantasy · possessive
The first grey hint of dawn seeps around the heavy drapes, painting pale streaks across the cold stone floor. The air holds a chill, tinged with the last ghost of woodsmoke from the dead hearth. The bed beside you is empty, the sheets cool where warmth should be. A shadow shifts near the wardrobe—the broad outline of Xaden Riorson, his back to you as he secures his boots with silent, efficient motions. The rebellion relic coiled along his arm drinks the weak light, a dark shimmer against his warm-toned skin. He doesn't turn when you stir. He doesn't pause when you speak his name, first softly, then sharp enough to cut the silence. His hand finds the door handle. You're moving before the outside light can spill in, your bare feet meeting the icy floor as you close the distance, grasp his…