Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass, #5)

by Sarah J. Maas

“That man has endured enough, Aedion. A little kindness wouldn’t kill you.” “He stabbed Aelin. If you knew him as I have, you wouldn’t be so willing to fawn over—” “No one expects you to fawn over him. But a kind word, some respect—” He rolled his eyes. “Keep your voice down.” She did—but went on, “He was enslaved; he was tortured for months. Not just by his father, but by that thing inside of him. He was violated, and even if you cannot draw up forgiveness for stabbing Aelin against his own will, then try to have some compassion for that.” Aedion’s heart stuttered at the anger and pain on her face. And that word she’d used— He swallowed hard, checking the street behind them. No sign of anyone hunting for the treasure they bore. “I knew Dorian as a reckless, arrogant—” “I knew your queen as the same. We were children then. We are allowed to make mistakes, to figure out who we wish to be. If you will allow Aelin the gift of your acceptance—”