The Starlight Heir

by Amalie Howard

When the last star dims and the dawn of an endless night looms, the Starkeeper will burn, for where it walks death follows.

But like all monstrous things, the god of death was infinitely patient . . . The light of the stars could not endure forever, after all.

But as it turns out, the jādū shards sing to me in a singular way that’d had old Vasha salivating, and ever since, his forge has farmed out extra work to me.

“Maybe if you didn’t look like a chimney sweep,

Fictional men never disappoint. “Book boyfriends are simply better,” I say.

“Thick thighs save lives,”

“If I were to judge everyone on every misstep they made, I’d miss out on knowing some wonderful people.”

Are they actually buying this horseshit?

Ashes below, they even know what I like . . . and how I like it. They’ve memorized every inch of me and mapped my body like uncharted territory they plan on conquering.

I’m more than convinced that I climaxed in my sleep. Thank you, shadow lover.

“I know what it’s called, you ass. Don’t prince-splain me.”

Please excuse any noises I might make while dreaming of you naked, Your Highness.

Lust, gratitude, and shame make for a charming cocktail of emotions.

“The library in the palace has nearly three stories of books. Maybe I can show it to you one day . . .”

I see friendship and fondness, loyalty and honesty. I see a man with whom I’ve never had to hide who or what I am. I see someone I’ve grown to care deeply about in a short space of time. Someone I can trust with all of me. My body . . . and my heart, at least for now, if not forever.

“Patience, my little desert starling. I want you burning.”

“Did I please my lady with the tongue thing?”

There’s no way that’s the same size as his fingers.

“Don’t hide from me, Suraya,” he says, his voice rough. “You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.” His lips tilt up into a devilish smirk. “I could stare at you and I could eat you forever.”

“You are oblivious, Suraya. None of those other women could ever hope to hold a candle to you.”

He presses a teasing kiss to the side of my neck. “When this is over and you’re safe, I promise to drop to my knees for as long as you like.”

You are our heart. Our infinite hope. A soul of truth bred from the stars.

Go fuck yourself.”

“I’ve only one promise for you.” Roshan leans close, even though there’s no need to whisper. “When we get to my chambers, I’m going to kiss every inch of you, and then I’ll dine on my favorite dessert until I’m good and satisfied, and then I’m going to make love to you until you can’t walk straight.”