Book Five: Chapter 67

His magic sank into the spring, swirling beneath the surface before bubbling up around them like a living current. Velvet’s back arched, lifting above the water with a smooth, fluid motion as if the magic itself was urging her upward. He could feel her presence radiating against his mind, the sensation almost tangible, like a subtle caress threading through his thoughts and fingertips.

He moved a hand between her legs, curiosity guiding him, only to startle when something unexpectedly gripped him. The sudden pressure made him jerk his hand back, water rippling in every direction.

“That’s normal,” Velvet said softly, her eyes glinting under the reflection of the early morning sun. She leaned slightly toward him, her voice gentle but tinged with amusement. “I’m… different down there.”

His eyebrows rose. “Different how?” he asked, his voice hushed, tinged with b