Elara looked at the glass doors of the conservatory, reflecting the bright morning sky. Behind her was the fortress she’d spent years building—safe, quiet, and cold. In front of her was a stranger, a mess of possibilities, and a heart that was finally, tentatively, beginning to beat against its cage. "I’d like that," she said.

He placed the stone in her hand. It felt inexplicably warm. Against her better judgment, Elara bought it.

"You won't find what you're looking for in the iron," Elias said, his back turned as he polished a brass telescope. Elara stiffened. "I just need something heavy."

When they reached the conservatory, Julian paused. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and jasmine. "I know this is sudden, butI find they’re better shared."