When Rowan finally arrived at the inn, his heart was pounding so hard he could barely hear his own thoughts. The place was quiet, too quiet and before he could even fully push the door open, a strong hand grabbed his wrist and pulled him inside.
"Wha—" Rowan barely had time to speak before he was enveloped in a tight, trembling embrace.
"My prince… I missed you," came the low, breathless whisper against his ear.
It was Magnus.
Rowan froze for a heartbeat, his breath catching in his throat as Magnus buried his face into his shoulder, the familiar warmth and scent crashing back into him like a forgotten dream. Then, before he could even process it, Magnus pressed a gentle kiss against the side of his neck — soft and fleeting but enough to make Rowan jolt slightly in surprise.