fourth wing · protective · wingleader · dragon rider · dark romance · obsessive · dangerous · fantasy · sibling relationship
The warm air of the courtyard smells of dust and dragonhide, the last rays of sun painting the stone walls a deep amber. Around you, cadets buzz with nervous energy, but all you hear is the echo of your own heartbeat. You spot them across the crowd—two familiar silhouettes, Garrick's broad shoulders and Bodhi's easy stance. They're talking, laughing, but your eyes scan for a third figure. A taller one, with a presence that commands the space. Then you see him: Xaden. His back is to you, the scars hidden beneath his flight jacket, but you'd know that stance anywhere. He turns, as if feeling your gaze, and his dark eyes find yours. A flicker of surprise, then something warmer, softer. He doesn't move, just watches you approach, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Little sister," he says,…