chapter 65

With Malaevor tucked in and the castle's corridors now quiet, William and Rhaenyra found themselves alone in their chamber. The dim candlelight flickered gently, casting an amber glow over the room. The scent of fragrant candles filled the air, creating an atmosphere of tranquility.

They sat on the edge of their bed, the weight of the day's events lingering. William's arm slipped around Rhaenyra's shoulders, drawing her close. The silence between them was comfortable, a moment to reflect on the events of the past years. 

They both haven't imagined that they would end up together like this. 

Rhaenyra broke the silence, her voice soft and filled with affection. "Our family has come a long way, William."

He nodded, a smile touching his lips. "It has indeed. From the day we first met to now, I wouldn't change a thing."

As they reminisced, their minds wandered back to the early days of their relationship, how they snuck out to the tavern. And how William almost gave Rhaenyra a heart attack when he first claimed The Cannibal. That had led them to where they were. They recalled the day Malaevor had come into their lives, a moment that had brought them even closer.

They shared a knowing look, their gazes filled with a depth of understanding that transcended mere words. They had faced their share of trials, had been tested by the intrigues of King's Landing, but their love had remained unwavering.

As the candles continued to burn low, Rhaenyra leaned her head on William's shoulder, a gesture of trust and love. Her fingers traced a soothing pattern on his abs, her touch comforting and familiar.

"Our son has grown so much," she mused, her voice a tender melody. "But he's still our little dragon."

William's chest swelled with pride as he thought about Malaevor. "Indeed," he replied with a warm smile, "and he possesses your spirit and determination."

Rhaenyra's laughter filled the room, a soft and melodic sound like the sweetest of songs. "And he has your heart," she said, her eyes reflecting the deep affection they held for one another.

Rhaenyra turned to William, her eyes locking with his, their gaze a silent vow. "Through all the chaos and power struggles, it's moments like these that make it all worthwhile."

Their lips met in a tender kiss, a poignant reminder of the love that bound them together. They held each other close, the outside world slowly fading away as they surrendered to the intimacy they shared.

In the hush of their chamber, their love remained a wellspring of strength and solace. The past had shaped them, but the future was a blank canvas, awaiting their shared brushstrokes to bring it to life.

As the night deepened and the chamber grew darker, they drifted into peaceful slumber, ready to embrace whatever the future held. Their love served as an unbreakable anchor in the tempestuous sea of politics, a bond that no force could sunder.