Prince Angelus moved quietly through the palace halls, his heart pounding in his chest.
The torches lining the stone walls flickered, casting long shadows as he slipped past the guards.
He knew the way well, he had taken this path many times before but every time, the risk grew greater.
Cassiel waited for him at the edge of the Love Garden, hidden in the darkness between the towering rose hedges.
His silver hair shimmered faintly under the moonlight, and his piercing eyes glowed with quiet amusement.
"You are late," Cassiel whispered, his voice smooth. He reached out, brushing a gloved hand over Angelus's cheek. "Were you afraid?"
Angelus shivered at the touch, though he did not pull away. "Of course, I was afraid," he whispered back, glancing around. "You know what will happen if we are caught."
Cassiel smiled, tilting Angelus's chin up. "You still came."
