Chapter 211

Keira stared out the plane window, watching New York's skyline emerge through the clouds. After weeks in Wystovia's palace, the familiar skyscrapers felt both welcoming and strange, like returning to a favorite childhood book you've outgrown. "Almost home," Alexei said, his hand covering hers on the armrest. "Almost," she agreed, turning to meet his gaze. "Though I'm not sure where home is anymore." He smiled, lifting her hand to press a kiss to her knuckles. "Home is wherever we are together." "That's disgustingly romantic," she replied, but couldn't keep the smile from her face. "And nothing like the arrogant prince I first met." "You've ruined me," he said with mock solemnity. "Turned me into one of those men who says sappy things. Plus New York was our home before. I'm hoping you are still happy to continue living here." "I would love that. But I want to go to Wystovia as often as possible. Family is important to me, and that includes yours." The plane began its descent, the slight