Feyre lies awake, rattled by Rhysand’s earlier mind intrusion and the echoes of Tamlin’s rage. She avoids dinner and painting, dwelling on the new names and threats—Under the Mountain and Amarantha—and the mounting danger spreading from the blight.

Tamlin comes to her room, apologetic and hollow, and declares he is sending Feyre home. He claims her life-debt to shield her from Treaty consequences and insists she reveal nothing of the Spring Court or his identity, warning that Amarantha’s spies will be watching. Feyre argues she can fight, but Tamlin admits he cannot protect her from forces like the Attor and worse, and that her connection to him makes her a target.

When Feyre asks how long, Tamlin cannot say, only promising it is not forever. Their fear of separation turns into urgency; they kiss and make love, clinging to each other as if to halt time. Their intimacy solidifies their bond even as departure looms.

Afterward, Tamlin tells Feyre she must leave at dawn. He stays to hold her as she drifts to sleep, and she thinks she hears him whisper, “I love you—thorns and all.” By morning he is gone, leaving Feyre uncertain if the confession was real as she faces imminent separation.