After a day of training in rain and cold, Feyre and Rhysand take shelter in a remote tavern-inn where only one tiny attic room is available. Rhysand hides his identity by altering his bearing rather than using more magic, and the cramped room leaves them no choice but to share a bed. While Rhysand goes downstairs for food, Feyre changes out of her soaked clothes and reflects on Lucien's attempt to bring her back to the Spring Court.

Alone, Feyre thinks through what Lucien's report will mean for Tamlin and finally confronts the truth of her past. She recognizes that Tamlin ignored her needs, that Lucien was willing to take her against her will, and that the controlling values of the Spring Court differ sharply from the respect she now sees in Rhysand and his court. Feyre admits that although she once loved Tamlin, what happened Under the Mountain changed them too deeply for that relationship to endure, and she begins to accept that ending.

When Rhys returns with dinner, the two talk more openly than before. Rhys explains the burden of his power and how constant release and control are necessary to keep it from overwhelming him, which deepens Feyre's understanding of his strength and isolation. They then speak about the confrontation with Lucien: Rhys says he would have respected Feyre's choice if she had left, but if Lucien had taken her by force, Rhys would have destroyed everything necessary to get her back. Feyre admits she would have attacked Lucien if he had hurt Rhys, and the exchange leads both of them to confess the intensity of their desire.

They decide to sleep, but the cold and closeness break the last of their restraint. Rhys moves behind Feyre under the pretense of sharing warmth, and their teasing turns into deliberate physical intimacy. Feyre asks for distraction, Rhys pleasures her, and their mutual attraction becomes undeniable and openly acted upon. Though they stop short of going further, the night marks a decisive emotional and physical turning point between them, and Feyre falls asleep in Rhysand's arms without suffering a nightmare.