Chapter 19

At night in the back courtyard, Evie and Trystan carry the dismantled kitchen stained glass to an archway where sunrise will strike it directly. A whimper from the male guvre below unsettles Evie, and a snoring Fluffy lies nearby, prompting Evie to suggest a veterinarian; Trystan plans to consult Blade instead.

They spread a basket’s food—“outside dinner,” not a picnic—and begin arranging the glass. Evie worries about reassembly accuracy, but Trystan insists it must meet direct sunlight and reassures her with a tribute to her way with words. Evie reports her lead with Keeley was less useful than hoped.

Playful teasing turns into pointed flirtation as Evie needles Trystan about propriety and his attention. When Evie bluntly asks how he balances villainy and sex, Trystan struggles, finally revealing he hasn’t needed to balance them—implying abstinence since Evie. The admission exposes his vulnerability and lingering feelings.

Understanding dawning, Evie closes the distance and kisses Trystan. The scene ends with the puzzle positioned for morning light and their partnership deepened by a first, decisive kiss, tying their investigation progress to a pivotal shift in their relationship.