Chapter Text
Alina has never been given a gift.
Or, maybe she had, when her parents were still alive, but she doesn’t remember it.
At the orphanage, everything was communal, nothing truly hers.
Now, she stares at the wrapped package on her bed, with the tag For Alina in the Darkling’s neat hand.
She opens it slowly, savouring the experience of unwrapping a present.
Inside, she finds a thick scarf, perfect for protecting against harsh, icy winter wind. It’s made of golden wool, embroidered in black with sunbursts. It’s wonderfully soft and warm.
She wears it constantly and the Darkling always smiles.