The Nest exists between heartbeats, filled with dangerous artifacts and one lonely caretaker who never expected a half-dead cult survivor to stumble into his carefully ordered world. Emaline Keyes is dying from magical poisoning, but Mister Crow refuses to let that happen on his watch. As he searches for a cure, she learns what it feels like when someone treats your boundaries like they matter and your healing like it's worth the wait. Crow knows he's not the hero of this story. He's awkward where his brothers were bold, learned where they were instinctive, alive where they are not. But when enemies from his past threaten the fragile peace he's built with Keyes, he'll discover exactly how far he's willing to go to keep her safe. A gothic tale of slow-burning trauma recovery, where a single meaningful look can be more powerful than a thousand kisses, and the most important battles are fought in the quiet spaces of the heart. Perfect for readers seeking: Gothic academia atmosphere with emotional safety guaranteed - Authentic trauma representation and realistic healing journeys - Patient, respectful male lead who earns trust rather than demanding it - Relationship building that prioritizes emotional development over drama - Found family energy and cozy domestic moments - Storytelling that prioritizes emotional beats and character growth in the style that makes the best romantic manga so addictive. Book 1 in the Corvidae series Content note: Features characters healing from trauma with authentic PTSD representation. No dubious consent. No magical fixes, just genuine care and the kind of love that's worth waiting for.