Page 50 of The Stolen Throne

With a smirk, I reply, “It seems I picked up a random book on the flora and fauna of the kingdom. I wasn’t expecting it to be as interesting as it is.”

He hums as he continues to stare at me. I can’t help but reach up and gently caress his cheek before brushing his short ebon hair off his forehead. A few strands look to have curled from sweat.

His eyes flutter closed, and his breath hitches at my touch. “Did you read anything about foxes?” he whispers.

I continue to brush my fingers through his short locks as I reply, “I didn’t get to the part about foxes. I don’t know a lot about them, so I’m looking forward to learning about them.”

His light hazel eyes pop open to reveal so much emotion hidden in their depths; I can’t stop the soft gasp that escapes me. His voice is hushed as if this is a secret between the two of us. “Did you know that foxes mate for life?”

I shake my head no, however, the sentiment brings a smile to my face. There aren’t many animals that create that type of bond. He wraps his fingers around my wrist and lifts my hand to cup his cheek.

“Foxes mate for life, Eira. You’re MY Little Fox. Forever mine. I’ve captured the fox, but the fox has captured my heart,” he admits quietly within our burrow of blankets. I lean forward, pressing my lips to his in a gentle kiss before pulling away. My thumb caresses his cheek as I say, “Then I will guard your heart, Alair. I promise I’ll keep it safe, always.”

26

I’ve managed to sneak all the way to the library without the guards ratting me out or one of the guys finding me. A few days have passed since I returned, and I’m feeling much better. But the guys still think I need to rest, so I’ve been stuck in my bedroom for days.

I’m going stir crazy! Hence why I waited till the guys left for training to sneak through the castle. I push open the library door and slip inside, closing the door softly behind me.

With a grin, I rush over to my pile of books, excited to dive into a fantasy world. I found a book about dragons, and it has sucked me in. Snuggling into the sofa, I pull my fluffy blanket over me. Opening the book to where I left off, I begin reading about dragons and magic.

My book suddenly goes flying across the room, and I screech when I hear my name behind me. I was so distracted with the book; I didn’t hear anyone come in. “Merciful Goddess!” I yell as I look over my shoulder to find a wide-eyed Bene.

He’s still standing in the doorway of the library, frozen mid-step. “Forgive me, Eira. I didn’t realize that would frighten you.”

My head falls back, and I look up at the ceiling. “I have found you men to be far more silent than necessary.”

His face hovers over mine as his warm eyes stare down at me, filled with concern. “I will make noise next time. Are you well?”

I sigh as I nod. “I am, Bene.” I lift my head to look for the casualty of my fright. I hope I didn’t harm the book.

Bene holds the book with a soft smile as he comes around the sofa. “Your book, Little Dragoness.”

I grin as I take it from him. Looking it over, the edges are a bit dinged from landing on the floor, but otherwise it looks fine enough. Holding it to my chest, I look up at Bene with a smile. “How did training go?”

He shrugs. “As well as training usually goes.”

I hum as I pat the spot beside me. “Join me?”

He smiles and sits next to me. I shift around, so I can lie on the sofa with my head in his lap. “Getting comfortable?” he teases.

“Mhm. I want to continue reading, and you are the best pillow.”

He chuckles and begins playing with my hair. I let out a content sigh as I open my book again. His voice is soft when he asks, “What are you reading?”

“A book about dragons and magic. It has become my favorite to read.”

He hums as he says, “I find it hard to believe you have a favorite with a hoard as large as yours.”

I shift my gaze from my book to his eyes. With an arched brow, I ask, “Do you not have a favorite book?”

He smirks. “I have a favorite book.”

My eyes widen with excitement at gaining this knowledge. “What is it?”

His eyes roam over my face for a moment before meeting mine. “You.”

My brows knit in confusion. “Me?”

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