Page 41 of The Phoenix Inheritance

“Alright, let’s do this,” he says gruffly. Finally his charcoal beams meet mine. They’re somber, but brimming with determination. “I won’t lie. I wanted longer but whatever you can give me… I’ll take it.”

I spring to my feet, ready to hug this reckless, big-hearted man senseless.

“Really?” I choke, hardly believing my ears. “M-me? Over the crown?”

A strangled groan rumbles in Dane’s throat as he scoops me into his arms. I can feel his heartbeat slamming into his ribcage.

“Let’s be happy, Isobel,” he mumbles so shakily I’m not sure it’s joy or sorrow.

As for me… Greedily, stupidly, it’s euphoria that explodes in my chest.

“Let’s be happy,” I echo, standing on my tiptoes to kiss him.

At first his lips are stiff and unmoving, but I have enough enthusiasm for the both of us. I tease him until Dane’s usual vigor returns, and he dips down to shower me with everything that lies in his heart.

“Right,” he breathes too soon. “I have to talk to my family.” He stoops down to lay a light peck on my forehead. “I don’t want to catch you worrying for even one instant that I won’t come back.”

“Good luck,” I whisper as he pulls up his hood and slips out of the cell. “I know tonight will be a trial,” I add as I can only imagine the struggle of leaving one’s own family out of choice rather than circumstance. “But I’ll be there for you tomorrow, and every single day after that.”

A hint of a smile flashes over his solemn face before he disappears into the darkness.

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