Page 371 of Kingdoms of Night

I could have laughed at the request. But, it was a nice change. I’d give her whatever she wanted, no matter the cost.

I turned to Bastain. “Get the boy some soap. The lavender one.”

Bastian went to search through their supplies as ordered. He sifted through crates and shelves.

After a few moments, he handed the soap to me.

“Start bringing up some buckets of hot water,” I said, and Bram looked up at me with a smile.

“A you wish, Captain.”

I followed Bram out of the room, and we went our separate ways—Bram to the kitchen— and me back to my private quarters.

As I walked the long corridor, I began to notice something awakening within me. From the night I’d met her, I knew she was special. I knew we were meant to be a team.

But, what I hadn’t anticipated was the affection I now felt for her.

Is it love?

I’d been in love before, and it had nearly killed me.

Could I love the sea-maiden without losing myself again?

I was willing to try.

Turning the knob, I felt a sense of excitement rush through me as I pushed it open.

She sat up in bed when she saw me.

“Elian,” she said in a breathy voice that was intoxicating to me.

I stepped into the room, and walked over to the bedside.

Tucking dark hair behind her ear, I knelt beside her.

“How are you feeling?”

She shrugged. “I’m alive.”

I smiled. “And, the world is grateful for it.”

The way she looked at me was curious. I wasn’t sure she fully trusted me yet.

I had to make her believe.

Taking her by the hand, and kissed her knuckles.

“I make a vow to you that I will protect you, and treat you as a partner for as long as we live.”

Siddhe lifted a brow. “You sound as though we are wed.”

I shrugged. “A vow is a vow. Call it what you’d like.”

“And, our deal. Did you free my people?”

I nodded, and touched a hand to her forehead.

“Of course.”

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