Page 58 of Claimed By the Fae Lord

“It might be the safest,” Astrid returned.

"But—”

“Aeryn, stop,” I told her, adjusting the straps on my shoulders. "I can handle Ephandor. I know what to expect fromthe Duersians and am prepared for it. You’re worrying too much."

Her pale green eyes searched mine for the emotion she worried I was hiding. She didn’t find it.

"Raina, I understand your need for independence and your desire to protect all of us," she began, her tone shifting to one of quiet assurance. "But know this—you will never be without support. Lorne can shadow-walk you out of there if things get too intense."

"Thank you," I murmured, grateful for the lifeline even as I knew there was no true escape from the path I’d been thrown upon.

"But where would I go? I won’t draw attention to Thornewood, even though I wish I could remain here. I’d even prefer venturing throughout Falcondale rooting out the enemy. It’s just too risky. Believe me when I say if there was someplace else I knew would be safe for me, as well as its inhabitants, I’d go.”

"Leave that to me," Astrid chimed in, her voice carrying the warmth of a late summer breeze. "I have somewhere in mind but will need to look into it further. Maybe I can shorten your time with the clan."

I was doubtful it would pan out, but nodded in thanks, anyway. A haven away from the disastrous state my life had become sounded very attractive.

"I need to head downstairs. We’re supposed to leave in fifteen minutes.”

"Give me twenty,” Mirrelle requested as she yanked the door open.

“Why?” I asked.

She turned, crossing her arms, her stance resolute. Her dark red eyes blazed.

"Raina, darling. You cannot seriously think I'm letting you march into that lion’s den alone."

Aeryn stood beside her, nodding in agreement.

"Mirrelle," I started to protest, but she waved me off.

"No, I've witnessed enough. We’re not sending you without an ally."

“Technically, Liamismy ally, Mirrelle. So are the Duersians.”

“And technically, he’ll still be his father’s son after I cut off his balls.” She locked eyes with Aeryn. "Permission to accompany Raina?"

Aeryn considered, her baast glowing behind her eyes. The beast was no doubt pacing, assessing the situation with the same acuity that marked all her decisions.

“Aeryn, don’t—”

"Granted. Raina needs someone who can call Liam on his bullshit. And you," she looked at Mirrelle with a smirk, "have a talent for that."

"And I bite!,” Mirrelle bit the air, her grin wolfish.

I shook my head, the corners of my mouth lifting.

Astrid’s hand squeezed my shoulder, her gaze steadfast. "It doesn't hurt to have backup."

"Besides, I might just make it an order," Aeryn said, a flicker of mischief lighting up her face. "And you wouldn't want to defy your future queen, now would you?"

"Futurebeing the operative word," I shot back, unable to suppress a quick laugh despite the shadows inside me clinginglike cobwebs. "Last I checked, you haven't quite ascended the throne yet."

Aeryn's lips twitched, and for a moment, the weight in the room lifted. Only to come back down and smack me across the face.

"Shit, Aeryn! Your wedding!” I exclaimed worriedly. “I ruined the plans, didn’t I?”

She shook her head, her honey-brown hair catching the light. "Nox and I decided to postpone the public ceremony until you're safe and those conspiring snakes are dealt with—and preferably not breathing."

---