Page 74 of The Orc's Bonded Bride

Merow’s face brightened. “The gods have blessed us, then. Just yesterday, I discovered a wild hive deep in the eastern woods. Strong and healthy, tucked away in an old oak.” She reached out, patting Lyric’s arm with a weathered hand. “A good omen, finding a thriving hive right before your arrival.”

“A wild hive?” She couldn’t hide her excitement. Starting over would be easier with established bees rather than having to capture a swarm. “Would you show me where?”

“Of course, child. That’s why I’ve come.” Merow’s eyes crinkled at the corners. “The old ways teach us that bees are messengers between worlds. Finding a hive as you join our community speaks of sweet beginnings.”

Warmth spread through her chest at the healer’s words. In her old village, her beekeeping had been appreciated only for its practical benefits. Here, this female understood their deeper significance.

“I’d like that very much,” she said softly. “But I’ll need your help in deciding on the best location for the hive.”

A short time later, she and Merow bent over the crude sketch she’d drawn in the dirt with a stick, pointing out where she thought the new hive would thrive best. Merow nodded approvingly, occasionally suggesting adjustments based on her knowledge of the local winds and weather patterns.

“The afternoon sun would warm them here,” she explained, indicating a spot near the southern edge of the cottage clearing, “but these trees would provide shade during the hottest part of summer.”

“Wise placement,” Merow agreed. “Our winters can be harsh. The windbreak will serve them well.”

Her mind raced with possibilities. “And here,” she continued, drawing another section in the dirt, “I could expand the garden. Plant more herbs, some vegetables. Maybe wildflowers to attract the bees.”

“The soil is good there,” Merow confirmed. “Rich and dark. Egon tried growing a few things last season, but?—”

“But I have no gift with growing things,” his deep voice interrupted from behind them.

She turned, her heart leaping at the sight of him approaching through the trees. His big body moved with his usual grace, golden eyes fixed on her with an intensity that still made her breath catch.

“How was your meeting?” she asked, rising to her feet and brushing dirt from her hands.

“Productive.” He glanced between her and Merow, a curious smile playing at his lips. “I see you two have been busy.”

She had a sudden attack of doubt. She’d been making plans, changing his space without asking. “I hope you don’t mind. Merow was showing me where a wild hive is located, and we started talking about where to place it and then about expanding your garden…” She gestured to her dirt drawings, feeling foolish now.

His expression softened as he approached, stopping close enough that she had to tilt her head back to meet his gaze. “Mind? Why would I mind?”

“It’s your home,” she said quietly. “I shouldn’t presume?—”

“Our home,” he corrected, his voice gentle but firm. One large hand reached out to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. “You can do whatever you want with it, Lyric. Plant an entire forest if it pleases you.”

Merow laughed. “I don’t think that will be necessary. But I’ll return later today with those seedlings—and a few willing hands to do some digging.”

“I can—” she began, but the healer waved a hand.

“Nonsense. We all help each other. Besides, it will help satisfy their curiosity about Egon’s new mate,” she added, eyes twinkling.

She watched Merow’s retreating form, her heart hammering in her chest.Mate.The word hung in the air between them, both thrilling and terrifying. She darted a nervous glance at Egon, unsure how he felt about Merow’s casual declaration.

His amber eyes met hers, warm with certainty. “Don’t look so worried,” he said, reaching for her hand. “I’m proud to introduce you as my mate.”

“You are?” The question slipped out before she could stop it, vulnerability lacing her voice.

“More than anything.” His thumb traced gentle circles on her palm. “Unless… you don’t want that?”

“No! I mean, yes, I do.” She shook her head, frustrated by her own jumbled words. “It’s just happening so fast. A few weeks ago, I was alone in my cottage, and now…”

His expression softened and he guided her over to sit on a fallen log near where she’d drawn her plans. He lowered himself beside her, his huge body dwarfing hers, yet she felt nothing but safe in his presence.

“I want a formal bonding ceremony,” he said quietly, his deep voice rumbling through the stillness between them. “Not just for the village to recognize what we are to each other, but for us. For you.”

Her breath caught. “A ceremony?”

“Among my people, when mates bond, they make promises before the gods and their community.” His gaze held hers, unwavering. “I want to make those promises to you, Lyric. I want everyone to know that you’re mine, and I’m yours.”

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