Page 41 of Queen of Thorns
Rev
Caelynn’s mother didn’texactly warm up to us being in her home, but we finished telling our story—the basics, at least—and then left her stunned. We offered her protection, whether in the Shadow Court palace or the High Court, but she declined any help at all. She said she’d go into hiding and did give a quiet thank you for the warning. That seemed significant given her other reactions.
I didn’t mention this to Caelynn, but I intend to confront her a second time, offering my aid.
Our “visit” was a shock to her, and we gave her more information than she could possibly register at one time. Though I am unreasonably angry that she seemed to have no grace or love for her own daughter, I am hoping that can change over time. And if not, Caelynn never has to know.
The moment we’re back in the Crackling Court carriage, I pull Caelynn into my arms. “I love you,” I tell her. “I love you. I love you. I love you.”
The three other fae look the other direction, their eyes wide, but I don’t care. They can know I am in love with Caelynn. That part doesn’t matter.
She chuckles softly as she melts into my arms. “Why are you saying that?”
“Because it’s true. And because I get the feeling you didn’t hear it enough from them.”
She stills in my arms, and I swear I can feel her heart break.
“They were plenty loving when I was a child.”
“That probably only makes it worse.” I nuzzle into her neck, taking in her scent. “I love you. I trust you. I believe in you.”
“Thank you,” she whispers. Her fingers dig into my shoulders, and we stay like that for the next few hours as the carriage rattles forward.
“We’ll be home soon,” I tell her eventually.
“Home,” she whispers, testing the word like she doesn’t even really know what it means. What it could mean. “I’m already home. Here.” She snuggles in closer, as if to show me what she means, but I already know.
We’re home in each other’s arms. It’s the only home I’ll ever need.
