Page 148 of The Orc's Captive Bride
“And to pray,” Jessamin added softly. “For success. For safety. For balance.”
Thea caught the young queen’s eye. Saw understanding there. Support.
She knows what it’s like. To be chosen for something larger than yourself. To carry responsibilities you never asked for.
They filed out of the tent. Exhausted. Determined.
Khorrek’s hand found the small of her back, and she leaned into him, grateful for his strength.
“You should sleep,” he rumbled. “You’re exhausted.”
“So are you.”
“I’m used to it.”
“That doesn’t make it okay.”
His mouth curved in a slight smile. “Stubborn woman.”
“You knew that when you mated me.”
His smile widened and became something warmer.
I made him smile. I’ll never get tired of that.
They reached their tent. Small. Private. A luxury in the crowded camp.
Inside, Thea collapsed onto the sleeping furs, every muscle aching. She’d been sitting for hours, bent over maps and texts and her back was screaming.
Khorrek settled beside her and began working on her shoulders with strong gentle hands.
“You were amazing tonight.”
She made a sound. Half laugh, half groan. “I was terrified.”
“Didn’t show it.”
“Good. Because inside I was screaming.”
His hands stilled. “Thea?—”
“I know. I know the risks. I know what we’re walking into.” She turned. Met his amber eyes. “But it’s still the right thing to do.”
“I hate that you’re right.”
“I know that too.”
He pulled her close. Held her. Just held her.
And Thea felt the mate bond pulse between them. Strong. Certain. Eternal.
Whatever happens. We’re in this together.
“Sleep,” he murmured against her hair. “I’ll keep watch.”
“You need to sleep too.”
“Later. For now, let me take care of you.”
