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“Hi,” she managed.
His brow furrowed in a mixture of relief and anguish. Gently, Rion pulled her in and pressed a long kiss to her forehead. “When I saw you, I thought the worst.”
“I’m fine.” She tried assuring him, though her pounding head had her wincing.
Rion pulled back to examine her, still seeming to search for any wounds. “Eoghan said you expended too much energy. What were you doing?”
She chewed her lip, wondering at his reaction. After the attempt on his life, she knew he held no love for his people. “I might have found the infirmary tents.”
He sat up, propping his body on one elbow. “And?”
“And there might be some Fae in your camp who’ve been following me around since.”
He nuzzled her neck and sighed, though she wasn’t sure if it was in contentment or frustration. “I’m not certain how to feel about that.”
“At least you won’t have to worry about anyone kidnapping me again.”
“I wouldn’t be so sure. There isn’t a living being, Fae, human, or half-breed who holds any amount of love for me. They might think kidnapping you a mercy.”
Arianna leaned forward and bravely ran her nose down his jawline. She didn’t miss the way it made his breath hitch. “I won’t go quietly.”
Rion caught her lips in a greedy kiss, his tongue diving deep into her mouth. Arianna’s stomach tightened and heat flooded her body. He wrapped one hand behind her head, threading his fingers through her hair, but pulled away far too soon. “If you’re feeling up to it, I want to take you somewhere.”
Arianna inclined her head. “Where?”
“To a place no one will bother us. If you’re willing.”
She glanced out the window. “In the middle of the night?”
“I’d rather not attract attention.” He eyed the door. “Though there’s no sneaking around your faithful guardian.”
“He’s been helpful.” Rion’s jaw feathered, but he returned his questioning gaze to hers. “All right, let’s go.”
“You’re sure?”
When she nodded, he removed the blankets, slipped his shoes on, and began packing a small bag. Arianna watched him a moment then followed suit, pulling on an extra shirt and pair of pants. Rion tossed her another sweater and she wondered just how long they’d be out in the cold.
“If you decide you want to turn back, say the word. We’ll be alone, and I’ll understand if that bothers you.”
Arianna slipped on the sweater and smiled at him. “I trust you.”
Rion looked as though she’d struck him and Arianna realized he’d likely never heard those words. Or perhaps he had, but betrayal and heartbreak had followed.
Once he finished, Rion threw the small bag over his shoulder and Arianna followed him through the door only to find a large snow leopard curled up on the path. It raised its head then stood, shifting back into the dark-skinned male that never seemed to leave her side. Thankfully, it didn’t look like Rion had hurt him.
Rion kept his voice low. “We’re leaving for a few days. I trust you’ll inform those who need to know.”
Eoghan bowed his head. “Of course.” His gaze met hers then and Arianna wondered if Eoghan would attempt to fight Rion if he thought she was in danger. Judging from the look on his face, she knew he’d at least try. Even if it meant dying.
So, she gave him her best reassuring smile because even if no one else believed Rion wouldn’t hurt her, she knew it in her heart. He’d rip himself to pieces before laying one finger on the female who’d been thrown at his feet.
Smiling, Arianna followed Rion toward the mountains and left the sleeping camp behind.
THEY WALKED in silence for hours, never diverting from the path that led to the base of the mountains. But he couldn’t be taking her there. The mountains weren’t known for their friendly creatures. In fact, as children, she’d been told to stay far away from them.
They were haunted, many claimed, with creatures that roamed during the night, stealing souls and bodies alike.
A slight winter breeze bit through the trees and Arianna wrapped her arms around herself. Rion turned once to ensure she followed, but otherwise, he stayed silent.
