*Rhys*

I was in bed but unable to sleep.

Visions of fire still plagued me, blocking a peaceful night's rest, but there was something else keeping me awake now. The racing of my heart and my rapid breathing were much the same as when I had my nightmares.

But this wasn't a nightmare.

She had refused. I heard it with my own ears as Saoirse refused her father's demand to prepare to leave with Conall.

I had a weak moment and kissed her, and it was bliss. ...