“Yes,” Althea sincerely replied. “You’ve given up so much for me. Time. Your kingdom. Your peace. And I’m afraid I’m holding you back.”

At that, his hand at her waist tightened just a little.

“Never say that again,” he said, his voice low and steady. “You are not a burden. You never were.”

She swallowed. “But—”

He leaned down slightly, his forehead almost touching hers. “I stayed because I chose to. Because I wanted to. Because being here with you mattered more ...