Althea felt terrified, but Gavriel’s arms around her were enough to steady her. His warmth always had a way of calming the storm inside her, even now when everything felt uncertain.

“Did you eat dinner already?” Gavriel asked quietly.

“Not yet,” she murmured, still leaning against his chest.

“I’ll have the cook prepare something. I’ll eat with you.” He gently guided her face up, wanting to see her eyes.

“Even if the bond gets severed, I’ll still feel the same way,” ...