She draws closer, the weight of the world separated by only a breath. I know the risk of her standing so close to me; I’ve considered it hundreds of times in the last week alone. But gods know, and kingdoms be damned, if she ever looks at me like this again, I won’t hesitate. I’ll spend eternity in the four hells begging for my people’s forgiveness if only to have her in my arms for a second. To comfort her, protect her, and love her into our shared, accursed deaths.

“Where’s Teddy?”

Her question breaks the tension, and I can finally breathe again. I stutter for a second before answering.

“Back in her room. She’s studying the book we found.”

“We shouldn’t bother her then. Have you put together any travel supplies?”

“I have two knapsacks full of food and a fresh change of clothes. Even found some Aeradian cloaks to keep us warm.”

“We’ll need a bar of soap, as well. Actually, make it two.”

As I watch her calculate what else we may need, I smile. She reminds me of Lin, always thinking ahead for the good of our band. “We’ll get soap. I’ll have Stig bring me some more arrows, and we’ll supply you with a dagger. No one will be unarmed,” I assure her.

“I have my magic too,” she says, then stiffens as if the words involuntarily flew out of her mouth.

“That you do.” With that, I turn to stride down the corridor.

“Braizen,” she says weakly. “I should explain to Lachlan. I can’t just leave without telling him why. He deserves to know; he’s lost so much already.”

Her gentle way. My heart fractures into small pieces. “He knows,” I lie, knowing I can’t bear seeing her face if I tell her the truth. “Theodore already told him. She assumed you’d accompany me on the journey. She has a great intuition, that one.”

“Oh?” She fidgets with her fingers. “Did she say how he took the news?”

I hate that I can lie so well. Years of swindling wealthy nobles means I can do it with ease. I now vow to use this skill to protect her heart, not wound it.

“She said he only wants your happiness. He only ever wants people’s happiness.” That part isn’t much of a lie; Lach is the generous King.

“I suppose that’s true,” she agrees quietly. “Then it’s settled. We’ll find a few extra supplies and set off for The Wood.”

“I’ll get them; you wait here,” I instruct.

She looks as if she’ll agree, then squints, thinking again.

“Better yet, I’ll change my clothes and then find a jar of Aunt Deria’s special breakfast drink. We’ll most certainly need that.”

“Good call.” We laugh a bit before I see her frown.