Having grown up without a mother, Reid had never had someone fuss over her like this. The only reason she had tears in her eyes—again—was due to her injury and exhaustion. Nothing else.

Nara perched on the edge of the bed. “I want to thank you.”

“It’s not a big deal,” Reid mumbled. “Anyone would have done the same.” She closed her eyes, sleep threatening to take over. “And my mother’s leather armor saved me, so it all worked out.”

“The armor saved you?” Nara asked.

“Yes, from the arrow I took in the back for Dexter.”

“You didn’t tell me about that.”

“Then what are you thanking me for?” Confused, Reid opened her eyes to survey the princess.

Nara squeezed Reid’s shoulder. “I was thanking you for bringing my son some joy.”

That seemed like an odd thing to say considering what Reid and Dexter had just been through.

“Dexter closes himself off to other people. He doesn’t have many in his inner circle. Even those closest to him, he keeps at a distance. Tonight, when I saw how protective he was of you, when I saw him holding your hand, I knew you’d finally broken through his barriers.”

“I don’t know about that. We’ve just been through a trying experience is all.”

Smiling, Nara stood. “You don’t give yourself enough credit. The first time I met you, I knew the two of you would be good together.”

“Please tell me you didn’t send the assassins after us in order to bring us closer together.”

Nara barked out a laugh. “Although that’s an intriguing idea, I would never do that. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go check on my son. We’ll talk more in the morning.” She paused in the doorway. “I’m glad you’re home safe and sound, Lady Reid. Right where you belong.”

The following morning, Reid woke up to find Nara in her bedchamber, a tray filled with food in hand. “Oh good, you’re awake. I brought breakfast.” Nara placed the tray next to Reid, then sat beside her. “I need you to meet with the seamstress today so she can finish making your wedding dress.” She bit the tip of her thumb while eyeing Reid.

“What is it?” Reid asked, pushing to a sitting position.

“I sent messengers to personally invite guests to the wedding. Some of the responses we expected. For instance, your father, your sisters, your grandparents, and all the dukes.”

“Really? I’m surprised the dukes would want to travel so far.” Reid took a bite of oatmeal. Would Harlan attend the wedding? Maybe he’d come with his new bride. What about Knox? Reid couldn’t envision Knox there.

“I assume the dukes want to see Axian for themselves,” Nara said.