“I’m glad you didn’t become a monk,” Rendor said, tucking her closer.

“You do know that celibacy is not part of the oath, right?” she teased, then sobered. It was another fact about life in the monastery she’d only recently learned. A blind eye indeed.

“Oh yes. I got that when I noticed the resemblance between you and Hanif. And…”

She waited, but he remained quiet. Because Rendor was observant and smart, she could finish his sentence. “And between me and Kaveri.”

“Yes. It was striking.” A pause. “Do you plan on acknowledging the relationship?”

“No. Not unless she does. It’s an odd way to raise a child, but, if I think about it, it’s better than growing up a vagrant and worrying about raids, having enough water, and your next meal.” She huffed. “Like we’re living now. If I became a monk, I never would have ruined your life.”

Rendor moved so quickly, Shyla didn’t have time to react. He sat up, pulling her with him so she faced him.

“You did not ruin my life.” His intense gaze seared her. “I thank the Sun Goddess every sun jump that you came into my life.”

Even though she had read his soul when she’d first awoken the power of The Eyes and knew he spoke the truth, she still struggled to believe it. “But you went from captain of the guard to a grunt who shovels sand.”

“Someone told me I look ‘mighty fine’ when I shovel.” He smirked.

Figured he’d remember that. “You know what I mean.”

“I do. And I’d rather shovel sand than torture people for the Water Prince.”

And just like that, he put it all in perspective. “Sorry. I know. It’s just…”

“Your heart is still not sure about me.” Rendor cupped her cheek.

Actually, it was thumping its approval quite loudly. But she’d told him of her confusion before she read his soul. She hadn’t yet revealed that she knew his commitment and love were genuine because she wanted him to see just what he’d gotten himself into. He might change his mind. Plus the rest of the Invisible Swords needed to witness his efforts to become a better person.

He dropped his hand. “Don’t worry, Shyla. I’m willing to prove myself so you’ll jump into my arms.”

She smiled. “You’re not going to let me forget that, are you?”

“Not for one degree.” He lay back, bringing her down with him, once again tucking her close. “Now sleep.”

“You’re rather bossy for a grunt.”

“In this case, I’m in charge.”

“Of what?”

“Of making sure you take care of yourself by getting enough sleep and eating well.”

“How’d you get that job?” she asked.

“No one else wanted it,” he teased.