That shocks me still again. Lochlan is the last person in the world I ever expected to hear such a thing from. But maybe it’s a reminder I need, because I take a deep breath and let a cool band of focus wrap around my thoughts. I’ve done terrible things to protect Kandala for years. I’ve supported my brother’s reign for years. I can’t be better for Tessa if I can’t get us out of this mess. I steel my spine, and then I tap Lochlan on the cheek, a little too hard to be friendly. “Love you, too. Now cover my back.”
