“I’m sorry. I know you must think I’m … ridiculous for such a thing.” He pushed a wavy strand of hair behind my ear. “I think you’re the bravest mortal I’ve ever met. And perhaps the most fucking stubborn, as well.” His comment brought a tearful smile to my face. “Regardless, I’ll stay and help you find her.” The relief of his words left me weak in the knees, but through a mist of tears, I shook my head. “I can’t ask you to do that. Not when Rykaia needs you.” “Rykaia will always need me.” He rubbed his thumb across my cheek, capturing the fallen tear. “This is about you.”
