Shield of Sparrows (Shield of Sparrows, #1)

by Devney Perry

“Why?” My voice cracked. “I told you.” “To set me free?” I jerked myself out of his hold. “You forced me into a marriage. That’s not setting me free.” The softness in his expression made my heart pinch. “I am not long for this realm, Odessa. And when I’m gone, you will be free. Your tie to me will be broken. Your life can be of your choosing.”

“You are not a pawn, Odessa. Not to me. You are the Sparrow. You are my wife. You are the future queen of Turah.”

Ransom was my husband. There was no need to keep fighting my own feelings. I no longer needed to convince myself that he hadn’t stolen my heart.

“You are mine, Odessa.” It was a growl, more animal than human. And the shiver that cascaded down my spine might as well have been my own blades, cleaving me in two. Mine.

“You are mine.” His hands dove into my hair, fingers threading through my curls. “Even if we are kingdoms apart, you are mine. But I’d rather not be a kingdom apart.”

“When I am nothing but dust and ash, Turah will endure. I do not need a crown. And I have made peace with my destiny. But before I step into my grave, my choice is you.” He dropped a kiss to my temple, his fingers tracing along my jaw as his hand fell from my face. Then he stepped away, about to disappear into the night. “Sleep well, my queen.” My choice is you. I was his choice. Above all else.

Part of me was overjoyed that Father had kept his promise to bring me home. But he was too late. I was home.

“I love you.” “Yes, you do. Don’t forget.” “Never.” “Neither will I.” His throat bobbed as he swallowed. “I will find you. Here, or in the shades.”

“Where are you going?” Cathlin called. I kept walking. “To find my wife.”