“After all you’ve been through, you’re strong enough to handle this.” Merrick captured her with his gaze. “You made it out of Rioner’s cellars. You escaped the blood oath. You even survived the election and L…” He trailed off, his eyes hardening when she stiffened. The fingers holding her chin tensed, but when he moved them to cup her heated cheek, they were gentle. “Trust me,” he whispered. “You are strong enough.”
