A Touch of Stone and Snow (A Gathering of Dragons, #2)

by Milla Vane

And that is why I will not repeat the story you just told me,” she said. “Because I suspect it is not your story, but the story that was told about you. And I will not recarve your face.”

“Take care, Captain,” he snarled into Uland’s face, and Lizzan tightened her arm around Caeb’s neck, willing him to stay in place. “My cat loves this woman more than he does me. If you hurt her, he will tear you apart—and I will not stop him.”

“Whatever you need to keep this world from battering you into the mud, I will provide it. This night, I will protect you as you sleep. And the next, if you still need it. I will shield you from those who call you a curse, and who have taken your every hope. Until the morning comes when your heart is full again, and you see that there are so many more options left.”