A Strange and Stubborn Endurance (The Tithenai Chronicles #1)

by Foz Meadows

It was hard enough, in Ralia, for men of my inclination—and women, too, though I’d known far fewer of them—to form relationships in the first place, such that it hurt all the more when they ended.

“On my life—on my house, on the name Aeduria—I swear by my saints and your moons together, I would sooner die than force you, or allow you to be forced. I swear it, Velasin.”

“You know,” she’d said, the last time he’d turned down such an offer, a good seven months back, “if I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were saving yourself.” “I am,” he’d replied, somewhat testily. “From them.” “From, yeah, that’s good, that makes sense. Saving from is sensible.” Her warm gaze was both teasing and sincere. “But are you sure there’s not a bit of saving for there, too?”

“We’ll catch up again soon,” she said. And then, with just a touch of smirk, “Go be with your husband.” Cae’s neck flushed hot. “I will,” he said, loudly. “He’s very good company!” “I’m sure he is,” said Nairi, waggling her eyebrows. Cae turned away, heading to where he’d left Alik. “Fine, goodbye, I hate you!” “Hate you too!” she called cheerfully after him.

I shook my head, though I let him guide my hand away. “It’s his blood. He shouldn’t get to touch any part of you.” Caethari inhaled sharply, and all at once I was done with pretending. I dropped the cloth and grabbed his neck, pulling him in for a desperate kiss.

“I want you so much, but I’m not—I don’t know how—am I meant to play coy? I’ve never been any good at it, but it’s what I’m used to expecting.”