More on this book
Community
Kindle Notes & Highlights
“What about you? Any frequent companions for the King’s Justice?” I’m trying to keep my tone light, but he holds my gaze, and I know he hears the true question there. “Ah, Tessa.” There’s something simultaneously wicked and warm in his eyes. “No one dared, until you.”
Then again, if we were openly involved, I’d drag her into my chambers and we wouldn’t leave for a week.
“Oh,” says Tessa, and there’s a note of intrigue in her voice that I absolutely cannot ignore. I look at her and raise my eyebrows. “Oh?” She hesitates. Her voice drops. “The sea captain isn’t what I expected.” “Hmm.” I drain my glass.
“Come home safe, little brother.” I give him a nod. “I promise. Be here when I get back.”
I want to be surprised, but … I’m really not. I’m touched. One of my favorite things about the brothers is their endearing closeness. I wish they would allow others to see it. It’s the most humanizing thing about them.
I may have fallen in love with Tessa Cade, but as usual, I’m reminded that she didn’t fall in love with Prince Corrick, the King’s Justice. She fell in love with the outlaw Weston Lark. She fell in love with a man who doesn’t exist.
Choices never seem like choices when the world only offers us bad ones.
As usual, I need to remind myself that Wes was a part of the man in front of me. That goodness is inside him. But it’s just a part. Sometimes I worry that it’s not quite enough.
My heart is beating so fast. “Corrick,” I whisper. His eyes finally meet mine. “I know people expect the worst of me,” he says quietly. “I didn’t realize you were among them.”
He allows everyone to think the worst of him, and all the while, he sacrifices everything he wants for the betterment of others.
“I don’t like who you pretend to be.” I swallow, and it hurts. “I love the man I think you are. But sometimes it takes me a little while to figure out which one is real, and which one is just another face you show others.”
“I have always loved you,” he says. “I love your brilliance and your courage. I love your faith in me, and your faith in my brother, and your faith in Kandala.” His hand slides to my cheek, and his blue eyes soften, filling my vision. “I don’t ever want to frighten you. I want to take actions that will make you proud.”
I’ve had to fight to hold Kandala together. I’ve had to fight to keep my brother safe. And now, if I have to, I’ll fight to hold on to you.”
“Do you still hate me?” he says softly. “No,” I whisper, like it’s a secret. “I love you.” He leans closer. “What’s that?” he teases. “I can’t hear you.” “I said you’re a huge pain in my—” I break off with a squeal when he kisses me, then melt into his hands when he pulls me close.
He’s looking down at me, his eyes fixed on mine, affectionate yet predatory, gentle yet primal. Something inside me grips tight, stealing my breath.
