Defend the Dawn (Defy the Night, #2)

by Brigid Kemmerer

“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.

“Come home safe, little brother.” I give him a nod. “I promise. Be here when I get back.”

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.

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.”

Violet doesn’t even look chagrined. “Well, I was going to, but I wanted to give some extra coins to Toby. Then I kept thinking about how you said you weren’t coming back, and I didn’t want anyone to think the Fox was gone, so I kept leaving a few coins on the other doorsteps. Just here and there.” Of course she did.

That’s answer enough. I speak into his silence. “So you think I’m a coward.” “What?” He looks a bit incredulous. “No. Certainly not.” His answer is quick, and I frown. “Why not?” “You have to ask me why? I watched you face down the rebels in the square when they were shooting consuls and throwing fire at you. You were safe in the woods after they laid siege to the palace, and you took one guard to confront them all.” “In all truth,” I say, a bit chagrined, “I expected to find more on the way.” He doesn’t smile. “Corrick boarded that ship because he doesn’t want to disappoint you. Before we learned of Violet’s claims, I think Thorin was ready to walk every trail of the Wilds until he found you. Tessa stood by your side because she believes you truly want to better Kandala.” He pauses. “Cowardice does not breed this kind of loyalty.”

Corrick is terrible and wonderful and aggravating and inspiring, and somehow he manages all of it, all at once. 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 know if I want to punch him in the face or wrap my arms around him.

“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.”

“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.