Vow of the Shadow King (Bride of the Shadow King, #2)

by Sylvia Mercedes

Let this not be her end! If I must die, so be it. Let my bones be smashed to dust. Only let my body shield her from this fate. Let her live. Let her be spared.

Avoiding her was no use. Avoidance only made my heart long for her more. The simple knowledge that she was here, within the walls of my home, breathing the same air I breathed was exquisite torture.

Now, she tucks her head under my chin and simply holds onto me. Like she trusts me. Like I can help her, comfort her. It’s the most beautiful sensation I’ve ever experienced.

I should have known even then, looking at her for the first time, that all my definitions of beauty were suddenly changed. Since that moment no woman has compared to her in my mind.

“I don’t care about the risks, Vor. I’m ready. I’m ready to risk it all because any risk is worth it to be with you. If this moment is all we ever have, I’m willing to accept whatever pain may come.”

“I won’t live my life aching for what I never had the courage to take.”

I don’t know how much time we have left together. What I do know is that I want whatever time we have to belong to her.

How can I possibly let her know what I feel? How honored I am to be offered the gift of her trust? I want to give to her. I want to throw the world at her feet. I want to bring her joy and comfort and delight, to be the one she turns to for every need, for the fulfillment of each secret longing.