Darius scooped her up into his arms effortlessly, cradling her against his chest as he began to carry her back toward the village. Amara rested her head against his shoulder, too tired to protest. She could feel the strength in his arms, the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, and it was enough to ease some of the tension that had been building inside her.
As they made their way through the forest, Amara’s thoughts drifted to Ryker. He had gone to meet with Lyall, to try to broker peace, but instead, he had been killed. His death wasn’t just a tragedy—it was a sign that Lyall had no intention of negotiating. He wanted to tear them apart.
And now, with Ryker gone, their chances of avoiding war were slipping away.
When they reached the packhouse, Darius carried her inside and took her to thei
