Toe-to-Toe with a Lion

RETH

He was late to dinner, and so grateful that Elia now had her Cohorts to share meals with when he was busy. Convincing Behryn that his refusal to share wasn't a personal offence had taken longer than he'd expected. His friend was tired, and Reth had given him many unpleasant surprises lately. But he felt certain they'd be back on even footing tomorrow when they met. Now he had to get back to Elia, to watch out for her as she tried to navigate this new resolve to win the people's hearts.

He knew she could do it. He just prayed she didn't put herself in danger in the process.

His mind turned back to that afternoon they'd spent alone and his chest swelled. He picked up his pace. He wanted to be close to her, even if not that close. He needed to see her and smell her and be certain she was well. He needed to look his love on her.