Chapter 67

“Sleep, Siana, rest with me and let tomorrow take care of itself.” He curled her into his side and pillowed her head on his shoulder. “Just rest.” She let the doubt and the fear fall away, letting herself relax in the circle of his arms until she was tranquil and slack, and sleep stole her away.

She slept late and woke to the smells and sounds of cooking. She was curled up on her side with her hair everywhere and she was sure she looked absolutely splendid. When she moved, he turned and came to sit by her side. “Good morning, Siana. Did you rest well?”

“I think so?” She tried to smooth her hair down, tried to look like someone who wasn’t a huge mess. “How about you?”

He just smiled at her, running a gentle had down her cheek. “Yes, I slept very well indeed. You are very cuddly and a delight to sleep next to.”

“That’s just bald flattery.” She felt herself turn bright red and tried to remember to breathe. “You don’t have to flatter me, Naerin. I already like you.”