Page 57 of Condemned to Love

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ALDRIC

Iwatch Elowen's lithe form as she moves through the stretches, her muscles flexing with each controlled motion. The early morning light filters through the trees, casting a soft glow on her skin. She's come so far in just a few weeks, her determination never wavering.

It was hard to keep her from diving into the sparring ring. We've been focusing on getting her body back to its best, but she's nearly there.

There's no more pain. Her side is stitched together and healed. And I've never seen her look so…happy. Like she's finally complete.

It makes my heart soar.

"Keep that core tight," I instruct, circling her as she holds a plank position. "You're starting to sag."

Elowen grunts, readjusting her stance. "Maybe if you weren't hovering like an oversized bird, I could concentrate."

I smirk, admiring the fire in her eyes. "Excuses, excuses. The enemy won't give you space to breathe."

She drops to her knees, chest heaving. "The enemy better watch out. I might just collapse on them."

"Up," I command, offering my hand. She takes it, and I pull her to her feet. "Time for some strength training."

We move to the weights, and I demonstrate proper form. Elowen mimics my form, her movements precise and controlled. Pride swells in my chest as I watch her progress.

She would never back down, I know that. But still. Sometimes it's hard to get up after battle. Elowen's dedication to healing her body has been admirable.

"Not bad for a human," I tease, adjusting her stance slightly.

She rolls her eyes. "Careful, Aldric. Your compliments are getting out of hand."

I chuckle, stepping back to observe. "Don't let it go to your head. You've still got a long way to go."

Elowen completes her set, a bead of sweat rolling down her temple. "And you'll be there every step of the way, I'm sure. Lucky me."

"Someone's got to keep you in line," I retort, but there's no bite to my words. I'm beyond grateful she's here, alive and thriving.

As we move through the exercises, I can't help but marvel at her resilience. She's pushing herself, but not recklessly. It's a delicate balance, one we've both had to learn.

"Hey, you arrogant ass," Elowen's voice cuts through my thoughts. "You're staring again."

I blink, realizing I've been lost in my own head. "Just making sure you don't slack off," I cover quickly.

She snorts, unconvinced. "Right. And I'm secretly a dark elf in disguise."

"If you were, I'd have to do this," I growl playfully, sweeping her into my arms.

Elowen laughs, the sound warming me from the inside out. "Put me down!"

I set her on her feet, my hands lingering on her waist. "Ready for some sparring, Red?"

Her eyes light up with excitement. "Thought you'd never ask."

I watch Elowen closely as we spar, making sure not to push her too hard. Her movements are fluid, her strikes precise. She's regained most of her strength, but I'm still cautious.

"Getting slow in your old age?" she taunts, dodging my half-hearted jab.

I smirk. "Just giving you a fighting chance, Red."

After our light session, we hit the showers. The hot water soothes my muscles, but my mind races with anticipation. I've got plans for tonight.

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