Page 52 of Bitten

Ralnur knew in that moment that he wanted it more than life itself. Only life wasn’t something he had much left of. “If only I could.” He smiled wanly. “But Caelian can be that for you.”

Kane sighed, looking away.

“Don’t turn your back on him. Please.”

“And what about you? You act as if there’s no chance.”

“I don’t think there is, Kane. No matter how much I wish there was.”

Kane took a few steps closer. “You ask me to open myself to the possibilities… and I will. As long as you do the same.”

Ralnur eyed him, his heart wanting to be open. Logically, he knew there was little chance.

Kane pointed at him. “And see… there it is. You need to learn to follow your own sage advice.” The Halfling turned and walked away.

Ralnur watched him depart, lifting a hand to his lips. He could still feel the Halfling’s kiss.

And hoped he’d never forget that sensation.

Because it would likely be the last.

He wasn’t going to waste his last days hoping for a salvation that wasn’t going to come.

Yet…

Kane’s words reverberated within him.

Hope. He was almost afraid to have hope.

But he knew one thing for certain after this last meeting. He would ask his nephew for one last wish.

A night with Kane—and Caelian—in his bed before he died.

He would know their love, even if it was only one night.

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