Page 46 of Cherished By the Gargoyle
His eyes are fixed intently on the darkness ahead, his expression hardened into a fierce, protective mask. Tensionradiates from his body, his muscles coiled tight, ready to spring into action at the first hint of danger.
Please, don’t push me away. Not again.
The sky lightens as dawn approaches along the horizon. After a few minutes, we break through the trees and land in the clearing where the others wait. The sight of familiar faces sends a rush of relief crashing over me. Thalric sets me down gently, and I barely pause before sprinting toward Fiora, Lyria, and Maribel.
Fiora’s arms close around me; Lyria and Maribel join, each of them fighting back tears.
When I pull back, I notice Thalric hugging his mother nearby. Her beautiful gray skin is marred with cuts and bruises, exhaustion etched deeply into her sharp features as she holds her son tightly.
My gaze sweeps across the knights and gratitude swells my chest. They fought so I could stand here. “Thank the gods you’re safe, Princess,” the closest one says.
My cheeks flush hot at the unfamiliar reverence, still not used to this new role. I dip my chin in a subtle nod as I look at them. “I’m thankful all of you are safe as well.”
Lyria ushers me toward the waiting carriage. I pause at the door, searching for Thalric. I’m desperate to speak with him. I want to know that last night wasn’t merely a fleeting moment of comfort.
When I finally see him, he’s walking toward the front of our entourage, his head bowed slightly toward his parents as they speak quietly. He doesn’t look back, and a sharp pang of worry twists in my chest. Does he regret what passed between us?
“Aurora,” Maribel urges, pulling me from my thoughts.
With a heavy sigh, I climb into the carriage, settling onto the cushioned bench inside. The plush softness does little to ease my concerns.
“It’s only a few more hours until we reach the castle,” Lyria says with a smile. “Try to rest, dear. You need your strength.”
I nod. I’m tired, and I really should try to sleep. Despite my exhaustion, my thoughts spin restlessly, tangled with worry and longing for Thalric.
Staring out the carriage window, my eyelids open and close as I struggle to remain awake. After a while, I’m unable to fight it any longer, and I close my eyes and fall away into sleep.
The blast of trumpets jerks me awake. My eyes snap open, heart racing as I sit up quickly, pressing my face to the window.
My breath catches as I behold the capital city in the distance, rising majestically upon a distant hill. Massive, white stone walls encircle the city, gleaming like polished marble beneath the bright sun. Beyond those imposing walls rises the palace itself, its spires stretching up toward the clouds, the brightly colored banners of Briarwyn waving from the towers and battlements.
The sheer size and beauty of it steals my breath, yet my stomach twists anxiously. Somewhere within those grand halls await my parents—the king and queen I don’t remember. Fear and longing surge in equal measure, making my pulse thunder loudly in my ears.
My thoughts flit once more to Thalric, and my heart aches deeply as I send another silent prayer to whoever may be listening.
Please, let him choose me. Let last night be real.
I don’t know what awaits me at the castle. I only know that whatever the future holds, I’d prefer to have him by my side.
CHAPTER 28
AURORA
Trumpets sound as our carriage rolls through the city. The brightly colored banners of Briarwyn flutter in the breeze. Crowds gather, waving and cheering, my name rippling through the air.
“Princess Rose Aurora has returned!” a woman shouts.
“Welcome home, Princess,” another cries out.
Ornate buildings, made of white stone and tiled rooftops, line the streets, along with market stalls full of various food and goods. Spices, fresh bread, and blossoms perfume the air.
Fiora leans close. “The people have been waiting eagerly for your return.” Her gaze lingers on the throng of people. “You are beloved already, Aurora.”
My chest tightens as I gaze at the crowd. Fiora is right. The people do seem happy that I’ve returned. Adoration should lift me, yet it presses down heavier than any crown.
Looking out the window, I search for a familiar pair of golden eyes and broad wings that have always shielded me.
But Thalric isn’t anywhere in sight.
