Page 30 of Orange Tundra
I nodded, moving to the edge of camp. The night was quiet, save for the occasional rustle of leaves. I scanned the perimeter, my senses attuned to any potential threats.
Footsteps approached from behind. I tensed, hand on the hilt of my blade, but relaxed slightly when CG emerged from the shadows.
"Can't sleep?" he asked.
"Not tired," I replied curtly.
He studied me for a moment. "You and your group are quite the enigma."
"Is that so?"
He nodded. "Especially you."
I forced a casual tone. "I'm just a humble traveler now, hardly a royal."
His eyes narrowed. "I remember a time when you were more than that."
My heartbeat quickened. "You've mistaken me for someone else."
"Have I?" he challenged. "Or have you forgotten the faces of those you've left behind?"
I felt a flare of irritation. "I don't know what you're insinuating."
He stepped closer, his posture tense. "You've crossed paths with many, Simrod. Some remember you fondly. Others... not so much."
"Is there a point to this conversation?" I asked, my voice low.
He smirked. "Just a reminder that the past has a way of catching up."
Before I could respond, he turned and disappeared back into the darkness.
I stood there, the weight of his words settling over me. Memories I'd long buried threatened to resurface—the training, the missions, the blood on my hands. I'd done what was necessary to protect Nim, to ensure his rightful place. Did I knew CG from somehwere?
A soft voice pulled me from my thoughts. "Sim?"
I turned to see Brynn approaching, concern etched on her features. "Couldn't sleep?" I asked and pulled her towards my arms.
She shook her head. "I saw you talking with CG. Everything okay?"
"Just sharing ghost stories," I lied with a grin. "Nothing to worry about."
She studied me, not entirely convinced. "You can talk to me, you know."
I sighed, the façade slipping slightly. "It's nothing. Just... old shadows."
She reached out, her hand warm on my arm. "You're not alone."
I covered her hand with mine. "I know. And I promise, I will protect you, Nim, and our child."
Her eyes softened.
"Get some rest. Tomorrow will be a long day."
She nodded, resting her head against my chest for a moment before returning to camp. I watched her disappear into the makeshift tent, content that my mate will keep her warm and protected.
I resumed my watch, but sleep eluded me well into the night.
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