Page 96 of Bound to the Elvin Prince

“Wow, that’s one neat trick. So winter is not as brutal here as back where I come from?”

A smile spread over his face before he dropped a kiss on her nose. “Though it is no magician’s trick, I guess it might seem so to you. Winter will soon visit, but the worst will only last for a week or so, at least in populated areas. The remainder of the season will probably be more temperate than what you’re used to and much shorter also.”

“Populated areas?”

“We no longer have the power to encompass larger areas, even if we desired to do so.” A softer and more introspective tone crept into Relian’s voice.

His seriousness settled over her like a mantle. She fidgeted with one of his braids. “Just one of the effects of the waning magic?”

“Yes.”

“Oh.” To Cal, everything gleamed less bright in the setting sun and only depressed the atmosphere more. It was a heavy matter she didn’t want to have to dwell on right now. The upcoming ceremony was enough.

“Let’s talk on more pleasant matters, my dear.” He turned her around and framed her face between his hands. “I’m delighted our bonding will soon take place and that we’ll be together in mind, body, and—” Relian glanced away, disquiet clouding his face.

Concern trickled through Cal. “What is it?” Through their tenuous bond, strong discomfort—one that had grown stronger over the past few days—flowed to her. She’d sensed it before, but when questioned, Relian had evaded giving a real explanation.

He gazed over her head into the distance. “The uncompleted link is next to driving me mad.”

“What?” She couldn’t keep the astonishment out of her voice. He was in pain because of her and their unfinished bond and hadn’t told her about it?

“I didn’t want to guilt you with the knowledge it has steadily grown worse since your arrival here. We’ve rushed you into so many decisions no one should have to make. I couldn’t add this to the growing list of mitigating factors.” He shook his head in disgust. “I don’t know why I just told you when it’ll all be resolved soon.”

“Oh, Relian.” Cal breathed out a sigh and lightly slapped him on the chest. “I want to know these things. I’m not heartless and care for your well-being.”

He pressed his lips to her forehead before bringing her hand up to his mouth. “That’s precisely why I didn’t inform you earlier.” He glanced down through the sweep of his lashes. “So you are not too angry with me?”

She battened down on an errant giggle trying to work its way loose. He sounded so like a child asking his parents if he was in much trouble. “I would like to say I am, but I don’t want to be angry with you tonight of all nights. I also understand your reasoning.” She poked him in the chest, so he didn’t get any ideas. “But it doesn’t mean I like it. Again, don’t make it a habit.” She fixed him with a steely glare. “Like you had.”

“Yes, my lady.”

The subservient tone of his voice caused her to laugh. Soon, his chuckles joined hers as he pulled her down onto his lap.

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