Page 134 of Kiss of Fire

She was flying.

Fifty One

He touched them cautiously.

“How?”

“It was when I… when I came.” She blushed and he adored her for it. “It just happened. I don’t know why. It didn’t happen the last time you made me… um, you know. After the ambrosia berries.”

“Maybe it’s because the experience this time was more profound. How are you controlling them?”

“They just sort of do what I need them to. I guess when I don’t need them anymore they’ll disappear, like yours do.”

“They are extraordinary.” He eyed the small flames still visible on parts of her body. Most had gone out but a few still lingered. “At least I will know when you are faking.”

“It was amazing,” she said shyly. “I never thought anything could feel so good.”

“On that we are agreed. I have never felt that way before. Unfortunately for you, that means I will never let you out of my sight again.”

She rested her head against his chest.

“That suits me.”

“And that thing you told me,” he said gently. “Were you speaking the truth?”

“Which thing?” she asked innocently.

“When you said…” he cleared his throat. “When you said you loved me.”

“Oh, that. Well, I was desperate to get laid so I…” she squealed as he held her down and tickled her mercilessly. “Okay, I give in. I love you. I adore you. I worship you.”

“I only require the first from you, halfling. Although I suppose I should not refer to you as a halfling anymore.”

She snuggled into his chest again.

“Half Vulcani, half elven. It’s still accurate. And I do, you know. Love you.”

“As I do you. Love seems so inadequate a word to describe how I feel. I would do anything for you. Even give up my quest to be emperor if you asked it. Help you to rule Feyir instead.” He tilted her chin up. “What is your wish, my queen?”

She looked into his blue eyes and knew he was sincere. She shook her head.

“Let’s give Salaq a run for his money. You have the fae on your side now. We only have to keep the Vetali from his grasp and we win.”

“Then that is what we will do.” He dropped kisses into the well of her neck. “In the meantime, I am annulling our betrothal.”

“What?” She pulled his head back up. “Why?”

“Because I want to ask you properly this time.”

“But, I mean, you know I’m going to say yes.”

He shook his head sorrowfully.

“Is there to be no more mystery between us?”

“Very funny. The only mystery is why it’s taking you so long to ask.”

“Patience. We have all the time in the world.”

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