As she lies sleeping in my arms, myriad thoughts flit through my mind. I must give her my kiss and take her to my father. Surely, he will accept her when he finds out she is my fated one.
I must go to him as soon as possible. He is still praying that I will agree to a betrothal with Luriel, so I must quickly dispel him of this false hope. Now that I have found my fated one, he cannot argue against my reasoning.
If he refuses to give me his blessing, so be it. I will not give up Halla.
As I hold her to my chest, I am already imagining our future. I’ve never been happier. However, as the sun begins to set, casting long streaks of pale orange and gold across the water, I know she must return to the castle. It is only a matter of time before her brother starts looking for her, and I do not believe she wants to be discovered like this.
My gaze travels down her form. I cannot contain the fierce possessiveness that fills me as she snuggles even closer. My nostrils flare, as I breathe deeply of our combined scent. She is mine. It matters not what my father says. I will not give her up.
