And he would defy the fates to make that true.
Chapter 21
Vera
Vera felt a little off-balance without Rebecca’s familiar weight. The world seemed dimmer without Sarah’s chatter, and smaller somehow without Finn’s quiet intensity. But with Venn riding on the horse behind her, she knew she was exactly where she needed to be.
They’d left Salvation behind. It would take them a few days to reach Duvan, and she wasn’t sure what would happen there. Things were changing, and everything seemed to be rushing to a dangerous end.
Desfan Cassian would soon be crowned the new serjan, and Vera didn’t know what that would mean for Serene. She also didn’t know what the princess would be able to do about the Hunt, or what Desfan might do about the refugee camp—or about the fact that Grandeur had illegally used a place in Mortise to do so many of his interrogations and executions. She didn’t know if Clare would be at Duvan, or if Bennick and Wilf were still trying to rescue her.
What Veradidknow was that Venn was with her, and that he loved her. And with him, she could face anything.
When they stopped for a midday meal, Venn swung down first, then helped her dismount. Before he could grab their pack, she caught his hand.
Curiosity rose in his eyes.
She smiled and threaded her fingers through his. She felt an undeniable thrill when he squeezed her hand.
“What are you thinking?” Venn asked.
“I’m just feeling very grateful for you.”
One eyebrow rose. “Any particular reason why?”
She lifted a shoulder. “You love me.”
His lips tipped up into a grin. “I really do.”
Her smile widened.
He reached out with his free hand and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, then he leaned in to press a soft kiss against her forehead.
Her heart melted.
As he drew back, her thumb traced over the back of his hand. “I will always love you, Venn. I hope you know that.”
Emotion—unnamable, but deep—flared in his eyes. His expression gentled, and he said something in Zennorian. Her brow furrowed, and he quickly translated. “Anything you ever need or desire, I am here to give you.”
Warmth spread in her chest. “I need to learn Zennorian.”
Venn chuckled. “I’d be happy to teach you. But I’d be just as happy to be your translator forever.”
“I like the sound of that.”
“I’m full of good ideas.”
“Really?”
“Of course!” To prove it, he leaned in and kissed her.
