Laughing, he picked her up. “I seem to recall marrying a certain little mouse on this day a year ago.”
“You did remember!”
“How could I forget the first day of my life? The best day of my existence.”
She hugged his neck, then kissed his cheek. “Love you.”
“Love you more.” And he meant that. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for her.
That thought was foremost on his mind later that night when they entered the village where everyone was out in celebration. This time, he didn’t mind the crowd. He even sampled some of the vendor foods. Mostly because he enjoyed watching Lil try them.
If she liked it, her blue eyes widened, and she ate more. If she didn’t care for it, she’d wrinkle her nose and shake her head. He found both reactions adorable.
And he was laughing at her enjoyment when he felt a presence behind him.
Xev.
There was no mistaking the ripple of power that emanated from his brother. It raised the hair on the back of his arms and caused his patience to dissolve.
He turned around abruptly to confront him. “What?”
Xev arched a brow. “No greeting?”
“Glad to see my favorite hemorrhoid. Why are you here?”
“Meeting Myone. But I also wanted to see you.”
“Why?”
Xev snorted. “You just won’t let that go, will you?”
In spite of Xev’s kindness a year ago, it didn’t undo a lifetime of their ill will toward each other. “I know you, brother. Which means I trust you not at all. And I know you’re not here for no reason.”
“Xev!” Lil drew him into a hug that irritated Caleb even more.
He knew there was nothing behind her hug, but still… he didn’t want to even share her hugs with her father. Never mind a brother he’d spent more of his life fighting than getting along with.
“Did you come to celebrate with us?”
Caleb gave him a smirk. “Yeah, brother. Did you come to celebrate with us?”
“I would love to, but I need to speak with Caleb first… if you don’t mind?”
Worry creased her brow. “Is everything all right?”
“Just a message from our father. I’m sure he’ll tell you about it later.”
Xev motioned for Caleb to follow him away from Lil and the crowd.
Caleb growled low in his throat as he treaded after him. Although, he had a sudden urge to blast Xev. Wouldn’t hurt him any, but it might make Caleb feel better.
Once they were alone, Xev let out a tired breath. “You have no idea what’s going on, do you?”
“I know you’re annoying me. Is there anything else I should be focusing on?”
“The war. Lyseah has claimed your army and is?—”
“I don’t care.”
