“Do you see those white shapes?” he asked. I sucked in my breath. “What is it?” Mom shook her head. “We’re not sure yet. But, Charlotte, whatever they are, it appears that they followed us here.”

“In a month, the passes into Teutlandt and Skanida will be open and my companion and I will be on our way."He paused and Philemon frowned, trying to understand what he was being told.You want us to come with you?" he asked, at last. "You expect us to follow you?"Halt shook his head. "I have no wish to ever see any of you again," he said flatly.”

“Misha didn’t appear taken by her charm. He eyed her as if she’s asked him to make her a garlic pizza in the shape of a cross. I laughed: I couldn’t help it. Leave it to Shayna to try to befriend the guy who’ll probably suck us dry by sundown.”

“Are you scared of me?" He asked her gently.Sally shook her head."Do you think I would ever hurt you intentionally?"Again she shook her head."Do you believe that I want what's best for you and will protect you with my life? Do you trust that I will hold you above all others and live to see that you have joy in your life? That I will hold you when you cry, that I will laugh with you when you laugh, that I will honor you as my mate? Do you believe these things?”

“What are you doing?” Her voice shook.“Whatever I want, sweetheart.”

“Girlfriend? Presume much?""Probably, yes." He turned his head, breath tickling my cheek. "I told you yesterday, Evy, you have healing to do, and I'll be here for you. Whatever it takes.”