“Look.” Tharon nodded toward a group of young Shakai warriors deep in conversation with Terr craft apprentices. “Already they find common ground.”
“It’s a start.” I leaned into him, watching the casual interactions that would have been impossible months ago. “A foundation to build on.”
As the sun set, torches blazed to life along the streets. The beast stirred restlessly as the celebrations continued. I felt Tharon’s growing need to have me to himself.
“Shall we slip away?” I murmured.
His growl of approval made me shiver from head to toe. We made our excuses and escaped to the palace gardens, now wild with summer blooms. The beast's excitement thrummed between us as Tharon led me to a secluded bower.
“Finally.” He pulled me close, nuzzling my neck. “My mate. My wife. My queen.”
“Yours.” I tilted my head, offering better access. “Always yours.”
His kiss held possession and promise. The beast purred satisfaction as my hands slid into his hair, drawing him closer. Everything else fell away - duty, responsibility, the weight of two cultures depending on us. Here, we were simply mates, lost in each other.
Later, we stood on our private balcony, watching stars emerge above the city. Tharon’s arms wrapped around me from behind as I took in the view. Lanterns still burned in the streets below, celebration continuing without us. Music drifted up, carrying remembered fragments of our first dance.
“What are you thinking?” he asked, nuzzling my neck.
“That I never expected this.” I leaned back against his chest. “When I first broke free of the Temple, I only wanted escape. Revenge.” I smiled. “Instead, I found you. Found myself.”
“Found us.” His arms tightened. “Everything I am is yours now.”
“Everything we are.” I turned in his embrace. “Man and beast, human and Shakai. The perfect balance.”
His beast rumbled agreement as he claimed my mouth again. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, no doubt. But tonight belonged to us alone.
I put my arms around his neck, melting into him as the stars wheeled overhead. His kiss deepened, passion building between us. The beast’s satisfied purr vibrated through us both.
My mate.
My husband.
My everything.
