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She nodded, stumbling after him, but then frowned. “But we didn’t accomplish our mission.”

“The plan has changed. You can’t be discovered here.”

“But—”

“That wasn’t a suggestion,” he cut in, holding her hand before ripping through the crowd in the direction of the back entrance Wren had come through in the first place. They rushed through the shadows, dodging terrified servants cowering against the walls.

“I can help you.”

Arrik jerked to a halt and peered down at her. “No, you cannot. Who do you think they’re going to blame if my brother is truly dead?You.”

“Me?” Her brows furrowed. “How could I possible orchestrate something like that?”

“Do you think rationality is something my father possesses right now? He killed the messenger, and you have been a thorn in his side for weeks.” He led her out the doors and out of the palace.

Fearful elves were fleeing the palace in droves.

Wren flinched as a group of elven soldiers forced two men and women down into the dirt, dragging them back into the building kicking and screaming.

“Hurry up.”

They picked up their speed, managing to make it to the stables.

Josenu was waiting inside, lips firmly pressed into a line. “I heard shouts that Cathal is dead.”

“I’ll confirm it with my own eyes. Get her back without notice,” Arrik ordered, lifting Wren onto the back of the beautiful mare she had ridden from Lord Idril’s castle. “She cannot be seen or he’ll execute her.”

She gathered up the end of her dress, shivering as screams continued to cut through the air. Her breathing became labored as images of the attack on the isles flashed through her mind.

“Wren.”

Arrik’s voice cut through the panic; she focused on his face, sweat dripping between her breasts. He studied her a moment before pulling a knife from his waist and cutting off the train of her dress.

“Ride hard and fast, wife. Stop for no one and nothing. Do you understand?” His voice brooked no argument.

“You can’t honestly expect me to leave,” Wren rasped. “You need help. It’s not safe here.”

“Are you concerned for my safety?”

She was, but wouldn’t admit it.

He stroked the length of her calf through the gauzy material of her dress. Tingles ran up her leg.

“It’s never been safe, darling. Nothing will be until Soren’s dealt with.” He turned his attention to Josenu. “Your life is tied to hers. Do you understand me?”

“Understood.”

Wren gasped. “You can’t put that on him. Accidents happen.”

Her husband looked up at her, expression fierce. “I’m entrusting him with my everything. No accidents will be happening this night.” Wren’s mouth ran dry as he held her gaze, daring her to argue with him. “I’ll meet you when it’s safe once more. We didn’t anticipate whatever…this…is. I won’t be able to formulate a new plan unless Iknowyou’re safe.”

He spoke with such sincerity and heat that Wren could do nothing but nod in silence.

Why did this feel like goodbye? And why did that scare her?

“Don’t die,” she murmured as Josenu urged his mount out of the stable.

“I won’t. Believe me. I’ll come for you, wife.”