Page 102 of Return of the Vengeful Quee

Charis’s laugh wobbled a bit, but still, it felt right to sit in the sun, pet Father’s cat, and remember the man who’d loved her unconditionally and had anchored her to the better part of her nature.

She leaned her head against Tal’s chest as he told a story about Father tricking Ilsa into giving them sweetcakes for breakfast. The land rolled away from the tree in gentle dips and curves, dressed in long grass and delicate flowers. Small coils of smoke drifted up from the distant village houses, and somewhere nearby a bird sang cheerfully.

It was simple, unpretentious, and peaceful, just like Father had been.

“I’m grateful he sent me to be your bodyguard,” Tal said as the sun dipped toward the horizon. “He trusted me with what was most precious to him, and I’ll spend the rest of my life making sure I don’t let him down.”

“Better make sure you don’t let me down, either.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it.” He gave her a sly grin. “Unless, of course, we’re discussing your desire to cheat during sparring.”

“I never cheat during sparring.”

“Liar.”

She snuggled close, a smile on her face and peace in her heart as the sun slowly disintegrated into crimson fire along the horizon.