Chapter 6019
Inside, warm lamplight softened the carved beams, driving out the cold, martial edge that ruled the courtyard. The room smelled of incense and steady heartbeats instead of drawn steel.
Raniaâs sobs had faded. Color returned to her cheeks as she relaxed in Jaredâs arms. The terror from earlier already felt distant to her, like a rumor that had lost its bite. In her mind, Julianâs retreat proved everythingâfathers, like storms, rage and then move on. Love, she believed, had won its first battle.
The certainty lit up her smile so brightly it almost hurt to look at.
She lifted her head, voice soft. âJared, donât be afraid. With me here, Father wonât truly hurt you.â
She nestled closer, slender fingers smoothing the faint crease between his brows as if she could erase his worry. âWhen his anger cools, Iâll beg him to acknowledge you,â she promised, eyes shining. âYouâre brilliant. He has to see that.â
Jared turned his hand to clasp hers, gratitude easing his features. âYouâre carrying the weight, Rania. Because of me, you and your fatherââ
Her palm pressed gently over his mouth before he could finish. âHush. Donât talk like that.â
Unlock the full chapter with a membership! If youâre a member, log in using the header menu or the (â°) mobile menu.