Page 129 of The Hunter's Empire

His expression makes it clear he isn't buying that explanation for a second.

I look down at my hands. "Thank you."

"For what?"

"For noticing."

The words leave my mouth before I can stop them.

For a moment, he simply looks at me. "I spent several days making sure you stayed alive." He says quietly. "Hard habit to break."

A faint smile tugs at my lips. "I'll try not to run into any more mercenaries this week."

"I'd appreciate that."

Silence settles comfortably between us before Nico finally rises to his feet.

"I should get back."

"Keith?"

He nods. "We've got a few things to go over."

I raise an eyebrow. "You two have become surprisingly friendly."

"We're not."

"Really?" I fold my arms. "Because from where I'm sitting, you've spent all your time with my brother ever since you came."

A faint smile tugs at the corner of his mouth. "Occupational hazard."

"I didn't realize you and Keith shared one."

"We do."

I study him for a moment. "So... should I be worried you're replacing me?"

"I don't think that's possible."

The answer catches me off guard.

Before I can respond, he glances toward the resort. "He's a good man."

There's a quiet certainty in the way he says it that leaves no room for argument.

"He is." I agree softly.

Nico gives my ankle one last pointed look. "Take it easy, Elf."

"I will."

The doubtful look he gives me says he doesn't believe a word of it. Then he turns and disappears into the night.

Chapter 27

Zora

The morning of Keith and Aurelia's wedding dawns bright and impossibly clear, as though even the weather has decided nothing should spoil the day. By the time I arrive at Aurelia's bridal suite, the resort is already buzzing with quiet excitement. Staff hurry through the corridors carrying garment bags, bouquets, and steaming cups of coffee while muffled laughter drifts from behind half-open doors.