Page 41 of A Fate In Moonstone

“We’re mates,” I stated and Rune nodded. The powerful pull made sense now.

“I’m supposed to marry your brother.”

“You’re not.” He was quick and there was no emotion on his face. He was simply stating a fact and that was it for him.

“I have to talk to my parents. Tell them who I choose, and your brother isn’t a bad person… Hey, don’t give me that face.”

Rune’s eyes narrowed, and I would have waved him off if I weren’t held hostage to the cave.

“He isn’t,” I said firmly and then softened. “He’s just not you. Never was.”

I sighed. There was still so much to talk about, so much to decide on, and I was tired already. The choice was made and even though I wanted to preplan how I’d deal with the consequences, we’d have to face them as they came.

Rune’s stone handcuffs released him. I tried willing the rock to let me go too but no such luck.

He reached me in two large steps. His hand pushed stray curls away from my face. Fingers trailed along my ear, down my jaw, and his thumb caressed my lips. “You’re my mate. Your problems are now mine, and we will deal with them together.”

I didn’t know much about the male, but I knew with him by my side, we’d handle everything thrown our way.

“Together.” I lifted my head, gaze on his lips.

He kissed me gently, slowly. Taking his time while I jerked against the stone restraints.

After one final peck, I was released and he stood three feet away.

I guess the mauling was done. Which was a good thing since my presence was needed in the palace.

Rune left the cave first and stood with arms ready to catch me. I leapt over him with a smile.

“How long must we be at this banquet?” Rune asked as we walked inside. Hands swaying past each other’s but not quite touching. Mother said we moved like magnets, looks like she was right.

“He does these little gatherings before leaving on a trip. He’s heading out soon, so I’m sure he’ll do his speech, then we can pull my parents to the side and give them the news.”

For better or worse, I made my choice. Between Tor and Rune, I’d choose Rune. He was my mate, my match, the accelerant to my fire.

I just hope we didn’t burn the world as we know it in our flames.

Chapter Twenty-Three

Long tables lined the middle of the ballroom. Many Fae were already seated, their plates filled, and wine goblets nearly empty.

“Princess Sapphira of Crysia escorted by Rune Wolfstrom of Regno De Lupi.” We were announced before I could sneak us in quietly.

All heads turned and both Tor and my father had matching smiles.

My chest tightened.

“There’s my little gem.” Father stood and welcomed me with outstretched arms. Normally, I’d leap into them just to soak up the physical touch he so rarely gave. This time I hugged him and retreated quickly.

My mother gave me a hug, her smile soft, sad even. Was she still upset from our chat yesterday?

Tor reached out and I placed my hand in his. “You found my grump of a brother and dragged him here. I’m impressed.” He pulled back the empty seat between him and my father for me. Rune sat on the other side of Tor. Body stiff, face forward, and completely unreadable.

That couldn’t be good.

My father placed his hand on my shoulder. “Welcome everyone, thank you for coming on such short notice.”

The Fae clapped, and out the corner of my eye I saw the general looking around the room with a pinched expression. Shit. Was he looking for Harron?