He stood and shook off as much of the pain as he could. And, with final resolve, he turned and went back to his love, enveloped her in his arms and whispered three words in her ear.

“Please forgive me.”

Q

Sally lay contentedly in Costin’s arms hours later. She could hear his heart beating where her head was pressed against his chest and she found comfort in the steady rhythm. After so many dangers they had faced, so many ugly things that had been thrown at them, now she lay in the arms of her mate and it was beautiful.

“You are beautiful,” he whispered.

“Are you listening to my thoughts?” She asked with a grin.

“Always,” Costin squeezed are affectionately. “Are you alright?” His words were soft and she heard the apprehension in his voice.

She pushed herself up on her arm so she could look him in the eyes.

“I’m better than alright, Costin.”

“I love you,” he told her as he reached up his hand and caressed her face.

“Thank you.” Sally’s head tilted to the side as she looked down at him, her eyes narrowed thoughtfully. “Hey, we never said our vows.”

Costin grinned mischievously, he kissed her neck and then looked back up at her.

“Do you remember me whispering in your ear tonight or the words I sent you through our bond?” He asked her.

Sally nodded.

“You are the air I breathe, the food I eat, the water that quenches my thirst, Sally mine. You are what I have waited for, what I have so desperately needed and what I could never deserve. Every whispered promise, every confession, every longing, hope and dream I have shared with you this night, those are my vows to you my love. All you need know is that I am yours, unequivocally and you are mine.”

Sally stared into the eyes of the man she loved, the man who was more than a man and more than anything she ever imagined she could have. She saw every thought that coincided with his words, felt every emotion as intensely as he did and she found joy in the love that he held for her. She was his, no matter what new evil they would face, no matter the trials, the triumphs or the fury that would come knocking at their door. She was his and he was hers, fate had destined them and loved had bonded them.