Fire & Metal, #1
Metal Slinger
by Rachel Schneider
Contents
Chapter 36
Overview
In a late-night tent meeting, Jovie and Acker navigate duty and desire. Acker refuses to share quarters but promises to be with Jovie at the palace. Jovie inadvertently glimpses his imagined kiss and discovers their exclusive mind-link and tether. Acker admits he hid it to protect her, and they part for the night.
Summary
Jovie studies a campaign map as Acker returns exhausted from preparing troops to advance through the newly cleared border. They speak briefly of squires and Hallis, skirting deeper questions about recent deceptions and measures taken in camp. Acker confirms the palace is three days away, underscoring their temporary safety in Kenta.
When Jovie assumes they will share a tent, Acker reveals he arranged separate lodging, citing propriety. Hurt, Jovie moves to leave, but Acker pulls her onto his lap and promises that at the palace he will sleep wherever she wants, even in her bed if she wishes.
As desire spikes, Jovie suddenly experiences Acker’s imagined kiss from inside his mind. Startled, she notices her eyes now hazel, not gray, and realizes the link is unique to Acker. Confronted, Acker admits he has known and can sometimes see into her thoughts—mainly when she draws—while her access to his is stronger.
Acker explains he waited for her awakening to reveal “the tether,” the persistent pull between them. Overwhelmed, Jovie asks for space. Acker regains formality, calls a guard, and has her escorted to her billet, parting with a restrained good night as both acknowledge the bond but postpone acting on it.
Who Appears
- Jovie (Princess Jovinnia)Protagonist; realizes her eyes have changed, confirms a unique mind-link and tether with Acker, chooses space.
- AckerPrince and commander; promises future closeness, admits he hid their tether and limited access to her thoughts.