Chapter 43

At dawn, Acker leaves to fetch the horses while Jovie meets Hallis and a hungover Beau. As they ride toward the capitol, Jovie confides lingering love for Kai but accepts Acker as her true match. Beau reassures her, easing tension between the women.

Sharing a horse, Jovie feels the bond’s painful pull when Acker is away. Sensing her desire through the tether, Acker subtly soothes her with intimate teasing, which calms her nerves. The road grows busier as travelers recognize Acker, hinting at his status.

Near sunset, they spot a mounted company. Acker approaches alone and returns with General Samasu of Maile, sent by Queen Evelyn to retrieve Jovie. Samasu states Jovie has no choice. When Hallis and Beau prepare to defend her, Samasu demonstrates a teleport-like ability, warning that while he won’t die, his men likely would.

Pressed to justify keeping Jovie, Acker declares Jovie is his match. To prove it, he and Jovie pierce their joined palms with her dagger. Acker swears a blood oath to protect her “until my dying breath” and openly confesses his love. Beau scolds his recklessness, Hallis is aghast, but Samasu—impressed—accepts the proof and notes the queen will demand evidence.

Jovie gives Samasu her black stone dagger as proof and promises to send for it in two days, buying time. Recognizing a familial quirk that links Samasu to Wren, she keeps the insight private. Samasu withdraws with his men to report. Acker and Jovie seal the moment with a quiet kiss, feeling both a beginning and an approaching end.