Aware of every breath, every movement, I sat in his lap. His hands gently braced my hips as I studied his face. And now I want you to know, Rhysand, that I love you. I want you to know His lips trembled, and I brushed away the tear that escaped down his cheek. I want you to know, I whispered, that I am broken and healing, but every piece of my heart belongs to you. And I am honoredhonored to be your mate.His arms wrapped around me and he pressed his forehead to my shoulder, his body shaking. I stroked a hand through his silken hair.I love you, I said again. I hadnt dared say the words in my head. And Id endure every second of it over again so I could find you. And if war comes, well face it. Together. I wont let them take me from you. And I wont let them take you from me, either.Rhys looked up, his face gleaming with tears. He went still as I leaned in, kissing away one tear. Then the other. As he had once kissed away mine.When my lips were wet and salty with them, I pulled back far enough to see his eyes. Youre mine, I breathed.