He sat down in a nearby chair to keep watch, making sure no one disturbed her rest.
She needed it.
She'd executed someone today. Had threatened powerful nobles. Had played dangerous political games all morning.
All to protect him.
The least he could do was let her sleep in peace.
Larus picked up a book from the side table and began reading quietly, occasionally glancing over to make sure she was still sleeping soundly.
Outside the chambers, guards stood watch with instructions that the Empress was not to be disturbed under any circumstances.
And for the first time in what felt like weeks, Heena slept deeply—dreamlessly—her headache finally fading into nothing.
Protected by her husband's watchful presence.
Safe, at least for these few hours, from the endless demands of ruling an empire.
.
.
.
'Host... host... HOST!'
