'She is always thinking three steps ahead,' Kai thought, thoroughly impressed by her tactical mind.
'She's right. The Matriarch invited Kael to the palace. If I slip up and reveal my true identity, Meriel might hear the rumors before I am ready to strike.'
"You're a very smart woman," Kai praised her, kissing her forehead.
"I'm a survivor," Yena corrected him. "And starting tomorrow, I am your new tactical advisor."
The night passed peacefully, entirely free of the restless frustration that had plagued them previously.
Morning sunlight eventually crept through the balcony doors, warming the cool room. Kai woke up feeling refreshed and incredibly focused. The buzzing energy in his veins felt purposeful now.
He sat up and swung his legs over the edge of the mattress.
Yena stirred beside him, stretching her sore muscles with a contented sigh.
She looked beautiful in the morning light, her tough exterior softened by the lingering intimacy of the night.
