Kelryn sprang into his arms. He carried her down the staircase, and she seemed light as a shadow, as bright and beautiful as a spirit. “Thank you for keeping your promises, Sudian.”
“I didn’t,” he admitted. At the next landing, he twirled her to the floor in an agile dance. “Nightfall had to return. Without him, I could not have rescued Edward.”
“And yet, you’re here.” She smiled, her features the very definition of beauty. “Sudian, I’m proud of you.”
“I’m stronger than you thought.”
“Yes.”
Nightfall leered. “And, the moment I get you to your room, I intend to prove it.”
Kelryn giggled as she ran down the next flight of stairs. “And I, Sudian. I intend to let you.”