by E Hall
Gerda shakes her head but cracks a smile. Then she calls for the crew’s attention and we set sail.
Soren wraps his arm over my shoulder and says, “But you don’t have to do all that slaying alone.”
“You’re pretty handy with that sword. I’ll keep you around.” I nudge him with my elbow, but he just draws me closer.
I could really go for some clean clothes, but my work uniform is my only connection to home so I keep it on, squeeze the snowflake pendant around my neck, and wave to the others gathered along the shore as we leave the harbor.
As the castle perched on the mountainside grows smaller in the wake of the boat, I drop the stone I took from Leith’s crown into the indentation where north should be etched on the compass. The needle points to the west and I expect sparks of magic or something, but the compass remains cold in my hand.
Still in Soren’s arms, I inhale his mint, woodsmoke, and pine scent. I didn’t realize I’d be attracted to the broad-shouldered, muscly, tough-guy type. In fact, I didn’t realize I had a type. But I appreciate his rugged good looks and am happy to be in this together, all things considered.
As though he senses I’m getting all sentimental, he says, “You know, Raven’s Landing will always be home, and I’ll have to go back and help rebuild—”
“And be a king,” I add.
“Yeah. I need some time to get my head around that. But home is also wherever you are.” His tone is low so only I can hear.
I shake the compass. “Good thing we always have this if we ever find ourselves apart.”
He inclines his head, gazing into my eyes.
I’ve looked into his eyes countless times, starting when we met in the hills outside Raven’s Landing, but I see solid confidence where before there was bravado...and something else. Love? I definitely feel it.
His lips quirk. “If I were to be king, would that make you my queen, Ineke?”
He’s never said my name before and it warms all the Frost Fae chill inside of me. My wings pop, glimmering in the sunshine like they’re dusted with sugar crystals. Nonetheless, I smirk. “Is this some kind of proposal?” I ask. “Where’s the ring?”
His brow furrows as though in confusion and then laughter spills across his face. “We have a lot to learn about each other’s realms.”
“Good thing we have plenty of time. I think this sailing trip might take a while.”
“We could just fly,” he says and then squeezes me closer.
“But I’d like a while and yes, I’ll be your queen, Soren.”
His lips land on mine and we kiss as the boat glides through the sea.
Curious about the Westlands and the shores where Kiki and the crew land? Pre-order book 2, Fae of the West, featuring Val and Callen who love to hate each other, but will have to learn not to kill each other in the arena...and maybe get along so they can save Brendsondl from the Shadow Army.
Preorder Fae of the West!
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Acknowledgments
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About the Author
E. Hall is the author of *unputdownable* fantasy and paranormal romance books. She’s also known for making up words, which kind of goes with the territory. She’s in constant pursuit of wonder, waves, and nachos. When she’s not writing about fae, wolves, and magic, she’s probably writing under her romance pen name...or reading. There is no such thing as too many books.
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Also by E. Hall
Fae of the North
Fae of the West
Fae of the South
Fae of the East
