He hated that she needed it.
And yet, he told her anyway.
Because he loved her.
Because this was war—and she was his queen.
"Thank you."
"Just be careful."
Luna nodded, placing her head back on his lap.
She tucked herself close to him again. Her cheek pressed against his thigh as his fingers found her hair, stroking absentmindedly.
*****
The exchange had happened successfully. Lurent had been grabbed and was currently tied up and gagged in the vehicle Talon was driving with the queen in the backseat.
Lurent's muffled groans filled the silence between them. He thrashed a little, but the reinforced vampire-grade restraints held. The queen hadn't said a word since they left Thessa's home. She stared ahead, unblinking.
As expected, the vehicle wasn't searched.
The car came to a stop in front of the Royal home. Talon got out quickly, opening the door for her without a word. She stepped out, pausing only briefly to glance at the trunk.
