He couldn't help but snarl after his beloved wife had just threatened to follow him into death if he were to perish on the battlefield.

He glared at her and closed the gap, taking her face in his hands before crushing his lips against hers. He wouldn't allow her to follow him to the afterlife—even though he knew he'd do the same if the roles were reversed.

"I absolutely forbid you from following me if I were to die," he growled against her lips, tasting her tears and anguish as he kissed her.