“No injuries?” Clive asks, kneeling next to you. You don’t look hurt. The relief that spreads through him nearly makes him sick. It’s not as though the two of you were lovers. But you’re more than just his ally. You’ve shared too many long nights together.

His grip on his sword tightens. You’re exhausted. He can see it on your face. “Stay close,” he says in a low voice. He’s never let anything hurt you before, he won’t start now, even if you ended things with him.