Chapter 107

Khelt let out a long breath, his face creasing with strain. “You made your choice. If you had desired me as your mate, you would have let it be known long ago.” His words were hard, but she could hear the hidden longing in them.

“Hearts are not simple,” she whispered. “I care for you both. I will not be false—I would be sacrificing one happiness for another, no matter who I chose. But this choice, perhaps, will mean happiness for more than just myself.”

“I cannot ask such a thing of you against your will.”

Netya smiled, and she did not attempt to hide its bittersweetness. “I told you, I am here of my own accord. I may know little of leadership, but I can see where I am needed most. If you still desire me, I will be your mate.”

Without looking at her, Khelt took Netya’s hand and kissed it. He pressed his forehead against her fingers, squeezing them tight. She could almost feel the strain on his heart beginning to ebb.

“You know I desire nothing more,” he