Chapter 63. Haunted by the Past

ASTRID

The sound of the horse's hooves against the dirt path was almost soothing, but the tension in my body wouldn't allow me to relax. I sat before Magnus, his powerful arms encircling me as he held the reins.

His body was solid against my back, a wall of strength that made me feel small and fragile in comparison. His breath was warm on my ear, and I could hear the steady beat of his heart,

As the horse trotted on, I felt myself growing drowsy. My eyelids became heavy. I leaned back against him, feeling the hardness of his chest, and my head found a place to rest on his shoulder. His scent, a mix of pine

"Magnus," I whispered, my voice barely audible over the soft thuds of the horse's hooves.

"Hmm?" His voice rumbled through his chest,

"Thank you," I managed, though I wasn't even sure what I was thanking him for—perhaps for just being here.

He didn't respond with words, but I felt his arm tighten slightly around me. The ge