Fiona shattered beneath him, waves of release washing over her trembling form, but the pleasure faded quickly. Grief crashed back in, and tears began streaming down her face once more.
Reginald pressed gentle kisses to her wet cheeks. "Stop crying. We'll handle this together, alright?" He withdrew from her slowly, feeling her wince, then pulled her tight against his chest.
His hands moved in soothing circles across her back, lips brushing her forehead repeatedly. Every tender gesture worked to calm her storm, and gradually, she settled.
Sweat glistened on both their bodies. In the quiet aftermath, Fiona felt that familiar connection with her mate returning, however fragile.
"The king has handed the hunt over to his royal gamma," Reginald began softly. "It's only a matter of time before they track us down here. We have to move fast, but we need Allen first. I know I've demanded too much from you already. You've given up more than anyone should have to, but we can't stop now."
