ELIA
An hour later they walked through the Tree City holding hands, Reth keeping her close, his eyes watchful of their surroundings. He was always protective, but even dressing back at the clearing, he'd been overly attentive, holding her arm when she had to lean down to put a leg in her leathers, and coaching her about the shift before they left.
She smiled wearily. He was going to be insufferable for the next three or four months, she knew. But she also knew he needed to be protective, to feel as if he was doing something.
He literally pushed himself between her and danger—whether actual danger existed, or not. And she admired him for it. If that meant putting up with an over-protective mate for a few months until this little one arrived, well… she could do that.
So as they approached the Market she smiled and stroked his arm. "I am madly in love with you, Reth. Exactly as you are."
