The King spent his day consulting with Sevastian and Rohan about training their soldiers and strategizing for the impending war. As the evening descended, he returned to his chamber, finding Elysia preparing for bed.
A tired smile graced his lips as he climbed into bed beside her, wrapping her in his arms until her head rested against his bare chest. "How was your day?" he asked, his voice soft yet laden with exhaustion.
Elysia raised her gaze to meet his, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "It was uneventful. I spent most of it wondering how to summon the man who lingers in my dreams."
His expression softened as he cupped her cheek, his thumb gently tracing her skin. "I know this weighs heavily on you, Elysia. Your determination means more than you know. If I could bear this burden alone and shield you from it, I would do so without hesitation."