Page 304 of Elemental Becoming

Now he leads armies into battle.

Now he makes the choices no one else can.

He knows the loss it leaves behind. The sacrifices it demands. The way it reaches into every corner of a person’s life and takes more than anyone ever expects to give.

I reach for him through the bond, the invisible thread that now feels stronger than before.

“I understand now.”

His breath catches ever so slightly, and his eyes flutter shut for a moment. When they open again, I see it all there—the love, the devotion, the quiet relief of knowing I finally understand.

I press my palm against his chest, right over his heart.

“And I won’t ever let go.”

The bond thrums, a quiet pulse of shared certainty.

He draws a deep breath, gathering himself. His voice reaches me in return, low and quiet in my mind.

“Neither will I.”

I close my eyes for a brief moment, not because I need to, but because I want to feel it. To feel him and this promise woven between us.

Rowena rolls her eyes, crossing her arms. “This bond thing really has a way of making people feel like a third wheel.”

Thane’s grin widens. “Then walk away.”

He doesn’t even look at Rowena when he says it.

Rowena scoffs, shaking her head. “Rude.”

She gestures toward Thane before sighing dramatically.

“I would walk away, but unfortunately, we have actual responsibilities. Garrick and Jarek have had the soldiers all morning running formations.”

Thane finally drags his attention away from me and looks at his sister. “Sure. I’ll meet you at the training grounds.”

His hand squeezes mine once.

“I want to walk Amara to Valen’s first.”

Rowena arches her brow. “Of course you do.”

Thane doesn’t dignify that with a response, just tilts his head slightly, waiting for her to leave.

Rowena huffs and throws up her hands.

“Fine, fine. Take your time, lovebirds. I’ll make sure Garrick and Jarek haven’t killed anyone before you get there.” She turns, striding down the hall, her voice echoing as she calls back. “But don’t take too long, little brother, or I’ll start leading drills in your name!”

Thane shakes his head, amusement touching his expression before he turns his attention back to me.

“Shall we?”

I laugh as he offers me his elbow. Smiling, I hook my arm through his, and we continue toward Valen’s quarters, our steps easy and unhurried.

“Your sister really likes reminding you that you are her ‘little’ brother.”

Thane scoffs. “She thinks it keeps me humble.”