Shadewood We are in the war.

There were many things about Masque that Riley adored, but her willingness to branch out and interact with strangers was at the forefront. Riley was not so extroverted — he passed his gaze over her in quiet admiration, nursing a small smile.

He wondered what the fall would bring. Would their children be old enough to travel? The thought of them — merely a concept now — as tangible beings with their own interests and personalities made his heart flutter.

Riley reached out to Masque’s cheek with a soft brush of his nose. That would be a fun adventure for the kids, if they’re old enough. He was about to point out that some novel situations might be good for them when Masque’s stomach gurgled loudly. Okay, I get it. Riley nipped her cheek gently and pulled away, albeit reluctantly. Time to get m’lady lunch before she starts looking at me like a snack.

He canted his hips to the side as he walked, peering back once so she could catch the flirtatious glint in his gaze. He sucked in his breath as the cold water nipped his heels, ears straining as he watched the murky depths for any sign of a ripple.