Elara pov
The ache in my thighs deepened suddenly, and the strength I had been forcing into my spine slipped away without warning. My vision tilted slightly, and before my knees could touch the ground, strong arms wrapped around me.
Kael lifted me effortlessly.
I barely had time to gasp before I was pressed securely against his chest, one arm beneath my knees and the other supporting my back. The scent of him surrounded me instantly, grounding me before embarrassment could.
“You were about to collapse,” he murmured, his voice low but not mocking.
“I was not,” I protested weakly, though I could barely hold my head up.
A faint smile curved at the corner of his lips. “You did well today, my queen.”
His eyes searched my face as he carried me up the staircase, he was watchful in a way t
