Kael's hand began to trembling, his fist half-clenched, but the fire in his eyes faltered.
He looked at Lilah, at her trembling lips, her wet cheeks, her body shaking with the effort of standing firm against him, and something inside him cracked.
He had fought rogues, traitors, beasts from the border and established his position to one where he didn't need to personally go o missions but he still did because a leader who stands in front of always dependable.
Up till the moment he met Lilah, nothing had ever nothing had ever shaken him like the sight of her tears right now.
It struck him with an instant realization.
"Lilah," his voice finally broke, low and rough.
But she shook her head, backing a step away from him though she could not see the ground beneath her.
"No. Don't say my name like that. Not after this."
The words cut him deeper than any blade had ever done.
