29

Twenty nine

*Rafe*

I was busy examining the budget reports for the palace repairs and renovations when the doors to my office flew open with a bang. Freya stormed in, her face flushed with rage. My eyes widened in shock as I noticed the way she held her side where the bullet had pierced her flesh just hours ago.

"What the hell are you doing?" I demanded, leaping up from my chair. The papers scattered as my hands slammed on the desk. "You're supposed to be resting!"

She opened her mouth to retort but swayed unsteadily on her feet. fuck! In two long strides I was at her side, scooping her up into my arms before she could crumple to the floor. Her warm breath tickled my neck as I carried her to my desk and set her down gently on the polished mahogany surface.

I planted my hands on either side of her hips, caging her in. She glowered up at me defiantly even as she struggled to catch her breath, no doubt from the exertion of marching down here while still recovering. The urge to shake so