Chapter 145

I SLEPT LIKE THE DEAD, only waking when I sensed Sito's energy. It took some effort to open my eyes and I groaned while slipping out of bed. I know we weren't gentle, I thought, but wow, do I feel like I've been beaten with a blunt object.

Padding across to the window, I peeked out over the courtyard and could just glimpse Sito's wings. I could sense Sian's energy and she seemed excited.

They must have found the hoard.

I stifled a yawn and went back to bed; all the more reason to get more sleep, a big day ahead. Alek smiled in his sleep when I climbed in and my heart squeezed tight at the expression. I leaned over to softly kiss his cheek and settled down shutting my eyes.

Nnelg blinked in, rousing us far too soon and I stumbled off to get dressed. While changing, I heard a sound and turned to see Alek standing there, his eyes fixed on my back. I went to look in the mirror but he caught my shoulder, tracing his fingers down my spine.

'Ouch!'

'A LITTLE BRUISED, PRINCESS?' ALEK k