Hiraeth

Chapter Eleven

When Sage woke the next morning she stretched lazily, the events of the previous night flooding back to her-Kade's kiss, their promises, and the weight of the chaos lurking just beyond their walls. She bolted upright, heart racing as she remembered the plans they had discussed.

"Shit," she muttered, throwing back the covers and swinging her legs over the side of the bed. She had a feeling that today would set the tone for everything that followed, and she needed to be sharp.

After quickly dressing, she hurried to the dining hall, the delicious scent of breakfast wafting through the air. As she entered, she was greeted by the sight of her family gathered around the long oak table, a warm fire crackling nearby. Laughter filled the room, but she noticed the moment they turned their attention to her.

Her farther wasn't present, which wasn't a surprise. Unless he was parading Sage around like a prize stallion, he wouldn't bother himself with such pleasantries as regularly dining with his family.

"Look who finally decided to join us!" her younger sister, Lily, teased, a mischievous grin plastered on her freckled face.

"Very funny," Sage shot back, rolling her eyes but unable to suppress a smile. "What have I missed?"

"Just your usual morning gossip," her mother replied, her eyes sparkling. "And the story of how you single-handedly saved the market square from disaster."

Sage's cheeks flushed. "It wasn't just me, you know. Kade and Fleck were right there with me."

"Still, darling," her mother said, a proud smile softening her features. "You showed incredible bravery."

As they finished breakfast, Sage felt the weight of her responsibilities creeping back in. "I need to meet with Kade and Fleck to discuss our next steps," she said, standing up and smoothing her dress.

"Don't work too hard," Lily chimed, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "You need a little fun after last night!"

Sage laughed, feeling the tension ease. "I'll try to keep that in mind, but we're facing real danger here."

Her mother gave her a knowing look. "Just remember to take a moment for yourself. Sometimes, the best way to prepare for a storm is to find a moment of calm in it."

"Right, a moment of calm," Sage echoed, though the thought seemed impossible given the chaos swirling in her mind. She gave her family a quick kiss goodbye and made her way to the training yard where she expected to find Kade.

As she approached, she spotted Kade sparring with a group of knights, the sound of clashing swords ringing out as he deftly dodged an incoming blow. His long black hair glimmered in the sunlight, and even from a distance, she could see the intensity in his green eyes.

Sage leaned against a nearby wall, her heart racing for a different reason now. She had always admired Kade's dedication, the way he poured himself into every movement, every fight. The sight of him in action sent a thrill through her, igniting the spark from the night before.

"Hey!" she called out, her voice cutting through the sounds of training.

Kade turned, a grin breaking across his face. "Sage! Just in time to see me dominate." He swung his sword dramatically, eliciting laughter from the other knights.

"Is that what you call it?" she teased, stepping closer. "Looks more like you're trying not to get your ass kicked."

His laughter rang out, a rich sound that sent butterflies flitting in her stomach. "Come on, I'll show you how it's done."

Sage felt a surge of excitement. "I'd love to see you try."

As he handed her a practice sword, she felt a rush of energy. The moment their fingers brushed, heat coursed through her, and she fought to keep her composure. They moved into position, their eyes locked in a playful battle of wills.