206 The Sense of Safety

AYLETH

Ayleths' head spun with images—of herself, fighting to put herself forward. And of Etan, sitting at the back of the feast hall. Putting himself in positions lower than he should have taken just to be close to her, or to keep her safe.

"Etan…" she said minutes later. "I do realize that neither of us is perfect," she said, barely more than a whisper. She looked over her shoulder to make sure Falek was far enough back not to hear. "I know that despite both our flaws, you have always worked for my good. Always wanted to protect me. And you have… humbled yourself to achieve that. I know that. I want you to know that I see it."

Etan smiled. "Thank you. I do love you, Ayleth."

"Yes, but you do more than love me," she said, her voice cracking. "I'm not good at humbling myself, Etan. But you are and I don't… I don't understand how you do it."

"I fight my pride every day, Ayleth. As I'm sure you do," he said dryly.