207 Just This Moment* 

~ TARKYN ~

"Oh, Tarkyn—" Harth whispered, staring at him wide-eyed, pain and joy braided together in her gaze.

"It's only the truth, Harth. I can't…" He was forced to clear his throat. "I didn't think I could face this day. I… I questioned the Creator because it might part us. But I see now… I see and I will do it. Because I understand that… that there has always been a plan, and this has always been part of it. I don't know where we'll be tonight my love, and that terrifies me. Yet I have to submit to His plan, Harth. I must—it's what I was made to do. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Tarkyn… I do. I…" Her face crumpled, but he caught her chin, staring fiercely into her eyes.

"I must submit," he growled, "and I will. No matter what we may face. My purpose is and always has been clear and I was at peace… I would be at peace about all of it, except for you."

Her forehead furrowed and she pulled her head back, confusion entering her gaze. "What—?"