City of Ruin, page 31
“As you can see,” I tell him. “And she is standing right here.” It’s a bit more sass than I’d intended, but Killian’s eyes widen. He looks at his brother again, chuckling.
“Oh, I like her.” His eyes shift to me. “I like you,” he repeats. “Big, brooding Blackburn has a beautiful woman to keep him in check. Can I call you sister?”
“Of course,” I say, and in two strides, Killian wraps me in a bear hug. He smells like salt and wind, and I feel more content by his presence than I thought possible. “You’re finally home,” I whisper. “You’ve been missed.” Even if I have never met this man, I already feel as if I know him, and I squeeze him tight.
Killian takes a step back, glancing between us and then at Greyson’s empty mug of ale.
“Perhaps we should get another round of drinks,” I prompt. “You aren’t the only one who’s had a bit of adventure, it would seem.” I meet Greyson’s gaze, and the corners of his eyes crinkle slightly.
“I’ll need something stronger than that,” Killian mutters, and with a dip of his chin, his gaze measured as if he’s preparing us for whatever story comes next, he strides toward the barkeep.
Greyson takes my hand. “You are tired—”
“I am fine,” I promise. “And your brother is finally home.” I cup my hand on his scruffy cheek. “Enjoy this moment with him. You’ve more than earned it.”
His eyes shift over me as if he’s torn. “But I promised you stew in front of the fire.”
I laugh, nearly snorting. “As epic as that truly sounds, there will be plenty of time for stew and lovemaking. But tonight is cause for celebration. I insist.”
Killian’s laughter reaches our ears, and the corner of Greyson’s lip twitches with a hint of a smile. He takes my hand, fingers lacing with mine as he pulls me in for a kiss. “Fine,” he breathes. “Tonight we celebrate. But tomorrow and every night after is for stew and lovemaking by the fire.”
I smile against his lips. “I might grow tired of stew,” I tease.
“Then we’ll have Ms. Fairchild’s lemon drizzle—whatever pleases you—as long as I have you. Of that, I insist.”
THE END
* * *
Have you pre-ordered Killian and Brynn’s story, Sea of Storms? It’s a Norse-inspired Robin Hood tale.
* * *
And the adventures continue in the completed sister series, Forgotten Lands.
* * *
All of my books are available in audiobook, ebook, and paperback formats.
* * *
You can shop on my website and at all ebook retailers, including Amazon, Google Play, Barnes & Noble, and Apple.
OTHER BOOKS BY LINDSEY
FORGOTTEN LANDS WORLD
(Can be read as stand-alones)
* * *
FORGOTTEN LANDS
Dust and Shadow
Borne of Sand and Scorn Prequel Novella
Earth and Ember
Tide and Tempest
* * *
RUINED LANDS
City of Ruin
Sea of Storms
Land of Fury (March 2023)
* * *
THE ENDING WORLD
* * *
SAVAGE NORTH CHRONICLES
(Should be read in this order)
The Darkest Winter
The Longest Night
Midnight Sun
Fading Shadows
Untamed
Unbroken
Day Zero: Beginnings
* * *
THE ENDING SERIES
After The Ending
Into The Fire
Out Of The Ashes
Before The Dawn
The Ending Beginnings
World Before
World After
* * *
NEW ADULT ROMANCE
* * *
SARATOGA FALLS LOVE STORIES
(Recommended reading order)
Whatever It Takes
Nothing But Trouble
Told You So
Memory Book Story Collection
* * *
➔ Bonus Scenes and Newsletter Signup
➔ Patreon Exclusives
* * *
www.LindseyPogue.com
ABOUT LINDSEY POGUE
Lindsey Pogue has always been a sucker for a good love story. She completed her first new adult manuscript in high school and has been writing tales of love and friendship, history and adventure ever since. When she’s not chatting with readers, plotting her next storyline, or dreaming up new, brooding characters, Lindsey’s generally wrapped in blankets watching her favorite action flicks with her own leading man. They live in Northern California with their rescue cats, Beast and little Blue.
www.lindseypogue.com
Lindsey Pogue, City of Ruin
