Total pages in book: 104
Estimated words: 96695 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 483(@200wpm)___ 387(@250wpm)___ 322(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 96695 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 483(@200wpm)___ 387(@250wpm)___ 322(@300wpm)
Relief unfurled in Hugo’s chest, but not enough that he could breathe easier. “Then what is it?”
“It feels like getting married marks the true beginning of my march to the throne.”
“But your father is still so young and in remarkable health. Surely, you don’t think you’ll inherit that soon?”
“Not from his death, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he decided one day to step down and hand things over to me so he could enjoy a few years without the burden of wearing the crown. I know he plans to train me in earnest to take his place after we marry. The idea of one day running the country, making decisions that will affect the lives of millions of people…it’s terrifying. What if I’m horrible at it? What if my people starve or we lurch from one war to another because the other kingdoms see me as weak?”
“You are not weak,” Hugo stated in a tone that left no room for argument.
“But—”
“But nothing,” Hugo snapped. He grabbed Everand’s arms and pushed him away enough to look at his handsome face. “You are intelligent, compassionate, and brave. More than that, you are not alone. Your father has never ruled alone. He’s had ministers and advisors at his side always, as well as your mother to lean on. You will have the same. Your reign will see you surrounded by wise people to offer you advice. I will be there through everything. We will both train and learn what we have to so we can guide Branem to greatness.” Hugo lifted his hand to cup Everand’s cheek, drawing him in close so that their foreheads touched. “The important thing you must remember is that you will never be alone again. I will always be at your side for whatever you need.”
“Fuck, Hugo,” he moaned. Their lips met in a passionate kiss. Hugo could feel him relaxing into him, all the old tension melting away. “When I’m with you, I feel like I can do anything.”
“I believe you can.”
“I love you,” Everand whispered.
Hugo’s heart squeezed, and he spoke roughly past the lump in his throat. “I love you, too.”
“Let’s go get married and live a life that people will write stories about.” Everand laughed, and Hugo’s spirit soared. He couldn’t wait to take this next step with the only man he would ever love.