It’s Wednesday. I’m setting this up on Tuesday. In a bit of good news in the midst of worrying about Jake, I managed good enough words to garner an honorable mention in last week’s Thursday Threads. The judge had this to say: I’m a sucker for romance, and even more so when the love interest is both reluctant and protective. Even in this short scene, the connection between the two characters felt intense. I really enjoyed this! I’m a sucker for romance, too. What can I say? The prompt is: *“I’ve got you.”* Good news, this scene continues a previous scene. Bad news, all I know is that it happens a bit later in the book.

“I need help, Ariel.”

His tongue and his body both frozen at Aisling’s plea. When his muscles thawed, he breathed, filling his lungs with air and blowing it out until they were empty again. He had orders. He knew what he had to do. Reminding himself of his duty over and over, he dredged up words he didn’t want to utter.

“You forget, I’m no hero.”

Aisling’s gaze settled on him, her eyes all but glowing in the sudden moonlight. The look in them threatened to eviscerate him.

“I don’t need a hero,” she whispered. “I just need you.”

Her words slammed into him and it was all he could do to remain standing. He wanted to fall to his knees and beg her forgiveness. He wanted to run as far away from her as he could, just to keep her safe. From him. Duty was such a bastard.

“Help me.”

I won’t. I can’t. Those were the words he should say but they stuck in his throat. Instead, the words that came out were, “I will.”

She melted against him and that was that. If he was lucky, he’d only be banished. If he wasn’t, Oberon or Titania would have his head—in the literal sense. None of it mattered. Aisling was in his arms, the sweet fragrance of lilacs and sunshine filling his very being with a sense of rightness and purpose.

“I’m scared,” she whispered into his chest.

“I’ve got you.” Now and forever, he promised silently.

Yeah, I think Ariel has it bad. *bwahaha* Writers, write should you so desire. Readers, out of all your favorite heroes, which one would you pick to have your back?