R.J. Larson

Biting his lip, blinking against fresh tears, Kien smoothed Ela's dark tangled hair, then dared another look at her face. So serene. Beautiful beneath the dried trails of blood. What had she suffered? Brave little prophet. He whispered, "I love you!" Always.

Because He loves us. And love does not demand enslavement, but... love desires a partnership. Our Creator seeks true communication between us and Him. He won't force anyone to love Him. We decide for ourselves.

Kien, talking with Akabe, caught Ela's glance and grinned, luring her thoughts toward him. Gorgeous man! How dare he distract her?*****************************************Akabe turned and saw what-or rather who-had distracted Kien mid-sentence. He should have known. And he understood. If Caitria had cast him such a loving smile, Akabe would have abandoned this impromptu conference altogether. But Caitria petted Issa, ignoring everyone else. Therefore... Akabe backhanded Kien's shoulder. "Stop flirting with your wife and pay attention!" Kien shot him a mock-threatening look. "I am your servant, sir." A headstrong and unexpected servant, Akabe agreed silently. But most welcome.

Aching, she gazed down at Kien, then blew him a kiss, love mingling with longing and regret. He answered, sending her a kiss in turn. And another smile, radiant with delight. How could one man be so captivating?

I give you my word, Prophet, I'll heed the warning. Don't worry-it's only one day." "Yes, but this will be the longest separation we've faced since our wedding." Kien chuckled. "Poor love. Again, don't worry. I'll think of you every other instant." He sealed his pledge with kisses, coaxing Ela to set aside her fears and lose herself in his embrace.

Infinite? Am I forgetting anyone?" Your Creator. Kien almost smiled. True. All things considered, he'd been blessed far more than he deserved. "What, then, should I write to You, my Creator?" He hardly expected an answer, but it came at once, swathing him in comfort. Write your love for Me on your heart, where My Spirit finds it always.