Chapter 31

The pair made their way up the slope, reaching higher altitudes as they did so, the snow getting deeper and the air colder. Thaelia's legs began to ache the longer they trekked but she did not voice her complaint, rather, she clenched her jaw and continued forward. Arias moved easy, his power legs pushing his body upwards, his arms encasing her as they walked on, aiding her to prevent her from falling. The longer they walked, the slower she moved and he knew that she was hiding her discomfort from him. She needed his help but she was too strong to ask for it. Pulling her to a stop, he easily lifted her into his arms and then began to move again. "What are you doing? Put me down." Despite her words, she wrapped her legs around his waist and her arms around his neck. He was undeniable warm and should resist curling into him further, his body shielding her from the unforgiving winds. "I know you tired." He placed a large hand behind her head, encouraging her to place her head there, her n