Grounded By Love (The Giant Wars #2)(27)

Maybe that was why he couldn’t regret Robert’s death. If Kaeldar mourned everyone he killed, he wouldn’t have time to keep himself alive. It did give her some insight into his character. He had to be practical, since he was a warrior. He either made a flash decision or threaten his own life.

Kaeldar wrapped his hands around Claira's waist and swung her up onto the saddle. Quickly, Kaeldar mounted up on the other horse and led the way.

They traveled for a few hours, until Claira broke the never-ending silence. “I've been wondering why you came back to save me.”

Kaeldar rode in front of her, but when she spoke he slowed his horse, to ride next to hers.

“You saved my life, a rock giant warrior, unknown to you.” He took a moment. “As I was leaving on your horse, I thought about what the villagers might do to you. I found it bothered me that you saved my life, and I had done nothing to repay you.”

“Still. I wouldn’t have expected you to risk your life.”

“I circled back and found you being tied to a post. At that moment, I knew I would have to save you… if I wanted to live with myself. To think your people would burn you.”

She knew no one would ever believe a rock giant could be so honorable to return a favor, but here she was. She was the proof. It seemed humans had misjudged these rock giants, or at least one of them. But if one of them could be this honorable, then surely there could be more among his people. Not every human was virtuous, but not every human was cruel.

“Truly though, thank you.” She said yet again. “I wouldn’t have enjoyed being burned alive.” A shiver ran through her spine, at the very thought.

Seeming a little bothered by her appreciation, he shrugged. She almost missed the wince he gave right after, but her healer’s eye caught it.

“Is the wound giving you any problems? Last time I looked at it I thought it might be well on its way to healing. Is it causing you discomfort right now?”

He didn't answer, instead, giving her the silent treatment. He might be a warrior, but he was not indestructible. She wasn't to be ignored, when it came to the topic of his health. She didn't need him dying on her.

“Kaeldar.” She used a tone she usually reserved for naughty children, who wouldn’t behave when she was taking care of them. “Kaeldar, I need to know if you’re having any pain. It may have become infected again.” Then she pressed even harder. “You could wind up dead, if you don't let me see to it.”

When he glanced over at her, she gave him her sternest glare, or at least she tried her best to.

Rolling his eyes, he gave in, and with a sigh, he halted his horse. He gripped the bottom of his shirt and slowly lifted it so she could get a glance at his wound. When her eyes landed on his laceration, a gasp slipped out from between her delicate lips.

“Is it looking that repulsive?” Kaeldar asked of her, a little anxiety showing on his face. Clearly, the warrior in him didn’t want to die from a wound or fever. He should have told her about this! What was wrong with this rock giant? Did he just enjoy being in agony?

“Can we stop for a while?” Claira asked. She didn’t want to worry him, so she did her best to school her facial features. But she was worried sick he was going to end up falling back into a fever, if she didn't take care of it.

“I would rather keep moving. We haven't made much progress, since leaving the human village.” He pulled his shirt back down over his wound. “We will stop, when I find a spot to camp for the upcoming night.”

“I would like to have a look at it right now.”

He shook his head at her. “When I find a spot for camp.” He wasn’t about to give in.

She huffed at him, as he kicked his horse into gear again, and she had no choice but to follow after him.

How could he ignore her advice? She was the healer, not him. He should follow her counsel. Claira only hope he wasn't pushing himself too far. His wound was looking puffy and irritated again.




When they found a spot to set up camp for the night, she found herself getting jumpy. She wanted to get her hands on his injury. Healing was her passion, her drive, and he was keeping her from it.

The human village she lived in had been fairly close to rock giant territory, and Claira wondered if they had passed into rock giant territory yet. She wouldn’t be surprised, if they had, but it meant she had to keep her giant alive.

He would be the only thing to stand between her and some rock giants who would probably kill her on sight.

She felt a little on edge, as she thought about the unknown. Would she truly be safe? Even if she weren’t safe, where else would she go? She was probably no safer with her own people, but that didn't really help with her unease like she hoped it would.

He set up the tent, as Claira tied the horses up and watched him from the corner of her eye. He might be putting on a brave face, but she could see his wound was causing him pain. Sometimes he’d put a hand to it, like he was willing it to just go away.

Kaeldar came to stand beside her. “I will find us something to eat. Stay in the camp.”

“I truly believe that would be an unwise decision. Your wound is making you flinch more often. Kaeldar, you should really let me tend to it.” Claira persisted.

“It will be fine.”

Claira wasn't keen on the idea of him hunting, but they needed food, and she didn’t have the hunter instinct. “Just be careful and don’t strain yourself. I’d rather go hungry, then let you make things worse.”