You think I’m yours? Well, I think you’re mine.

He stepped closer, and her body warmed as if he were the sun.

He’d make a great Chippendales dancer – if he weren’t already a prince. And a wizard, to boot.

What was she about to do? Trek across a freakish world in search of a rare and possibly extinct herb, with an arrogant mage prince who could turn her into a mutant rat with one word, and who likely suspected she was lying her kidnapped Earthling butt right off.

Her hands wrapped around his back, bunching the folds of his kaftan, and they stayed like this, connected, as dusk settled over the market.

Evil sorcerers always looked evil - at least in the Disney versions. This was not Disney.

Looks were all well and good - but if a man didn't have courage, a kind heart, and integrity, he had nothing worthwhile. Alvarr had those in spades.

Come now, please continue. I'd like to kiss you before my feet disintegrate.

When I asked her about her marriage, she'd only say that sometimes people, even those who love each other, can hurt each other just by being themselves.

Snow-crested peaks thrust up far ahead, blazing white and fierce in the late afternoon sun. He measured the sun's height. "There are cotters in the next valley who'll provide beds for the night and a tasty meal." Jilian nodded. "Good, my butt will appreciate a rest. Dang, I wasn't going to admit that," she added sheepishly. He shot her a sideways glance and found himself smiling again. This time it didn't feel as rusty.