Frustration flares in my veins, but I stay focused and remember her last words.Not when I see through you as if you’re made of sheer fabric.
I swallow and speak evenly. “My truth is my commitment to marry Gabriel.”
“Indeed, it is.” She locks her gaze on Gabriel. “Trust is as flimsy as a seedling flailing in the breeze. Never reveal what is yours to hold close.”
He nods and rests his palms against the table. “Is she the one you spoke of?”
She spoke of me?
Why?
“She is.” The Seer places my right hand on his left. “She is your future.”
He exhales, but he doesn’t pull free, nor does he tighten his fingers around mine. I expected a sour sensation to twist in my stomach at his touch. Instead, there’s only the feeling of skin against skin.
As a child, I learned how to pick roses without being stabbed by their sharp thorns. This man is no different.
He’s my path to acceptance.
“Take her.” The Seer nods toward the door. “Olah approves.”
At last, Gabriel’s fingers tighten around mine, and he stands, bringing me up next to him. “We will wed.” No warmth lingers from his tone. Only iciness. It cuts through my fortitude, freezing my heart.
ChapterTen
Akyanite stone for me. A kyanite stone to cool my fire and kindle my magic. I received my necklace on my twelfth birthday. It was the same day the Kyanite healers accepted me into their apothecary.
Now, the stone sits cold against my skin. Ice against the flame.
Time and time again, it has failed me. When I needed it to calm my nerves, they only twisted into knots inside me. When I needed it to magnify my magic, it sat idle.
It’s part of who I am, though. Sol, born of the Kyanite tribe.
For now, the flames must disappear. Only ashes can remain on my heart. Otherwise, Gabriel will see through me.
Over the last two days, while I waited for our binding ceremony, I have observed Gabriel more. He obviously has the respect of the other warriors. He doesn’t get sloshed like many do, and he seems to consider his words before speaking. I must never take his quiet strength for granted.
Kassandra hums as she combs through my black hair in her tent. She can be a loyal friend. After all, my quarrel isn’t with her.
She stops humming and speaks in a soft voice. “I never dreamed Gabriel would ever marry. Not after…” Her mouth tightens like she’s stopping herself from saying too much.
“After?”
She shakes her head. I decide to change the subject, knowing it’s better not to press her.
“Shall I please Gabriel?” I stand, smooth my borrowed surcoat, and meet Kassandra’s gaze.
“Oh, yes. You shall please him. I know you shall.”
My fingers lift to my cheek, to the stitches sewn into my flesh. Kassandra watches me for a breath or two before speaking.
“He will not care about a scar. He has plenty of his own.” She tilts her head to the side. “Does it hurt?”
“My cheek?” I lace my fingers together.
“Yes. Does it bother you?”
“Only when I forget about it and accidentally scratch it.”
