“I do not know.”
“It’s fine.” I’m talking too fast. Can feel the words spilling out, angry and ugly and true. “I’m used to being someone’s obligation. Absentee mother, remember? I’m very familiar with people keeping me around out of duty instead of—”
I stop.
Instead of what?
Instead of wanting me?
Oh God.
Something else twists in my chest. Something I need to say before I lose my nerve.
“You’ve figured it out by now, right?” The words come out quieter. “About Lyria.”
He goes very still.
“Yes.”
Just that. Yes. No elaboration. No softening.
“She was your mate,” I continue. Can’t seem to stop myself. “The woman you loved. The one who died saving the Heartstone.”
His jaw tightens. “Yes.”
The word is careful. Controlled. But I hear what’s beneath it.
Pain. Loss. Grief he’s only just remembered.
“Right.” I sink back onto the bed. Suddenly too tired to stand. “So that’s… that’s good. That you remember her. That’s important.”
He doesn’t respond. Just watches me with those ancient eyes.
I should stop. Should let this go.
But the words keep coming anyway.
“I know you still have feelings for her,” I say. Quieter now. “I mean, how could you not? She was… she mattered. She was important. And I’m just—”
I stop. Swallow hard.
“I don’t want to be a do-over. The girl you get to save this time because you couldn’t save her.”
Silence.
He doesn’t deny it.
Doesn’t tell me I’m wrong.
Just stands there with that terrible, careful expression.
And that… that tells me everything I need to know.
“You should go,” I say. Press my palms against my eyes. “Caleb needs you. Vex won’t interrogate himself.”
“Mara—”
“Please.” The word comes out broken. “Just… I need to rest. And I’m pretty sure I don’t need to breathe the same air as you just to stay alive. The bond can handle you being in another room.”
