Sebastian blinks. Then he nods again, and I swear I see something bright and raw move across his face before he gets it under control.
“I know that the shifterfae want to meet with us to discuss plans to topple Snow,” Sebastian says.
“I will return to the Shifter Court,” I tell them. “I will get to know them and be there when you are ready to meet with them.”
Sebastian sighs and sits, looking defeated.
“I can take you to the edge of the Shifter Court as requested,” Orion says. “I think it would be a good idea for you to pave the way for a meeting. Can you speak with Kilara on our behalf, Isla?”
Relief washes through me.
“Of course I will. As Sebastian indicated, I know they will be open to a meeting. They have said as much. Thank you,” I say. “I appreciate it more than you know,” I tell Orion.
I don’t look at Sebastian. I don’t have to. I can feel his anger from across the table. It radiates off him. When I do steal a glance, his expression is hard. His jaw is tight and his gaze thunderous.
Sebastian might be angry, but he says nothing.
Good. He isn’t in charge of me. He has no say in what I do or where I go.
“Okay, then.” Orion stands. “You are welcome to stay as long as you wish, Sebastian. This is your safe haven now, too.”
“Thank you,” Sebastian says, his jaw still tight.
We all stand.
“If you change your mind, Isla, you can stay on, too,” Maya says, putting her son down. Maxwell gives a yell of happiness and crawls across the floor.
“Thanks, but I can’t. I know what my role needs to be,” I tell her. I tell him too. I’m not sure how I’m going to get through these next few days.
“It’s time to get some work done,” Orion says, pushing his chair back and standing. “We might have a realm to save, but we still have a homestead to run.”
“Indeed, we do.” Damon laughs.
“I’ll wash the dishes,” I tell them. “And I’m happy with doing chores. It’s the least I can do while I am still here.”
“You don’t have to—” Maya starts to say.
“I insist.”
“I’ll help you, Isla.” Kyrie smiles at me.
“You need to milk Bessie before her udder splits open,” Maya tells her.
“Oh! I forgot all about Bessie needing milking.” Kyrie runs out, grabbing a pail at the door as she goes.
Damon nods and then turns to Sebastian. “I could use a hand splitting the logs behind the barn. I’ve been meaning to get to it, but it’s a big job, if you’re up for it.”
Sebastian nods. “Of course. I’ll be right there.” I can feel his eyes on me again.
Damon nods and walks out.
Orion picks up his son and kisses him, putting him back down, where he gurgles and crawls to the solid table, pulling himself up.
Orion goes over to Maya and takes her into a tight hug.
“I will see you later.” He kisses the side of her mouth and heads out.
I still feel Sebastian’s eyes burning into me as I start to make my way to the dirty dishes.
