Page 112 of Dance of Stars and Ashes

Zarya took a deep breath and closed her eyes, realizing she had caused this, in part. By not divulging the full story, she had inadvertently prejudiced Row against Rabin.

“I guess that’s what this must look like,” she said slowly.

“What do you mean by that?”

“I haven’t only known Rabin for only a few weeks. I’ve known him for longer than that.”

“How is that possible?” he asked.

She then confessed the truth about the dream forest and Rabin’s hand in releasing the binding curse. Of course, she left out a few key details about appearing half-naked and the almost kiss, and all the kisses that did come after that, as well as the inscrutable sense of wonder she experienced during every moment in his presence.

“I see,” Row said after she’d finished. “Neither of you is controlling the visions?”

“Apparently not. He was convinced it was me, but as far as I’m aware, it isn’t.”

“And Rabin severed the curse? Alone?”

“Yes.” Noting Row’s pensive expression, she asked, “Why?”

“I wasn’t aware rakshasa magic was capable of that.” Row rubbed his chin. “He’s always been powerful, but I suppose it goes deeper than I realized.”

Zarya spread her hands. “All I know is he helped me when no one else could. And since then, that’s all he’s done. Made me feel safe and protected.”

Row rubbed a hand along the back of his neck. “I appreciate the explanation, but still, a few months isn’t enough to truly know someone.”

“I know that, Row. I may be inexperienced, but I’m not stupid.”

“That’s not what I was implying, Zarya. But—”

“But nothing.” She cut him off. “None of this is actually any of your business. You aren’t my father.”

Zarya knew it was a low blow, and the look on Row’s face confirmed it. She immediately regretted her words.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. But I’m an adult now, Row. Maybe I am being impetuous, and maybe I don’t have a wealth of knowledge, so the only thing I have to go on is my instincts. But this feels right. He feels right. And if I am wrong, then I need to be allowed to make my own mistakes.”

Row’s nose flared. “You’ve always been one to run two feet first into everything. Even when it couldn’t take you very far.” Zarya wasn’t sure if he meant that as condemnation or praise. “But I suppose you’re right. I need to let you live your life. You may not be my daughter by blood, but I hope you understand my desire to ensure you’re safe and protected. It’s all I’ve ever wanted for you.”

“Thank you,” she said as they both fell silent.

“I read about something in my father’s notebook,” she said, and Row turned to look at her. “About paramadhar. Have you ever heard of them?”

Row nodded, confusion crossing his expression.

“I have, but they’re very rare. Only the most powerful Aazheri have ever been known to bond with them.”

Then, his eyes widened.

“Do you think that Rabin is—”

“I don’t know,” she said. “I’ve been wondering if that’s what created the forest. Would that make sense?”

Row rubbed his chin, his gaze wandering to the far side of the boat where Rabin sat, his eyes still closed as he tried to keep very, very still.

“That could be a plausible explanation. Have you told him of your suspicion?” he asked.

“No, I wanted to know more about it before I did.” Zarya looked at Rabin and back at Row. “Have you had one?” She wrinkled her nose. “Oh gods, it’s not Aarav, is it? All this time, you had some mystical bond?”

Row shook his head, chuckling. “No. I do not have a paramadhar.”