Page 127 of Tale of the Heart Queen

“Coral and Amara told Lor it wasn’t possible,” Nadir says.

“Lor is the Primary,” Willow says firmly, her tone brooking no argument. “This has always been her place. Even if I could, we are not losing her.”

My gaze meets Nadir’s.

Even if Willow could take my place in Heart, I still have to kill Zerra before she gets to me.

“You’ll need to learn how to use it,” Amya tells Willow. “I’m sure there’s more you’ll be able to do.”

“That makes two of us,” I reply. “Though you’re probably a natural like Tristan.”

I look at my brother. I see the happiness in his eyes for Willow, but I also remember the angry words he shouted only minutes ago. As Amya and Willow chatter away, I take his hand and hold it.

“Me too,” I say. “Everything you said.”

I catch Nadir watching the two of us, his expression contemplative.

“You’re so much better at rising above it, Lor.”

I snort. “Are you serious? I’m a raging ball of chaos.”

Tristan laughs. “You are, but . . . you persevere.”

“Tristan, don’t sell yourself short. You practically raised me. I am the way I am because of you. It wasn’t fair that you had to, but I owe so much to you.”

Everyone has fallen silent during my little speech. When we see everyone staring at us, the tips of my ears go pink.

“What?” I ask, “What are you all looking at? Can’t a sister get a little sentimental?”

“Come on,” Nadir says, approaching us and wrapping an arm around me. “If you’re ready to go, we should get some sleep before tomorrow.”

We all nod and then file back into the ruined city that surrounds the Heart Castle. I wonder if I’ll ever see this place again—as its queen, not as a reluctant god forced to give up everything.

It’s not happening. Nothing is keeping us apart.

I squeeze Nadir’s hand.

I hope that’s true.

We continue walking, and the sun has set by the time we make it back to the manor house. The windows are dark, save for a few glowing in the distance. Etienne and Mael meet us at the tree line.

“How did it go?” Etienne asks.

“Willow has magic!” Amya exclaims.

“Well, hot damn,” Mael says with a grin. “The three of you are unstoppable now.”

“Now?” I say, pressing my hand to my chest in mock offense.

“Right, sorry, no one ever stood a chance against you, Heart Queen.”

“And her brother and sister,” I add, and everyone laughs.

Rhiannon greets us as we enter the house, curiosity written on her face. I promised I’d answer some questions about the mate bond, and I’ll fill her in when we chat.

“I’ve received word the other rulers are on their way,” she says. “Everyone will be here by morning.”

“Okay,” I say. “Then let’s hope they’re willing to listen and that Cyan or my aunt don’t kill me on sight.”