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Sander slapped the pages of his book closed and perched on the arm of the sofa, concern on his face.
My father said nothing, but his eyes turned to black ink, blotting out until they were empty of any light.
“Daj, please.”
“You’re afraid to tell us. Why?”
Gods, it was damn aggravating when your family could literally know your fears. I let my shoulders slump. “Because you will not like to hear it.”
“Son,” my mother said softly. “Whatever it is, you can always tell us.”
“This bond with the Ever, you know it compels me to keep them safe.”
My father frowned. He’d been furious—no, enraged—at the notion of me taking a lifelong bond. But the man did not care for anything that took away a bit of will. Trapped by dark mesmer magicfor a great many turns as a boy had left him furious about the whole notion.
Only after a dozen explanations that it was not a forced bond and merely a need to do what I could to stand with the sea fae, did he find any solace.
“The missing elven prince, he’s left me unsettled. His ambitions, the way he spoke of not only the sea but also our realms, won’t leave me.”
“Jonas,” Sander said. “You know as well as me King Eldirard said he’ll be kept at bay by his father for some time.”
“The risk remains. If it did not, I don’t think the bond would be . . . feeling this way.” My stomach bottomed out. “But I’ve figured out how I can defend them. This is already done, I’ve sent missives, and I am choosing to do this. For all of us. Not only Livie and Bloodsinger, but our people and realms.”
“Jonas, gods, you’re starting to frighten me.” My mother leaned forward. “What is it?”
I held my breath until I reached the count of five.
“To be the kin of elven means their magic will not be a threat. After his failed battle, the betrothal arrangement with the prince can be challenged by a title of equal status.”
“Jonas—”
My mother cut off her own words when I shook my head, silently pleading for them to let me finish.
“I petitioned the king of the shadow elven for permission to take marital vows with his granddaughter. To make her our kin.” I hesitated. “And he agreed.”
