[Lavinia's Pov—Rose Garden—Later]
If anyone ever asks me what's more nerve-wracking than two grown men arguing over me on a balcony, the answer is simple: a divine beast sulking in a koi pond. Because apparently, that's my life now.
"Move! Let me through!" I snapped, hiking my skirts as Sera led the way, Rey strolling like he owned the palace, and Osric glaring daggers at his every step. By the time we reached the courtyard, the scent of burnt roses and steamed fish hit my nose.
And there he was—Marshi. Glorious, luminous, and absolutely ridiculous. His whole body clung wet to his body as he sat, yes sat, in the middle of the pond, koi fish circling him like confused diplomats.
"...Is he sulking?" Rey tilted his head.
"No," Sera said dryly, "he's throwing a divine tantrum."
Rey let out a low whistle. "Well. At least he's not roasting the fish."
Osric crossed his arms. "Give him a minute."
"Stop tempting fate," I muttered, pinching the bridge of my nose.
