"Get out! Get out!"
Vivian shouted frantically, her wand clutched tightly in her hand, even after the phoenix healer finished tending to her wounds.
"It's okay, Vi. It's me," I said softly, raising both my hands. I glanced around the room, silently signaling everyone else to leave. "I promise you. Only me."
The healer hesitated, then stepped back. Auren followed. Even Lucian paused before finally turning away.
"No."
Thalor shook his head. "I'm not leaving. I need to confirm it."
Vivian's brows knitted tightly. Her grip on the wand trembled. "I said—" She stopped, her voice straining. "I'm not your bride! How can a fairy be a freaking mermaid?"
The words cracked more than her scream earlier.
Thalor didn't move.
"Because the sea doesn't care what you believe," he said quietly.
Vivian's breath hitched. "Then neither do I."
She pointed the wand straight at him.
"Thalor… please," I stepped between them, my hands raised. "Just give her time. Let her calm down first."
