Rory didn't kiss him.
Instead, she turned to face Xarion and asked in a serious voice, "Xarion, can you tell me why you suddenly don't want to become mates with me?"
She gently pushed him back into the chair behind him.
Meeting her steady gaze, Xarion bit down hard on his lip. "I… if I tell you… will the Female Master promise not to be angry?"
Rory thought about it for a moment, then nodded. "Alright. I won't get angry. Go ahead."
Xarion reached out and wrapped an arm around her waist, his voice low and hesitant.
"I… I suddenly realized… I don't want to die anymore."
He paused, his grip tightening slightly.
"I'm afraid that if I become mates with you, but then refuse to let you cut my beast mark… the Female Master will think I lied to you… and get angry with me."
"You… don't want to die anymore?" Rory stared at him in shock.
"Mm!"
Xarion nodded quickly. Seeing the astonishment on her face, unease crept into his chest.
