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From a leather pouch, Temra producesherbs, brandishing them with a wicked smile.

My mouth drops open. “How did you even—”

“I bought them while we were in Skiro’s Territory. And I had them on me when we went through the portal.”

“You had themonyou?”

“Of course. I knew it would happen once I decided I wanted it. I wanted to be prepared. In case it was a spontaneous thing. And I knew we were likely to leave at some point. Better safe than sorry.”

I narrow my eyes. “You and I have very different priorities.”

She offers me half of the bundle. “That will change once you’ve had that handsome mercenary of yours.”

I stare at it, thinking to refuse.

Because I should set an example. Because we’re busy preparing for war and I really shouldn’t be thinking about this at all. Because… surely there are other reasons?

I snatch up what she offers.

Temra looks more surprised than I am. “I didn’t actually think you would take me up on it.”

“Kellyn and I are getting closer,” I say sheepishly, “and I’m getting braver.”

“I’m glad for you. But if he even suggests something you don’t like, you let me know.”

I laugh, because again, I am the older sister.

“I mean it,” she says. “Just because you say yes to it, it doesn’t mean you can’t change your mind or say no to certain things happening in the moment. You always have a voice, and you should always let it be heard. Especially if you’re nervous. If he loves you, he will always listen to your needs.”

“He says he loves me.”

“But you don’t believe him?”

“Part of me does. But the irrational part wants to think otherwise.”

“Don’t let that part win.”

I smile. “I’ll do my best.”

The contraceptives feel like they burn a hole in my pocket for the rest of the day, but I don’t take them out. Every once in a while I reach for them, make sure they’re still there. I feel guilty for having them, which is ridiculous.

I’m just finishing lunch and contemplating what to do with the rest of my day when I hear someone call my name. I find Serutha and Paulia walking hand in hand. Petrik is with them, which makes me happy simply because he’s notwithmy sister.

That’s going to take some getting used to.

“I’ve been looking for you,” Serutha says. “There’s someone who wants to meet you.”

I feel cold dread settle in my stomach. A new person? Talking?

“Don’t look so sick,” Paulia adds, “It’s only Ashper.”

“Though many know his name,” Serutha says, “no one knows what he looks like. He wants to meet you. I thought it might be fun for us all to spend the afternoon together. Magic users uniting and all, if you’re comfortable with him knowing your identity.”

That changes my entire outlook. “I’d like that,” I say.

“Why don’t you take her over, and I’ll go acquaint myself with the kitchen staff?” Paulia asks.

“Sounds perfect.” Serutha leans in for a kiss before taking off down the hall. She looks back once to make sure I’m following.