Page 19 of The Other Side

Chapter

Seventeen

CYPRESS

B astien grumbled as I touched the remnants of my scorched arm. I knew it would heal over time; I just needed to be patient. Unfortunately, patience was something I did not possess.

“Ozias always did know how to leave a lasting mark,” I groaned to the beast. “Oh well. It may take time to heal, but at least I know I am safe down here.” My eyes roamed around the damp cave as I inhaled the comforting smells of my domain.

Bastien snapped his jaws.

“Don’t use that tone with me, beast. I may be injured, but I am still a god!” My flames flickered white as he calmed himself. “I know you think me wicked for leaving his body up there, but I had no choice, and your Pegasus friend made his.” As much as I hated to admit it, Tuft’s death saddened me. “At least we have hers.” My head turned to look at her body, laying across my elaborate bed.

Before she could truly escape, Ozias struck her down with one of his lightning bolts. The power was too much for her human brain, and it nearly killed her. Now, she was stuck in limbo, her soul neither hers nor mine as she lingered in the in-between. It was only a matter of time before it chose its path.

Iris-Marie had chosen to sacrifice herself to save Tuft, abandoning my revenge, but in the end, she chose me. I stepped closer, gazing upon her beautiful face.

She chose me.

My fingers grazed her cheek, surrendering to my heart for a brief moment.

“I shall remain by your side until you wake. And once you do, you will never leave mine again.”