"Ze?" I call out in my mind, hoping he might hear me, perhaps even reply. "It was not my intention to hurt you. I will see you in three days."

Silence greets me. I release a heavy sigh. But just as I'm about to give up hope that he's going to acknowledge my words, his supercilious voice rings out in my mind.

"Nothing can hurt me, human. I do not share your feeble sensibilities," he huffs.

A sad smile pulls at my lips.

"Of course," I readily reply. "I apologize for merely implying that."

"Good," he says. "Have a good sleep." And with that, he's gone from my mind.

Feeling a little better—though not by much—I head to my bed, drawing the covers aside and nestling between them. No matter what he says, I know he feels, and perhaps he does not realize how much, but he can hurt.

Turning on my side, I hug the pillow to my chest, closing my eyes as I seek the oblivion of sleep. Briefly, I wonder how Nikki is doing. Is he fine? Is he losing strength? It's been quite some time since I've last heard from him, and I cannot help but worry. Thus far, I've done my best not to dwell too much on his absences, but that doesn't mean I don't fear for him, or that my thoughts are not constantly with him. We might be in Aperion, but even this world is not safe from demon attacks. If he should happen to come across one and be absorbed...

My heart swells with pain in my chest, but I cannot let my thoughts wander there.

Warmth greets my back as strong arms hug me from behind. A familiar presence that quenches all doubts. I let out a deep sigh, letting myself go, knowing I'm safe in his arms.

The following day, I wake up to an invitation to tea from Wyn. After I dress up, I make my way to the conservatory where Wyn is waiting for me with a steaming pot of tea and two cups. The room is made entirely out of glass, with flowers of all colors hanging on the walls. There are also beds of flowers on each side of the room, while in the middle there's only a table with a couple of chairs and a comfortable-looking sofa. The table is a pastel blue while the chairs and the sofa are a light pink, the colors complementing each other. Everything is muted, letting the bold colors of the flowers stand out.

"Where's Thea?" I walk inside and take a seat next to her.

"She's meeting with Father." She sighs. "He's probably lecturing her again for missing all the balls this season. She usually goes to a few at least, to placate him. But I can't remember the last time she went to one."

"Is it truly so bad if neither of you marry?"