Chapter Eighteen
Eighteen
Rowan
The argument with Kaius is waiting for me like a storm behind a locked door. I follow him into it anyway.
He’s in the observatory, hands behind his back, staring out over the cliffs like the forest might give him answers for once. His presence used to still me. It used to center me.
Now it makes my heart ache.
“She needs to train. To learn how to wield that poison inside her,” I say flatly.
He doesn’t turn. “And you think you’re the right one to teach her?”
“I know I am.”
Now he turns. Slowly. His eyes are that simmering crimson again. Controlled rage. That’s always been his way. He doesn’t lash out. He lets it rot him from the inside.
That hits him. I see it. His jaw clenches.
I continue. “She needs to learn control. Or it will consume her. And if you keep treating her like a fragile thing, you’ll lose her.”
He scoffs. “And I suppose you think she’ll survive the Blackwood with your guidance alone?”
“I think she has a better chance with both of us.” I pause and give him a sarcastic scoff.
“But that would require you to pull your head out of your own martyrdom for once.” I flip the table between us in a sudden rage.
“Do what you want, Voroninov, but I am helping her. Perhaps you should consider what you’ll lose if you don’t. ”