Page 167 of Barbi and the Villain

There is no accusation in his gaze. There is no anger.

There is only worry and a desire to understand what prompted my outburst.

Before I can help it, I throw myself into his arms, my tears flowing down my cheeks uncontrollably.

“I can’t control it, Nykander,” I murmur. “I don’t know what I’m doing. I’m so sorry I hurt you…”

“Don’t,” he grits out. “We will solve this together. What I want to know is why you were so afraid.”

I shake my head.

“I’m fine now,” I answer weakly.

“You’re trembling, Barbs. You are not fine.”

“Yes, I am. It’s all so overwhelming…”

He leans back, his eyes narrowed as he stares at me.

“Are you sure you are telling me the whole truth?”

“W-what do you mean? I’m fine.” I force a smile.

He nods slowly, but he doesn’t seem convinced.

Helping me to my feet, he turns with his back to me to allow me to dress in peace. Somehow, that small gesture warms my heart.

“We should check on the dogs,” I tell him.

As we leave, I glance back at the river.

The water is blue, not red.

You need to get a grip, Barbi!

We make it back to our camping spot, and I immediately rush to the dogs. They are all huddled together in the dog house. Ander is squished between PomPom and BonBon.

“They were trying to defend him.” I sigh.

“They are good parents.” Nykander chuckles. “Come. I found some meat for us to eat. We will sleep here tonight and search for the portal tomorrow.”

I follow him, watching as he builds a fire and roasts the meat he’d hunted.

“I have a question,” I say after a moment’s thought.

Nykander raises his brow at me.

“Why did you not take us straight to Tartareia? You could have teleported there. Why do we need a portal?”

He takes a deep breath.

“I tried. It did not work. I assume it is because you must personally lift the seal.”

“And how will I do that?” I frown.

“You will need to channel. Your spiritual signature should open the gate to Tartareia.”

“I see.”

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