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“I think they should be given the chance to explain themselves,” Shaya said. “Please detain them at the Central Island.”

“It will be done, high chieftess,” Zolt said.

“Thank you for teaching Treska,” Shaya said as he turned to go. “She very much appreciates how patient you are with her.”

Zolt froze, and when he turned back to her Shaya did not miss the strain in his neck.

“It is my pleasure,” he said stiffly. “She learns very quickly.”

Leaning into her new responsibilities, Shaya took a risk to be bold. “Can you tell me why you did not want Bakra to teach her?”

“He had other jobs to do,” Zolt said, almost sharply. “That was not one of them.”

“And it is your job? To teach tribe members other languages?”

Zolt did not respond but he looked extremely uncomfortable.

Eventually, Shaya had to laugh. “I am not questioning your commitment to your duties,” she said finally. “It’s just she feels you are too busy now, and is considering asking him to teach her again.”

Zolt’s jaw clenched but no other part of him moved. “That would not be something I am comfortable with.”

Shaya inclined her head. “I advised her to ask her mother to teach her until we can secure a tutor.”

Zolt nodded stiffly. He turned to go and then stopped at the door. “And what if I am not comfortable with anyone else teaching her?” he asked, turning back.

Shaya stifled a grin, glad he was admitting it. “Then I think you should tell her that,” she said softly.

Zolt nodded and then left the room.

***

“Shaya.”

Shaya turned her head to see Kyus tiptoeing into the room. “Kyus!” she exclaimed. Turning, with Kardos’ arm firmly wrapped around her, she beckoned her sister closer. “I can’t leave the bed. I don’t want to disturb him.”

Kyus chuckled under her breath. “I believed him when he said he wouldn’t let you go,” she said wryly. “But I didn’t think that he would maintain that even when he was half dead.”

They both laughed quietly as Kyus sat on the bed next to her. “How are you, little sister,” she said, stroking her arm. “You have been through a lot.”

“I am well,” Shaya said, a smile blooming on her face. “I didn’t think I would be, but things have changed.”

Kyus nodded. “I’m glad that you are happy.” She gestured to the outside of the hut. “I had to fight my way through crowds to get in here,” she remarked. “They are all praying for you, I think.”

“Do you think it was wise for me to go with him?” Shaya said, searching Kyus’ eyes. She still needed to know if Kyus was all right with the decisions and life she chose.

“Yes,” Kyus said earnestly. “I think if you are able to work things out, then you should stay with your true mate. It is not for anyone else to tell you not to. And I will be honest,” she added. “I did not hate him as much after I heard him explain things to you. Alphas can be idiots; it is a well-known fact.”

They both giggled.

“But one thing that we cannot deny,” Kyus added, “is that when they are dedicated to their mates, it can soften many of their flaws.”

Shaya nodded. “So you approve of him?”

“You do not need my approval, Shaya,” Kyus said softly. “You know that.”

“I know,” Shaya said, wriggling in the bed. “But I want you to feel you can come and see me and not think I’ve made a mistake.”

“How can you have made a mistake? You have an Alpha that loves you, and people that love you, and you are high chieftess! There is nothing to regret, as long as you are happy.” She carefully lay down on the bed next to Shaya, on her side facing her sister. “Are you happy?”

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