Page 155 of Song of Her Siren

She cleared her throat. “How are Ember and Aurora?”

“They are thriving,” I answered, my voice softening. As much as I loathed Arabella, I couldn’t be unkind to the woman who’d saved my children.

Ash’s low growl echoed in my mind.I would’ve ripped the bitch to shreds if she hadn’t saved our children.

Me too, Finn said.

I squeezed my mates’ hands.But she did save them, so we owe her a life debt.

We have spared her life. You and Shiri are healing her, Ash rumbled.She’s been repaid enough.

It will never be enough, I answered, my voice turning shrill while my heart pounded wildly in my ears at the thought of what could’ve happened to our girls.

I forced a smile while catching Arabella staring curiously at me. “I take it you are well?”

“As well as can be.” She frowned down at her hands. “Your sister says she’ll heal me on the morrow.”

I swallowed, realizing she could try to make our lives very uncomfortable. Would Malvolia welcome her to court? We couldn’t exactly ship her back to Windhaven. “And then what will you do?”

She laughed, tossing her long, dark braid over her shoulder. “I won’t try to seduce Helian, if that’s what you’re worried about.”

Ash let out a boisterous burst of laughter. “My brother would rather fall on his sword than fuck you.”

Arabella glared at him, her cheeks turning flame red. “I didn’t ask your opinion, mutt,” she answered through clenched teeth.

When Ash let out a shifter’s snarl, I squeezed his hand.Easy.

“I’m not worried.” I rested my hand on my womb, reminding myself I carried Helian’s child, the heir to Caldaria, while holding Arabella’s stare. “Helian’s in love with me.”

Pain flashed in her eyes before she turned her gaze to the hearth. “Once I’m healed, I will help defeat the demons any way I can.” She looked at her sausage hands as if seeing them for the first time. “My uncle said my magic comes from my demon, but I think my demon was holding back my magic. I can feel it now, even when she goes silent.”

“Very well,” I said, hoping she was right. Her ability to manifest wind and storms would come in handy. “I will see you on the morrow.” I flashed Arabella one last smile. “And once you are free, I expect no more trouble from you.”

“Lest you find another Indus head in your bed,” Ash added with a deep chuckle.

Finn laughed aloud.

Arabella gasped, her eyes narrowing.

Ugh. I was trying to smooth things over between us, not start another war with Arabella, but I didn’t want to reprimand my mates, especially not here.

I felt Arabella’s dark gaze boring into us as we left the cell. I wasn’t looking forward to her release. Malvolia’s court was nightmarish enough. Now I’d have to worry about one more bitch driving a blade into my back.

* * *

Tari

AURORA TOOK US BACKto camp after we ate our fill at the castle. Feeling guilty for dining in luxury while the other dragon riders had to ration, Helian brought back several sacks of grains, butter, and eggs for the other riders. I was surprised Malvolia had let us take so many supplies, but nobody tried to stop us.

I gently rubbed my daughter’s backs, singing to them while they slept. They’d finally closed their eyes several minutes ago, but I continued to sing and soothe them while staring at their sweet, cherubic faces. Ember sucked her thumb while curling into Aurora, and Aurora held on to Ember like a protective older sister. I remembered sleeping with Shiri exactly the same way. I would suck my thumb while Shiri let me snuggle her for warmth. Shiri had always been the twin who gave the most love and protection, and she’d always done so without complaint. How could our parents have thought such a selfless, giving child would turn evil?

Finn and Ash were half-asleep on the other side of the children, their tired eyes alternating between opening and closing while they watched shadows dance from flickering candlelight across the canvas ceiling. We’d taken over the main tent, which Helian had said once belonged to him and Ivar had used. Helian had immediately ordered servants to bring in clean linens and air out the tent, clearing away the stale alcohol smell left behind by the previous tenant. The tent was large enough to house a sleeping area and a separate sitting and dining space, providing ample room for our family. I’d had no idea traveling with a dragon army would have such luxuries, but I appreciated Helian quickly taking charge and ensuring the children and I would be comfortable.

Are they asleep?Helian’s deep rumble echoed in my skull.

I peered over my shoulder while he stared at me expectantly, lantern light casting his features in an ethereal glow. I’d sensed a shift in him ever since he’d claimed his throne. He exuded confidence and strength, and he wanted to exert his power over me, causing a delightful shiver to course down my spine.

Yes, finally.

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