Page 85 of The Naga Lord's Pretty Little Mouse

Talyra’s gaze softens slightly. "You can’t keep avoiding it, Xirath. If your mate isn’t among the naga, then you need to check the human females."

The words are a dagger to the ribs.

She does not say it cruelly. She does not mock the way so many others have.

She is worried.

Truly worried.

But she is also wrong.

I clench my jaw. "It is not her."

Talyra studies me for a heartbeat longer, expression unreadable.

She exhales, tilting her head slightly. "You sound so certain."

I am.

The bond does not lie.

Yet something twists in my gut at the thought of Seren still standing in that arena, still watching me walk away.

Talyra folds her arms, tail coiling lightly against the floor. "You’re unraveling, Xirath."

I let out a sharp breath, too many expectations pressing down on me.

"Then let me unravel in peace," I mutter.

She snorts. "Unfortunately, the lords will not grant you that luxury."

I grit my teeth, knowing she’s right.

But I am not ready for this conversation.

For this decision.

A sudden rush of footsteps echoes down the corridor.

Two of my soldiers approach, their expressions tense.

"My lord," one of them says, bowing slightly. "You are needed."

I do not hesitate.

Talyra sighs, already stepping back. "Go. I’ll make myself at home, as you always insist."

There is no warmth in me as I turn away.

Only her words lingering behind.

The question I don’t want to face.

What should I do?

37

SEREN

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