Page 113 of Mikoto and the Reaver Village
“Why?”
“Mm … well. They’re hoping to place me somewhere. And it’spretty obvious that wherever she’s from, it’s safe.”
“You need a job?”
“I have one. Sort of. I’m not really sure it counts.” Tenmaseemed to realize he hadn’t answered her question. “I need progeny.”
She glanced back toward Glint’s house. “You’re going to theEldermost Islands?”
“Maybe. Maybe not.” He shook his head. “I’m hardly thestrongest candidate. Sure, the Amaranthine think I’m wonderful, but reavers arelooking at ranks and pedigrees. I have neither.”
“Because you’re an unregistered reaver.”
“And uncategorized. And unquantified. But interesting enoughto try to replicate. Hence the general consensus that I need progeny.”
“You don’t want children?”
“It isn’t that.” He hummed again. “I want to make a goodchoice. One that satisfies both my duty to the In-between and the secret wishof my heart.”
Lilya couldn’t tell if he was being teasing or truthful. Hewas speaking so casually. “Youhave a secret wish?”
“Doesn’t everyone?”
“Nobodyknows?”
“My closest friends do,” he admitted.
She considered that and asked, “Does Isla know?”
“Naturally. She’s been my go-between in the past, and she’sfully prepared to weigh in again if I need help.”
“You want Isla to pick a wife for you?”
“Mm … Idotrust her. Maybe even that much.”
Lilya realized something then, because Isla was carefulabout everything, especially trust. And this man had hers. That was rare.
“What about you, Lilya-chan? I couldn’t help but overhearyou setting Glint back. Are you as opposed to practical matchmaking as Isla?”
“Idowant to choose for myself.”
“When the time comes, you’ll get your way.” He smiled towardthe sky. “You have many people who will make sure of it.”
She knew he was right. Papka and Mum would back her choice. UncleArgent had pull, and Hisoka-sensei could make anything happen. She’d have allthe help she needed. “How areyougoing to pick?”
“I have no idea,” he admitted. “Favorable circumstances. Willingnesson both sides.”
“So you’ll tell her your secret and see if hers matches?”
“That might work.” He quietly added, “Assuming there’s nolanguage barrier.”
Lilya’s steps lagged and she studied her feet. She’d thoughtit would be easy, picking a husband before the flood of contracts began. But shehadn’t considered that her someday husband might have a secret wish. Her cheeksheated with shame.
“You okay, Lilya-chan?”
“I forgot to consider my future husband’s feelings.”
Tenma nodded. “That’s important. Did you already havesomeone in mind?”
