Page 177 of The Tribrid Princess and the Taste of Chaos
I look down at the silver necklace with the bright blue gem set in the centre.
“That is a beautiful necklace,” Mama says.
I nod. “Yeah, it’s for you.”
“For me?” Mama looks surprised as she gently takes it from me. “Thank you, Si, it’s beautiful.”
“I didn’t get it. Jayce got it for you. Although he told me to give it to you from me, the truth is he thought of you, and he’s the one who got it.” I try not to get emotional remembering that moment.
“Oh, he’s so sweet. Tell him thank you. I’d love to talk to him, I mean, I’ve talked to him, but you know now that you’re dating.”
“Once we’re back.” I smile. “I don’t think his family knows yet.”
I look down at the anklet I’m wearing, it’s a double chain in gold, with red little drop gems on the lower chain. It’s sexy and gorgeous.
“Did he get that for you?” Mama asks.
I blush, nodding. “Yeah, that day we were attacked. We were on the way back from our first date.”
“You know, at that moment, the way the two of you were so concerned for one another, it did cross my mind.”
“Really?!” I ask, shocked. Mama nods, and I smile. “It was a terrifying experience…”
“It was, but I’m glad both of you are safe.”
I nod as I look over the garden, well-kept and serene, beds of flowers are scattered around, with marble pathways winding through them. I remember playing with Dad as a child in thisvery spot…
I look at the time on my Schattensicht as I don’t have long before Ahren takes me back to the Academy. “Ahren and Kaden have been gone for a while.”
“He always has a lot going on. Ahren is really good with Kaden; he takes him for quite long periods when he’s working in the packhouse. It gives me a break, too, and the staff love fussing over him there.”
“They are thick as thieves, and Kaden knows exactly how to get people to treat him like a king. They make the perfect pair.” I giggle.
Mama laughs. “Oh, I agree! And they love to sneak down to the kitchen at night.”
I smile listening to her. “They have always been like that.” I love the bond they have, the bond we all have. If only Dad were here.
“I got the herbs you wanted for your friend all packed. Tell her to keep the ones with the white labels out of sunlight, which she probably knows, but just let her know anyway.”
“Oh great! Thank you, Mama.”
“Take care of yourself on the trip. I know everyone goes in with protection spells, but they aren’t invincible.”
“I promise I’ll be safe. I’m going to try my best. This is my first real mission; I won’t mess it up.” I didn’t even expect to be allowed to go, but since I am, I’m not going to be a burden.
“You will do great because you are my and Rayhan’s daughter.” Mama cups my cheek and smiles confidently. Her voice filled with confidence and warmth.
“Thanks, Mama,” I whisper, hugging her tightly.
I’ll make her proud, and I’ll make Dad proud.
I promise.
It’s later thatnight, and I’m spending a little time with Heaven and Allie, both of whom are not too happy that they aren’t allowed to join.
“Well, you guys are still young,” I remind them, but that doesn’t satiate either of them. “I know you’re both strong; heck, your control is better than mine, too.”
“That’s not it, I’m just frustrated because I could have been of use,” Heaven says haughtily. “Magic is more important; we might need it. How come three of the Westwood boys get to go? So annoying.” She crosses her arms and sits on her bed in a huff.
