Page 90 of What Beats Within the Tunnels

He exhales, stepping back and allowing me to readjust my towel. “I apologize, Lyra,” he says with genuine regret. “I got caught up in the moment. I promise I’ll respect your boundaries.”

“I’m not playing games, Nyx. It’s all so overwhelming right now,” I confess.

He raises his hand to caress my cheek. “I know,” he replies softly. “Take all the time you need. I’m here, always. I should prepare for the council session,” he says, briefly touching my shoulder in a fleeting yet intimate gesture. With a soft wind, he disappears—probably transporting himself to his chambers. I sink into the bed, hands covering my face, my mind a whirl of confusion. How did I get here? What the fuck is happening to me?

Every part of me is torn in different directions—my newfound powers, the burdensome prophecy, my tangled emotions with both Nyx and Colton, and the looming council meeting. Each thought weighs heavily, like chains trying to pull me under. Not to mention Samael is still out there somewhere, and I need to get to Zomea soon. I slam my fists onto the bed, and the bed frame trembles slightly. I didn’t mean to do that.

This isn’t the time to unravel. I have responsibilities, promises to keep, and dangers to confront. Pushing off the bed, I stride to the wardrobe, determined to find an outfit that screams confidence. Whatever awaits, I’m facing it head-on.

Chapter 32

Colton

Asurge of emotions hits me through the tether, an intense mix of passion and anxiety. My fists clench involuntarily. Nyx must be close, most likely in her room. The dominant urge to barrel through that door and drag him away is overwhelming. But as much as every piece of my being screams at me to intervene, I can’t dictate Lyra’s choices.

Still, there’s a distinct difference between Nyx and me. He’s been weaving his way back into her heart, especially after the incident in the caves. He’s drawn to her newfound power, seeing an opportunity to seize control of Eguina.

But my desires are primal, stripped of ambition. I couldn’t care less about ruling lands or wielding unmatched power. I crave her, just her. The thought of her being with someone else, especially Nyx, sets my blood on fire. It’s a testament to my restraint that I don’t march over there.

Though I don’t sit on the Luminary Council, my heritage and power have their weight. Instead of chasing after Lyra, I need to strategize. I need to go find my parents and have a word with my mother.

Drew has already informed me of where they’ll be staying. I channel to the designated room’s entrance and give a firm knock. The door swings open to reveal my mother’s radiant face, her golden eyes twinkling with delight at the sight of me. She pulls me into a fierce embrace, her warmth engulfing me for a moment. “Granger!” she exclaims with playful reproof, “Your son has graced us with his presence.”

Drawing back with a chuckle, she tugs me inside. “Had to journey halfway across Eguina to get a visit from you, did we?” my father remarks, his voice a mix of jest and genuine pleasure. He firmly claps my shoulder in greeting before returning to the mountain of paperwork spread out on the desk. True to his nature, always engrossed in some study or research. He’s undoubtedly prepping for the upcoming council gathering.

“How long do you suppose you’ll both be staying?” I inquire, glancing between them.

My father sets down a stack of papers, eyeing me gravely. “Not long. The Faery Realm has had far too many attacks. It’s unsafe for us to be away.”

I turn to face him, eyebrows drawn in concern. “Attacks? What kind?” Memories of the event Bim had mentioned in the Dream Forest flash in my mind, but this sounds much worse.

He hastily organizes his papers, a troubled look in his eyes. “You haven’t spoken with Nyx? Check with him later, must’ve slipped his mind. I’ve got to prepare, but we’ll catch up soon, alright?” Without waiting for a response, he strides toward the door, pausing briefly. “Elspeth, don’t be late,” he advises, shooting her a knowing glance before exiting.

My mother chuckles lightly, gracefully seating herself on the plush settee. “He worries too much. I’ve still got time.” She grins, pulling me close. “I’ve missed this face of yours.” She motions for me to join her. “Come, sit. Share what’s been happening.”

I settle beside her, recounting tales of Zomea, the bridge, and the whirlwind of events since our last meeting. She listens intently, her eyes sparkling with interest.

She interrupts gently, curiosity evident in her gaze. “But what’s this new bond I sense, this connection to another?”

Caught off guard, I stammer, “What do you... How?”

She arches an eyebrow, unimpressed. “Over a millennia old and a mind-walker, did you really think such an emotional tether would elude me?”

I sigh, realizing the futility of hiding anything from her. “It’s complex but manageable. We’ve become quite adept at keeping our feelings in check,” I admit, feeling her comforting understanding envelop me.

“Tread carefully,” my mother warns, her gaze piercing. “I’ve ventured into her mind. I went searching for the Fae magic Euric concealed but glimpsed much more. She might have a pure heart, but darkness pursues her relentlessly. She’s weathered storms you can’t even fathom. Before she wholly surrenders her heart, she has inner battles to face.”

I feel the need to stand up for Lyra, but deep down a part of me acknowledges my mother’s words. “I understand,” I concede, “but I’m patient. I’ll do what it takes.”

Her eyes, always so discerning, seem to see right through me. “You’re in love with her,” she states more than asks.

I nod, feeling almost vulnerable in my admission. “Yes, and that’s why I’m here talking to you. She deserves to know the truth. I can’t risk losing her.”

She looks down, seemingly lost in her thoughts for a moment. “Oh, Colton,” she murmurs, lifting my face to meet hers. “I love you dearly. But revealing our truth might shatter our family. If you truly love her, you’ll find a way without ever telling her the truth. Do you understand?”

I rise abruptly. “I can’t promise anything,” I respond, my voice harsher then I mean for it to be. “If I lose her to Nyx, I might never know the truth myself.”

Her expression softens, and there’s a visible sadness in her eyes. “You’ve always been a fighter. First loves are intoxicating and unforgettable, you know that. Remember your journey after Z. Just because Nyx claimed her heart initially doesn’t ensure he holds onto it forever.” She offers a reassuring smile, trying to lift my spirits.