The Sea Witch: A Little Mermaid Retelling (Beloved Villains, #1)

by Rebecca F. Kenney

But in its current state, it is too powerful. It was a convenient way to store my magic and wield it without sacrifice, but it makes me vulnerable. I suppose that was the price I paid for the ease of using it. But now that I’m risking not only my safety, but yours as well—” He shakes his head. “No, I will let it diminish, and it shall be no more than a mildly magical tool. You and I shall hold equal shares of its former power. And I will teach you Godspeak, so you can use the magic you will possess.” The enormity of what he’s offering settles in my soul, a gentle weight, a wondrous, comforting assurance. “You’d trust me with so much?” I whisper. “After all you’ve been through? Zoltan, you haven’t known me very long at all.” “Long enough.” His gaze bores into mine. “I left you alone with the trident last night, and you didn’t run.” My eyebrows lift. “That was a test?” “One I already knew you’d pass.” “Perhaps I should test you.” I narrow my eyes at him. “You deserve it, for twisting our bargain, and for making me believe you didn’t care.” “You said you forgave me,” he counters. “A woman may forgive, but she remembers.” “Then is it truly forgiveness?” “Gods.” Aggravated, I push at his chest, and he laughs. “Go deal with the soldiers outside, Witch. And then you and I are going to have a long discussion.” “I do love a good discussion,” he purrs, leaning in to kiss my forehead. “No, not sex. A discussion. With words.”