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“No, I know that’s a special thing.”
He pointed to Tal in the boat. “He’s important.”
“You’re officially dead.”
“You won’t hurt me.” “How are you so certain?” Tal asked, his voice small. “Because I know you.”
“You are tired, my prince,” Athlen said, head tilted to the side, pensive and quiet. “Move over. I’ve not slept in a bed before.”
“Fun?” Tal’s voice cracked. He stalked forward. “Fun?” Anger burned through him. Smoke curled from his fists. His body warmed with fire and flame. “You have no idea what I’ve been through. I have been kidnapped and tortured and hidden away, all to protect my family and our kingdom. I am not the young boy I was when we first set out on our journey, and I most definitely was not having fun at the expense of those I love. I am Prince Taliesin of Harth, fourth child of Queen Carys, and you will obey my command. Is that clear?”
“But if you must know, it helps that you’re nice to look at.” Tal laughed, his unease melting away. He knocked his shoulder into Athlen’s. “You’re nice to look at too.” “Of course I am. I’m a merman.” He winked.
Athlen startled, then stared where Tal’s fingers rested against his own. Slowly, and deliberately, he pulled away and tucked his hands in his lap. Tal’s heart stuttered.
“Can I touch you?” Tal asked, stepping closer. “Yes.”
Athlen brushed the back of his hand against Tal’s in a gesture of comfort, and Tal melted into it, the knot of terror easing with the gentle touch.
“No.” Garrett’s fist hit the table. “No. Did you see the way they look at each other?” he said to their mother. “No. It’s not fair to ask Tally.”
“You promised once”—Athlen’s lips grazed Tal’s cheek—“that you’d show me what the bed of a prince was like.” “I didn’t mean it like that.” Athlen smiled, coy yet fond, while he played with strands of Tal’s hair. “I did.”
Athlen gave Tal a squeeze to his hand and a swift kiss to his mouth. “Good luck. I’ll be in the audience. Look at me if you get nervous. And remember”—he dropped his voice to a whisper—“you’re not alone.” Tal smiled fondly, full of warmth and love. “Thank you.”
