“No,” I say. “I’m going.” She glares at me, her eyes bright like the flames as they rake over my face, assessing me and looking like they find me entirely lacking. “I’m not sure what she sees in you. I’m not sure what drives her to defend you, to choose you when she could have anyone she wants—to walk through fire for you.” Her finger presses into the center of my chest. “But this is your chance to prove yourself to everyone. And if you ever make her cry again, I have a lot of land at my disposal to bury your body.”
