Lightlark

It was the most difficult decision I’ve ever made, Hearteater. Knowing that succeeding meant you beguiling someone else. Making you forget our story. Our love.”

That was the moment I knew I loved you, he had said. When that arrow went through your heart, and it might as well have gone through mine.

“Grim was easy. He already loved you . . . you two have quite a history . . . though I suppose you don’t remember any of it, do you?”

“Your dreams, the ones you asked me about . . . are not dreams.”
“What?”
“They’re memories.”

“Your heart,” he said, frowning. He shook his head. “It does not only belong to you.”

“I’ll give you anything,” he said immediately. “Anything you need. Anything of mine. It’s yours.”

“You have invaded my mind. I have questioned my sanity. I think about you all the time.”

“You know now that I don’t eat hearts,” she said slowly. “But betray me again—earnestly or otherwise . . .” Isla bared her teeth at him. “And for you, I’ll make an exception.”

Isla believed him.

She believed only him.

“If anyone makes a move to harm you, I will ruin them and their entire realm.”