Page 93 of Song of Her Siren

Gadea and Cassandra shared a look before Cassandra answered, “In theBook of Demon Spells, it says the song must be sung by a siren with a pure heart, but pure didn’t mean to demons what it means to us. The interpretation would be closer to an unbroken heart.”

My knees threatened to give way, and I was barely aware of Tari grasping my elbow. “S-so because my heart is broken, I can’t sing the song?”

Cassandra frowned. “I’m afraid so. You must find a way to mend it.”

“I can’t.” I shook my head, tears spilling over my eyes. “Not without my mates.”

Mother stepped toward me, holding out her hands. “Shiri, let me help you.”

“No, Mother.” I backed away. “You’re too late.” I didn’t want her. I wanted Drae, Blaze, and Nikkos.

“Princess Shirina,” a loud voice boomed.

I spun around as three firemages landed behind me. They each bowed before one of them stepped forward, handing me a scroll bearing Malvolia’s official winged flame seal.

“Yes?” I asked as I broke the seal on the scroll.

“You’ve been summoned by the captain of the queen’s guard to check the new arrivals for demons,” the firemage said.

I quickly glanced at the scroll, wondering why Malvolia had suddenly become so official. Was this part of her withdrawal from everyone? “Of course.” I turned, facing my family. “If you all would excuse me.”

“Do you want me to come with you, sister?” Tari asked.

“No.” I cupped her cheek, frowning at the shadows beneath her eyes. “Get some rest. I’ll be fine.”

“I don’t want you going alone,” Mother blurted.

I scowled at her, hating that I didn’t know if she was sincere or putting on a show for Marius. I motioned toward the firemages behind me. “I’ll have my guards.”

Marius cleared his throat, stepping forward. “I’ll go with her.”

My heart did a backflip when I looked into his kind, yet sad dark eyes. “I don’t think Mother can spare you.”

“Of course, I can.” Mother’s voice cracked like old parchment. “Who better to protect you than your father?”

I flashed my father an appreciative smile, pleased when he smiled back. “Okay.”

I took a step forward when he held out his arms but was nearly knocked back by Aurora, who plowed into my legs. “I love you, Auntie.”

Tears sprang to my eyes as I knelt beside her, my heart sighing in contentment when she wrapped her little arms around my neck. I squeezed her back, relieved that she understood the whirlwind of feelings crushing my chest, while also saddened that we shared this connection. “And I love you so very much.”

* * *

Shiri

AFTER TARI EXTRICATEDAurora from my legs, I gave her one last kiss, then kissed Ember and playfully tugged on one of her braids. “Be good for your mother. It’s almost time for bed,” I warned, wagging a finger. “And no whining.”

“Yes, Auntie,” they said while holding their mother’s hands.

The three firemages patiently waited while I went to Marius. I had no idea what to do. It had been ages since Father Derrick had flown me anywhere. It was easy with my mates, for I couldn’t keep my hands off them, anyway. But what was I supposed to do with Marius? Jump into his arms?

His wings snapped open as he slanted a smile. “Hold on tight,” he said before sweeping me into his arms.

I held his neck, realizing he’d gained muscles in his back and his wings looked fuller. He must’ve been practicing flying. It warmed my heart to see him so healthy. “Thank you, Father,” I whispered, very aware of my mother staring at us, “but I feel bad taking you away from Mother and Father Derrick.”

“Don’t,” he said, ruffling his wings. “I’d rather be with you, and now that my wings are stronger, I’ll take any excuse to fly.”

He’d rather be with me? I resisted the urge to look over my shoulder and see if my mother had heard him, but I could practically feel her breathing down my neck, so I knew she had. I should’ve been glad that Marius wanted to spend time with me, but I worried my mother would resent me for it.

---