Page 118 of The Seducer
Khan leaned against Pearl’s shoulder and whispered something that made her nod.
“What?” I asked.
Khan answered. “We are very pleased that you have decided to marry. In fact, Pearl and I were hoping you would, since your wedding is exactly what the world needs right now.”
“In what way?” Athena asked.
“Athena.” Pearl was sitting on the other side of the table and, placing her elbows and palms flat down in front of her, she leaned in. “Khan and I are trying to unite two very different countries with vastly different cultures, both of which are ingrained with deep rooted prejudices against one another. When Khan and I married it broke down a lot of assumptions and gave hope to many that there’s a way for our countries to come together as well.” She paused and drew a big sigh. “Now with the wall collapsed in places, people are frightened in the Motherlands and fearful that the monsters they’ve heard about since childhood will attack them. Your story could serve to calm everyone down.”
“How?” I asked.
“We’ll make your wedding a media event and spread your love story to every corner of our two countries.” Pearl smiled. “For one of our priestesses to marry an Nman speaks volumes, Finn.” Pearl was looking straight at me. “Athena represents wisdom and kindness to us, and I think she can deliver a message of unity that will inspire others.”
Athena lowered her head and lifted her shoulders in a sigh.
“I’ll help you with what to say,” Pearl assured her. “Remember the saying that to conquer your enemy you have to make him your friend? I thought you could use that as a theme.”
Athena raised her eyebrows. “Finn isn’t my enemy.”
“He was when you were his hostage. Although, I think it’s better if you make him sound like someone who protected you. We want to emphasize that Nmen have integrity and honor.”
Khan nodded. “I agree.”
Athena’s eyes were darting between Pearl and Khan before she spoke with a soft but firm voice. “I’m not a piece on your chessboard that you can maneuver as you please. If Finn and I do the interview then I’ll choose my own words.”
“That’s fine,” Pearl said and leaned back. “We were just offering our help.”
I squeezed Athena’s hand again. “Pearl and Khan are always plotting and planning. They can’t help it, it’s how their brains work.”
Athena had a small frown on her forehead. “As long as you two don’t let your egos get the better of you.”
Khan didn’t react but Pearl looked hurt. “You and I have different roles to play, Athena, but don’t doubt that I’m doing what I can to keep the world at peace. Like you, I’ve taken a vow and dedicated my life to being of service.”
Athena bowed her head. “I didn’t mean to offend you. All I’m saying is that ego always has an agenda of its own, and sometimes ego disguises as reason.”
“Thank you for the warning,” Pearl said with a rigid posture. It dawned on me that I’d just witnessed the closest thing to a fight between two Motlanders.
“How about you go back to the school with the happy news to Tristan,” Khan suggested. “I would appreciate it if you don’t go into details about the sex-bots with anyone else. Pearl and I will set up the interview this afternoon, and with your permission we’ll have the ceremony broadcasted as well.”
Athena and I hesitated and exchanged a long look. I didn’t mind Pearl’s and Khan’s plan since I agreed that it would send a message of hope, but I didn’t want Athena to do it against her will.
When her chin dipped in a small nod, I said the words, “We’ll do it.”
CHAPTER 36
Hugs and Healing
Athena
Finn was like an eager child when we arrived back at the school. Even from a distance we could tell that Tristan was sparring with his new friends again.
“He looks so much like me,” Finn said with his eyes glued on his son.
I rubbed his shoulder. “I know, and now we know why.”
Setting his drone on the ground, Finn was quick to get out and this time he made sure to help me down.
Tristan waved at us and Finn gave a loud whistle, signaling for him to come to us.
