Chapter 21: Home Again

James had told her she had the day off from school and training since she came back a day early.

"I still want this to work," she tells James when she returns. "I want Nova to be happy."

"And what about you, Petal?" James studies her. He was looking for any hint of doubt or fear. "What about your happiness?"

"I could be happy too, but I won't know unless we really try. Briar said to trust my instincts, to trust Nova."

"Dahlia…your father always meant that for your survival. Not your happiness. You have to follow your heart to be happy. I’m not saying I don’t trust your judgment, Petal," James starts. "Just…just be careful. I will only ever be a mind link away."

"I know," she smiles at him.

"You know I love you, Petal, right? You are my family in every way that matters."

She nods. She knew he did. He didn't say it often now that she was older, but he still showed it at times like this. "I love you too, Uncle James."

Spending so much time around her sister and away from her goddess-