“Vala!”
I heard the desperation in his shout and it took my breath away.
“Vala, don’t do this! Vala, please. Don’t do this!”
I looked out the window and there I saw him.
“Vala!”
“This is insane,” Iry said. “He could have made a better entrance, they were letting him in, after all.”
“I have to see him,” I said, rushing to get by Iry.
“And you can, but here is the deal. He’s out there shouting like a fool. He could have just walked in. While he brings not rebellion to our door, he certainly is presenting it. And… you are not trusted enough as it is. Let me try handling it first.”
“But, Iry—”
“Show everyone that you can be trusted, Vala. You letting me approach him first is the way. I will bring him to you.”
I nodded.
Iry turned and walked out of the room.
“Vala!” Tanner shouted. This time his voice was closer. “Let me go!”
Even though I told Iry I’d let him go first, I raced out of the room. Iry was descending the stairs, and I froze. Tanner stood by the doors with two guards.
I kept my distance as I moved behind Iry, not wanting Iry to know I was there.
“Tanner,” Iry said, “please calm down.” He motioned to the guards. “He’s fine, you can let him go.”
“Where is she?” Tanner demanded.
“She’ll be right down. Stop this, okay? Vala is fine.”
“I know you,” Tanner said. “I know who you are. You’re the educator.”
“Actually, Tanner,” Iry said, “I am the husband now.”
All color drained from Tanner’s face and I moved farther down the stairs.
“No.” Tanner shook his head. “No, it’s a lie.” Then Tanner saw me. “Vala? Is it true? Did you marry him?”
Iry looked over his shoulder to me.
“Tanner, listen, I—”
“No, Vala. Did you?” Tanner repeated.
After a moment’s hesitation, I answered, “Yes.”
Iry smiled, then looked at Tanner.
The expression on Tanner’s face said it all. Hurt, shock, and anger all at once. His eyes closed briefly, he shook his head, and then Tanner turned away.
“Tanner!” I shouted.
Saying no more, because no more needed to be said on his part, Tanner walked out.