The Kiss That Saved Me (The Tidal Kiss Trilogy Book 2) Read Online Free PDF Page A

the corner of the chaise longue I had upholstered in red silk too. I look at it and imagine spreading Callie out over the arch of the seat spread eagled.  
    I look back at the robe lying over the arm rest and internally slap myself. What the hell am I doing? I’m acting like she’s a common prostitute... like the women before. Goddess, am I that perverse? She’s eighteen for the love of all that’s holy. I look at the robe again, unable to draw my eyes away. I walk over to it, palming the fabric and feel the weight. I sit back into the chaise longue and let it hold me. Goddess knows I need it. I rummage through the pocket and pull out my remote. But that isn’t the weight that’s been weighing heavily on me. I dig deeper and feel it hit the tips of my fingers. Velvet. I grasp it, wondering if by holding it tightly enough I can wrangle it. Make it bend to my will. Take the power it holds over me away. I pull it up, facing the beast. Of course I’ve seen it before. But this is the first time I’ve really held it. Had it in the palm of my hand with Callie sleeping next door no less. I examine it. It’s so small. I pop the lid and my breath is rushed away on a wind of anticipation and fear. I haven’t been this nervous since I waited for her to open her eyes after that night. It winks back at me in the light. All two carats, glinting in the stark florescent of the closet, nestled against the tiny ice blue tinted pearls and aquamarines. It’s a beautiful ring. The conversation with Saturnus still haunts me now. I remember, leaning back against the red silk.

    One fortnight ago…

    “Orion, you have to understand. You’re going to be crowned ruler, Callie needs to be at your side, supporting you.”
    “She will be,” I bite out at him, angry as per usual.
    “Yes, but for how long Orion? She’s stubborn, she’s restless. She wants to fight. You can’t allow that.”
    “And what do you want me to do, Saturnus? Collar her? Tie her to something? She’s a grown woman for Goddess’ sake!” I exclaim looking at him.
    “The stunt she pulled, not telling you about her role as ‘The vessel’ was reckless, we both know that Orion. She’s a risk. She’s dangerous.”
    “She’s also my soulmate,” I remind him, breathing in and out thoroughly, trying to extinguish the anger that flares within by consuming as much water as possible.
    “Exactly.” He looks at me blankly and unfeeling.
    “What do you mean?” I ask him with a cocked brow.  
    “I mean you need to get her under control. It’s your responsibility. You two are an example to us all. You need to show unity, especially now.”
    “Callie doesn’t like being dressed up like a pony and paraded around. I don’t blame her and you can’t make me force her to do anything. She’s her own person,” I remind him again.  
    “I was thinking about that. Have you thought about marriage?” He pulls the word out of thin air and I feel my chest expand in surprise.
    “You want me to propose to Callie? She’s only eighteen, Saturnus. I’ve only known her five months. People usually wait years now. It’s not like it was before.” I feel as though he needs a book dictating my relationship history to him. It’s like he lives in some kind of fantasy world.
    “Women don’t care about that Orion. She’s expecting it from you. She told me so herself. I’ve heard her talking about it with the other mermaids too,” he reveals and I recoil slightly. Callie wants me to propose? My heart palpitates. I love her so much. Could it be she wants to make it legal so soon?
    “You did?” I cock my eyebrow, hope pooling in my stomach slightly as fear clutches at my heart. I wonder if it’s normal to be excited and terrified all at once.
    “Yes.” He looks me straight in the eye and I nod slightly.
    “Well then. I suppose I better find a ring.” I look at him and rub the back of my neck awkwardly. He beams proudly.
    “Your father would be so proud, Orion. He