Chapter Ten

Free Him, One Piece at a Time

After her embarrassing mess up that morning, Will had teleported back to her room, only to have Hay-Lin knock at her door a while later. The girls had noticed her missing from breakfast and lunch. Taranee had reached out via telepathy, but Will had brushed her off. Hay-Lin then volunteered to look for their missing leader. First checking her room and then the estate and beach. Only now rechecking Will's room.

Will apologized and told her she had gone on a morning fly around the island, feeling pent up with no guardian activities, which was partly true.

Hay-Lin, with a strong connection to her element, understood the desire to fly, but asked she let the team know when she was leaving the grounds. As using magic to divine her location without her permission, outside of an emergency, was against one of their personal rules on how to use magic between the five, they grew concerned for her safety when she left without notice.

Taranee could only broadcast her thoughts, not read theirs. Hay-Lin could feel surface emotions, like someone being in a good mood, but not dig deeper for the cause, like affection. Cornelia couldn't just pick them up and float them out of the way. And Irma couldn't compel them to do her a favor.

But her increasing disappearances for longer time periods was putting a sour note on the trip.

Will agreed, as that was reasonable, and didn't fight as Hay-Lin pulled her along to the beach. Maybe a long dive would settle her nerves?

The beach was livelier on the second day, Will noted, back in her rash guard. But she was feeling detached from everything, even after swimming for a while. She felt like she was back at square one with Matt. This whole time she didn't realize he was under the impression they were taking a 'pause'. The girls had made comments like that. That they just needed time apart. That they would make their way back to each other.

Was Will just screaming into the void?

Or was she making such a colossal mistake breaking up with Matt that no one could process her decision?

The Heart pulsed, not wanting to part with her yet.

No, she made the right choice.

Her duty as a guardian was her top priority. If Matt couldn't understand that, then there was no point with them wasting more time with each other.

Matt eventually made his way over to Will, and she knew she needed to set things right.

Will was now making sandcastles with Hay-Lin and Irma, with the water guardian elbowing her and winking when Matt approached.

"Heard you guys made up last night," Irma whispered as he drew near.

"Really?" Hay-Lin said, excited at the end of the rift in the friend group, only to frown, eyes scanning Will's face. "You don't feel… happy," she ended, looking over at a beaming Matt. "Oh, no," she said, voice full of understanding and pain. Irma just looked around, confused at the unspoken exchange.

Sometimes Will both hated and loved Hay-Lin's empathy powers. She didn't have to explain everything, but sometimes she just wanted things to stay hidden. Even just using surface emotions, Hay-Lin caught on fast.

"Hey," Matt greeted as he stood over them, wearing just his swim trunks, skin glowing with the heat of the sun.

"Hey," Will answered, standing and dusting off sand. "Do you mind if we go somewhere private?"

He nodded, now looking nervous.

They headed to the outcropping of black rocks at the far edge of the beach, past the changing tents. As they were slick with water from small crashing waves, most people stayed away from the danger, leaving it empty at the moment. She walked to the edge of the rocks, wondering was that the spot she stole Phobos from yesterday.

Heart twisting at the thought of the prince, Will focused on the man at her back.

"Matt," she started, and he sighed, interrupting.

"I know that tone."

"Matt," she tried again, turning to look at him. "This isn't a pause. But that doesn't mean… everything is gone. That's impossible."

His eyes closed as he took a deep breath. "Then what does this mean? If you aren't throwing us away," he said, with earnest only she interrupted him this time.

"Matt, please, listen," she said, heart cracking as it felt like she was breaking up with him all over again.

"I am!" he argued. "I'm listening to you! To how much you are in pain from this! How you hide from not just me, but everyone! You… why are you putting both of us through this? This can't be what you want?" he pleaded, trying to make sense of everything.

"You didn't give me a choice," she snapped, sick of being the bad guy between them.

Matt's eyes widen in pain. "I didn't give you a choice?" he repeated, voice uneven. "I asked you to marry me!"

Tears filled her eyes. "That wasn't all you asked."

He stepped back, shaking his head. "You can't expect to do this forever. You know you have to pass the Heart on one day. Why not now? To someone you trust? You said you wanted a family, with me, but throw it away when you have to choose?"

"Why do I have to choose now?"

Matt looked frustrated. "Your relationship with your family is… gone. When was the last time you talked, and I mean more than about you coming home late, to your mom? Your dad? You missed William's promotion ceremony from preschool. I was there. He asked for you! I've spent more time with your family than you! Did you know your mom just made partner at her tech firm? Or Dean is now assistant principal of Sheffield?"

"You know what I'm doing," she yelled, shaken at the idea she was so removed from her family.

"Of course I do! Does that change you missing your entire life on Earth? You missed the first gig the bands have had, at a real stadium. You missed my birthday, our anniversary, half the dates we planned. The only reason you aren't running off now is because the other girls are refusing guardian duties, because they know they need a break. But you never stop, Will!" He took a deep breath and went on. "I just asked you, when would you be ready to let the Heart go? When would I have to stop waiting to start our lives? When would I be first for you? Because I'm sick of being second."

Tears spilled down her hot cheeks as she looked into his eyes, the pain there so raw and excruciating.

"And I gave you my answer," she said, trying to keep her breathing even. "I won't ever be ready." The Heart flickered in agreement and Matt grimaced at it.

"I… I wonder, sometimes, if you are the holder of the heart, or if it holds you," he mused, turning away and storming off.

Will sat on the rocky edge for a long while, not wanting to deal with the fallout of her newest fight. The Heart flickered and Will pulled it off, letting it float above her palms as she glared.

"No, I don't care where you think I should go," she said firmly. "You have been so pushy I just can't deal with you right now."

The Heart flickered again, an urgent sensation filling her, like she should run.

"No!" she snapped, like she was admonishing an unruly child. "What guarantee do I have you aren't dragging me to Phobos again?"

"Because I am behind you, Guardian."

Quick as lightning, she was on her feet now facing the other problem man in her life. It had been several hours since that morning's… event.

Phobos was dressed the same as yesterday, trunks and robe, and was a good distance away, like he spotted her mid-step and was keeping his distance. Ready to run away again, she stopped. Seeing his hairstyle was different.

To say it confused her would be an understatement.

He was standing with his arms folded, looking amused at her exchange with the Heart, waiting for her to say something.

Honestly, she was tired of apologizing. Tired of navigating feelings and emotions. Just tired.

"You know, I've been more stressed out on my vacation than I was before it?"

Phobos rose a brow. "Maybe you are doing something wrong?"

Will looked down at the Heart. "Yeah, I can see that. I'm doing a lot of things wrong."

Phobos' demeanor changed. He looked back from where he came, seeing no one, and then looked at her. He sighed, sounding weary. "You are doing some things… right. There are just… things that are not in your control… at the moment."

Will looked away, feeling guilty for her behavior that morning. She had told him she made out with her ex, and then tried to make-out with him. That was just messy.

"And, there are… things… outside my control," he said, voice strained. "I.." he started and stopped. Will looked at him. His body was stiff, mouth clenched as veins popped at his neck.

Worried, she pushed aside her discomfort and walked over to him.

"Is something wrong?" she asked.

He clenched his teeth, looking away, the black circlet reflecting in the sunlight.

Why wear that? After that morning? After she…

"Hey," she called, grabbing his arm and guiding him to rest on some large rocks, sitting next to him. "Is there something wrong?" she asked again, taking a clenched fist in her hands.

She didn't realize the Heart was still in her palm and the warm jewel heated for a second, and the scent of something burning filled the air. Phobos flinched, pulling his hand away.

"Shit, sorry!" Will said, absolutely done with her life.

Only Phobos wasn't angry. He was just staring at his palm, flexing his fingers. Concerned again, she placed the Heart around her neck and grabbed his hand, looking for a burn.

"I don't know why it did that. Are you hurt? Cornelia can heal you," she assured. Not seeing any damage, she sighed in relief.

Phobos was staring at her, so she released his hand, only his hand turned and gripped hers, fingers lacing, palm to palm. There was still space between them, and he made no move to close the distance, but his grip was firm, urgent.

"About this morning," she started, feeling her heart quicken, confused and hopeful.

His hand squeezed hers, brilliant blue eyes intense as he never looked away. "You were upset. Your actions and motivations were not aligned," he stated, eyes tracing her face.

Wow, look who's talking, she thought, thinking over his conflicting messages and actions over the last few days.

Will looked down at their hands, his fingers long and delicate, pale against her tan skin. "Huh, I guess that's true. I was pretty upset. That wasn't fair, to you."

Phobos grinned. "Are you done, pitying yourself? You have much left to do, no?"

She laughed, appreciating his more normal behavior. "Actually, I only have the bonfire and fireworks with the girls, later. Don't you have plans, oh grand prince?"

He rolled his eyes. "Ah, yes, a day of avoiding my sister. Thrilling times."

"Hmm," she hummed, turning their hands so she could press her free hand to the back of his, trapping it. "I guess we are both hiding from people? Do you mind company?"

He laughed, actually laughed, and it made her heart jump. "You are asking me now? My, how things have changed."

Will blushed, thumb rubbing the back of his hand as he refused to let go of the one trapped in his grip. "Yeah, they kinda have, you know. Is that… okay with you?"

Phobos grew solemn, eyes not as icy as before. "These things may have changed, but our situation has not. Your time would be better to spend elsewhere."

Will looked at the circlet on his crown and felt her hand growing numb in his tight grip.

Again, his actions and words didn't match.

"I can decide what's a good use of my time," she countered. "And if that means hanging out with you, then that's what I'll do." She felt her cheeks warm as she added, "Am I a good use of yours?"

Phobos clenched his teeth, that pained expression overcoming him again. He sighed out, eyes closing for a second before saying, "My time matters not."

She frowned, taking a chance and lifting his hand and pressing a light kiss to the knuckles. He didn't pull away. He didn't let her go.

Maybe she was just going too fast? Meridian and Earth had vastly different social norms. They could both benefit from something slower.

"Ah, that's up for me to decide, too," she teased, sliding a little closer and resting a head on his shoulder. He stayed completely still, but again didn't move away. "And I say, yes, since time with you has been the highlight of my trip. You know, its funny? How easy it is to talk to you? Like you already seen me lose my shit and blow up a tower trying to blast Cedric. So what could I really do here to mess… um, things up?"

Phobos looked at her, eyes lost for a second in the memory. "I guess that is true. We have seen very interesting sides of each other. I am surprised you approached me after so long."

Will debated for a moment before adding, "I… Honestly, it was Elyon's belief in you that made me talk to you again. She just wants the best for you." Her insistence on giving him another chance, after hurting her the worst, made her curious.

Phobos stiffened. His grip slackened, but he did not pull away. Shit.

"You speak of things you know nothing about," he said with real heat, contempt thick in his voice.

Will could reason with him, show him that obviously he was doing better. That his situation was, arguably, good. But she had just found some common ground with him, and he didn't ask for her opinion on his family issues. They had just been on good terms for a week. Why push him? Why pry? After all, wasn't that what she was running from with her friends? With Matt? Everyone prying into her life and choices?

"Maybe that's true," she said, in a very noncommittal tone, willing to drop the subject.

Seeing she didn't go on, he relaxed, still not leaning towards her, but not pulling away. A happy medium.

Not wanting to upset the balance, but feeling hot in the sun, Will asked for a bit of relief from the Heart.

While she expected cooling mist, she didn't expect a wave to splash far higher than normal and crash on them.

Now soaked, Will pulled off the heart, letting it float above her hands. It was rapidly flickering, almost like a laugh.

"You little jerk!" Will snapped, annoyed at their ruined moment. "You know that wasn't what I wanted! I wanted it cooler!"

Phobos tossed a bit of seaweed off him, looking pissed. "Charming. I heard nymphs are unpredictable. You will fair better with direct commands."

Will narrowed her eyes as the jewel gave a gentle sway. It was becoming so much more active. Before, it only acted on its own when they were in dire situations. Now, it flickered to life multiple times a day. This, though, was by far the most independent act it had ever done.

"It's been livelier lately," she admitted, jewel shimmering in the sunlight.

Phobos let out a small hum before saying, "The longer you stay connected, the deeper you reach, the more you draw of it. There is a creature in there. If waking it is not your intent, you will need to start rejecting what it offers. Although, I see rejecting it foolish in the long run."

Will frowned, placing the heart back around her neck. "I don't think the others realize the Heart is alive. They think it's just some tool to pass to the next person."

She looked at Phobos, and he rolled his eyes. "All Hearts are alive. They are living conduits, funneling the raw magic of their kingdoms. You are a little different. As your kingdom is pure magic itself."

Will laughed before he could go on, rolling her eyes at him. He always made a bigger deal out of things than needed. "Big kingdom," she joked.

He frowned. "It… is unfortunate that you are unaware of what your connection to a nymph means. The Oracle is a chosen one, of N'ghala, is he not?"

Will nodded, playing along with his lecture. She had been doing this for years; she doubted there were things she was still unaware of with the Heart and her duties.

"And that connection gifts him the divine power of sight and eternal life? What do you think your connection grants you, as the chosen one of Xin Jing?"

"I'm the holder of the Heart," she said, not understanding what his point was. "The Heart is the gift."

"The Heart is the vessel for the gift. I doubt any previous chosen one has accessed it, like you. Tell me, are you being suddenly pressured to give the Heart up?" he said, tone light, like it was just casual conversation. "Maybe to another Guardian? For safe keeping?"

The color drained from her face as she honestly answered, "Matt… he said I should pass the Heart to Cornelia… Because she has experience with all the elements before. Because she's close to Elyon, so they could keep working together to protect the… to protect the universe."

"Ah, so history is repeating itself," he said, and Will almost missed the cold, calculating look that flash across his face.

Anxiety suddenly swelled up in her. Maybe he wasn't the person she should share this with?

"And how long before they claim you the new Nerissa? Just because you refuse to forfeit your birthright? How long before they take it and force the creature back into its slumber?"

Will was on her feet, cold dread filling her at his words.

That was it.

That was what was wrong.

To everyone it looked like the call of the Heart, of power, was enthralling her. Making her disregard her life on Earth, her family, her friends, and Matt.

"I'm nothing like her," she snapped, hands balled into fist.

Phobos watched her, and his expression changed to something more open, less guarded. "I am painfully aware of that. Nerissa would have tried to use me, and any others, for her enjoyment if that fit her narrow view of happiness." He looked away. "I can not deny any longer that you care, even superficially. You are better than others I have met. Your convictions do not waver."

Will was having a hard time understanding what Phobos was getting at. What… did he want out of their time together? She never really gave that much thought. She knew she found him attractive and was more than willing to have an intimate relationship with him over the next few weeks.

She was open to the idea of maybe even returning to Metamoor in the future in-between missions to see him.

Is that what she wanted? Someone who didn't expect a future, who was willing to live in the moments she could give? Because there was no future here. Was that part of the allure? Something finite that could only run its course before they drifted apart?

But was that what he saw?

She was tearing down walls, because that was what she did. She gained people's trust and helped them.

What right did she have, tearing down the walls of this broken man, when she planned on leaving?

It was taking him so much to let her in, and she already had a foot out the door?

Will sat back down next to him and retook her position against him, head on his shoulder, taking his hand in one of hers. His fingers curled instantly. Like he was waiting.

"Can we talk about something else?" she asked, just exhausted from everything.

"We can speak of your past victories; as you do so enjoy gloating."

Will laughed, adjusting to thread her right arm around his left, and her other hand crossed to hold his. She pulled her legs up and curled against him, enjoying the feel of the cool, wet robe.

"Maybe when you have a victory or two under your belt, you might get to gloat too."

"Maybe rule a kingdom and you can compare yourself to me, Keeper."

His thumb was making circles across the back of her hand.

"Oh, you mean the kingdom I overthrew, twice?"

"I believe we already established you were lucky."

"And that you were stupid," she countered, voice singsong.

"You cut me deep with such quick wit," he said sarcastically, voice amused.

She snorted. "The great Prince Phobos, reduced to ash from being called stupid." She pulled his hand to her mouth and pressed a long kiss to it. "The tragedy."

She kissed his hand again, stopping his retort. She turned it to press, opened mouth, to his palm, and kissed down to his wrist. His breath hitched.

She stopped, remembering that morning, and dropped their linked hand to her lap, her face red and unable to look at him.

"You can do as you please," he said, deep voice a sultry whisper.

Will felt like she was going to pass out from the heat in her face as she ducked her head. She went to pull her hand away, but he held fast, his grip like a vice.

She looked at him, his eyes burning holes into hers. The only change to his rigid body were the deep, uneven breaths he took. His eyes were on her face, and they trailed down, brazenly looking at the rise and fall of her chest. He licked his dry lips.

Will clenched her thighs at the sudden ached that pulsed there, needy and hungry.

His eyes caught the movement and lingered there, eyes lidded.

The rejection from that morning still stung, even if it was well-meaning, and she found the strength to pull away.

So much had happened in the last day. She was worried she wasn't thinking clearly. Worried that his rejection that morning had more weight to it than he was letting on. He was still physically detached to her. Their time underwater showed he could be physically needy if he wanted, so she wasn't sure what was holding him back.

Will decided he would have to make the next move.

The man before her was painfully beautiful.

Somehow, both delicate and powerful all at once.

And she wanted to learn how his delicate fingers would feel against her skin. How his powerful body would feel pressing down on hers.

And, above all, she wanted this to be mutual between them. Even if it would be short-lived.