Then don't see it as debt, she said. See it as something we choose. Ayana came to his other side. For 10 years, she said gently, we have carried your memory. The man who risked everything for three strangers and asked for nothing.
Halona reached out and took his hand. Her touch was warm, real, grounding. We didn't come only to give thanks, she said softly. We came to tell you something our hearts have known since that day. The world seemed to tilt under Thorn's feet.
What kind of something? He asked. The three women glanced at each other again, like they had lived this moment a thousand times already. Then, together their voices rose. But it was Halona who finished it.
We want to marry you, Thorn. Silence crashed down so hard he could hear his own heartbeat. We each love you in our own way, she continued. For years we have carried that feeling. We know your people see things differently, but in our traditions, a man may be chosen by those who come to him with honesty.
She held his gaze. And we have come together. Thorn opened his mouth, but nothing came out. His mind spun, shock, confusion, and something deeper he didn't dare name. Bidzial stepped in, her voice steady, understanding.
We know it's a lot. We don't expect your answer now, Ayana added softly. We only needed you to know the truth. You saved us, Bidzial said. And in doing that, you took something with you.
Our hearts, Ayana whispered. All three, Bidzial finished. You don't have to choose, Ayana continued. You don't have to feel bound to us. We just needed you to know.
There are three women in this world who see you as the most honorable man they have ever known. Thorn looked at them. Really looked. Each one different. Each one carrying strength, grace, and something real.
This wasn't tradition. This wasn't obligation. This was truth. I've lived alone a long time, he said finally, his voice quieter now. I got used to it, not relying on anyone, not letting anyone rely on me, because everyone I ever loved I lost them.
Alona's fingers tightened gently around his hand. "Being alone feels safe," she said. "But it isn't living. " Her eyes held his. "Love is risk, but it's the only reason to wake up and keep going. " A small grin tugged at Bidziel's lips. "And you're not as used to being alone as you think," she added.
"You rode out and saved Dela Croix just days ago. A man who truly wants nothing to do with people doesn't do that. " Thorn let out a quiet breath. And for the first time in a long while, he didn't feel alone. Thorn couldn't help the faint smile that slipped across his face. She was right.
"Stay," he said suddenly, so fast it surprised even him. "Stay a few days. Let me get to know you. Not as the man who pulled you out of danger 10 years ago, but as who I am now. And I want to know you the same way.