Chapter 8

Lily’s room is dim and cozy, lit only by the glow of her phone screen and a soft starlight lamp by the window. She’s lying on her stomach, legs kicking lazily behind her as she talks into her phone, voice soft and playful.

LILY
Okay but seriously, Sanny—next time we meet up, I’m bringing those marshmallow sticks from Gastran. You have not lived until you’ve had them toasted with chocolate—

A strange shift in the air. A faint ripple, like the space itself sighing. Behind her, a tall, ethereal figure silently materializes near the foot of her bed—robes flowing, hair glowing faintly with celestial energy.

EMRYS
(softly, amused)
You really do talk a lot for someone descended from me.

LILY
(turning slightly, then freezes)
Huh?

She fully turns around—and sees him. Her phone clatters off the bed.

LILY
(eyes wide)
What the FUCK—

SANGUINELLA
(through phone)
L-Lily?? What happened?! Are you okay?!

Lily scrambles upright, nearly tripping over her blanket as she backs into her headboard, pointing a trembling finger at Emrys.

LILY
WHO ARE YOU. WHY ARE YOU IN MY ROOM. DO YOU WANT TO DIE?!

Emrys simply laughs—a warm, echoing sound that dances like bells through the room.

EMRYS
Ah, delightful. I was wondering if you’d inherit your father’s fire.

LILY
You—you GIGGLED?? You popped into my room uninvited and GIGGLED?!

She grabs her phone in a panic and mutes it, whispering furiously to herself.

LILY
I’m gonna lose it. I’m gonna get grounded for punching a ghost.

EMRYS
I’m not a ghost, dear. I’m your ancestor. Through Shizuku’s side.

LILY
(staring, muttering)
Oh great. Another weirdo with glowing hair and no concept of boundaries.

EMRYS
(grinning)
You’re welcome.

Lily buries her face in her hands.

LILY
This family is so stressful.

EMRYS (grinning wider)
Yes. But you’ll come to love it.