“Let me be clear. I understand your motives, but some of those girls are now in the exact situation you planned to save me from, and that is your fault. It is something I plan on having you atone for, for the rest of your life.”

 

I sat in silence at the table as I watched Alune pace backwards and forwards. My hands were firmly held down by an invisible force and all I could do was stare at her, listening to her every word. For the most part, Alune had kept my mind intact, I was aware some pieces had been removed, but it didn’t bother me, my owner’s rules were absolute; if that’s what she wanted, that’s what she’d get.

 

“Still. I would be lying if I said I’d have preferred the alternative. Your sacrifice, intended or not, has not gone unnoticed. Did you bring the items I requested?”

 

I nodded and displayed a series of books I had written during my time in familiar classes. They highlighted everything I could think that was worth writing down, including, but not limited to; my ambitions, personality, friends, hobbies, interests, how my magic worked and requests for my future owner.

 

She picked the first book up and began to read. She got halfway through before she looked up and noticed my face. I was staring at her intently, still unable to speak at her command.

 

“I suppose you want to say something?”

 

I nodded.

 

“Go on then, speak, I command it.”

 

“Thank you, Miss! I’m really sorry! I’ll do anything I can to atone.”

 

“I know you will pet.”

 

She sat down on a nearby recliner and motioned for me to join her. The seat was built for one person so I had to sit on her lap. Normally this wouldn’t be an issue, but the fairy wings I had sprouted made sitting with my back against her difficult. Still, my new 4-foot frame made up for this and I lay against her chest sideways, content as she continued to read.

 

Time passed as I continued to listen to my owner’s heartbeat and I started to drift to sleep.

 

“Nia, are you awake?” Alune whispered.

 

I let out a soft moan to let her know I was.

 

“I’m sorry for what I said earlier today; I promise I’ll do right by you.”

 

“Thank you, miss,” I said sleepily, trying to force myself to stay awake and failing.

 

“Stop resisting darling, allow yourself to drift off. I’ll be here when you wake up.”

 

And with that, the last of my energy left me and I drifted to a comforting sleep; a soft smile spread across my lips as I knew, this was where I belonged.