Salt Kiss – Episode 46
Mark’s confession remained in the hospital room after the danger passed. Tristan watched him retreat behind practical questions about the wound, unwilling to repeat what he had revealed.
Isolde refused to let him hide. “You said you would not sacrifice either of us. Is that duty, or something else?”
Mark’s gaze settled on her. “Does the difference matter while someone is trying to kill you?”
“It matters if you still expect me to marry you.”
Tristan shifted against the pillows, pain punishing the movement. “Do not negotiate a marriage over my hospital bed.”
“Then recover quickly,” Mark said, but relief softened the rebuke.
The doctor discharged Tristan under strict orders to rest. Mark brought him back to the most secure residential wing of the Lyonesse, with Isolde occupying the adjoining suite.
Tristan disliked needing help. Mark changed his bandage while Isolde prepared medication, and their combined attention left him exposed in a new way.
“I can do this myself.”
“You could also reopen the wound yourself,” Isolde replied.
Mark almost smiled. Their easy agreement around Tristan made the atmosphere strangely domestic.
When Isolde left to speak with the agents, Tristan confronted him. “You cannot claim both of us because you are afraid to lose either.”
“I have claimed nothing.”
“You claimed me before I understood what it meant.”
Mark accepted the accusation. “Then tell me what it means now.”
Tristan considered the question. “It means honesty, consent, and no secret promises made in another room.”
“And Isolde?”
“She defines her own place.” Tristan held Mark’s gaze. “If you cannot accept that, there is no place for any of us.”