Chapter 57 · I Turned Toward the Workers and Raised Our Joined Hands

I raised my joined hand before the workers could run.

"Everybody listen!" I shouted. "Ronan's transferring the Keeper mark to me. When the core breaks, the gates might go wild. If they do, you run for the upper stairs. Don't wait for us."

The older worker stared at our locked hands. "You'll be bound to it."

"I know."

"Mara, you don't have to announce this," Ronan said.

I turned on him. "Yes, I do. I'm not hiding behind you."

His throat tightened. "What are you saying?"

"I'm saying I'll carry the cost with you."

A murmur moved through the workers. Chains scraped against the flooded floor. Nobody looked away.

The Keeper mark opened beneath Ronan's skin.

He folded my hand against his chest. His heartbeat slammed into my palm—fast, hard, alive. Then he pressed his forehead to mine.

His breath warmed my lips.

"Say it clearly," he whispered.

The moon covenant pulled at my bones. My old rejection scar burned like a fresh brand. Ronan's scent filled my lungs—salt, iron, and stormwater heat.

I didn't move.

"I choose the mark," I said. "I choose the gates. I choose to stand beside you."

His eyes shut.

"Say the last part again."