Jealousy

The call had just disconnected, leaving me staring at the black screen of the communication device. My jaw clenched involuntarily, and I couldn't help the swirl of irritation rising inside me. A bodyguard? I thought, fists tightening against the armrests of my chair.

It's been a while since I last saw Lydia, but now I had to picture someone else some stranger standing by her side, protecting her.

Elara. A woman with wind magic, muscles, and an air of calm control. How very convenient. The fact that she looked like an older, more polished version of me was even more infuriating.

The little green flame of jealousy flared hotter. If I had more time… if I weren't stuck training, preparing for my role in the demon realm… I'd be the one guarding her, day in and day out, not some stranger.