Chapter 309: Chapter 309 Little star?
Kyra still felt disoriented but safe, surrounded by the comforting presence of Damon and Lucas. Feeling the need to freshen up, she asked where the washroom was, and Damon pointed to a small door inside their room.
As she stepped inside, she noticed that it was a small space, simple but functional, with a window that let in a soft evening light. Peeking out, she realized they were high up in a tree, and a long trunk extended down to the ground. Water used in the washroom was channeled directly to the tree’s roots below—an ingenious, natural system.
The room was small but cozy, with two large tubs filled with water. The trees outside were thick, their branches swaying gently in the evening breeze, creating a calming atmosphere. Kyra undressed quickly, feeling the weight of exhaustion on her shoulders. She stepped into the tub, letting the cool water wash over her, immediately feeling more refreshed.
There was a simple bar of soap nearby, and though it was nothing fancy, she didn’t mind. Overwhelmed by everything, she washed her face and hair with the soap, scrubbing away the grime and stress of the past days. She didn’t care about finding fresh clothes for now—she still had her original fur clothes to wear anyway. For a moment, she simply enjoyed the small comfort of feeling clean and renewed.
Kyra’s moment of peace was shattered when the memory of Joy’s lifeless body flashed in her mind. A sharp pain stabbed her heart, and she felt panic surge within her. She rushed out of the washroom, dripping wet, only to find the room empty. Anxiety gripped her, her breathing quick and shallow, as she darted toward the door in search of the others.
Her chest tightened, each breath feeling like a struggle. Just as the panic threatened to overwhelm her, she felt a pair of strong arms catch her. The cool scent of the ocean filled her senses, grounding her. Oceanus held her at arm’s length, his touch firm yet gentle, creating a comforting distance that calmed her down without feeling suffocating. n𝚘vp𝚞𝚋.com
"Calm down, little star," he murmured, patting her back softly. His presence was steady, and it soothed the storm inside her.
Kyra looked up at him, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you..." she whispered, her voice trembling.
"What’s got you running like that?" Oceanus asked gently, his turquoise eyes full of concern. "Damon and Lucas are here, don’t worry."
"Joy... his body..." Kyra mumbled, her voice breaking as she recalled the sight. She looked devastated, the weight of grief evident in her eyes.
Oceanus nodded, his expression softening. "You’re talking about the young boy’s body near the entrance? Don’t worry, I saw it when we arrived. I’ve already asked the leader to take care of it."
Kyra felt relief wash over her, her eyes momentarily locking onto his broad chest before noticing the webbed claws of his hands, still holding her lightly. They felt soft, smooth, and strangely comforting against her skin.
Who is he?
Mermaid?
"You’re..." Kyra stared at him, confusion flickering in her eyes.
Oceanus chuckled softly, the sound deep and soothing. "I’m Oceanus, little star. Specifically, I’m a healer," he said, his voice warm.
Little star? Who was he calling that? Oh, it was her. Kyra was used to nicknames—Rainbow, Ky-ky, Little Thing—and now, Little Star. But what she couldn’t wrap her mind around was why everyone kept calling her ’little.’
Little? From which angle did she look little?
As if reading her mind, Oceanus grinned, his turquoise eyes gleaming with amusement. "Our height difference, little star. You barely reach my chest," he teased, laughing softly.
Kyra’s cheeks flushed with a sudden rush of embarrassment. Did she just say that out loud? She quickly glanced away, feeling her heart flutter with a mix of shyness and surprise. Oceanus’s chuckle was soft and comforting, and his presence was like a gentle tide washing over her.
"Little thing," Damon’s deep voice cut through the moment, and Kyra turned just in time to see him approaching with long, purposeful strides. His expression was calm but guarded, and there was a coldness in his eyes as he looked at Oceanus. No matter how much Oceanus had helped them, Damon wasn’t about to let anyone get too close to his mate.
Without hesitation, Damon wrapped his arm around Kyra’s waist, pulling her firmly toward him. He didn’t spare Oceanus another glance as he led her toward the living room, his hold protective and possessive. Oceanus watched them walk away, a hint of a smile still lingering on his lips. Damon’s protectiveness was almost amusing.
As they reached the living room, Damon leaned in close to Kyra, his breath warm against her ear. His voice dropped to a low whisper meant only for her. "Stay close to me, little thing. I don’t like how he looks at you."
Kyra felt the warmth of Damon’s breath tickle her ear, sending a rush of heat through her cheeks. She nodded softly, feeling the safety of Damon’s presence wrap around her like a shield. Oceanus watched from afar, his sharp eyes catching every detail as Damon murmured something private to Kyra, his gaze never leaving her.
Even from a distance, Oceanus could feel the intensity between them—the unspoken connection that ran deep, binding them in a way that was undeniably strong and unbreakable.
He turned away, giving them their moment, but the hint of a smirk lingered, as if amused by the scene he had just witnessed.
★*★*★
Oceanus walked into the living room, his eyes taking in the scene before him. Kyra was clinging tightly to Lucas, her small frame trembling as she poured out her emotions. Lucas held her protectively, his arms wrapped securely around her, offering the comfort she so desperately needed. Damon stood nearby, his gaze fixed on them, a soft smile playing on his lips. He didn’t say anything, but his presence was enough—strong, steady, and reassuring.
Simon was in the kitchen, focused on reheating the food Lucas had prepared earlier. The scent of the Meat filled the room, mingling with the quiet murmur of Kyra’s voice.