25. Henry

Henry, aroused and wary, guides Harlow through the communion meant to foster emotional intimacy before the public consummation. He prompts a safe word, and Harlow chooses “Stars.” Their flirtation turns sharp as Henry pressures for a real secret and Harlow counters with threats and a provocative kiss that draws onlookers’ applause.

Pressed, Harlow confides her purpose: she kills abusers, citing a vetted network and revealing that Rafe Mattingly abuses her sister Aidia. Henry, shaken but resolute, offers a partial truth in return—Mountain Haven needs more guards and, ideally, an heir with holy fire or protection magic. Harlow senses evasion and warns of Divine notice, but the ritual timer ends, completing part two.

As the feast resumes, Henry’s father confronts him about changing the vows. Henry claims it was tactical to win Harlow’s trust, easing his father’s concerns. Plans proceed for the final rite, with Henry’s parents staying distant to lessen Harlow’s discomfort, even as Henry frets over scarce defenders and political optics.

Returning to the table, Henry notices Harlow has arranged his pasta to spell “Infection?”—another test of his many deaths and immunities. He laughs at the clarity this brings: despite vows and ceremony, they remain adversaries, and the most perilous, public step of their union is still to come.