Isaac opened his mouth, ready to speak, but Celia cut him off before the words could come out.
"Be honest with me, Isaac. I don't mind if you like more women. I really don't. But don't lie to me. That's the one thing I would hate. Please."
There was no accusation in her tone, no sharp edge meant to corner him. Just sincerity. It sat between them, heavy and impossible to ignore.
Isaac closed his mouth again.
He had half-formed denials, and things he could say that would keep the situation vague and safe. But the moment she spoke like that, all of it felt pointless. Lying now—to herself and himself—would feel worse than anything.
He stayed silent.
Celia didn't rush him. She didn't press further or repeat herself. She simply waited, her tail swaying slowly behind her as if she already knew he would speak eventually.
The silence stretched.
Finally, Isaac let out a breath and spoke.
"Yes. I want to make Selene mine."
Celia's eyes shifted slightly, and her lips parted.
"Then—"
