He pulls back suddenly, turning away and putting himself between me and the newcomer. Twigs snap from within the forest. I peer around Kailan, wanting to see the figure that approaches. She steps out of the darkness, her silver hair shimmering as if she's captured the stars and used them as clips. Her sharp features contrast her willowy frame, but I don't for one second think she's weak.
"I heard a rumor at court, one so preposterous I didn't dare believe it. Tell me true, Kailan, do you consort with humans?" She glances at me then, eyes widening. "I did not think humans had horns."
"They don't, dear sister," he laughs. "And you should know Fae can't lie, although 'consort' is a stretch."
Kailan shifts so the woman can see me better. "I added the horns to her hair so she might blend in at court, but it didn't work as I'd planned. Cara, this is my sister, Breena. Breena, this is the unfortunate human who made a bargain with me."
"Kailan!" I gasp, grabbing his arm in horror.
"She is my sister. She will do nothing with the knowledge of your real name." He looks at her fiercely.
Stepping closer, she inspects me, ignoring Kailan's scathing glare. "I have enough humans at my disposal. Yours is safe from me, brother." She circles us slowly. "I see now why my brother chose you. You're quite a beauty, even if you are human. Fitting, how you are his first." She slides her finger down my arm, almost like a challenge. "Say goodbye to your pet or we'll be late to the tithe. I love to watch that sport."
"You didn't need to follow me," Kailan snarls.
"I was curious. Who can fault a beloved sister? Better I than Orla." She saunters off, her slender gown flowing behind her as she reenters the forest.
"Well, your sister seems--"
"Don't say it. Go inside your home, and don't invite anyone in from now on. For your safety and your mother's. I must leave you. I doubt Breena went very far."
"But when will I see you again?"
He pauses, keeping his back to me. "I will find you when it's time."