Page 141 of Styx

‘How did you know?’ I demanded.

I had been so careful even Pallas

had not noticed the slight swell

of my belly. Asteria took my hand.

‘I am the Goddess of Oracles, Styx.

And I know you better than anyone.’

I sighed and held her hand tight.

‘Then you must promise not to tell him.’

I looked over to Pallas, his forge-worn hands

animated as he spoke to his nephew.

‘He worries. He would not let me

come on this journey if he knew.’

Asteria raised an eyebrow. ‘Pallas?’

Her eyes danced with amusement.

‘As if any God or immortal could ever

stop you from doing something you want.’

I smiled wryly at her words as she added,

‘You do not even allow your father that.’

We both laughed at this, the sound

tinged with a certain sadness now.

We had both been banished for this.

For our insolence of valuing our freedoms

and each other over commands.

I looked to Asteria, my gaze soft.

‘Do not tell him. I will. I need time.’

She smiled at me and tilted her head.

‘But you must tell him soon,’

she said, looking at my belly.

Before I could respond, Boreas spoke.

‘We Have Arrived’