"Yes, yes! I'm answering, Maya. Wait a second. We have all the time in the world. Relax," I said with a nervous laugh, hoping to buy myself a moment to think.
"Good," she replied flatly, taking another bite of her meal, though her sharp eyes stayed locked on me.
I gulped, forcing myself to look calm while my mind raced. There's no way I can tell her the truth. Not that I'm Zero, the leader of the Shadow Mystics, or that I'm a wanted vigilante in this kingdom. If she freaks out, my cover is blown completely. Think, Austin. Think.
Clearing my throat, I leaned back in my chair, adopting a casual tone. "Honestly, it's not a big deal, Maya. The black aura thing... it happens when I get startled or, you know, really spooked."
She raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "That's it? You get spooked, and suddenly you start radiating ominous energy?"
"Yes," I said with a shrug, trying to sound as convincing as possible. "I know it sounds weird, but it's harmless. I promise."
