“One hour, Vex.”He looks at Tessa, and something softens in his eyes.“Get her cleaned up and rested first.But then we talk.”
I nod, not trusting my voice.
Because I know what this conversation is going to be about.
I’ve created a blood bond with the woman we’re supposed to be protecting.I’ve tied her to me in ways that can’t be undone.I’ve made her more vulnerable even as I’ve made her stronger.
And worst of all?
I don’t regret it.
Not even a little.
As I carry Tessa up to my room,ourroom now, there’s no way I’m letting her out of my sight, she stirs against my chest.
“Vex?”Her voice is drowsy, slurred with exhaustion.
“Yeah?”
“Thank you.For not dying.”
The words hit me like a physical blow.
“Thank you for not letting me,” I say quietly.
Her hand finds mine, fingers lacing together, and through the bond I feel her contentment.Her safety.Her absolute trust that I’ll protect her.
I only hope I can live up to it.
Because now we’re bound.Now she’s mine in ways that go beyond possession or protection.
And if I fail her, if I take too much, if I lose control, if I become the monster I’ve always feared I am, it won’t just destroy me.
It’ll destroy her too.
Chapter Eleven
