“She’ll be returned to you before you reach the palace. Unharmed.”
She searches my face. “I need to know why.”
“I have my reasons.”
“That’s not good enough.”
“It’s all I’m willing to give you.”
She stands abruptly, pacing in front of the fire.
“If I say no, what happens?”
“Nothing. Tomorrow continues as it has been. You remain my prisoner until I decide otherwise.” And the Nightwild magic will continue to strengthen.
“And if I say yes, and then change my mind before sunrise?”
“You won’t.”
She spins to face me. “You don’t know that.”
“Oh, but I do.” I stand, and she takes an involuntary step back. “You’ve been hating yourself for responding to me, telling yourself it’s wrong and shameful and you should be disgusted with yourself. But you’re not disgusted, are you? You’re curious, and you’re hungry.”
Her breathing is coming in quick little bursts now, her eyes locked on mine.
“I hate you.” She whispers.
“I know.”
“You’ve done terrible things to me.”
“Yes.”
“I should want you dead.”
“You should.”
“Then why—” She swallows, and closes her eyes. “Why do I want to say yes?”
I reach out and trace my thumb along her jaw. She tenses, but doesn’t pull away.
“Because wanting something doesn’t require liking it or understanding it.” I let my hand drop. “From now until sunrise, and then you’re free. That’s my offer. Take it or leave it.”
“If I accept …” Her tongue snakes across her lips. “What exactly are you planning to do with me?”
I smile. “I’m going to ruin you.”
Her eyes snap open. “What does that mean?”
“It means,Moirthalen, that by the time the sun comes up, I intend to have touched every part of you. Tasted every part of you. I’m going to take you apart. Slowly and thoroughly.” I hold her gaze. “And you’re going to let me.”
Her throat moves as she swallows. “You won’t hurt me?”
“I can’t promise that.”
The color leaches from her cheeks.
“You’ve never had a lover, so there might be some pain.” I don’t soften it. “But I won’t bring you harm.”
