She flinched at Belial’s voice inside her head.
The bastard was still strong. She’d have to remember that and take more precautions.
“Ariel!” Belial cried, feigning concern. “I’m so grateful to find you safe. You had me terribly worried.”
“Like a pimple in your nether regions, I’m sure.” She returned his smile.
His men let out nervous laughs while Belial glared at her.
Even Valteri laughed.
She tsked. “Forgive me, brother. I didn’t mean to cause you worry.”
Still glaring, Belial kicked his horse over to her. “I trust you weren’t harmed?”
She had to crane her neck to look up at him, and she had the distinct impression that he enjoyed making her strain. “I’m fine. All things considered.”
He dismounted, knelt beside her, and whispered just for her ears. “I suggest you not try and escape again.”
“Don’t threaten me, demon.” She made sure Valteri’s men couldn’t hear. “Iknowthe extent of your powers.”
His smile sent a chill over her. “I hope for your sake that’s true, but what if you’re wrong?”
Belial’s words were meant to shake her confidence, her resolve, and to provoke the fear he needed to feed from.
It didn’t work.
She wasn’t afraid of him. Rather, she wanted to punch him. Right in the throat.
“Ariel?”
She turned to see her husband approaching as if he sensed something was wrong.
Valteri held himself rigid; no part of him betrayed that he knew the truth about Belial. Pride swelled inside her, and with it hope.
They might beat this bastard yet.
“Is your brother overly chastising you? Would you like me to beat his ass for you?”
Belial arched a brow at that, but held his tongue.
“We’re fine, my husband.”
“Then come.” Valteri led Belial’s skittish horse toward him. “Let’s return.”
Though the journey back was uneventful, it wore against her nerves.Even without speaking, she could feel Belial’s malevolent intent, his treacherous gaze seeking her out and noting the way she held on to her husband.
If only she possessed the powers to see inside Belial’s mind as easily as he seemed to be able to read hers.
It wasn’t fair, but then what was?
In little time, yet not soon enough, they rode into the bailey, where Shadow and Thorn waited.
The children broke from their play and ran to greet them, with rosy cheeks and bright smiles. Her heart warming at the sight, Ariel waved to them.
Edyth paused next to Ganille and smiled. “We made snow angels, milady! Would you like to see them?”
Ariel returned her smile, but before she could answer, Valteri spoke up. “Milady is injured, good Edyth. It may be awhile before she can see your angels.”
