Page 128 of The Vampire's Bride

“You weren’tmyenemy,” he counters.

“You know what I mean. I was an elite knight for the King of Aralon. I killed your people.”

“And I’ve killed humans before,” he replies bluntly. “So what?”

“That doesn’t answer my question.”

“I am tired. Can this not wait?”

“No, it cannot.”

“Fine.” He sits up and blows out a frustrated breath. “You want the truth?”

“Yes. That’s all I’m asking for.”

“Grief.” He clenches his jaw. “I’ve had enough of it to last several lifetimes. I will not suffer through it again.”

I blink at him, stunned.

“I lost my entire Clan—my whole family was taken from me in a single day. You are a brother to me, Valaric. I will not lose you too.” He looks at Eben, curled up in the corner in his wolf form. “Which is why I plan to ask your wolves if they will become day guardians for our House.”

“What?”

“When I told Stryker and the prince that Aerlyx and Eben were our day guardians, it was a bluff. I wanted them to know our House is well-protected. But the more I think on it, I realize it is a sound plan.”

I shake my head. “The wolves are their own people. They serve House Greyvale of their own will.”

“Be that as it may, I will negotiate with them. There are advantages to being tied to a Great House that I’m sure they will appreciate.”

“No.” Eben lifts his head, obviously having been listening to our conversation while pretending to sleep. “We earn our keep at the castle. We won’t be indebted to you or become your bloodsworn.”

Damar studies him a moment. “Name your price and I’ll give it to you.”

“You cannot put a price on freedom,” Eben states firmly. “And we don’tserveat the castle, we help out. We share chores. Everyone does.” He gestures to me. “Even Valaric. He hunts and provides for the pack.”

“Are you saying you consider Valaric a part of your pack?”

Eben nods. “My niece knows him as her ‘uncle.’”

I’m touched. I knew they regarded me highly, but I never realized just how much.

Damar lowers his gaze to the ground, a contemplative look on his face. “Would you consider becoming members of House Greyvale then?”

“As day guardians?” Eben shakes his head. “No, thank you.”

“That’s not what I’m saying,” Damar denies. “I am offering you a place in my Clan.”

Eben’s jaw drops but he quickly snaps it shut. “Is that legal? I mean… your people don’t normally mix with mine. Are there not laws against—”

“No,” Damar replies quickly. “The High Lord of a House may accept whomever they choose into their Clan.”

Eben narrows his eyes. “You’re doing this for protection.”

“Yes,” Damar answers honestly. “I am. As you know, House Greyvale has enemies. It would strengthen our House to increase our numbers. Especially with those who can walk in the sunlight.”

Eben considers him a moment before giving him a stiff nod. “My mother is the head of our pack. You must present your offer to her for approval.”

“I will,” Damar replies.

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