Page 75 of The Vampire's Bride

“He’s an Incubus—the person we have come here to meet.”

I’ve never seen an Incubus, but I’ve heard they are nothing but trouble and devious as well. Their magic is known to be strong. They use it to entice—to tempt and seduce. It’s rumored that none can resist their charms. One of my father’s friends claimed his daughter nearly fell prey to one. She barely escaped his clutches last season with her reputation intact.

Surely, much of what I know of their kind must be myth, because I doubt Valaric would want me near one if even half of what I have heard is true.

Valaric turns to Lysander. “Do you know where he is?”

“You know Aerlyx.” He shrugs. “He’s probably at the tavern in the square.”

Valaric runs his hand through his hair in frustration. “Of course he is.”

“Why did you come to meet with him?” I ask.

“Incubi are powerful creatures, and Aerlyx is known for his skills in creating protective spells,” Valaric explains. “I want him to strengthen the wards around the castle and our other estates, including this one.”

Given what I’ve heard of Incubi, I can’t help but have doubts. “And… you’re sure he will do it? That he won’t try to”—I hesitate, trying to find the right word before finally offering—“manipulate you somehow instead?”

“He owes me a life debt,” Valaric replies somewhat cryptically.

I’m about to ask for more details, but he interrupts. “Would you like to see your rooms?”

I decide to ask him more about Aerlyx later, when we’re alone. “Yes.”

Valaric guides me down a long hallway and to a set of double doors. He pushes them open, revealing a grand bedroom. Moonlight streams in through a wall of windows that looks out onto the beach, the waves crashing along the shore in a constant and steady rhythm. “Do you like it?” he asks, and I notice he seems a bit unsure of himself, but I don’t understand why.

I walk toward the window, completely captivated by the beautiful view. “It’s lovely.”

The tension leaves his shoulders as he gives me a faint smile. “Are you hungry? Thirsty?”

“I’m fine.”

He shifts his gaze to the outside. “While we are visiting, if you wish to travel during the daytime, please make sure Eben goes with you.”

I frown. “Do you have enemies here?”

“That is… not an easy question to answer,” he replies a bit hesitantly. Taking a small step closer, he clasps my hands in his. “Vampires are very covetous creatures. I do not want to risk another sending their day guardian to try to lure you away.”

Although our relationship is still relatively new, I’m both shocked and a bit hurt that he would doubt my commitment to him and to our marriage. Insulted, I meet his gaze evenly. “I didnotmake our vows lightly. You are my husband. I would not allow anyone tolureme from your side, Valaric.”

Surprise flickers briefly across his expression at my anger. He slips his arm around my waist and tugs me closer. Cupping my chin, he tips my face up to his. “I did not mean to imply that the fault would be yours. I only meant to warn you to be wary.

“It is not unheard of for a Vampire to use their day guardians to ensnare someone for them. Once they are in their grasp, it can be difficult to escape. My kind have powers of compulsion. And while some humans are immune, they are few and far between.”

“Compulsion?” This is the first time he’s mentioned this. I’d heard stories, but thought they were mere rumors. Now, I find myself wondering. “Have you ever used this power on me?”

“Never,” he states firmly. “I would never do such a thing to you.”

“But you believe others might?” I venture. “Even though we are married?”

He brushes his thumb across my lower lip as his gaze drops to the puncture marks on my neck. “I have partaken of your blood, but you have not yet been marked and claimed.”

“Yes, I have.” I blink up at him. “I am your wife, and I have your mark on my neck.”

“A Vampire marks someone by injecting them with enough of his venom to alter their scent,” he explains as he runs his fingers gently through my hair before tracing them along my neck. The tips of his claws skim over my skin, sending a small shiver of pleasure down my spine. “It alerts others that they have been claimed.”

He drops his gaze to my chest and rests his palm directly over my beating heart. “The claiming mark is usually made here.”

“Why not do this?” My words come out breathless. “We’re married. You are my husband. Why not mark and claim me if that is the way of your people?”

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