Page 18 of Surrendered to Mate

To my surprise, he leans forward and takes a bite. His eyes close, a low sound of satisfaction rumbling in his throat.

"Well, would you look at that," I mutter. "The high and mighty Cassius deigns to eat mortal food."

He swallows, licking his lips. "Perhaps I simply couldn't resist your expert culinary skills any longer."

I snort, but can't help the small smile tugging at my lips. "Right. Because raw meat is such a delicacy."

"When one is starving, anything can be a feast," he replies, his eyes locked on mine. "Maybe next time you should throw me the animal whole."

I clear my throat, suddenly uncomfortable under his gaze. "Well, don't get used to it. I'm not running a bed and breakfast here."

"No, just a cozy little dungeon," he quips, shifting against his bonds.

I sigh once he finishes the meat and still refuses the water. "Come on, time for your daily constitutional."

As I help him to his feet, I can't help but notice how warm his skin feels against mine. I push the thought away, focusing on the task at hand.

"You know, most captors don't offer such considerate accommodations," Cassius remarks as we make our way outside.

"Yeah, well, most captives don't have wings," I retort. "Or refuse to explain why they're sneaking around the forest."

He chuckles, and I like the sound too much. "Perhaps I simply enjoy the mystery."

I roll my eyes again, but can't quite suppress my amusement. As infuriating as he is, there's something about Cassius that draws me in. And that's exactly why I need to keep my guard up.

I help him wash up and adjust his ties in a way that one arm has limited range of motion so that he can relieve himself. It's my best option, and to his credit, he doesn’t break free in the few minutes of slack I give him.

I lead Cassius back into the cave, his wings brushing against my arm. He doesn't pull away, and I'm tempted to touch them again. This time, I refrain. I can't let my guard down around this one.

"Alright, pretty boy, back to your spot," I say, guiding him to the wall.

He sighs dramatically. "You know, sweetheart, these accommodations leave much to be desired. Perhaps we could discuss an upgrade?"

I snort, securing his bonds. "What, the five-star cave isn't good enough for you?"

"Well, the view is certainly improving," he says, his dark eyes locked on mine.

I feel heat creep up my neck and turn away. "Nice try. But flattery won't get you anywhere."

"Can't blame a man for trying," Cassius chuckles. "Though I must say, these ropes are becoming rather tiresome. Any chance you'd consider loosening them? Just a smidge?"

I cross my arms, fixing him with a stern look. "Not a chance. You still haven't explained those wings of yours. Or why you are out here."

He flexes said wings, the movement drawing my eyes. "They're just a natural part of my charm. Surely you can appreciate that."

"Charm, my ass," I mutter. "Last I checked, humans don't sprout wings."

"Perhaps I'm not entirely human then," he says with a wink.

I roll my eyes. "No shit. But what are you? Some kind of demon?"

Cassius laughs, the sound rich and warm. "Do I look like a demon to you?"

"You look like trouble," I retort. "And until you start giving me some real answers, those ropes stay put."

He sighs, leaning his head back against the wall. "You're a tough nut to crack, aren't you?"

"Survival of the fittest out here," I shrug. "And I didn't survive this long by being careless."

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