Page 33 of Surrendered to Mate

He nods, understanding flickering in his eyes. Thankfully, he moves to his next question instead of pushing. "What about their military? Their strategies?"

I shrug. "Can't say I know much about that. But from what I've seen, they care more about their fancy titles than actually being good at what they do. And don't get me started on their obsession with magic. It's like they forget how to lace up their own boots without it."

Cassius chuckles. "Sounds like they're in for a rude awakening."

"Oh, you have no idea." I grin at the thought of them being brought down. "But hey, at least some of them are branchingout. Heard a rumor that on another continent, dark elves are actually marrying humans. Can you believe that?"

I shudder involuntarily, and Cassius notices. His expression softens slightly.

"Not a fan of interspecies romance, sweetheart?" he teases, but there's a hint of something else in his voice.

I roll my eyes. "Let's just say I prefer my partners without pointy ears and a god complex, pretty boy."

"Noted," he says with a smirk. "Though I can't help but wonder where wings fall on that list."

I feel my cheeks heat up and quickly change the subject. "So, what's the plan once we reach this underwater gate? Just see what's there and report back? Shouldn't you have backup?"

I can't help but smirk as Cassius puffs up like an offended bird at my jab.

"I'll have you know," he says, drawing himself up to his full height, "that I was personally selected by the Council for this mission. They chose me because I excel at scouting and combat."

"Oh really?" I tease, raising an eyebrow. "And here I thought it was just because of your pretty face."

Cassius narrows his eyes at me, but I catch the hint of a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Very funny, sweetheart. But I assure you, my skills are unmatched."

"Alright, alright," I concede, holding up my hands in mock surrender. "So what is the plan then? Just peek through the gate and run back to your precious Council?"

He rolls his eyes. "We're gathering intelligence, Faye. It's crucial information that could turn the tide in our favor."

I'm not sure why, but a frown tugs at my lips when he calls me Faye. I much prefer sweetheart — and I don't know when that happened.

As we continue our journey through the dense forest, I find myself stealing glances at Cassius. Despite my initial wariness,I'm starting to feel... comfortable around him. It's a strange sensation, one I haven't experienced in years.

"So, tell me more about these amazing scouting skills of yours," I prod, genuinely curious. "What makes you so special?"

Cassius launches into a detailed explanation of his training and abilities. As he speaks, I realize I'm hanging on his every word. His passion is evident, and I find myself admiring his dedication. The way his eyes light up when he talks about stealth techniques and tracking skills is mesmerizing.

I catch myself leaning in closer, completely engrossed in his stories of grueling training sessions and hard-won victories. It's strange - I've never been this fascinated by anyone before.

But there's something about Cassius that draws me in, makes me want to know more. I have to remind myself to stay alert, to not let my guard down completely. Still, I can't help but feel a spark of excitement as he continues his tale.

It hits me then – I'm beginning to trust him. The thought is both thrilling and terrifying. I've spent so long relying only on myself, keeping everyone at arm's length. But something about Cassius is different.

Maybe it's the way he looks at me, like he sees beyond the tough exterior I've built up. Or perhaps it's the fact that he's never treated me as less than for being a human.

Whatever the reason, I can feel my walls starting to crumble. It's scary, but there's an exhilarating freedom in letting someone in, even just a little.

16

CASSIUS

Iwatch Faye as she navigates through the dense undergrowth, her movements fluid and precise. It's our second night trekking through the forest, and I can make out the mountains in the distance.

I thought about flying, but I didn't want to be easy to spot. And more so, I don't want to use my glamour or strength to carry Faye and all our stuff, too. I don't know what we'll find at this gate.

Faye pauses, pointing out a hidden snare to me. "Watch your step, pretty boy. Wouldn't want you to trip and ruin that perfect face of yours."

A chuckle escapes my lips before I can stop it. "Worried about my looks, sweetheart? I'm touched."

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