Page 63 of A Debt of Darkness

“Sorry, Master. I misunderstood.”

“Good girl.” He steps forward and brushes my face. “You can eat it now, pet.”

I take the apple and eat it, ignoring the fuck out of everyone who isn’t Henry. We’re putting on some sort of performance, and I don’t understand the rules of the game we’re playing. We’re being scrutinized and I don’t know why. They look like they’re about to pounce and my heart races, suddenly unsure of itself.

Henry growls and all eyes turn to him.

“Behind me.”

He doesn't need to ask twice. I slip behind him and he growls again. It doesn't unnerve me. Far from it. It's made me feel safer. Protected.

“MINE.”

Whatever's going on is a mystery but it’s clear Henry’s claimed me. The strangers bow their heads and flick their eyes toward me, staring at me like I’m something they want but can’t have.

“AM. I. FUCKING. CLEAR?”

Henry wasn’t shitting when he said anyone who wantsme is going to have to come through him, positioning himself between me and every other male.

Fuck, it’s hot.

I never wanted to be a damsel in distress, but if it’s even a little bit like this, then I’m game. I’m willing. I’ll fawn and play the role for a second of what I’m experiencing now.

“Behave, lea.”

I lower my head and my gaze lands on his ass. It doesn’t help. I sigh, trying to think of anything other than Henry and his perfectly formed ass, failing miserably and making my predicament worse.

“They won’t touch you. Ever. Follow me.”

I race after him, jogging to keep up with his ridiculously long stride. He holds the door open and I don’t miss the vicious glare he sends the men before I step into the sunlight. It’s been too long since I’ve been outside and my eyes water, needing time to adjust to the brightness of the day.

“What was that about?” I ask after the door closes.

“It doesn’t matter. What matters is that you acclimatize to being outside.”

“I wouldn’t have to if you hadn’t…” I shut my mouth before it lands me in trouble.

Henry’s eyebrow arches as he stares down at me, half-pleased, half-irritated. “All of it was your choice, lea. You could have ended it anytime you wanted. But you were wild and stubborn, and you needed taming. For your own fucking good.”

I cross my arms and pout.

“Are you ready to play?”

My eyes narrow and Henry laughs.

“Your exact words were play with me, Master.” His smileturns into a wicked grin, and there’s not a trace of innocence in his expression. “Be careful what you ask for.”

I freeze. “For what?”

“To run, lea. I’ll be reasonably kind if I catch you.”

I squeal and he shakes his head again.

“Run.”

I stare at him, too shocked to move.

“Run, lea. I’m going to count to ten.”

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