Page 58 of Between Realms

“Well, in some ways, yes. However, I believe your presence is necessary. Not just for me. Elves have to get over their prejudice. With this news of a curse on your kind, I see the need for healing the wounds between our peoples more than ever. And you are the perfect mortal for them to become acquainted with. You will change their minds. They will see what I see, what the little ones see in you.”

“Oh, Eldrin… I don’t think so. Surely there is someone better suited for this position.” Feeling self-conscious, I study my shoes. “I’m not a diplomat or human noble or even properly educated. I’m just a servant. A bladesmith’s assistant.”

“No. You are perfect in every way.” Eldrin clasps my shoulders and waits until I look at him. “Tonight, I wanted to let you know that I’m freeing you from my contract. I release you. You may go wherever you would like. If you wish to return to Merlara, you are welcome to do so. Or maybe you desire to find a mate. However, what I hope to hear is that you accept my invitation to remain here with me indefinitely.” Eldrin quickly adds, “But if you wish to leave, then I insist upon one request.”

“What?” My mouth is suddenly dry.

“I wish for you to stay for the upcoming ball. I would like you to attend as my honored guest.”

“Me?” I’m not sure if I’m relieved by his request, or if I would have preferred he asked me to rut. “I shouldn’t be allowed to attend a formal function. I would only make a fool of myselfandyou!” I blurt out in a desperate attempt to thwart his request.

“You wouldn’t make a fool of us. Besides, I already commissioned a dress for you.” Eldrin pleads with his storm-colored eyes, “Will you stay with me—with no obligation to do so—and attend the party?”

“But you said I was free. So,couldI leave right now?” I jut my chin out defiantly, calling his bluff.

Eldrin’s body tightens with misgiving, and after a few moments, he agrees. “Yes.”

I’m shocked he’s willing to release his hold on me. Perhaps he actually does want to grow and change to be more understanding of other’s needs. “And I don’thaveto let you back in my room to explore my body to do so?”

“You don’t.” His eyes lower in despair.

Thinking about how I should handle him, I study my beautiful surroundings yet again.

I stretch out my reply until the tension is palpable. “Ugh. All right. I’ll stay…until then. But I’m guaranteeing you I will be an awkward duckling. I will probably hide in a dark corner.” Then I narrow my eyes, suddenly suspicious. “Am I meant to be some kind of joke at this ball?”

“Stars, no!” Eldrin takes my hands in his and kisses the tops of my wrists. “And thank you for saying yes.” His appreciative smile lights up the night.

“Thank you for granting me my freedom.”

“Well, I realized I was still wielding my power over you… even if all I wanted was your friendship. It wasn’t fair of me to say that you had the freedom to be honest with me when you were concerned I would seek retribution if you turned me away.”

I suck in a breath at his insight. “I’ve underestimated your depth.” I chuckle after seeing his smile, repeating the words he has used on me. “I’m sorry I neglected to see your soul and only saw you for your royal body.”

“So… youhavenoticed my body?” Eldrin says playfully, but his eyes sparkle with desire.

“It is hard not to when it is pressed up against me all night.”

He still has a hold of my hands and gently strokes my fingers. “Now that I’ve released you completely from our contract, is my request to spend any future nights with you denied?”

“Uh. I don’t know.” I tilt my head, enjoying my first taste of freedom in my short life. “What is the incentive to allow you in my room?”

“I can think of a few benefits.” He gazes at my lips.

A heat pools low in my belly when I realize he wants to kiss me. The intent is as clear as if he speaks his request aloud. I stare at his full lips, wondering what a kiss might be like. I glance away, the urge too strong.

I shouldn’t encourage his affections, but he has given me my freedom, and I like the taste of it. But we are too exposed in the garden. He has taken me here to make me feel free, so I will want to stay. The tactic worked.

I tug on his hand. “Maybe you can list these incentives somewhere more private.”

“Like your room?” He cocks an eyebrow seductively.

22

RELEASED

ELDRIN

Wynstelle and I hurry back to her chambers. Once I have closed the door, I turn to find Wyn right in front of me, her breasts grazing my chest. I almost gasp in surprise at her proximity, eagerness dancing in her eyes. Shocked by her captivating openness with me, I collapse back against the door, knees weak. Surely, she will be my undoing.

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