Page 293 of Evil Hearts

“But why?”

“Because you’re not a child of Lux, and an intruder to our territory… not once, but twice,” he explained. “My brother doesn’t forgive those who don’t respect our land.”

Ari felt the fight drain out of her. She had no leverage, no options. Being tossed into the frozen wilderness again would be a death sentence.

“Fine,” she muttered, dropping her arms. “What does being a… pet… even mean?”

Ryxin’s cyan eyes gleamed with satisfaction. “It means I’ll protect you from the others, ensure you’re well taken care of. Fed, clothed, kept warm.” He leaned forward slightly, his size overwhelming. “All I ask in return is that you keep me company at night.”

Her brow furrowed as dread settled. “What does ‘keep you company’ mean?”

He gave her a look that was almost playful, gesturing to the bed. “More of what we were just doing.”

She smirked. “And how do you know I wouldn’t try something while you’re asleep?”

A low chuckle rumbled from him, vibrating through the air. “You’re harmless,” he said with smug certainty. “That’s why you’ll make the perfect pet. You need me to survive, human. Not the other way around.”

Ari sighed. She hated this—hated being trapped with no choice. But if her only options were this or death, she had no real decision to make. “Okay,” she said quietly, the word bitter on her tongue. “I’ll be your pet.”

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