Page 39 of The Dragon King's Assassin

Taroc lowered his face to mine. “She didn't want to displease me?”

“Correct.”

“And you?”

“I'd rather not displease you either.”

He leaned down, brushing my lips with his as he nuzzled my face, then down my neck, breathing in deeply. “You do not displease me.”

“Maybe not now, but you were sure quick to doubt me earlier.”

He lifted his face to mine. “Must I remind you of how you came to be mine?”

Mine. The word sent a shiver through me.

“So you're never going to trust me because of that?”

“You did try to kill me.”

“It was just a job,” I huffed.

The King grinned, then said, “It's been a long time since I've taken a lover for more than one night.”

I went still. Oh, shit, oh fuck. He's opening up. What do I do? What do I say? Be casual, Lock. “Oh?”

“Is that not enough trust for you?”

Breathlessly, I said, “For now.”

“Yes, for now. We have only started this relationship, Lock. Don't get impatient with me. I've given you more than you know.”

“Sorry. It's a human thing. We move faster than you immortals since we don't have as long to live.”

The King made a neutral sound and stepped back. “Apology accepted. And the antlers don't get in the way.”

“What are you talking about?”

“A Shanba's antlers don't prevent them from sucking cock,” he said wryly. “In fact, they serve well as handles.” He put his fists in the air to either side of his crotch and moved them as if directing someone toward his dick. “They're convenient.”

“You're an asshole,” I said dryly and left the room.

The King's laughter followed me out.

Of course, I couldn't go far since I was guarding him. I just stood in the hallway, grimacing while he laughed. Then he stepped out, saw that I was standing guard, and his laughter simmered into a smile.

“I thought you had run away, Assassin.”

“Not from you, Your Majesty. I have a job to do.” I waved down the hall, toward the sound of revelry. “Would you care to return to the party?”

“I suppose we must. Come, Ren.” He stepped past me, went a few feet, then added, “Come, Lock.”

“Not funny,” I grumbled as I followed the King and his dog.

“Lock, heel!” He pointed at the floor on his left.

“That's really not funny,” I said as I stepped up beside him.

Smirking, he said, “It worked.”

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