“I’ll meet you later after I finish with my work,” Lucas said quietly as he ran his fingers through my hair. “Eskal will take you to my chambers, wait for me there?” I nodded and shifted to move away. Before I could completely detangle myself from his grasp Lucas pulled me close once more to place a chaste kiss on my lips. My hand flew to my mouth as he released me and turned back to his work. His attention didn’t stray from his task as he said, “Eskal, take Emilia to my rooms and let our guests know we are ready to return to negotiations.” I obediently followed my escort as he lead me down several corridors. I quickly lost track of the twists and turns. I instead opted to take in the elegance of the building as we walked. My eyes ran up the tall stone walls littered with ornate drapes and portraits. A multitude of windows allowed the sun to light the hallway in place of the crystal chandeliers. “I thought vampires couldn’t go into the sun,” I uttered suddenly. I snapped my mouth sh

I felt my body relax as the warmth from the tea spread throughout my body. I didn’t try to fight the weightlessness that settled over me. It’ll be better this time. Now I know what to expect. I took a deep breath to calm the glazed-over edges of my nerves as I prepared myself for the sting of his fangs that would surely come. I watched Lucas though my eyes felt heavy. He regarded me in a similar manner as he refilled both our cups. “How do you feel now?” He asked as he passed me the steaming cup of tea. I accepted it from him and took another sip before I replied, “Better.” “I’m not surprised, this tea is brewed with medicinal herbs to help you relax.” He responded, then quietly requested, “Now, will you tell me about yourself?” “What would you like to know my lord?” I inquired, the tea had removed the vice from my chest and throat. I felt a small smile play across my face at the ease with which I was able to speak. Lucas tapped his chin thoughtfully before he answered my question.

I stood, the long cream dress swirled around my legs in the midnight breeze. The night air sent a chill down my spine that caused me to absently rub the spot where the choker usually sat. Lucas had told me I would wear it again after the ceremony, but it was traditional for me to enter without it since he hadn’t officially staked his claim on me. I watched as Lucas moved to face the crowded amphitheater. The platform on which he stood had been perfectly positioned so he was bathed in the pale summer moonlight. The torches that lit the space flickered and danced; his amber eyes caught the warm light and reflected it back as he glanced at me. He’d begun the address to inform all the werewolves and vampires present that he’d taken on a new blood slave. Soft murmurs passed through the crowd at his announcement. I shifted, self-conscious from my place in the shadows, at the number of people present. Emilia, come here, his call shocked me from my reverie. He stood, regal as any emperor from