Page 50 of Wolfkissed
“What?”
“My name. You’ve never said it before. I like hearing it from your lips.”
I stare at him. “What are you…?”
“Indulge me.”
I sigh. “Valen.”
He smirks, letting his head fall back against the crumbling plaster. “Yeah. Like that.”
“You’re crazy.”
“Definitely. Barking mad.” He chuckles, a deep, pleasant sound. “I just can’t fucking grasp how the hell I got myself pining over a celibate maiden.”
“Don’t mock me.”
“Does it look like I am mocking you?” He frowns. “I’m not the type. Listen?—”
I shake my head. “No. That won’t work. I don’t know you.”
“Well, it’s a challenge, and I’m always up for one. Hells, that’s why I… Fuck.” He jumps to his feet with fluid grace, his tall body filling the small space, and gestures imperiously. “Stand behind me. Someone is coming.”
“Again, no.” I clench my fists and remain beside him. “If you’re thinking about killing anyone, think again. I’ve grown up with these people.”
“So you’re willing to die at their hands?” he snaps.
Good point, and yet…“No killing. No hurting people. Got it?”
“At your command,” he drawls, “Princess. You want to die? Be my guest.”
Huffing, I brace myself as Stepfather opens the door and stands there, gazing at me, his face so familiar, I almost believe he’s here to recant his earlier decision.
“Let me out of here,” I bite out. “Let both of us out. I want?—”
“You’re not going anywhere just yet.”
“Why are you doing this?” I need to know. “I’ll be leaving tomorrow anyway. I received the message about the reception. I’m all packed and ready to go. I’ll be out of your hair permanently?—”
“You’re not going anywhere.”
I take a step back and flinch when I brush against Valen. “You sent those men to kill me, didn’t you? For some reason, you want me dead. Why? Up until recently, you were all too happy to see me go.”
He watches me, his gaze narrowed. “I thought Lord Eorl and I had a deal.”
“And don’t you?”
“Your adorable future husband has decided to ask for a dowry.”
“So what? It’s still worth it for you to?—”
“He wants the manor.”
I frown. “I don’t believe it. He wouldn’t suddenly change the terms.”
“And yet. He sent me gold to pay off my debts, as per our initial agreement, but now he demands this manor and the estates if he is to take you off my hands. I’ve already given myword in front of witnesses to marry you off to him. Can’t rescind it.”
My hands clench in the skirt of my wet dress. “And that’s why you decided to kill me.”
