Page 96 of Kiss the Filthiest King

Someone kill me.

Better yet…

I will kill someone.

"Right. Of course. Naturally."

By all the gods, I am tired.

42

DISLOYAL

Ryther

Isigh, shutting yet another book on the spirit—very helpful for anyone wishing to take a spiritual journey to their inner self, useless to identify why my energy's weaker than ever, and incapable of matching my own strength.

I have suspicions, and I sincerely hope they're wrong.

The book joins the large pile of discarded volumes just as the doors of the library open, followed by the rush of footsteps on the wooden floor.

"You're leaving?"

I open the latest option."Currently, I'm reading."

I don't have to lift my gaze towards Loch to sense his anger. "Of all the selfish, stupid things you could do! Crow, my sister is your mate."

"Barely. I'm a crutch she's leaning on during this transition."

The irritating prince has the gall to shut my book and lean into my space threateningly. "You wouldn't dare."

I honestly didn't expect him to be so protective over his newly found sister. It's rather heartwarming, seeing another side to the trickster. I worried on Calreth's behalf in the days when he was forcing his relationship with Reina, so I appreciate his concern. That's the only reason I reply.

"My mate," I intone with a slow, definite purpose, "doesn't much care for me."

Loch simply watches me wordlessly. What could he say against that truth?

"It's quite natural for her to feel like she mightneedme, given how unfamiliar she is with this world," I allow. "But she'll manage. We secured her crown, and none of those who would like to murder her have the power to do so at the moment. There's no reason why I should stay."

He shakes his head in disbelief. "By all the gods, you're an idiot."

I arch an eyebrow.

"You've known each other for days. What is she supposed tofeelright now? Adoration, trust, love? Those come with time. Nature has bound you to each other. You'll suffer every day you're apart, your soul unfulfilled, incomplete."

Incomplete.

That word rings a bell, at the back of my mind. I grasp its meaning all too well.

I groan, throwing my head back, suddenly so exhausted.

That's how I felt yesterday on the hunt. Like a large part of me was missing. I didn't understand, not seeing what could have changed so much in just a few days. It is obvious; I completed a mating bond.

Is it what distance between us will be like? My strength depleted, my spirit weaker than ever, heavy, useless, weak?

I need a drink.

I don't realize I said it out loud until Loch leaves, muttering under his breath, only to return with two glasses of wine, and a bottle tucked under his elbow.

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