Page 14 of Dormeo
“Because I have no brothers. My father is rich. And so, whoever gets my hand, will inherit my father’s empire, as well as their own, when he passes.” I shrug. "And men like titles. Being called Lord or Duke seems to appeal to their egos."
Apparently, to some, peerage, a large holding and gold coins are the most important things to consider when picking a partner.
The demon scoffs, his heated gaze blazing a scorching path across my skin.
“Stupid humans. If I were pursuing a mate, money would be the last thing on my mind.” Mischief flashes in his eyes as he moves closer once more. “Beauty, bravery, quick wit andpossibly most importantly, sexual compatibility are top of my list. Anyone can make money.”
My fingers itch to reach out and touch his chest, to feel those rippling abs moving beneath my palms.
“Tell me, little human. What doyouwant in a mate?”
I pause, never having considered that before. Nobody has ever asked me because there was never a question of me having a choice.
My father would pick for me, and the best I can do is try to influence his decision, so that I don't end up with someone completely revolting or cruel.
The idea ofchoosingis alien to me, but I can’t deny its appeal.
“Strength. Kindness. Someone who actually likes me and wants me for my company, not my title.”
Ash regards me before a smirk pulls those full lips back. “Well don’t be fooled princess, you won’t find anyone like that down here. Corrupting you is all that’s on anyone’s mind, including mine. Don’t trust anyone, there are plenty of snake tongued charmers who’d have you believe they’re on your side.”
My face flames as I imagine exactly what he's talking about. I have no experience with that. With his body on display before me, thoughts of what it would be like to have his bulk over me flash into my mind, and I squirm under his gaze, my nipples tightening behind the cool fabric.
"Fuck," he mutters, dragging a hand down his chin and increasing the space between us. “You’re walking trouble.”
With that, he turns and snatches a blanket off the couch, dumping the grumbling hellhound onto the ground.
“Put this on until I find you some proper clothes unless you want to find out just how unused to holding back our desires we are around here.”
6
ASH
Three sharp knocks on my door break the peaceful silence. Rose stirs in her sleep but doesn't wake. Moving silently, I slip into the corridor, pulling the heavy door closed behind me. The dim amber glow from wall sconces barely illuminates Gaap's troubled expression.
"They're getting bolder," he says without preamble, blending into the shadows. "A coordinated attack this time. Vampires leading the charge with Fae support from the cliffs."
I lean against the wall, crossing my arms. "How many?"
"Two ships. The Kraken took care of the first wave, but..." Gaap shifts uncomfortably. "There was another vessel that went down with the others."
"Fuck." I drag a hand down my face. More lives lost because these entitled bloodsuckers can't accept consequences for their actions. "Any survivors?"
Gaap shrugs, less concerned than I am about the deaths and more worried about the hassle it will create.
"None that made it to shore. But this will cause problems. The vampires are already spreading word that we're indiscriminately killing any supernatural who comes near ourborders." Gaap's tail lashes in agitation. "They're painting us as the real monsters."
"Rich, coming from creatures who treat humans like cattle." My lip curls in disgust. "How many mortals did they drain last month alone?"
"That's just it, they're claiming we tar all supernaturals with the same brush. The peaceful ones are starting to listen." Gaap lowers his voice. "There's talk of an alliance forming. Even some of the fae courts who normally stay neutral are considering taking sides."
"Take it to my father."
Gaap snorts. "Your father is... preoccupied. I've never seen him so focused on something, but he won't say what."
The sound of shuffling draws my attention to the shadows where several lesser demons lurk, drawn by Rose's presence like moths to a flame. My protective instincts surge.
"I'll speak with Lily," Gaap offers, a little too quickly. "She has contacts in the fae courts."
