Page 29 of The Orc's Captive Bride
“A simple translation from an ancient text,” the High King said finally. “It’s forgotten knowledge, but it’s nothing that should trouble her if she’s as intelligent as you say.”
“And after?”
“After?” Lasseran’s smile widened. “That depends entirely on her success. The reward for obedience is generous. The consequences for failure… Well. Let us hope she’s motivated to succeed.”
Ice settled in his stomach. He knew that tone. He’d heard it directed at others who’d disappointed the High King or outlived their usefulness. Their bodies were never found.
His Beast roared inside him, furious and protective.Ours. Protect. Keep safe.
His hands started to clench into fists, but he forced them to relax, just as he forced his voice to remain level when he responded.
“I’m certain she will serve you well, High King.”
“Indeed.” Lasseran set down his glass. “Which brings me to my next point. I’m assigning you as her personal guard.”
He almost staggered.
“High King?”
“Is there a problem?” The mild tone couldn’t hide the deadly note.
“I… no. Of course not.” His mind raced. Guard duty meant constant proximity, watching over her while she worked on whatever task Lasseran had planned.
No. No.
“I simply thought that perhaps I could be more useful?—”
“Are you questioning my judgment?”
The temperature in the room seemed to drop ten degrees, and he immediately bowed his head.
“No, High King.”
“Good.” Lasseran’s voice remained pleasant. “You’ve already established a rapport with her. She trusts you, or at least she’s comfortable in your presence. That will make the transition easier.”
Trust.The word tasted like ash in his mouth. She’d kissed him, and he’d fled like a coward. Whatever trust she’d offered, he’d betrayed by locking her in those rooms and running.
“She doesn’t trust me,” he said.
“Then make her.” Lasseran’s tone sharpened. “Your job is to ensure her cooperation, by whatever means necessary. Am I understood?”
Ensure her cooperation.
The implications were all too clear—he was responsible, not just for guarding her, but for keeping her obedient and focused on her task.
And if she refused? If she failed?
The consequences would fall on her, but the blame would fall on him.
His jaw tightened, but he bowed his head again.
“I understand, High King.”
“Excellent.” Lasseran crossed to his desk and retrieved a key. “You’ll need this for her rooms. I had the locks changed—only you and I have access now.” He held out the key with a cool smile. “Consider it a symbol of the trust I’m placing in you.”
Trust. More like a collar and chain, binding him to this impossible task.
But he took the key, the metal cold and heavy in his palm.
