Page 27 of The Demon King's Destiny

“So, intercourse completes the bond?”

“No, an exchange of blood will complete the bond. Some argue the consumption of blood is more palatable when in the throes of passion, so the powers that be added in the irresistible draw between mates to make sure it is carried out.”

Marrok’s earlier anger wasnow long gone,replaced with somethingfar more tantalizing. He licked his teeth, imagining himself driving intohis mate’sheat as he consumed her lifeblood.

“I’m thinking I wouldn’t have to be buried inside you to desire a taste.”

Evelyn swallowed. Her nipples pebbled and her center turned warm again. No male had ever spoken so crassly to her before. She liked it.

“You’re very direct,” she told him.

Hisnostrils flared, filled with the sweet aroma ofEvelyn’sarousal. His mate liked his directness, which was fitting since he thoroughly enjoyed hers.

“And you aren’t?” hereturned. “I seem to recall being accused of being a drunkard ten seconds into our first real conversation.”

“That was over four years ago.”

“And yet I remember it as if it was yesterday.”

Marrok allowed his magics back into his voice. Holding them back every time they spoke was tiresome. He watched intently as her skin flushed, heating as though he was stroking her.

“You’re doing it again. Your voice, it’s doing something to me.”

“It is my nature. I am a demon, Evelyn.”

“This happens when you’re around others? Around other females?” A heavy dose of jealousy rankled her senses, thinking of the she-demons on the receiving end of his demonic tone.

“Of course, but demons don’t feel it quite the same. It affects mates differently—to a saatus it can be highly arousing. To demons who are not mates, it’s more like a pleasant tone of voice conveying friendliness. It also helps get other beings to, shall we say, do business with us?”

“You compel others during business transactions?”

“No. It just makes us more likeable. Compulsion, true compulsion where one’s will is taken, takes an immense amount of power. Few have such an ability.”

“I’ve heard rumors of demons amassing power.”

His pupils expanded. “From whom?”

“My father. Before you ask, I don’t know where he gets his information. Most likely, it came from Theron.”

Meddling priest, Marrok grumbled to himself.

“I’m guessing it’s related to your statement of the Southland not being safe?” she guessed.

“You’d be correct.”

Evelyn looked towards her feet, her mouth twisting. Then she met his gaze and asked, “Are you planning to come for me? Ever?”

“If it was safe, you would be asleep in our bed this night.”

Our. He’d saidourbed and Evelyn’s pulse spiked.

Marrok cupped her face. “My mate likes this idea.”

“She does. So she will demand you make it safe for her. Immediately.”

Marrok howled with laughter at her command. His little saatus, as innocent as a spring flower, was demanding access to his bed. His demon pressed forward.We will give her this, then we can have her. Forever.

He wanted to assure her it would be done, but he wouldn’t lie to her. “I’m doing my best,moj draga.”

---