Chapter 18

“I’m going to allow the growling to slide, considering that you are nearing your first shift, and your emotions are in overdrive right now. But I will not tolerate defiance, Rieka. I no longer want you as my servant. I just want you to be mine, and I want to be yours.” I wanted to look up at him, but his aura kept my eyes forced down. Conri bent down and grasped my hands to help me to my feet, his purr vibrating through his chest. He placed two fingers under my chin to force my head up to look at him. “I do not like commanding you and forcing you into submission. If you’re having difficulties with your instincts, let me help you. Do you understand?”

“Yes.” I chewed on my bottom lip to keep myself from saying, my king. He raised an eyebrow.

“Yes, what?” I lowered my eyes, my eyelashes fluttering and my cheeks heating.

“Yes, Conri.” He growled in satisfaction at the sound of his name on my lips.

“Let’s go and try to get some sleep.” I allowed him to guide me out of my room and a