Linking Shelley by Cyna Kade

Author:Cyna Kade
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Ellora's Cave Publishing Inc.
Published: 2013-09-20T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Ten

Talcor and Davo watched Shelley leave then Davo turned to Talcor. “She’s even more independent than Marissa.”

“And I’m stronger than Kytar. I won’t let her challenge me. I don’t want her to know anything about Marissa’s defiance. You nearly let it slip.”

Marissa had challenged Kytar for her freedom. If a woman wanted to renounce her link to her mate and he refused to release her, she could formally ask for the challenge ritual. The challenge ritual tested the link between bonded pairs. The Darinthian male was allowed to fight the challenge—fight to keep his woman under his control. Though not allowed to have intercourse with her for the duration of the challenge, he would have two weeks to train her. To do anything else he wanted. Anything.

Darinthian males typically controlled themselves, but during challenge training there were no such safeguards for the women. If a woman demanded the ritual, it meant that the dominant male could do anything he wanted to consolidate the binding—in a very public venue.

Davo raised his eyebrows and shrugged. Talcor’s mouth curved in what looked like a reluctant grin. Davo laughed. “Talcor, it’s obvious she’s already challenging you.”

Running a hand through his thick hair, Talcor grinned ruefully. “True, but there’s a world of difference between a formal challenge and this defiance. Besides, I’ve barely started.”

“Yes, why haven’t you gone further? I can feel she’s accepted your collar. Finish the binding.”

“Pella and I have unfinished business. Besides, Shelley’s not quite ready. I’ve chosen to wait a few days.”

“I don’t think that’s necessary.”

“What do you mean?”

“Your bond with her is even stronger than Kytar’s and Marissa’s, as I’m sure you’ve felt. Why not finish it?”

“This binding took me by surprise. I expected the first stage link. I didn’t expect to be permanently bound with an off-worlder. I don’t quite know how to handle her. I’m not Kytar. I’m not you. I don’t share your fondness for off-worlders. Part of me wants to deny the connection. How can I be bound to a woman who has no respect for our customs?”

“You deny the connection? Ignoring it will not make it go away,” snorted Davo. “It is up to you to teach her respect.”

“I’m making progress. I’ve already gained her acceptance of the collar.”

“Then don’t follow Kytar’s example. Don’t give her the chance to defy you. Finish this!”

“You’ve seen the way she is,” Talcor spit out, clearly frustrated by Shelley’s continued resistance. “I’ll bind her when the time is right.”

“You had no qualms about telling Kytar how to handle Marissa. Maybe you should take your own advice. Shelley uses anger to cover her emotions. However, even I felt your connection. Such a strong connection is rare. You should cherish it,” Davo said.

“I do cherish it. I cherish it enough not to rush it.”

“My apologies, Talcor. I merely came to try to reassure Shelley that Marissa is fine. I meant no disrespect to your house.” He bowed his head. “I stand to serve if you have need of me. Good hunting,” he said as he turned and left.

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