Dark Elf's Devotion (Dark Elves of Protheka Book 9) by Celeste King

Author:Celeste King [King, Celeste]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Protheka Publishing
Published: 2022-10-06T16:00:00+00:00

19

Keillon

I wipe the concern from my mind as I clamp the chains around Vannessa's limbs. I could send magic through the metal to warm it, but I know they'd glow. The others would see, and I still don't know how I would explain to the King that his fierce general has gone soft.

I spent the afternoon in my study drinking. I should have been looking over a set of new documents that had been left for me this morning from one of the lieutenants, but I couldn't focus on anything but this damn party.

Instead, I'd made it through a decent amount of bottles as I considered what I'd be up against, letting others view Vanessa dressed in her leather lingerie. I knew I'd have to be vigilant to fend off anyone who thought she was up for grabs.

Over the hours, I tried to stop worrying, to stop caring at all about the human woman above me. But I couldn't. I couldn't stop thinking about how I didn't want anyone else near her. Unfortunately, I am incapable of changing the caste system, and with my position, it would be an insult to the King himself if I wasn't here.

Not only do I need to keep a low profile among the rumor mills, but I also can't have others think she's special. It will only guide more attention toward her, and I can't have that.

Between my job, my connection with the King, the expectations of me, the gossips of Liiandor, and the resulting intrigue around Vanessa, all the reasons were piling up. There was no way I was going to get out of this party, and with each bottle of liquor I polished off, I found myself more and more lost in my situation.

By the time night had fallen, I'd managed to at least get a grasp on my emotions. By that, I mean I managed to shut them down. I needed the air of a cocky general, and I could present that.

I could use tonight to set an example for Vanessa, but not because I wanted her spirit broken. She had to know I'd never do anything to harm her. I just wanted to drive her into my arms once she realized the kind of protection and care I could provide…maybe permanently.

I shove the drunken thoughts away, even though I wasn't feeling the effects of the liquor anymore. I still blame the incessant ideas that she is anything more than a girl I bought for a few good romps on the booze.

Before anyone can note my hesitancy, I jerk on Vanessa's chain, pulling her into the palace. Heads turn as I approach, and while I'm used to that, I hate the way that their gazes settle onto Vanessa. Rage boils in me, but I contain it better than I had in front of Arcon. I can't have anyone see me treating her differently.

I keep my head held high as we approach the banquet room. I have to fight the urge to turn around and check on her, reassure her.

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