“Excellent,” says the prince. “I’d play you tonight, but you should go to bed right after dinner, and get some rest. Perhaps tomorrow we can have a game.” There’s a power in the way he speaks to her—an ownership. He expects to be obeyed. Of course he does—he’s a rutting prince, heir to Perindal’s throne. He’s very forceful. Averil’s inner voice is admiring, yet a little unsure. He wants what’s best for me. That’s so kind of him. Very thoughtful. Just how a true mate should act. If she mentions the “true mate” nonsense one more time…
