Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass, #3)

by Sarah J. Maas

Maeve said, “You are free of me, Prince Rowan Whitethorn.” That was all Celaena needed to hear before she tossed the ring to Maeve, before Rowan rushed to her, his hands on her cheeks, his brow against her own. “Aelin,” he murmured, and it wasn’t a reprimand, or a thank-you, but … a prayer. “Aelin,” he whispered again, grinning, and kissed her brow before he dropped to both knees before her. And when he reached for her wrist, she jerked back. “You’re free. You’re free now.” Behind them, Maeve watched, brows high. But Celaena could not accept this—could not agree to it. Complete and utter submission, that’s what a blood oath was. He would yield everything to her—his life, any property, any free will. Rowan’s face was calm, though—steady, assured. Trust me. I don’t want you enslaved to me. I won’t be that kind of queen. You have no court—you are defenseless, landless, and without allies. She might let you walk out of here today, but she could come after you tomorrow. She knows how powerful I am—how powerful we are together. It will make her hesitate. Please don’t do this—I will give you anything else you ask, but not this. I claim you, Aelin. To whatever end.