The Aspect of Essence (The Aelfyn Archives, #1)

by Samantha Amstutz

Like a shark scenting blood, Vesryn lunged, propelled by eliciting a reaction. “Did you get a new tattoo?” He swiped at Jassyn’s curls, peering at his forehead, before Jassyn could react and swat his hand away. If he had any choice in the matter, Jassyn would have refused to wear the inked sigils of his four contract holders like he was some prized cattle. And, of course, “Lady” Farine felt the need to brand his head for the world to see. No wonder she produced an offspring as detestable as General Elashor. “Ah, Lady Farine finally laid a claim on you.” Vesryn swept his eyes over Jassyn with an exaggerated appraising look. “Word has it the general’s mother has even more insatiable appetites than he does. She’s been after one of those spots on your contracts for, what? Sixty years now?” Vesryn cackled wildly. “I’ll be dying to know your experience fucking both Elashor’s daughter and mother.” “You’re revolting.” Jassyn admonished his cousin with a scowl but shrank back from the humiliation flooding his veins. Jassyn’s thoughts flashed back. Even weeks later, his first compulsory visit at Farine Vallende’s estate had him retching when he woke in the middle of the night. The crisp air winding around the courtyard did nothing to prevent his body from springing with anxious sweat at the reminder. Jassyn sucked in a ragged breath. The memories of those three nights he was contractually obligated to service Farine had panic threatening to claw out of his lungs. As one of the initi...