I’m sorry,” he said, his voice low and honest. “I’m sorry, Nissa. When I first took you from your town, I did use you for your magic, and I am sorry for that. But I’m not your mother. I revel in the fire burning in your chest and the way you argue with me, as I always have. I care about your comfort, your health, and your happiness—and I have never tried to use you for sex, as you know well.”
