“I only wish to protect you,” he said quietly. “This isn’t protection.” “Then what is it?” “Retaliation.” “Would you have me do nothing?” “I would have you be merciful.” Caspen snorted. “Mercy is for fools. I owe nobody my mercy.” “Not even me?” A pause. They studied each other in the flickering firelight. “I owe you many things, Tem. But mercy is not one of them.” Many things. What did he owe her? Her heart slammed in her chest as he raised his fingers to her face, brushing gently along her cheek. “Am I not allowed to protect you?” he murmured. “You are,” she murmured back. “I just
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