The Umbra King (Vincula Realm, #1)

by Jamie Applegate Hunter

When he stood a foot away, he stared at the bruises coloring her skin, and his entire body went unnaturally still. She stood like a statue, afraid to make any sudden movements lest it make the predator in him attack. His anger was barely leashed when he said, “Who did this to you?” He visually inspected the bruises on her limbs, touching each one with his golden gaze. His eyes met hers, and the danger she saw there made her gasp. “It doesn’t matter,” she whispered, too scared to speak louder. He stepped even closer. “It is the only thing that matters. Tell me who did this to you, or I will raze the entire fucking town to the ground.” His face was inches from hers as his rage enveloped her, and she closed her eyes to separate herself from him. “Look at me,” he demanded. “I am not one to make empty threats.” Her lashes fluttered as her eyes opened. “His name was Ronny, and he’s dead.” His chest heaved once before he stepped back. “The next time someone lays a finger on you, their death belongs to me.” The panic melted from her body, and her mind cleared. “Why?” “Because no one hurts you but me,” he murmured as he stepped into her space once more. A shadow slithered up her side and caressed her cheek. “Your pain belongs to me.”

“I’ll miss you enough for both of us,” she whispered in his ear, and he nodded into her shoulder. “I may not remember you,” he whispered back. “But when I see your face or hear your name, my soul will know you’re good.”

Her lips parted. “Most men don’t want their women dressed scandalously.” “Most men want to control women.” He pushed his chair back and stood. “If you want to walk through the realm naked, you will do so, and I will admire you the entire way.”