Chapter 71

Nadyr had returned to the domicile in Daevishk s absence and was freshly showered, his hair still wet and loose over his back and shoulders, his eyes tired and his jaw set in a way that, combined with the pain relief he mixed into his drink, said that Rikash had used him harshly overnight. "Rikash was in a mood," Nadyr met his eyes in rueful acknowledgement. "Hmm," Daevishk closed the door behind the slave. "Have you spoken with our father?" "No, I have just returned." "Rikash told our father that he knows you covet his mate, but he believes your attachment will ensure your loyalty." "Hardly new information," Nadyr took a mouthful of the curative before him and pulled a face at the taste. "He has said as much to me several times. He feels more secure in us now that I have officially taken a mate." "I cannot continue to let you use Mira," Daevishk confessed. "Not to the extent that thi