Protected: BOUND TO THE BEAST : CHAPTER 101 – 110
BOUND TO THE BEAST : CHAPTER 101 – 110
“What are you doing here?” Emeriel scanned their surroundings, momentarily apprehensive that a Urekai soldier might chance upon them and reprimand Aekeira for straying too far from the southern wing.
“Do not fret, Madam Livia granted me permission. I wish to bathe with you tonight,” Aekeira settled beside him.
“You have a splendid bathing setup in your chambers, Keira,” Emeriel sighed. “That room is the sole luxury afforded to you as the beast’s service slave, and you should revel in it to the fullest. You should not be here.”
“Oh, hush. I desire to bathe together, just like old times when we engaged in countless mischievous exploits,” Aekeira’s smile widened. “Do you recall when we used to go scavenger hunting in King Orestus’s garden?”
Unbidden, a smile spread across Emeriel’s face. How could he forget? “He would grow so furious his face turned red. It was always entertaining to witness his changing complexion.”
“Those were the good old days.”
“Then, we would venture into the woods and engage in pretend battles all day long.” Emeriel added.
“Mama worried herself sick searching for us on one occasion. I was never proud of that.”
“Yes, likewise. But we were children,” Emeriel glanced at his sister. “I miss Mom.”
Aekeira’s smile turned sorrowful. “As do I. I am certain she resides in the heavens, watching over us and keeping us safe.”
No, Emeriel was not certain of that, so he remained silent. The uncertainty reflected on his sister’s face as well.
All those teachings under the moonlight about departed loved ones watching over and safeguarding the living—Emeriel was beginning to perceive the falsehood in those claims.
Surely, if their parents truly watched over them, they would have encountered at least a modicum of luck in this cruel fate they shared, right?
“Regarding the introduction…” Aekeira’s voice interrupted his thoughts, “…I heard that not everyone will be compelled to undress.
The lords will handpick those who catch their eye and disrobe them.
Therefore, who knows, they may never choose you. Or perhaps the lords will be hesitant to select a male, correct?”
Emeriel emitted another snort. “Urekais do not conceal their desires for whom they want to mount, be it male or female. You know that.
I am more concerned for you, Kiera. I do not wish for you to suffer any further.”
“I am not worried about myself; it is you I fear for. I am terrified of what will transpire in that court tomorrow.” Silence enveloped them thereafter.
“Come now, everyone has departed. Let us bathe,” Aekeira declared, extending her hand, which Emeriel accepted. Together, they made their way towards the river.
Aekeira remained on high alert throughout their bath. Although Emeriel spent most of the time with his body submerged in the river, only his head above water, Aekeira positioned herself protectively, shielding him from anyone’s view at all times.
BOUND TO THE BEAST : CHAPTER 101 – 110
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