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"So, he's here because of the bond?" Liam asked, voice quiet.

"No," I ground out. "The bond is not an issue anymore. Frexin gave him some kind of tattoo made of the same stuff as our suppression collars. It blocks his body magic and the mate bond. So, there will be noconsummationof anything!"

"I see."

Judging by the tone of that, he did notsee, but that was fine.I didn't care what he thought.

Taking three deep breaths, I tried again, keeping my voice level. "Tye wanted me to work under him —as an Agent," I rushed to add. "But I refused."

Liam scowled. "Why would you do that?"

"Because he's my enemy — our enemy — and Frexin's lapdog."

Liam and Mrs. Harlsted nodded, and I prayed they were finally satisfied.

"Would he at least tell us where the force-bonded were taken?" Liam asked.

I swallowed the lump in my throat.WouldTye help?

"No," I said. "It's too risky. He'd just as likely run to Frexin about your inquiry as to actually help."

Liam nodded again, expression stony.

"What about Jaiel?" he asked, voice thick. "Did Tye have any news about him? The three of you traveled together, right?"

My heart gave a sharp tug at the mention of the stubborn Fae prince. I hadn't even had another dream of him. Perhaps tonight …

"I'd hazard a guess he'll be with the Rogues when you —wejoin them." I looked at Mrs. Harlsted, but she was mid-yawn and hadn't picked up on my slipup.

Liam nodded.

"Okay, then." Mrs. Harlsted stretched. "Today has been long for everyone, but especially you two, and tomorrow is the big day. I suggest you get some rest. It's nice seeing a little of your old spark come back, Liam. Your gram and sister would be happy."

He looked away, expression crumbling, as she turned and walked back to her cell.

Rustling noises emerged from Liam's cell as he moved into the darkness. Probably drinking the moonshine he somehow always procured during his work shifts.

Or maybe he was just planning how to get info on the bonded prisoners.

Either way, I was glad our conversation was over.

I stared after Mrs. Harlsted, chest aching, realizing that might have been the last conversation we'd ever have…

Pain tore through me, and I swallowed the lump in my throat.

At least they'd be far from me and all the pain and suffering I caused.

"Go to sleep," Liam called from across the corridor.

I glared at him, but made my way to my pallet, praying for another of those dreams.I could really use one about now …

Chapter 11

Kaiya

Iawoke atop a large, sharp rock, with a dark ocean crashing over my feet and a starless sky of pitch-black above.

My heart skipped.Another dream!Exactly what I needed.