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I utter that word with such dripping sensuality that the third Aurelian – the one with the thick lips and the cocky swagger – jumps to his feet, and strides confidently towards the Bullfrog who owns Tessa.

“We’ve worked up quite an appetite,” the Aurelian grins. “This one looks tasty.”

The Bullfrog pulls Tessa closer to him protectively – although it’s very clear the last concern he has is for Tessa’s safety.

“Tasty!,” he grunts out, eyes wide. “Yes! Me hungry!” Spittle flies as the Bullfrog mouths the Common tongue

The Aurelian with the thick lips cocks his head to the side.

“Let us have her. We’ll make it worth your while.”

I know the Aurelian should be staring at Tessa – especially considering he just offered to buy her. I’d been expecting him to act all eager – excited at the thought of another little toy to use.

Instead, though, the Aurelian glances over toward me – and it feels like electricity crackles between us as our eyes meet.

I wonder how much of the smoldering need in his eyes is for me, and how much is fixated on the idea of Tessa and I volunteering to both pleasure him at the same time.

Ugh, men are all the same…

…then again, Ididpromise the Aurelians I’d do anything.

And right now?

I’d fuck them willingly, here and now, in front of all the Bullfrogs if I thought it meant a chance at keeping Tessa safe.

Whatever pride I have left is not worth a woman’s life.

And I say that kneeling in front of a towering, alien warrior whotakeswomen as his property.

The old me would have fought against this very situation. The old me would have already been plotting how to get that Orb-Blade hilt from Marcel’s waist – how to activate the weapon, and jam it up into his throat.

But the new me?

She feels so weak and pathetic – like I’ve been tossed around an asteroid storm. I feel defeated, useless…

…but I must stop.

Despite my weakness, a little bit of the old me still remains – and she urges me to think nothing of the risk I face in asking for this favor. They just purchased me – it’s doubtful they’ll mark up their new property with anything more than a stinging, red handprint on my cheek.

The only question is –whichcheek?

But even as I think that, my mind rebels.

No! I can’t think of them as my masters. The moment I do, they’ll own more than just my body. They’ll own my mind, as well.

The Bullfrog peers suspiciously at the three Aurelians, his bulbous eyes darting to their Orb-Blades. As always, the warriors stand ready to draw their weapons at any moment.

The Bullfrog seems to realize this – and after the humiliating example set by his scarred compatriot, he is more open to negotiation.

“You want her?” The Bullfrog gurgles. “You pay double for her, then!”

Marcel smiles – but the cold grin never touches his eyes.

As he stands there, towering above the seated Bullfrog, we all watch his hand slowly travel toward the hilt of his Orb-Blade.

“How about we settle this the old way?” Marcel grins. “My sword against your axe - survivor takes all?”

I shudder.