‘You bastard!’ she says, her breath hitching as my nose glides across her neck. My fangs protrude on their own. I realise the bond is drawing me to sink my teeth into her nape and taste her properly.

　　I find five old daggers and withdraw them from her whilst running my hands over her body, checking every pocket, belt, and any other area one would conceal a knife.

　　I can’t help myself. I playfully nip but don’t bite Lylah’s neck. Her back arches, and she leans back against me as if she is no longer trying to fight the desire between us.

　　‘All done,’ I say, casually stepping back and...