Min wasn't an innocent maiden—her mother had warned her about the consequences of lying with a man, how some women sought refuge in the Woods to bear their children in secrecy. Erden had done just that. But if sex brought such immense pleasure, why shouldn't Min indulge in it? Besides, many women had raised children alone before. Once Sergen was done with her, he might release her, and she could return to her mother's cottage. It was the way of witches to live solitary lives, nurturing their children beneath the sheltering branches of the Witch Wood. Surely, Min would follow suit.

"Good girl," she murmured, planting tender kisses on his...