building inside me. It’s like I’m about to explode, or implode, rather. My heart beats like a sonic boom, echoing in my head as I realize how desperate I am to take control of my destiny. However, I don’t know where to start or what to do. I’m stranded on an alien planet with an alien who is so intense that I’m being overshadowed once more. I know he’s trying to help me, but it’s not working.
Castien grips both my wrists, snatching my attention as he slowly pulls my arms down. Then he takes my hands in his and laces our fingers. The tattoos on his arms flare with light, and the brightness draws my gaze until he squeezes me, and I flick my eyes to his.
“You have nothing to be ashamed of,” he says. “You were not conditioned to be independent. It’s quite the opposite, actually. Your parents trained you to rely on them for everything as a form of control.”
“I should’ve done something.” I blink back tears of frustration due to wasted years spent as a doormat and because of Castien’s understanding attitude. “My friends on Earth weren’t manipulative, yet I didn’t stop relying on them for everything. I wanted to, but I was scared.”
“Unfortunately, I know all too well how much your parents can affect your actions during your youth. And sometimes those responses follow you into adulthood.”
I blink up at him, unsure how someone so strong and confident like him could ever be anything less than the male before me. “Will you share your story with me? But don’t if it makes you uncomfortable.”
He exhales deeply, and I inwardly wilt, thinking he’s not going to tell me about his past. But then he surprises me by pulling me close and placing me on his lap. I love how he doesn’t give two shits that we are in a restaurant, in public. He keeps his gaze on me, and I follow him into the world that only belongs to us.
Because that’s how he makes me feel, like the world is ours.
“My father did not love me, and even though I can’t imagine being the same with my offspring, I grew accustomed to it,” Castien says. “But what I can never forgive is the fact that he did not allow my mother to show me affection.”
I lay my head on his chest, the connection between us solidifying. I always felt more like a trophy my parents were eager to display instead of a child that they treasured. The idea that Castien had it worse off than me saddens me greatly.
“I’m sorry.” My voice is barely above a whisper, but I know he hears me when he tightens his hold on me. “That’s a horrible way for a child to grow up.”
“Indeed. My mother showed her affection when he was not around. For a time, I tried to please my father with accomplishments or good deeds, but no matter what I did, it was never enough.”
“Well,” I say, looking up at Castien, “I think you’re amazing. When you’re not being bossy and trying to do everything for me.” I wink at him, and he smiles, turning my insides to mush. I’m about to say something else when our food arrives. “Thank goodness.”
Castien talks to the server and thanks him. Once we are alone, I make to get off Castien’s lap, and he shakes his head at me. “No, Jade. You will stay right where you are because it pleases me. And I want to feed you.”
I purse my lips, and my skin prickles with irritation. Did he not hear a freaking thing I just said about wanting to be independent?
His smile shifts into a huge grin, and the urge to punch him in his stupidly handsome face rises in my chest.
“What’s so funny?” I snap.
He glances down. “My mate’s claws are showing.”
I follow his gaze and find it on my arms, which are glowing like his, but that’s not the only thing that’s happening. Black smoke is swirling above my hands as the tendrils seep through the spaces between my fingers. “I’ve been meaning to ask you about this, but first let’s get this eating situation straight.”
“It makes me happy to take care of you,” he says. “You are more than able to feed and care for yourself, but I’m asking you to let me do this.”
“I didn’t hear the request, but okay.”
He tweaks my nose. “Little minx. Shall we?” When I nod, he reaches for what looks like