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"Then I must admit I see the irony that, like my father, I received a mate who really wishes to be with someone else That certainly is cruel of the Gods"

Shepherd did not hesitate to counter, "I only want you, Claire"

She let out a breath "The first time I saw you at the Citadel, the first time I smelled you, I did not see you as round and not run"

Running his thuhtened his s?"

Claire shook her head, her brows drawing together "No Because of what you'd done, where you were, how big you are… the violence My father was a very nice man—funny and kind That is the epito s Since you forced the bond, I feel controlled, rief, I cannot trust you, and you only treat et your way"

"I will take responsibility for the grief, but as for the rest, much of it is your own fault You have made little effort to be a contented mate Your resistance and continued subversion requires a firm hand to ensure your safety I would be cruel to you to keep you safe, and I freely manipulate you as there is no other recourse to draw you nearer Had you settled as the other Oas had settled, your life would be happy And I as you never thank me for I offer you the best foods I stroke and purr and please you physically for hours"

Claire had intended the conversation to highlight her concerns with Thólos, not nitpick at the ressions, their pair-bond washer teeth at his list of ridiculous accusations, she took a deep breath and tried to control her temper "When you were in the Undercroft, did you thank your jailors for what they brought you?"

Shepherd's eyes went fractionally wider, the man incredibly insulted "Thank me for the paints"

Claire snarled, "Thankthis room"

"Little one" The shift in hiently "Your do to me Thank you"

Scowling, Claire lost ground "I am concerned that if I thank you for the paints, you will kno much I like them and take them away"