That Prince Is A Girl: The Vicious King’s Slave Mate Novel

Chapter 224: Emeriel had prided herself on the progress she had made in recent weeks. At first, it had seemed impossible, but she had finally managed to go at least an hour without thinking of him. A small victory, but a hard-won one. But after just a few stolen moments in his arms, with his nose buried in her neck, all her efforts crumbled to dust.

"Pull yourself together, Emeriel," she muttered. Shakily, she rose to her feet, her heart racing.

She was supposed to be avoiding him at all costs, not wishing for his arms around her and his tongue lashing at her neck. She should never have agreed to that walk. Now, he not only knew her as Galilea, but had imprinted her scent into his memory.

What have you done, Emeriel? She spent some time in the garden, lost in thought, finding solace in the tranquil atmosphere. By the time she returned to the manor, Lord Herod was alone in his study, the grand king having departed.

"Are you alright?" Lord Herod asked, concern evident in his voice as he closed the distance between them. He gently took Emeriel's arm and led her to a plush couch. "I didn't know what to think when I heard he asked you for a walk. He's not exactly known for his warmth towards humans."

"I am fine, he did not harm me." Quite the opposite. Her heart raced with the memory of his touch. She glanced down at her hands, remembering how her Beloved had held her. He had been all over her, as if he couldn't breathe without her scent.

"I apologize for the lies… especially the part about you being my betrothed," Lord Herod said sincerely. "It was the only way I could think of to protect you in the face of his unexpected visit. The grand king may harbor animosity towards humans, but he is also a fair and just ruler who values those dear to his people, no matter their species."

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"It's alright. I suppose it's better this way," Emeriel replied softly. It will make avoiding him at all costs easier.

"Is it? What if he recognizes you at the fortress?"

"He would not. I reside in the Western Wing, while his territory is the Southern Wing. And unlike before, when I was assigned various chores, I now work primarily in the garden. Our paths are unlikely to cross." Not to mention the scent suppressors.

"I saw the way he looked at you, several times," Lord Herod remarked, his gaze piercing into hers. "What did you do to capture the attention of a male like King Daemonikai, young one?"

Emeriel looked down, unable to meet his eyes. The truth was too complicated.

"I was present in court that day, you know. When his beast carried you away, I remember being worried sick. Then you returned, unharmed. I knew then that you were special to the beast, for it to fight against its feral instincts and protect you."

Emeriel's head snapped up, her eyes widening in surprise. "You are his Soulbond, aren't you?" Lord Herod's tone was thoughtful.

"My Lord, I… I don't understand what you mean," Emeriel stammered.

"I believe you do, Emeriel," Lord Herod countered, his eyes filled with kindness. "A Soulbond knows. It might not be immediate, but it eventually becomes clear. You are a Siren, are you not?"

He figured it out. She sighed, resignation washing over her as she nodded slowly in admission.

Lord Herod nodded back, appearing unsurprised. "No one else could connect the dots because they remain unaware of your true gender. I wonder why it never occurred to me."

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