Page 64 of Court of Winter

“You should consider joining the courts as a magistrate.”

I rolled my eyes but couldn’t stop my reluctant smile. “You’re very funny.”

“Am I?” The corner of his mouth kicked up. “I don’t often get told that.”

“And sarcastic.”

“Now,that, I’ve been told a time or two.”

“You’re stalling.”

“I’m not. I’m merely considering what you’re requesting.”

“They’re not requests. They’re demands.”

“Everything with me is a request. You cannot make demands of your crown prince.”

“Really? Because I think I just did.”

He sighed. “I’ve killed fae for such insolence before.”

Since his tone was teasing, I didn’t know if he was serious or not, but I still replied, “I’m sure you have.”

“Yet you don’t even flinch when you make such remarks.”

“Maybe I’m not as weak as everyone thinks I am.”

He studied me quietly. “I think you’re right. In fact, I don’t think you’re weak at all.” Before I could really contemplate that response, he added, “But I can’t agree to you leaving your chambers freely. It would be too dangerous considering the unrest that’s currently taking place within the court.”

I shivered. Given the rumblings I’d heard, he wasn’t wrong. “Then assign me a guard.”

He grunted. “I don’t trust any of the guards enough to entrust them with your life.”

“Then assign me one of your personal guards. You seem to trust them.”

“True.” He tilted his head. “All right, fine. I’ll assign Nish to you.”

I scoffed. “You must hate me if you’re going to force Nish on me. How about Haxil?”

His eyes shuttered. “No.”

“Why not? I like Haxil.”

The muscle in his jaw ticked. “As I’m aware, but my answer remains. No.”

I blew forcefully through my nose. “Then Sandus or Ryder?”

“Fine. Sandus.”

“Do we have a deal then?”

He shook his head in amusement or annoyance, I couldn’t tell. “You drive a hard bargain.”

“Is that so? Do you make bargains often?”

“No, in fact, I try to avoid them, and come to think of it, you’re the first female I’ve ever done this with.”

“Are you saying I’m deflowering you?”