Mallory stared at the slave with a baffled expression, while the vampiress named Violet wore a smug expression.
"Mallory," Hadeon's voice reached her, commanding her attention. She turned to see him looking at her. "Come here."
Her hands clenched, realising resistance was futile when the slave didn't wish to be defended. She gingerly approached where Hadeon sat, his demeanour pleasant but his presence undeniably intimidating. He patted the seat next to him.
"Sit," he ordered, the command clear despite the pleasant expression on his handsome face.
Orlo, the vampire, rose with a mischievous smile, signalling Mallory's impending punishment, and left the area, leaving her alone with Hadeon. She sat down stiffly as Hadeon turned to the maid with a tray of drinks, raising his hand to beckon her.
"What would you like to drink?" he inquired, his gaze fixed on Mallory.
"I'm fine," Mallory whispered, avoiding his gaze.
