12 Love is conditional
Vin awakes to warm arms pulling her up. She stirs and opens her eyes to see Aleric holding her.
He carries her gently to the bath, dipping her into the warm water. He slips in behind her. Vin was still too tired to move her heavy body. He was gentle with the soap and sponges. As long as she did not deny him, did not anger him, he would not hurt her. On purpose at least.
While Aleric gently washes and drys her, Vin falls back into sleep.
Aleric’s love was conditional on her absolute obedience.
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For the first time since her arrival, Vin was left truly alone. In the dungeons below there were guards and watchers constantly. In the room, there was usually Kye or Aleric. The main door was locked and the latch on the window had been sealed. Vin could move freely
