Laurent watched him coldly, heart aching at the insults. There was evidently no use speaking passionately toward Damen. If this was nothing but a contract between them, that would be easier. "If I had any choice in my husband, I would have chosen a kind and honorable man, not one who treats me like his paid whore."

Eyes cold and voice flat, Laurent tightened his grip on the reins. "You need have no worries about my duty, sir. I will obey the terms of the contract and serve the interests of Akielos as its Consort. Let the world think it's a marriage of convenience. I find I've lost my taste for pretending otherwise."