Huan looked up, his eyes glassy but distant. "I'll do the work. I'll handle the logistics and administration as we agreed."
"And the other thing?" Razen asked, stepping closer, his hand reaching out to brush Huan's shoulder. "Alexander might not want his 'pet' back, but we know how you two spent your nights. Everyone in this business knows."
Vizard nodded. "We can satisfy you just as well. We know what a man like Alexander needs, and we're happy to provide it."
Huan pulled away slightly, his face a mask of weary professionalism. He felt a deep, aching longing for the way Alexander used to touch him, the harshness, the precision, the silent understanding, but that was gone now.
"We will be partners," Huan said, his voice trembling slightly but holding firm. "I'm not interested in anything else. And please… make sure you pay me exactly what you promised. I have no intention of staying a slave."
