Master Requests It

I stepped away, crossing my arms. "I've been coming here for years. Why didn't you reveal yourself before?"

He looked away. "I enjoyed listening to you and the pixilette, Abrea, talk. Sometimes I get a little lonely."

The idea that Laeddin, a strong and handsome man, felt the way I did immediately softened my heart. "Don't you have any friends?"

He looked at me, his eyes sad. "I'm not allowed to leave until such time as my master requests it."

"Oh, and who's your master?" My heart began to beat rapidly.

"You are, Jasmine." He came over and took both of my hands in his. "I am yours to command."

"You are?" For some reason that made my heart speed up and my face get hot. I tried to pull away, but he held me fast.

"Yes. And I can grant you three wishes." His eyes flickered to my lips. "Nearly anything you want."

"Really?" My mind whirled out of control at the possibilities. Most of my wishes were selfish. "I can ask for anything?"

"Well, sure. Anything within reason."