"Yes," I confirmed, nodding. I knew the difference there was in dealing out pain with consent, but I had known such cruelty at such a young age, and that was exceedingly difficult to move past.

"May I show you something?" I asked, but before Kate could give consent, I straightened and tugged my shirt over my head, pulling it off so she could see the numerous faint whip scars that cris-crossed my back. "This is somewhat I would not wish upon anyone." Phedre healed clean, I knew, but that was part of her gift. Not everyone who felt the kiss of the lash could say the same.