Chapter 50 – Ella Demands Answers

Ella

The rest of the evening passes without further drama, but as far as I’m concerned, the night has been a wash. The procession through the city’s old quarter would have been magical at any other time– with the traditions, music and palpable gaiety of all those around us. If I’d been able to focus on anything other than my thoughts, I’m fairly certain I would have fallen in love with the occasion, but I wasn’t able to give the events the attention they deserved.

I’m exhausted by the time we’re finally free to leave, thinking that I’ll certainly need an extra-long nap tomorrow even as I climb into the back of the limo. I’m distracted and grumpy, and when Sinclair slides into the car next to me, I vacate my seat, choosing the one facing him instead.

Sinclair arches a brow, but doesn’t move to stop me. “You’re angry with me.” He assesses simply, eyeing my crossed arms and stiff shoulders.

“What was that all about, Dominic?” I inquire, trying not to get too carried away in my temper.

“What, with the Prince?” He clarifies, as if the answer isn’t completely obvious.

“How did he know I haven’t been marked?” I demand, “And how long have you been aware he knew?”

“You know it would be a lot easier to talk if you were over here.” Sinclair coaxes, patting the seat beside him.

Sinclair works – he gets me within arms reach and the next thing I know I’m being soothed into complacency by his soothing caresses, cozy warmth and gentle

me last night at the bonfire. I don’t know how he found out you haven’t been marked, but he made it clear

you didn’t tell me?” I clarify. “Why, because you didn’t find the right time? Or

a beseeching look. I know then he wasn’t ever going to tell me, though I shouldn’t be surprised. He had every opportunity to share this information

interject, “just don’t bother. I thought we agreed we would be a

though it’s taking great restraint not to reach for me. “I just didn’t think this was something you

our relationship?” I question sharply, “that I might be asked questions about this? What if a reporter had asked me about the

has all happened very quickly, Ella.” Sinclair excuses, “I would have told you sooner or later, but I miscalculated. I really wasn’t expecting the Prince to make an appearance tonight, let alone bring it up. I thought he was smarter than

believed and you calculated. You are

on this sort of thing. Change doesn’t happen overnight.” He frowns. “That’s not a copout, it’s just that my

seem patronizing, it is patronizing.” I correct

He counters sternly. “Patronizing implies superiority. I don’t think

just a human and next to shifters we’re primitive, tiny, weak and slow. And on top of all that you’re the wealthiest,

me, and I have to work very hard to stay still. I feel as though I’m about to receive a lecture, “Because none of those things have any inherent value beyond staying alive and controlling the world around you. There’s no integrity in being fast or rich, and our society didn’t earn any of it. It was handed to us by the Goddess. Yes, we’re more advanced, but not due to our own

attributes beyond my beauty. This isn’t even the first time Sinclair has made this kind of speech, making me feel valued for the person

respond to that.” I admit

person than I am, Ella – and you’re going to have to get used to compliments because

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