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.
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 purrs. But I’ll be dam ned if I’m going to let him lull me into
me last night at the bonfire. I don’t know how he found out you haven’t been marked, but he made it clear he planned on
tell me?” I clarify. “Why, because you didn’t find the right time? Or because you didn’t plan on filling me in at
look. I know then he wasn’t ever going to tell me, though I shouldn’t be surprised. He had every
would be a team from now on? I thought
reach for me. “I just
might be asked questions about this? What if a reporter had asked me about the mark already knowing your answer, our entire plan could
Sinclair excuses, “I would have told you sooner or later, but I miscalculated. I really wasn’t expecting the Prince to make an
what I’m hearing here?” I bite. “You thought, you expected, you believed and you calculated. You are making all the calls, all
happen overnight.” He frowns. “That’s not a copout, it’s just that my instincts are still to shield you rather than share the burden. I know that probably seems very
doesn’t seem patronizing, it is patronizing.”
sternly. “Patronizing implies superiority. I don’t think
to shifters we’re primitive, tiny, weak and slow. And
being fast or rich, and our society didn’t earn any of it. It was handed to us by the Goddess. Yes, we’re
anyone has ever complimented me this way. Cora might, but she’s as good as my sister – she has to love me. But I’m certain no other man has ever praised me for such things – or mentioned my positive attributes beyond my beauty. This isn’t even the first time Sinclair has made this kind of speech, making me feel valued for the
respond to that.” I
chuckles, the sound filling me with warmth. “You’re a far better person than I am, Ella – and you’re going
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