Page 70 (1/2)

“Pretty words that ht for what I believe in, and my people”

“And you have Now let them return the favor”

I grunt and wince, i it

His look screams, ‘See’

“It’s poor irl when she’s down,” I croak

“I’ to make you see reason”

“I’otten most of what you’ve wanted since I came back—”

“And you haven’t?”

“No,” I say firmly

Shock reaches us

“I’ve ht with the understanding that we are literally two different species who think in different ways You’ve a

sked me countless times to keep this in mind Can you honestly say you do the saether bitingencroached upon I protect the people I love That er It can’t be helped Stepping in as Lady and Matriarch are going to exacerbate that fact, not lessen it I ask you to give ive you For a modern man, you have some archaic inclinations when it comes to love and relationships “

He looks offended “I’entleman with decorum”

“No one would deny that” I can feel the wheels in his head turn After a quick knock, the nurse enters

“It’s good to see you awake, Ms Esçhete” Her presence ends the aard conversation Worn out from the emotions, I welcome the reprieve This is far from over