An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

“y’see,” Theodore began. “The critters I keep need to feed on my blood to forge a bond. Over time, it forms a connection. Once that connection’s solid, I’ll know it in a heartbeat,” he explained. Eleanor raised a curious eyebrow.” Sounds pretty otherworldly.”

“It’s occult, something a high-society girl like you might not grasp,” he said with an air of secrecy.

“But what if it doesn’t work?” she prodded.

“Hmm?” Theodore furrowed his brow.

Was she trying to test his patience? “Don’t worry, Eleanor, you don’t need to worry about that,” Ezra chimed in, flashing a reassuring smile.

“Sir Crane’s mastery of the occult is legendary. There’s no room for failure.”

“But I’m talking about the ‘what if,”” Eleanor insisted.

“Hmph! There’s no room for ‘what ifs’! “Theodore’s expression grew cold. ” Unless that kid has the skin of steel and a spirit beyond, disaster is certain.”

to know, will there be a sign if it

He had

interjected, looking slightly sheepish. After all, Eleanor was a sheltered,

drained it, and slammed it back on the table. He declared, “Even if it failed, I’d blame my inadequacies. If

What kind of backfire?” Eleanor

of weakness at worst,” Theodore replied, his tone reflecting

If it failed,

a displeased expression. “Don’t get the wrong idea, Sir Crane. I was simply

“Wait a moment…”

else, his expression suddenly froze. “I can sense it now. The poison is

immediately snapped to attention, their eyes

close-very close to success!” Theodore closed his eyes, carefully sensing it. His