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.”

get all this magic stuff. I just want to know, will there

He had already made

be upset, Sir Crane. Eleanor’s simply curious,” Ezra interjected, looking slightly sheepish. After all, Eleanor was a sheltered, rich woman.

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

of backfire?” Eleanor continued

worst,” Theodore replied, his tone reflecting

with newfound understanding. If it failed, there would indeed be

contorted into a displeased expression. “Don’t get the wrong idea, Sir Crane. I was simply curious,” Eleanor replied with a

“Wait a moment…”

else, his expression suddenly froze. “I can sense

attention, their eyes fixed on him, eagerly awaiting the

close-very close to success!” Theodore closed his eyes,