Strings of Fate

27- Fate and family

I decide I can’t stand it anymore.

“Okay, spill. What is it?” I demand. Darrien turns to face me, his expression serious.

“Miss Gale-” I cut him off.

“Ryann.” I remind him. He grimaces.

“Miss Ryann.” I sigh, it’s progress at least.

“You should not invite men into your room so easily. Particularly other Shifters. I believe it. will upset Alpha Kane. He’s a good man, I don’t like to see him disrespected.” He states. bluntly. I stare at him in shock. I did not see this coming. Does Darrien think Bellamy and I are… I don’t know what exactly, but the way he’s staring is heavy with implications.

“We were just watching a movie. Besides, that has nothing to do with Bellamy.” I say stiffly. Darrien raises an eyebrow.

“With all due respect Miss Ryann. His scent is all over you and your room.” he points out. I flush red. I had no idea that Shifter’s sense of smell was powerful enough to identify different scents on people, although realistically I probably should have worked that one out on my own. Does this mean that everyone can tell when I’ve been spending time with Bellamy? Why

didn’t he say something? The jerk. I feel so awkward, and Darrien definitely thinks Bellamy and I are hooking up.

“That’s not what it’s like. He’s just been hanging out to keep an eye on me, just like you are

now.” I argue.

“Besides, your warning is unnecessary. I don’t generally invite strange men into my room or bed.” I look away, feeling awkward.

“You invited me to sit on the bed.” He argues. I roll my eyes.

“It was a completely different scenario.” My message tone goes off and I grab my phone,

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27- Fate and family

eager to seize the distraction.

Bellamy- I’ve arranged for lunch to be sent to you all at around 12. I didn’t mean to offend. you before.

I laugh at the message. So Bellamy has reverted back to giving me food as an apology. Well I suppose I overreacted a little too.

I overreacted a bit. You were just trying

the message, then send

would be able to tell we’ve spent time together from

was in a hurry this morning. That does explain the strange look my sister gave me when I got home

as the look Darrien

Bellamy- Oops.

the table. This is going to be hard to explain to Megan. I’m surprised she hasn’t called or texted to ask

us at around 12.

Alpha Kane must be very fond of you.”

you say

that everyone at the compound knows that you are free to come and go as you wish. I don’t know any other non- Shifter with that privilege, and he’s only known you for a few days.” he lists off. I had no idea about that last one. Bellamy never mentioned it and I haven’t actually tried to go to the compound on my own.

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continues.

he treats you like-” He cuts himself off and his eyes go wide. I can see the wheels turning in his head as all the little pieces fall into place.

Shifters can have non–Shifter mates.” he says slowly. I

off.

conversations? And yeah, if I’m going to find his mate it helps to have the facts.”

have known that Darrien wouldn’t really count. He is pretty much Megan’s shadow after all. I stand up and walk into my kitchen area, trying to put a little space between us. Darrien stands up and follows me. He’s so huge

just curious.” I try

his m-” I

whisper. Being careful not to raise my voice and

Logan.

Why haven’t you told him?” Darrien

Megan how you feel?” I swing it back to him. He jerks back

I give him a

least it is to me.” Darrien returns to his seat. He leans his head

already with Tristan. Now she’s engaged and it’s too late.” I wonder if I should tell him about his tie to Megan. I decide that might be a little

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another method. Maybe if I just give him

Fate always works things out in the end.” Darrien is suddenly in front of me, he grabs me by

makes

desperate. I nod. He looks so hopeful.

Darrien’s tone is almost pleading. I can’t bring

the eyes.

blurt out, almost against my will. So much for being subtle about

least for now. She isn’t ready to hear it. But I promise. to do what I can to help. Bellamy is going to help too.” Darrien