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.

overreacted a bit. You

message, then send another as

Shifters would be able to tell

forgot you wouldn’t know and I was in a hurry this morning. That does explain the strange look my sister gave me when

probably almost as uncomfortable as the look Darrien

Bellamy- Oops.

to be hard to explain to Megan. I’m surprised

us at around 12. I don’t know

must be very fond of

makes 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

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continues.

In fact he treats you like-” He cuts himself off and his eyes go wide.

asked Megan if Shifters can have non–Shifter mates.” he says slowly. I try and laugh

off.

I’m going to find his mate it helps to have the facts.” I try and explain it away. He

said that my powers weren’t going to be made public knowledge. I guess I should 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

just curious.” I try again. Darrien shakes

his m-” I cut

demand in a harsh whisper.

Logan.

Why haven’t you

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

he trails off. I give him a weak

is to me.” Darrien returns to

felt, she was 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

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another method. Maybe if I

be with. Fate always works things out in the end.” Darrien is suddenly in front

makes

of this?” He looks desperate. I nod. He looks so hopeful. I’m glad I

is almost pleading. I can’t bring myself to

the eyes.

my will. So much for being subtle about it. He went.

keep quiet about it, at 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 seems reluctant.