Strings of Fate

Strings of Fate

34- Crumbs and compromise

I immediately feel guilty.

“Sorry, I know my eyes make people feel awkward, I shouldn’t have asked I-” he stops me.

“Miss Gale, I submitted. I wasn’t uncomfortable. You’re just more dominant than I am. Alpha Kane must be correct about you. At the very least you’re more dominant than I am.” he explains. I frown.

“I don’t know, I’m not even a Shifter. This doesn’t make any sense to me.” Shaun shrugs.

“It makes sense to me. It explains how you talk back to the Alpha the way you do. I could never manage it. Not unless he allowed me to.”

“Which really ruins the whole point of talking back.” I comment. Shaun shrugs. I feel awkward again, I don’t want to participate in another conversation about my interactions with Bellamy. I decide to avoid further conversation by heading back inside. I grab the empty

plate from the windowsill where Shaun placed it.

“Well, thanks for your help. I should put this inside and attempt to get some sleep…” I trail off when I realise that Shaun isn’t actually listening. He’s tense and seems to be looking for

something in the street.

“Shaun?” I question. I place a hand on his arm to get his attention.

“Go back inside. I think someone might be out here. They left when they saw me but I think. it might have been Shifters, not feline though. Go in and lock the door until we know it’s safe.” He gently, but firmly pushes me inside and closes the door. I lock it and then stand there in shock. Still holding the crumb covered plate. I quickly put it in the kitchen before heading back to my room. I curl up under my blankets where I feel safe. About five minutes later, although it feels like an hour, my phone rings. Caller ID says it’s Bellamy. In my sort of out–of–it state, all I can think is that I need to take a photo of him for the caller I.D. I already set the one of Megan in her new dress as her photo. Oh shoot, the phone is still ringing. I should probably answer. I answer the call.

1/5

“Ryann! Are you okay? Why did you take so long to answer?” Bellamy sounds like he is freaking out a little.

“I’m fine. I was just distracted is all. I’ve literally just been sitting here.” When Bellamy responds his voice is much calmer.

“Shaun called and said he thinks there were other Shifters around. They’re definitely gone now and he will keep an eye out in case they come back so everything should be okay.” He pauses for a moment then groans.

“I wish I could come and check everything out for myself but there’s no time, I’ll have to just trust Shaun. He doesn’t recognise the Shifter’s scents, but he knows they aren’t feline. I’ll have to look into it immediately.”

I still don’t really feel like chatting. I glance at the

the only reason you

talk about what happened earlier.” I have to fight not to groan. Bellamy must be the only guy on the planet that actually WANTS to talk after an argument. I think I liked it better when he just gave

part of the issue

you want me to say Bellamy.” I try and keep my voice calm. No need to act like a cranky toddler who missed an afternoon nap. Although I kind of feel like one

now.

to say either. I just… I don’t want to go to sleep tonight knowing that you’re mad at me. I want to fix it but the more I think

you won’t let me invite people into my own home.” I say,

people, I said men.” His

2/5

I invite a man over? What do you know about my intentions?” Bellamy is quiet for a moment. I would think he hung up but I can still hear him breathing on the other end

and will.

“Nothing.” He finally grunts.

I ask a little

intentions or what want from people, I know nothing about anyone’s intentions! That’s what makes this so frustrating!” We both fall silent. I’m not sure what I’m supposed to say in response to

about dinner?” he suddenly

“What?”

me for dinner. Why? Why is it such a big deal if I pay

can take care of myself!”

never said you

“It’s implied.”

–

so why shouldn’t I, particularly if I’m the one inviting you for dinner.” He caus it like it’s a logical conclusion. I groan out loud this

if you pay all the time. I’ll owe you. I won’t be able to

a gift. You

3/5

How is he not

I state bluntly. He pauses

“Uh… yes?”

me, and do me favours all the time, the entire friendship will be unbalanced. Because what am I bringing to the table? If I don’t contribute then I’m not a friend so much as a responsibility.”

up with my different culture I don’t think you realise how valuable that is. You treat me like a friend rather than just an Alpha. People spend all day following my orders and doing things

means it.

drop the dinner thing for now. It annoyed