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.”

with Bellamy. I answered his call because it would be kind of cruel to leave him hanging, but I still don’t really feel like chatting. I glance at the time, it’s already past ten at night. Bellamy is quiet on the other end. After a few moments waiting I

the only reason you called…

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 me food and ignored me. Okay, maybe not since

the

calm. No need to act like a cranky toddler who missed an afternoon nap. Although

now.

want to go to sleep tonight knowing that you’re mad at me. I want to fix it but the more I think about it the less sure I am

me invite people into my own home.” I say, like it’s obvious.

people, I said men.” His response sounds like

2/5

for a moment. I would think he hung up but I can

and will.

“Nothing.” He finally grunts.

ask

your 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

dinner?” he suddenly

“What?”

is it such a big deal if I pay

can take care of

never said

“It’s implied.”

–

for it to be. I just wanted to pay and I can afford it so why shouldn’t I, particularly if I’m the one inviting you for dinner.” He caus it like it’s a

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

It’s a gift. You don’t owe me when I feed you.”

3/5

How is

right?” I state bluntly. He

“Uh… yes?”

the entire friendship will be unbalanced. Because what am I bringing to the table? If I don’t contribute then I’m

put 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 for me. Can’t you let

means it.

really sure about your logic here. But I’ll drop the dinner thing for now. It annoyed me, but I’m probably being a little dramatic about it too. I’m not used