As bargains went, it wasn’t the worst. Something to think about later, once I was out of here and safe. And in pajamas with a very large glass of wine in my hand.
“She wanted it all along,” Caelan growled. “Never me. Never us.”
Simone’s nostrils flared. She shot him an angry glare. “Just…” she paused and exhaled. “Just shut up, Caelan. For the love of the gods, I do not know what’s gotten into you, but you’ve been insufferable these last couple of weeks.”
Caelan blinked in surprise and reared back like Simone had slapped him.
And she had. Verbally.
Moira’s lips twitched.
“This changes things,” Simone said, ignoring the way Caelan looked at her. “Since you and our Shifter Lord are no longer…involved—” She slid an accusing glare his way. “There must be boundaries. And if you decide to repair this rift?—”
“Unnecessary,” Caelan interrupted. “And unwanted. Rachel and I will be married within the month.”
Simone’s head snapped to focus on Caelan. She blinked once, twice, before slowly shaking her head. “Oh, Caelan,” she murmured softly.
All the air was sucked out of my lungs. I swayed, Moira reaching for me, steadying me with the grip of her hand. My gaze went to his face, memorizing the lines and planes of his cheekbones and jaws, remembering every time I traced my fingers over them when we lay together. Hot tears burned the backs of my eyes,
“You sonofabitch,” Moira hissed, eyes flashing crimson. The only reason she didn’t lunge for him was because she was holding me upright. “What was all of this? All the chasing and begging and pursuing just to cast her away when she didn’t bat pretty green eyes at you?”
“A Lord can never resist a challenge,” he said, a defiant look in his eyes.
I shrugged Moira off and straightened. Before I opened my mouth, Moira leaned over. “Be sure,” she whispered, her eyes imploring.
I was more than sure. “The Caelan I knew would have never spoken to me like this, would have never hurt me or embarrassed me in public. I don’t know what’s happening or what has changed to make you so cruel, but I do not deserve it.”
Simone bowed her head, her slender hands trembling. She, like Moira, knew where this was going.
“I never should have pursued someone who could not bear pureblooded children,” he sneered.
Another stab to my heart, another cruel jab forcing me to close the door on something I thought could not be destroyed.
“Perhaps not,” I agreed. Proud of myself for keeping my voice steady and my hands still, I looked at Simone. “Regardless of what’s happened with your Lord, you are always welcome in myhome, Omega. As is Garrett, provided he does not have the same attitude as Caelan.”
“He doesn’t,” blurted Simone, sliding a horrified look at Caelan.
I nodded. “When I return home, I will adjust my wards. Seymour can visit me any time he wishes, though if your Lord is cruel to him, I hope you will return him to me.”
“I would never be cruel to Seymour,” Caelan snapped.
I gave him a sad smile. “No. Only to your former, tainted blood fiancée, it seems.”
Simone let out a breath of dismay. “There are few of us who do not admire you, Evie. Please don’t let this taint your view of our people.”
“Don’t worry. I’ve long been able to differentiate one person’s prejudices and separate them from the whole.”
I tilted my head. “I will see you around, Simone. Best of luck with your new Lady.”
Simone’s lower lip wobbled. She lunged for me and pulled me in for a tight hug.”
“I am so sorry,” she whispered. “I have no idea what is happening.”
I patted her back and stepped away. “It’s okay. Better to know now, I suppose.”
Caelan’s eyes swirled when our gazes met. “Goodbye, Lord.” I tilted my head in acknowledgment. “I will ensure my parents know my situation has changed.”
The smile didn’t reach his eyes. “Perhaps they can find a better genetic match for you. Someone who will not care about your tainted blood.”
