I stared at the floor, cursing the flames that raced over my cheeks. How does desire matter when I'm not allowed to do anything about it?  In that moment I hated her.

My father cleared his throat. " My lady, the uion has been set since the children's birth. The Nightshade and bane packs remain committed to it. As my daughter and Emily's son."

" Like I said, we'll be fine," I whispered. The hint of a growl escaped with my words.

Tinkling laughter brought my eyes back to the keeper. As she watched me squirm, Lumine's smile was patronizing. I glared at her, no longer able to hold outrage.

"Indeed." Her graze moved to my father. "The ceremony must not be interrupted or delayed. Under any circumstances."

she rose and exetended her hand. My father breifly pressed his lips to her pale fingers. She turned to me . I reluctantly took her vellum-like skin in my own hand, trying not to think about how much I wanted to bite her. 

" All worthy females have finesse, my dear." She touched my cheek, letting her nails scrape hard enough to make me flinch.  My stomach lurched.

Her stiletto heels struck a sharp staccato o the tile as she lift the kitchen. The wraiths trailed behind her, their silence more disturbing than the unnerving rhythm of her steps. I drew my knees up to my chest and rested my cheek against them. I didn't breathe again until I heard the front door close.

" You're awfully tense," my father said. " Did something happen on patrol?"