Chapter 31

Chella swept out after her sisters, leaving him and Lana alone in the crystal chamber.

"Stupid, teeth-pulling, stubborn old hags."

"They're probably listening," he noted.

"I hope they are because I am annoyed with them. I didn't come all this way and almost die to be stonewalled."

"You can't force them to give you answers they don't have."

Her shoulders slumped. "Because I'm an abomination."

"Would you like a slap to go with your whine?"

"The expression is cheese."

"I don't have cheese."

She glanced at him. "You'd better not slap me."

"Then snap out of it. Who cares what those old hags think?"

"They might be family."

"Family are those who love you and have your back. Everyone else is just target practice."

Her long lashes blinked over lovely, clear eyes. "It pains me to admit I kind of agree."

A rustling at the vine-curtained door preceded a bearded fellow entering. "Follow me. I'm to show you to your room."