Castian’s jaw tightened. Chrystal’s fingers curled into fists.
This is done! I’m done! She cried in her mind. I’ve lost everything! Every damn thing! And he still won’t trust me!
“The King, how is he addressed by the pack?” she asked slowly.
“This is not a pack.”
“The horde then! How is he addressed?” she demanded, her voice rising.
“Father! Everyone calls him ‘father’!” Castian shot at her, finally looking her way.
“Is he the former King of Malbarone?”
“You know this!”
“No, I don’t! I guessed it! I hinted at it! Just like your ‘Father,’ you have not said the words! Say what you mean! Tell me the truth!”
Castian closed his eyes.
“He is…a former King,” Castian stated quietly.
Chrystal gaped at him.
“Until the test is done. Until the bond is broken. Ask no more questions of ou
