---- 227.


    IT''S FOR YOUR SAFETY SIGRID You dont need to put my shoes on, Ss, I can do it myself, I snatched the boots from his hand and slipped them on alone.


    Honestly, having someone constantly around helping me with everything was starting to give me a headache.


    But his silent presence didnt bother meI allowed it.


    Still, something told me the storms were about to roll in.


    Mydy, Pll quickly head to my room to change.


    The blue suit you had tailored for medo you think its appropriate? he suddenly stood up ina rush.


    Better if I try it on, and you can tell me...


    Wait, Ss, I stopped him as he was turning his back.


    Theres no need for you to change.


    You''re noting with me to the party.


    I stared at his broad, stiff back.


    He stayed silent, not turning around, but I could feel itthe whirlwind of emotions stirring inside him.


    Its dangerous.


    They might recognize you.


    I dont know if Lucrecia Ts it because of my horrendous appearance? he spun around suddenly, and I clenched my fists at the destion in that golden eye.


    ---- No, weve talked about this.


    It doesnt bother me But it bothers others.


    They''ll criticize you for having me as yourpanion, he said, his gaze erratic, all those negative insecurities pouring out of him like a flood.


    Topened my mouth to correct him, but he beat me to it.


    Maybe you could change my hair color, a transformation spell.


    I don''t think anyone would remember me.


    Ill be like a shadow by your side, mydy.


    Dont leave me behind.


    I wont embarrass you, he tooka step toward me, but I stepped back.


    T knew very well Ss was an expert maniptorit came naturally.


    I imagine he had to learn it to survive.


    It was one thing for me to let him because it suited me or I liked it, and another thing entirely for me not to notice.


    J said no, and thats final! I snapped, my voice hard and unyielding.


    It hurt my chest, but I was doing this for his own good.


    Tf its because of that witch...


    if 1 see her, I swear I wont approach her.


    I wont do anything to put you in danger Ss, know your ce once and for all! I cut him off.


    Enough negotiating! Dont confuse my favoritism with weaknessyoure still my fucking ve! He froze in ce, but he didnt lower his head like he usually did.


    That darkness started seeping from his body like a second skin.


    Was he going to attack me now that I wasnt giving in to his demands? ---- I prepared for anything.


    Ss was far too unpredictable.


    J just want to protect you, mydy...


    and I dont need your protection.


    What makes you think an elemental, no matter how special, could surpass a powerful witch?