Eric scowled. "Nothing." He tore off a piece of bread and stuffed it into his mouth, chewing aggressively, as if the bread was responsible for every embarrassing moment since he woke up.
"Does she have to leave, Eric? She can stay here. Help in the house. Eric, listen to me—she's good for you."
"She has to leave, Mother," he said firmly.
"Fine," she said, lifting her chin with queenly determination. "I'll give her a job then. I will be responsible for her."
Eric gave up arguing with her and focused on his food—more stabbing than eating.
Claudia sipped delicately from her cup, watching him over the rim. "I will be leaving to see the High Priestess next week," she said. "I have faith this time. She will have answers. You will sire an heir and step into your role as Alpha."
Eric didn't look up. "I'm not going to argue with you, Mum. Whatever you say."
