"He wouldn't. It's not like him to brag about the things that really matter." Just the thought of him and the distance now between them causes a pang in her chest. He was so good to her, in his own quiet way, and she managed to ruin it and destroy any trust he had in her. She understands that he must have felt so betrayed, but Ellana can't help thinking with frustration that it was an accident. If he hadn't been literally freezing to death, she wouldn't have disobeyed his wishes.

Ellana dumps the rest of the champagne in the spring and sets the glass aside. She doesn't want to talk more of Merrick. It would just hurt.

"Have you been in contact with your kithmates lately?"