Wolf," said Ran, enunciating it very carefully. "What an unusual name. Did your parents give it to you?" "Does it matter?" said Wolf, tossing away his bone. "I'm only making conversation." "I'd prefer silence," Wolf said, a growl in his tone.

You could move to Europe." "You know, I've actually been considering that lately." Kai laughed again, the warmth returning to the sound. "If that's not a vote of confidence, I don't know what is.

I think it was hiding a princess.

He was still dazed, and though she hated to admit it, he was actually rather attractive. If a girl happened to like that square-jaw, bright-blue-eyes, devilish-dimples kind of thing. Although he was in desperate need of a haircut and a good shave.

If you honestly believe that," said Thorne, stowing the gun again, "then you really don't recognize true value when you see it.

Besides, if you are who you claim to be, that makes you my true queen. Therefore, you have my loyalty.

Kai cleared his throat. Stood straighter. "I assume you are going to the ball?" "I-I don't know. I mean, no. No, I'm sorry, I'm not going to the ball." Kai drew back, confused. "Oh well...but...maybe you would change your mind? Because I am, you know." "The prince." "Not bragging," he said quickly. "Just a fact.