"One last thing," Mikhail was gone almost before she could blink, and returned nearly as fast. He took her left hand in his. "Your people will recognize this as a clear sign that you are taken." She hid her smile. He was so territorial, like a wild animal staking his claim. Like the wolves roaming so freely in his forest. She touched the ring with a reverent finger. It was antique, gold, a fiery ruby surrounded by diamonds. "Mikhail, this is beautiful. Where did you find such a thing?" "It has been in my family for generations. If you prefer something else...something more modern--" It looked as if it belonged on her finger. "It's perfect, and you know it." She touched it reverently. "I love it. Go, but hurry back. I'll find out all your secrets while you're gone." Mikhail was hungry, needed to feed. He bent to brush her forehead with his mouth, his heart aching. "Just for one day, little one, I would like to have a normal, happy conversation with you. Court you as I should." She tilted her head to look at him, her blue eyes dark with emotion. "You court me just fine. Go eat now and leave me be." Mikhail touched her hair just once before he left."