Page 28 of Sweet Dominion

Yes, everyone. She is my Mountain Mistress.

My aunts clapped.

The reporters scribbled notes, and more cameras flashed.

Rising from her bow, Moni exhaled a shaky breath and relief washed over her face. But as she returned to the pot to pour my father’s cup, her shoulders remained tense and the unease lingered in her eyes.

I set my cup on the table and couldn't stand to see her this way.

She did the signal so I’m stepping in.

Moni needed support and I had to be there for her, tradition be damned.

“I am sorry, everyone.” I stood up, drawing the attention of the room especially the reporters.

Everyone else at the table rose with me and bowed their head.

I gazed at the cameras. “I need to speak with my Mountain Mistress for a few minutes. It must be in private. . .I just can’t help myself.”

To my surprise, the giggling female reporters from earlier, gave me this strange knowing look as if to say that they thought I wanted to be alone with her to get a kiss.

Good. Let them think that.

With his head still bowed, Chen appeared to be having an aneurism. “W-what are you doing?”

Moni froze holding the tea pot.

“Something important has just come to my mind.” I kept my voice steady. “Therefore, the tea ceremony will have a small delay. Turn the cameras off.”

Aunt Suzi lifted her head a little and put on a fake smile. “This is live, Lei.”

“Then make itun-live.” I snapped my fingers. “Now.”

The reporters rushed to signaling their cameramen. One by one, the red lights turned to black.

Aunt Min frowned. “Whatever you need to talk about, Lei, do it later.”

“I agree with my sisters.” My father nodded. “The ceremony is too important for any delays.”

“This is more important.” I left the table and ignored the murmurs of discontent from my aunts as well as the reporters’ hushed whispers.

Seconds later, I made my way to Moni.

Her hands shook as she set the pot down.

You did the signal and I told you that I would always have your back when you did it.

Gently, I took her hand in mine, feeling the tremor that ran through it.

Yes, something is definitely wrong.

Her eyes met mine and I saw the relief and fear in them.

“I’ve got you.”

Her bottom lip quivered.

I guided her away from the table, away from the prying eyes and my relentless family.

---