Valyn nearly scowled at his cousin. This was hardly a matter for humor! It was serious, and he had no idea what to do.

"Shadow, this isn't funny. It's taken me a great deal to work out my intentions towards Shana, and I had hoped this was the end of it. I don't even know what she has to discuss with me. She wouldn't even tell me beforehand." And it was driving him mad.

"And life would be a great deal easier if I could just marry you."