"So...?" He restrained another tentacle and Mariana took the opportunity to grab another pod. Clearly Valerian didn't find Macmillan improved the more time he spent in his company which was only a pity if Tatiana did end up marrying him, but otherwise it was most reassuring to Mariana. It was entirely possible that Valerian resented the man for no other reason than jealousy and if that was the case Mariana would do all she could nurture it. That wasn't to say she was only interested in pushing her son and pseudo-daughter together if it would be a love match but it would certainly be easier to light a fire under Valerian's ass if he thought he was going to lose the love of his life.
