[b]Ella listened to Regina as she spoke, honestly a bit shocked that the woman was putting her under scrutiny so quickly. It seemed like the queen was going to be more protective than her husband. While Glenn was just happy that his son was getting hitched; Regina seemed to be a little more concerned that Marken would get along with his new bride. But what would Ella's best answer be?

"If I were to be completely blunt," Ella finally replied, "I appreciate his honesty the most. While I am quickly growing fond of your son, he has never given me the delusion that he fell in love with me at first sight; the kingdom has been his first priority since we have met." Ella looked away for a moment, trying to figure out how she should explain further without offending anyone. Marken may already be a bit angry with her for being so straightforward about knowing her place in his priorities.

"Marken's honesty has allowed me to get to know him on a more meaningful level than mere infatuation," Ella continued, "I've never met a man who’s been so clear with his intentions before. Most who have approached me in the past did so with a silver tongue, and I have no interest in being toyed with. My father taught me that I was worth more than being a man's door mat before he passed away."

Ella went back to eating after she finished speaking, hoping her answer sufficed. There was no point in lying about anything. No matter how in love she and Marken were supposed to be, it didn't mean she had to pretend to be some dingy girl who flattered others for favor. After all, Regina didn't seem to be the type to fall for that. She was sharp and quick with her words; Ella was comfortable with that. People who mulled over their replies often proved to be liars in the end.[/b]