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Leo growls, a deep rumbling sound that makes the hair on my arms stand up. “You don’t own her, Blackthorn.”

“You’re fired,” Evan says coldly. “Get out.”

I manage to get my jeans on and drop the sheet to pull my shirt over my head. “No one is firing anyone,” I say firmly. “This is ridiculous.”

Both men turn to look at me, seeming almost surprised to be reminded I’m still in the room. The tension between them is thick enough to cut with a knife.

“Leo,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady. “Could you please excuse us for a moment?”

Leo hesitates, his eyes darting between me and Evan. “Are you sure you’re okay with him?”

“She’s fine,” Evan snaps. “Get the fuck out.”

Leo ignores him, keeping his eyes on me. I nod, though I’m not entirely sure I want to be alone with either of them right now.

“I’ll be right outside the door,” Leo says finally, giving Evan one last warning glare before leaving the room.

As soon as the door closes, Evan starts pacing like a caged animal. His usual composed demeanor is completely shattered.

“You just met him,” he says, running a hand through his usually perfect hair. “Why the fuck did you let him touch you like that?”

“I am in heat,” I reply, crossing my arms over my chest.

Evan stops pacing abruptly. “You are what?”

“In heat,” I repeat. “Apparently, I’m an Omega. Surprise.”

He stares at me like I’ve grown a second head. “What does that even mean? How is that possible?”

“I don’t know, Evan,” I sigh, suddenly exhausted. “And I don’t have to explain myself to you.”

“An Omega?” He looks genuinely shocked as he sinks down onto the edge of the bed. “How didn’t I know? You’re supposed to have a pheromone. I should have been able to smell it."

I shrug, leaning against the dresser. “From what I understand, I was dormant until recently. Look, I barely know what’s happening to my own body. I’ve been celibate for as long as I can remember and now sex is all I can think about and all I need. So, I really don't need these accusations right now.”

Evan’s expression softens slightly. “I’m sorry. I was just…” He trails off.

“Pissed?” I supply.

“Yeah.” He runs a hand over his face. “Seeing you with him like that… it triggered something in me.”

“What are you even doing here, Evan?” I ask, changing the subject. “How did you know where to find me?”

“I arranged this safe house, remember?” He straightens his tie, trying to regain some composure. “I wanted to welcome you, make sure you settled in okay. I didn’t expect to find… that.”

I feel heat creep up my neck at the memory of how he found me. “Well, now that you’ve confirmed I’m here, you can leave.”

A small smirk plays at the corner of his mouth. “Are you embarrassed, Dr. Baldwin? Because I’ve watched people fuck before, so you don’t have to worry.” His voice drops lower. “Though I would have preferred to be the one fucking you.”

“Fuck you!” I snap, marching over and shoving his shoulders hard.

Evan laughs, grabbing my wrists to stop me from hitting him again. The contact sends a jolt through me that I desperately try to ignore.

“Let go of me,” I demand, though my voice lacks conviction.

“Make me,” he challenges, his blue eyes darkening.

I’m about to tell him exactly where he can shove his smug attitude when movement outside the window catches my eye. I turn my head, and my heart stops.