Page 4

I blink at it. If he’s lying, he’s certainly well prepared.

My eyes widen at the crest above his name on the black card. Wings to either side of a shield, with crossed blades in the background.

The emblem of the house of Noble. Every kid in the country knows it.

Holy fuck.

“What do you want?” I barely recognize my voice, trembling, weak.

Now, I have the sense to be a little afraid.

The Nobles are some of the most powerful aristocrats in this kingdom. And one of them is standing right next to me. That can’t be good.

“For now, a name would do, darling.”

He doesn’t want my name.

He already has it.

I’m certain of it.

“You tell me,” I challenge, lifting my chin.

He smiles, those gray eyes still cool. “I wasn’t certain whether you favored Olivia or Liv.”

The fact that he’s not lying to me gives me a little courage. “Liv. And what do you wantnow, Callum?”

I should say Mr. Noble, or sir, and probably curtsy, but I’m sure my breach of etiquette can be forgiven given the fact thathe’s stalked me.

I don’t know what I expect of him next.

“I have a problem I believe you can fix,” he tells me.

“How?”

“By spreading those delectable legs, of course. What else could I possibly need you for, darling?”

Okay, I’m not surprised. I roll my eyes. “Thanks for the offer, but I’ll pass.”

I start to walk away.

“You haven’t heard about your compensation yet.”

“Still not a whore, but thanks,” I call back without turning.

I seriously hope he’s not following me.

But of course he is, and his much larger strides let him catch up in no time. “That’s a judgmental word. You didn’t strike me as judgmental.”

I’m not, most of the time.

“Shows how well you know me.”

“Not as well as I will soon, I grant, but?—”

“Look, Romeo,” I interrupt. “You’re barking up the wrong tree. Pick up any other girl at the club—or on the street. I’m sure they’ll be happy to…help with your little problem.”

I can’t help lowering my gaze to his crotch.