Page 26 of Gold Sector

My brow furrows. “Yes, Your Majesty.”

“Nothing else?”

I recall everything Oros said and shake my head. “No, Your Majesty.”

More silence.

“Gold is a coveted metal in Gold Sector,” he finally says, his tone holding a note of reverence. “I suggest you not only wear that necklace to your next audience with the court but also bring any other gifts you’re given. The more items you can present, the better you’ll be received. Do you understand?”

My lips nearly curl down.

Do I understand? Yes. In theory, anyway.

Oros’s gold necklace must be a symbol of protection, or maybe affection, or both. And the Gold Sector Prince is saying these symbols will help me gain favor with the court.

Perhaps even enough to overlook my flaws, to overlook mywolf.

Gingerly, I dip my chin. “Yes, Your Majesty.”

“Good.” He steps back, his silver shoes disappearing from my view. “Enjoy your time here, Omega. But remember what I said—respect your accommodations. You have no idea how unique or important this opportunity is for you.”

I nod again. “Thank you, Your Majesty.”

He doesn’t reply, doesn’t make a sound at all.

I wait, listening for his footsteps, but hear nothing. Not even with my enhanced hearing.

Only, I can sense that he’s left because his scent—one that reminds me of a harsh spice—dissipates entirely. And all I can smell in his wake is that soothing aroma of a simmering campfire.

Oros, I think, inhaling deeply.

The urge to nest hits me hard again.

But I don’t dare ponder his bed any longer. Rather, I lift my gaze tentatively to confirm that the Gold Sector Prince has left, then force my feet to move back to the foyer.

This isn’t my space.

Which means I should wait for Oros by the elevators.

I could stroke the coin and say his name three times to call for him, but I don’t want to bother him.

Instead, I simply stand, head bowed, and strive for patience.

I can do this.

I will do this.

I have to do this.

CHAPTER EIGHT

OROS

“Didyou or did you not instruct me to question Alpha Keegan?” my brother asks as he steps into my office.

I don’t look up from the screen I was reading when he entered and simply reply, “I changed my mind.”

“Clearly,” he drawls. “Just like you changed your mind about the Omega’s accommodations?”