Page 50 of Retribution

“Breakfast is going to be interesting,” Lucas says, shaking his head as I continue upstairs. “We aren’t pressuring her, Grant!”

“Trust me, I wouldn’t dream of it,” I promise, remembering what Isolde told me about alphas who bought her for a snuff and fuck.

If they weren’t already dead, I’d do it for her.

Chapter Twelve

Oliver

Isolde looks beautiful today. She’s not wearing her scent blockers, and I think we’re all sitting in awe of her. Her olive green cargo pants and black long sleeved crop top underneath her coat compliment her hair, which I can’t stop touching.

Lucas set up the warmers on the patio for breakfast, and we’ve been hanging out outside with her. It keeps the air warm enough to withstand the cold weather, and Isolde seems more comfortable outside.

Even though this isn’t my house, I’m leaning in favor of constructing a new one that she’ll want to live in.

My fingers keep running over one of her curls as I lean in her direction and listen to her speak. Isolde glances at me as she notices that I’m playing with her hair, but doesn’t say anything. In fact, I notice her body is seeking my attention like a moth to a flame.

Omegas need care, adoration, and love from their alphas. The neglect and pain she’s obviously received instead is disquieting. A part of me wants to dump her in my lap andsnuggle her. I would if it might not be a little like cuddling a snake that’ll bite back.

“It’s nice here,” she sighs, taking in the winter garden. It’s covered under the snow, the blooms giving off an icy beauty.

“I like being around nature,” Lucas says. “It’s why I live out here instead of Indianapolis. I go into the office once a week to do the things that require my presence instead of a video call.”

“I know,” Isolde says with a sly smirk as Grant snorts. He sat down about ten minutes ago, and not one of us batted an eye except Isolde.

“You worked out his schedule,” Grant chuckles.

Lucas’ alarm goes off to remind him that the food is ready. He and Alesso cooked, which had his housekeeper giddy with excitement.

It’s adorable how sweet his staff is. Well, except for Grant. He’s still an asshole.

“I’m flattered,” Lucas says, standing as he shuts off his alarm. “I’ve never been stalked by anyone so pretty before.”

“They’re usually ugly fuckers,” Grant mutters under his breath. Lucas doesn’t notice, but I do.

Is he being serious? Are there threats I don’t know about?

“I’ll help you,” Alesso says, standing to follow Lucas inside.

…and then there were three.

“Kitten,” I purr.

“You’re not going to let that nickname go, are you?” she asks.

“It suits you. You’re feral and beautiful,” I murmur. “Does your new house have a nest?”

Isolde shifts and shakes her head.

“Why not?” I ask, wrapping her curl around my finger.

“I’m a terrible omega,” she says with a shrug. “Indulgences aren’t something I’m used to.”

“What if your alphas are indulging you instead?” Grant asks.

This could be construed in several ways, but Isolde’s gaze darkens slightly.

“You can’t say things like that,” she mutters.