32

“For all the years I have known you, Alpha, I would never think that you would insult me in such a way.”

Alpha Novus glances up from the paper that lies before him, and at his Beta that stands by the large doorway. Both of them still wear their suits from the party but Hadrius’ top button is undone, tie resting on his shoulder. He watches the Alpha with a look of respectful contempt.

“You insulted my mate as well.” The warlord continues, unable to rid himself of the expression that crossed her face when Alaina, the Alpha’s daughter, kissed his cheek.

Alpha Novus remains silent and immobile, like a column of water, cold and straight, sufficient to himself. His jaw clicks and his pale lips curve into the tenderest of smiles; “I apologize if that is not how you wished to meet Alaina, the girl is rather brazen,” a sigh as he flattens a palm on the papers, “I will pass on the message to her father, should she choo