In the following century, Liam, Nate and Samson taught me to read, write and speak different languages; they also helped me find my independence, so I didn’t have to rely on men to provide and care for me; they became my brothers.
Well, Samson was more grandfather than Liam's head butler. My family tried to use me to up their ranks in society as well as offering my brother's daughter to Nate as a gift as they presumed I would be marrying Liam, that was soon shot downat one of Liam's balls, and my niece was ‘saved’ from political marriage when Liam offered the 10 year old sanctuary, she owns a gorgeous boutique in London after I put her through school and college and her clothes are amazing.
“Miss Lily, there is a visitor for Master Nate, but he is on the phone. Would you sit with him for a time?” Samson asks, Liam turned him 50 years before they rescued me; he was 25 but severely beaten and was given a choice, which he chose on the condition he served Liam and Nate and no other unless he chose to. I take a deep breath. I’ve been alone with men before, but I always had time to prepare.
“Okay, but tell Liam and Nate to hurry!” I say to him while breathing in more air. I step into the blue sitting room. Yes, Liam has more than one, and I’m caught by the sight and smell of the man before me.
“Nate, I need your help. I think my daughter is in one of the warded facilities…” he cuts off and flares his nostrils, a growl forming in his chest.
“Mate,” he spins to face me and steps forward.
“Mate?” he takes a few more steps.
“No”, I choked out before spinning on my heel and sprinting from the manor; I heard Liam call my name, but I ran, not wanting to be owned again, not even if fate demanded it.
There is a broken howl and what sounds like a fight, but I flee and hope my chosen brothers protect me once again.
