He was so close to releasing his product to the market that he couldn’t afford any hiccups.
“Her name is Suzie Paisley, and she comes from Middlemarch in New Zealand.She is a black leopard shifter and a gathering attendee.”Angus paused to study the papers he held.“She’s one of six from Middlemarch, and three have found partners so far.She and two young men remain.”
Niall nodded, his mind busily working through the information.“When is she scheduled to leave?”
“Next Monday,” Angus said.
Niall nodded.“Kindly send dinner for two to the dining room.”He checked the clock.“In half an hour?Transfer her luggage and belongings to her current bedroom.”
Angus dipped his head.“It will be done.”
Niall waited for Angus to leave before leaning back in his chair.It groaned beneath his weight, but for once, his thoughts didn’t divert to purchasing a new chair.He had a workable plan and looked forward to knocking heads with Ms.Suzie Paisley.
Suzie jerked awake to an abrupt tap on the door.She sprang off the bed and attempted to straighten her wrinkled clothing, her heart jumping with anticipation.If that bear dared to poke his nose into this bedroom, she’d shred him with her claws.
A key turned in the lock, and her muscles tensed as she prepared to spring.She was moving before the door opened and registered precisely who was standing there.The very man.She struck muscle then yelped because the bear was as hard as a rock.His hands snapped out to grasp her forearms and stop her from falling on her arse.Suzie glared at him.
“You have no right to imprison me.”
His eyes narrowed.“You’re the one who gained access to my office by deception.I have every right to detain you until I can assure myself you’re not dangerous to my business.”
Suzie’s temper cooled a fraction because he was right, dammit.While she hadn’t lied to him, she hadn’t exactly been truthful either.
“You can’t keep me here,” she repeated, more for form than anything else because it was evident he could and no one would help her.He possessed her phone, and the tower room was too high, the windows too small for her to shout for aid.
“Come,” he said, propelling her from the room.
“Where are you taking me?”She dragged her heels, fear filtering through her bravado.Did the castle have a dungeon?Probably.She’d bet her left arm it’d be full of spiders and other nasties.Probably damp and cold, too.
More time had passed than she realized because the bright sun was sinking toward the horizon.Her stomach gave a complaining grumble, but she didn’t pardon herself or otherwise comment.Prisoners got food, didn’t they?Dry bread or gruel?
The bear led her through numerous rooms, his pace too quick for her to orientate herself.This castle was a rabbit warren, albeit comfortable and luxurious.She had to admit, whoever decorated had done an excellent job blending old with modern.
Finally, he directed her into a dining room full of a delicious meaty scent.
Suzie’s nostrils flared.“You’re going to feed me?”
“I thought you might be hungry.”
Suzie shot him a glance but didn’t let loose her complaints of imprisonment with nothing but shortbread to eat.If she got too lippy, he might return her to that bedroom.
The bear released her arm and pulled out a chair.He jerked his chin with apparent impatience, and she hastened to sit.Seconds later, Angus arrived with a trolley.The additional food scents made her stomach happy, but she was surprised.If he were feeding her, he wouldn’t do away with her.Another thought struck.Unless this was her last meal…
“What are your intentions?”
“I thought we’d share dinner and discuss your circumstances,” he said in an even tone.
“Oh.”She wished Edwina was here because they usually shared trouble.She wanted her best friend.The cliche about curiosity and cats might come true this time.Suzie remained silent while Angus served roast beef, Yorkshire pudding, and a selection of vegetables.
“Gravy?”Angus asked her.
“Yes, please.”
“Would you like a glass of wine with your meal?”the bear asked.“I’m having a red.”
“Thank you.That sounds nice.”Listen to them.So polite.Despite this, Suzie’s insides were tied as tightly as her guitar strings.It was the unknown.Exactly what did he intend to do?
The wine was from New Zealand.She noticed the label, and a pang went through her.She missed her family: her parents, younger brother, and sisters.
