“Where did Mallie’s recital photos go?” a low, gravelly voice said. “I want them hanging on the living room wall. But don’t replace the mirror in the kids’ bathroom yet; they need to learn how to be responsible for their actions. When you’re done with the photos, help me think of something they can do at home this weekend, because they’re still grounded—”
Whoever the boss was, his presence swept through the room, commanding and important. Nat gulped.
The boss took two heavy steps into the office. Then he paused.
“Your interviewee, Hell Master,” Hubrie sang.
There was another pause.
“What the actual fuck?”
Nat panicked. Had he done something wrong?
He craned his head back for a better look, only to find a huge man—a giant?—with broad, muscular shoulders, and pecs that stretched his fitted shirt. His biceps were hefty, and his thighs... His thighs filled out his pants, but more importantly, they framed an unmistakable bulge pushing against his fly.
Nat had to bite down his moan.
The man immediately snapped his gaze over.
Pale golden eyes, black hair, and a strong jaw. He was familiar—because Nat had seen him before.
A month ago, in fact. He was Duke, one of the alphas who had shown up at the kidnappers’ hideout to rescue Nat and his friends.
Duke was also one of the people who were paying for the apartment that Nat was living in right now.
And Nat was just plastered across his desk, with his ass up like some kind of sacrifice.
Duke turned back to stare at Hubrie.
Hubrie beamed and gestured proudly at Nat. “Enjoy your interview.”
“Why the hell is he—”
“Ah. I wrote on the ad that you’ll have to obtain some samples. For health and security reasons.”
Nat’s entire body flushed hot. He hadn’t thought the samples would be acquired bythe boss himself.
He wanted to curl up under the desk. He was so far out of Duke’s league, he was in another galaxy altogether.
Duke stared at Hubrie, a silent conversation bouncing between them.
“Fine,” Duke said, not looking happy at all when he turned to Nat.
“Um, I can go!” Nat squeaked, pushing against the desk to heave himself upright.
“No,” Duke said immediately. “Don’t move.”
Nat froze, his entire body tense.
“There’s a list of samples you’ll need to collect with the kit,” Hubrie sang, right before Duke shut the door in his face.
Duke turned, his intense gaze pinning Nat to the desk.
Nat’s heart thumped.
If it had been anyone else commanding this arrangement, Nat would’ve already fled.
But he kind of knew Duke—Duke had spent a long time at the rescue coordinating medical help for the kidnapped victims. He’d arranged for transportation and accommodations, too, and he’d let all the omegas stay together so they’d feel safe.
