Page 147 of Mated to the Wolves

Cadoc frowns. I hold up a hand. “It’s okay.”

The Alpha’s kept his distance all morning. Polite, pandering to the wealthy sheep who eat up his every word. I don’t want to give him a reason to take a cheap shot at us.

Cadoc’s vicious display has fed their insatiable appetite for proof of virility.

“I will take it up with the Alpha. You three stay in the hallway.” Cadoc turns on his heels, leaving Kirk, Fell, and Bo leaning against the wall outside of the room.

“Suit yourself. Come. It’s time to turn you into a vision.”

Opening the door, she ushers me into the dressing room. A pale green gown with embroidered flowers adorns a mannequin.

I actually like the dress. “It’s beautiful.”

“Of course it is. Madam Boucher only provides the very best. I chose it to blend with the natural settings of your ceremony.”

“The deep V is bold.” I circle the garment.

“We can pin it if you like. Put it on and step up.” She claps her hands. “Quickly.”

I hurry to the screen, removing my clothes, and she brings the gauzy dream over.

“Arms up.” She lowers it over my head, carefully working me into the delicate garment. Too low, I’'ll be exposed.

“Hmm.” The woman reminds me of a bird, flitting about.

“We will mark it and make the adjustments today.” She circles her finger. “Face forward.”

Gathering the material here and there, she pins the material.

“Ow.” I flinch when a sharp poke gets me in the side.

She clucks her tongue. “Be careful not to move.”

Crouching, she adjusts the length. A brief pinch to my thigh makes me grunt. I hold my breath, trying not to move a muscle, least she stick me again. The pain fades. She finishes and puts her torture devices away.

“Turn slowly, cherie.”

I oblige, gasping at the image in the large circular mirror.

“Whoa. I look like a princess.” I turn admiring myself in the mirror. Running my hands along the dress I smile. It’s a bit of sunshine after rain.

“Your mates won’t be able to take their eyes off you,” she assures me.

“Do you think so?” I smile bashfully. I’ve come to care more for them than I ever imagined I would.

A wave of exhaustion washes over me. The lack of sleep is getting to me.

I yawn. “Excuse me.”

“You are lovely. It almost makes me feel bad about this.”

“Wha?” My tongue feels too big for my mouth. I sway.

“Close your eyes. It’ll be over soon.” I open my mouth to call out for help, and the floor rushes up to greet me.

“Be quiet before you wake her.”

“So paranoid. That dose will keep her out for hours.”

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