Page 84 of Ruthless Beasts

“Mine,” I growled.

Drew leaned forward just as Max appeared behind Hannah, his eyes taking in the situation, his palm coming forward to her hip to drag her back slightly in case there was danger. Drew’s teeth were bare as he spoke. “There will be no disrespecting the owner’s family.”

I snapped my finger. An admittedly arrogant gesture that caused security to come forward, taking the man from Drew's grip. When I looked over at Hannah, she was fanning herself with her hand. “Anyone else find that hot?”

“For fuck's sake, woman.” Max sighed, his hand dropping from where he had been unconsciously touching her.

“Your dress is fucking gorgeous!” Hannah cooed as she ignored Max.

“No!” Bellamy’s head shook vigorously. “Look at you! Like a princess!”

“Don’t you dare cry!” Hannah demanded as Bellamy swiped a finger under her eyes.

“It’s just….” She sniffed. “You look so beautiful.”

“Let’s just agree that you both are gorgeous.” Ace tried to defuse the tears.

“And are train wrecks,” Max whispered under his breath.

“I heard that, man,” I huffed, but I couldn’t bring myself to threaten him. He’d been a friend for years, an employee for slightly less. I knew he meant no harm to our girls.

“Your hair!” Hannah cooed.

“Your makeup!” Bellamy sniffed.

“My drink.” Some poor guy in the line spoke as if he had already resigned to the inevitable, becoming sober.

I let the girls gush over each other for a minute more before I bothered cutting in. Our staff weren’t at the mercy of these pricks’ beck and call. But Hannah was on the clock, and with her living on the property officially as of last night, they had plenty of time to visit.

I placed my palm on Bellamy’s back. “Hannah, you look stunning this evening. I’m glad you are settling into the position well. If you don’t mind, I’d like to take Bellamy away from you for the moment. Come to the house in the morning for breakfast, though. You’re more than welcome.”

“Oh!” She glanced at the side. “Yes. Sorry Mr. Alexander. I’ll do that.”

Bellamy mocked, “Mr. Alexander.”

I leaned into her ear and spoke. “Careful little girl, mockery earns you a spanking.”

Apparently, I didn’t speak low enough because Hannah wagged her brows. “Mr. Alexander.”

I groaned. “Not for you. Myemployee.” I emphasized I was her boss.

Her lip pushed out in a pout. “Damn. Can’t blame a girl for trying, can you?”

“Not a single bit.” Bellamy sighed happily as she watched me, a soft smile in place.

I turned to Ace. “We’re in fucking trouble with these two.”

“I’ve been saying that,” he confirmed before looking at Bellamy’s guard. “Max, stay with this one. Make sure the line stays under control.”

“Yes, sir.”

Max offered a single nod before I latched on to Bellamy’s hand. “Dance with me?”

She looked at Ace as if asking permission, and he only offered reassurance. “I won’t take my eyes off you the whole time, I promise.”

“But—“

“Am I not capable of protecting you?” I knew that wasn’t the case, but damn. I wanted attention, too.

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