Page 72 of Wolf Roulette

I crossed my arms.

He sighed. “I’ll pass it on. Listen, I’ve got to get these people inside.”

I swallowed. “Sure.”

“I really am sorry.”

So was I. I’d apparently pushed Sascha way too far. “Not your fault. Night, Hairy.”

“Night, gorgeous.”

* * *

My top wasn’t right.

“I’ve never seen someone change clothes so many times,” Wade whined from my bed.

Herc’s former room was the biggest in the manor. Traditionally, these quarters always belonged to the head steward. With a fresh duvet cover and my stuff filling the drawers, the room now felt like mine.

“Sascha wouldn’t let me into The Dens last night. He doesn’t want to see me, and we’re running out of time. I’m not above using my body to get back in his good books.”

“Then go with the red, puff-sleeve number. White jeans. Gives off aruin the innocent girlvibe.”

Was I going for that? “It’s not too much for a grid announcement?” I stripped out of my sole black dress that wasdefinitelytoo much for a meeting.

Wade rolled onto his back. “It toes the line, but you’re stylish. No one will think twice about it.”

I pulled on the white jeans and red top. The sleeves were slightly puffed, and the scoop neck was held by a drawstring in the middle. I drew the ends tighter and looped the ends into a bow.

“Before you take another hour to decide on your hair, leave it.”

Hands already raised, I paused. “Half up, half down. You sure?”

“Never more certain.”

“You, sir, are being sarcastic.” I lowered my arms though. “What happened with Judy by the way?”

“Thought you’d never ask. You’re speaking to the new Deception Ball organiser.” He scrunched his face. “Coordinator? Planner…Designer. You’re speaking with the new Deception BallDesigner.”

“Such an honour.” I curtsied. “Speak with Stanley about budget, please.”

“It’ll be epic. Elton John epic.”

I smiled at the glee in his voice. “I believe you. Let me know if you want to bounce ideas.”

“Don’t worry. I’ve got this. And assuming you can’t go with Sascha, want to be my date?”

I sat on his lap and interlaced my hands behind his neck. “I’d love to.”

He lifted me, walking us to the door. “You’ll need to coordinate your outfit to mine.”

“Of course.”

“Good. Then let’s get to the meeting.” Wade carried me out into the hall and down the stairs.

“When does this ball go down anyway?”

“Just under a month. Judy had already started planning, but I’m scrapping everything. Seriously. No taste.”

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