Page 32 of Claimed By Four Alphas

"Sixth floor," I say, pressing the button.

She stands as far from me as the small elevator allows. We arrive at the sixth floor in seconds, and I lead her down the hallway to my door, unlocking it and stepping aside to let her enter first.

My apartment is simple, and functional. A living room with a worn leather couch, a small kitchen, and a hallway leading to the bedroom and bathroom. Nothing fancy, but it's clean and it's mine.

"It's... nice," Dahlia says, sounding surprised.

"What were you expecting, crime scene photos on the walls?"

The corner of her mouth twitches. "Maybe a board with pictures and red lines and some chalk outlines."

"Sorry to disappoint."

She wanders into the living room, examining the few personal items I have on display. A framed photo of my police academy graduation and carved wooden bear my father made.

"You should take a shower," I nod toward the hallway. "Bathroom's through there."

She raises an eyebrow. "Eager to get me naked, Detective?"

My bear stirs at her words, but I keep my expression neutral. "I'm eager to get that stink off you."

Her eyes widen slightly, but she doesn't argue. "Fine. I could use a bath anyway."

"Towels are in the cabinet under the sink. Use whatever you need."

She nods and disappears down the hallway. A moment later, I hear water running. I drop onto the couch and rub my hands over my face, trying to ignore the fact that Dahlia is getting naked in my bathroom.

A scream from the bathroom sends me sprinting down the hallway. I burst through the door without knocking, ready to fight whatever threat has found us.

Instead, I find Dahlia alone in the tub, hands over her eyes, completely naked.

"What happened?" I look around the small room for danger.

"Soap," she groans. "There's soap in my eyes."

Fuck. I should leave. I should turn around and walk out. But I'm rooted at the spot, staring at her naked body partially hidden by bubbles. Her olive skin glistens with water, her full breasts just visible above the foam.

She blinks rapidly, then focuses on me standing in the doorway. "Enjoying the view, Detective?"

"I thought you were being attacked," I say gruffly, forcing my eyes to her face.

"Just by your shampoo." She leans back in the tub, seemingly unconcerned with her nudity. "Could I get some tea? My throat's sore from screaming at the concert."

"Tea. Right." I back out of the bathroom. "I'll make some."

In the kitchen, I put the kettle on and grip the counter, trying to regain control. The image of Dahlia naked in my tub is burned into my brain. I'm painfully hard, and my bear is clawing to get out, demanding I go back in there and claim what it considers ours.

When the tea is ready, I knock on the bedroom door.

"Come in," she calls.

I enter cautiously. She's sitting on the edge of my bed wrapped in my bathrobe. Her hair is damp, curling around her face, and her skin glows from the hot water.

"Tea," I say, holding out the mug.

"Thank you." Her fingers brush mine as she takes it.

I step back, putting distance between us. "I'll sleep on the couch."

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