Page 21 of Honeythorn
Perhaps this place was not so different from home after all.
He ended his self-guided tour at a stunning ribbon shop. It was split into Omega and Alpha sections, making Milan roll his eyes internally, but the shopkeeper was bright and friendly as he admired the goods.
“These are lovely,” Milan said, lifting a delicate ribbon, an almost see-through blue. “My sisters would love this one. I’d be delighted to purchase some.”
“Of course! How many? Are they Omegas?”
“Two, and one is, yes. The other is an Alpha, but she’d like it just as much. She’s a delicate soul.”
“Oh, well…of course. These two?”
“Please.”
“Let me package them for you.”
Milan thanked her, making sure he had his purse with him—he’d made sure to arrive with his own funds and was now thanking himself for the foresight.
He turned to look back at the Alpha that had been watching his exchange with the shopkeeper curiously. She was beautiful, looking around Raphael’s age, with stunning red hair and skin like porcelain. She was wearing a form-fitting suit—quite daring for a woman, although perhaps not so much for an Alpha.
Milan smiled and nodded at her, and that seemed to be the opening she had been waiting for as she walked over to him.
“Hello. I must introduce myself—I am Katarina Rosewood. I believe my manor rests close to yours—you are the new lord, yes?”
“I suppose I am,” he said, returning her cheeky smile. They looked at each other for a moment, Katarina’s smile growing.
“I have the sudden sensation that we will be great friends.”
“Well, I am flattered as well as impressed that you can tell such a thing with one look.”
“I have a very good nose for these things. You and your husband must come and have tea at my manor. I will send an invitation.”
“I will extend the invitation to my husband, but even if he is too busy, I would be delighted to attend.” He would certainly not turn down the possibility of making a friend.
Katarina’s eyes widened slightly before she grinned delightedly. “How scandalous!” she said gleefully.
Milan raised his eyebrows. “I am a wedded Omega. Surely it is notthatscandalous.”
“Oh, dear. You have much to learn about these parts. Don’t worry, I’ll fill you in.”
Milan couldn’t help but laugh, mischievousness rising within him. “Wonderful. I always love to know which rules I’m breaking. It makes it much more fun.”
Katarina cackled. “Oh, yes. Very good friends indeed.”
Milan snorted, even as his heart raced with happiness.
There was hope for him yet.
**********
Milan arrived at Ledford Manor in great spirits. He brushed Saturnus down before entering through the mudroom near the kitchen, taking one of the servants by surprise.
“Excuse me, do you know where Lord Raphael is at the moment?” Milan asked.
“Uh…yes, I believe he is in the study.”
“Alone?”
“I think so.”
