Page 165 of Dream Mates
I laughed and Spencer gave me a quizzical look.
“It’s Evan. Being Evan,” I replied.
Spencer grinned. “Ah, yes. I suppose as soon as we get home I won’t see you for the rest of the weekend.”
“Probably.” I took another sip of my drink. “This is perfect. Are… are you doing okay?”
While I knew Spencer cared for me enough to bond with me, I worried a little about him, and how being bonded to someone again would affect him.
Spencer kissed my temple. “I feel better than I have in a very long time. Is this enough for you for today, just laying here on the beach?”
“Maybe, I’ll finish my sandcastle.” I eyed my partially built sandcastle. “I might also go back in the water. Perhaps I’ll get all the way in this time.”
Today I wore a red bikini, and I also had a long, sheer red and gold coverup. My wrist ached a little and bruises still dotted my forearm where Adriana had gripped me. There was a bruise on one of my knees as well.
“We could go out to dinner tonight, if you wish,” he offered, his hand brushing up and down my bare thigh. “I’ll have the concierge recommend something?”
“That sounds nice. I think I’ll want some lunch soon. But I’m happy just eating here in the cabana.” Maybe after lunch I’d read more of my book.
Spencer smiled. “Perfect.”
“Excuse me, but I’m looking for Grace Ellington.” A man in an unfamiliar black uniform with a badge I’d never seen filled the doorway of the cabana, blocking my view of the ocean.
Now what?
Spencer sat up and glared at him. “Can I help you?”
The strange man flashed a badge. “I’m from the Office of Designation Management, and I’m here for Grace Ellington.”
“I’m her alpha, how can I help you?” Tension lined his face as I saw him palm his phone as he stood and went to the doorway.
Office of Designation Management? I didn’t know what that was. The worry I got from Spencer meant that it wasn’t a good thing.
“We’re here to take Grace in for testing,” he said. “I have the paperwork right here.”
He showed Spencer a tablet. The guy wasn’t alone. I wasn’t sure if they were alphas or deltas but they were large and spoke with authority.
“I see. Well, give us a moment to change and we’ll grab a car and meet you there.” Spencer’s tone went brusque.
Something was wrong. I texted Evan and Wes.
Me
What is the Office of Designation Management and why do they want to test me?
“That won’t be necessary. We’ll transport her,” the unnamed man countered, voice clipped and commanding.
Evan replied immediately.
Evan
Nothing good. Text Mrs. Beekman now. Spence is with you?
Me
Yes.
“I’m her alpha, I’ll accompany her,” Spencer stated, authority leaking from his vice.
