“I don’t think we’ll have many dances,” I say when he stops talking. “I don’t plan on hosting big events, so there’s no need to keep it.”

He sighs. “Can you convert it into a formal lounge room instead? Every alpha needs a place to meet with the elders, and the ballroom has all the bones for that.”

A flash of brown hair catches my attention, and I smile at Bea racing down the stairs.

“I’ll think about it.”

And I will. He’s looking out for me, which I appreciate, but I don’t want to feel pressured into keeping the ballroom as is. There are too many horrible memories I associate with it. The lounge room isn’t a bad idea, and my mind is already spinning with design concepts. I make a note to find Layla and Penelope later to talk about it.

“Are you ready to accept new people?”

Bea hugs my waist, and I hold her against me. “We’ll be ready next week. The beds I ordered arrive this weekend. Do you already have people?”

Soft brown eyes stare up at me, and I wink, pulling her to the side so we can walk together.

“I have three new shifters.”

My mind flashes to the medical facility where I woke up and my stomach tightens. “They’re not being drugged?”

Blaze scoffs. “Of course not. Peter’s facility was shut down as soon as I found it.” He pauses. “I’m sorry that happened to you.”

“Hmm.” I won’t say it’s okay, because how that bastard got away with what he did for so long is beyond me. “Where are they being held?”

“They’re at one of my estates, but my beta says they’re not adjusting well.”

Of course they aren’t.

“Bring them Sunday. I’ll have rooms ready for them.”

“Thank you, Raven.”

Bea tugs on my shirt, and I look where she’s pointing. Draco, Brayden, and Carter are carrying a couch across the third floor.

“Pivot! Pivot!” Everett is shouting for no reason, and Brayden glares at him.

“There’s nowhere to pivot, you idiot!”

“The fact that you don’t understand that reference means you’re the idiot, idiot.”

Bea giggles.

“I hired those guys you recommended. I’m interviewing the maid service in an hour, and the psychologist and nurse tomorrow.”

How is it that it’s only Monday and already I can’t wait for Friday?

“Let me know if you need anything.”

“I will, thanks again, Blaze.” I hear a soft, familiar hiss, and snicker. “Tell Evelyn I said hello.”

He grunts, like maybe she’s punched him in the stomach. “Fucking vampires. I have to go, Raven.”

The line disconnects, and I pull the phone away from my ear and stare at it, hoping she’s not going to kill him.

“Can we go for a run?” Bea steps away from my side and races to the front door. “I’m pretty sure I’m faster than you now.”

Tossing the phone on the table by the front door, I snort. “Bea, no one likes them cocky.”

“Oh, yeah? Then why do you like Draco? Or Brayden? Or Everett? Or—”