Page 23 of Alpha Bond

“The female is a free citizen with no pack ties. She’s not obligated to take a mate.” Greyson’s voice brooks no argument. “She will remain in the care of Jagger Law until she chooses where she wishes to be.”

“Jagger Law? But he’s not even on the list!” Tarkin objects.

What list?

“Nor does he plan to be,” Greyson responds. “Law has repeated his intention to maintain his vow of celibacy. Therefore, I’ve decided that Sierra Barr will be safe in his care for the time being.”

There are mutters from the group. “It’s not right,” someone says.

“She should at least be carrying her weight if she plans to live off our charity.” It’s a woman speaking now. I hear Casey give a murmur of agreement. I really don’t know why the woman dislikes me. Maybe the connection she shares with Jagger is one that isn’t immediately apparent. Secret lovers? Is he lying about his vow? Hiding something? If the last couple of weeks have taught me anything, it’s to remain suspicious of everyone’s motives at all times.

I don’t like the thought of them together, though. When Casey looks at me and raises an eyebrow, I realize I’m glaring at her, which confuses the hell out of me. It’s probably because she’s so rude to me. It has nothing to do with the fact that she has a hold over the man who’s taken me under his wing.

As the conversation continues, I can feel my anger building. I don’t understand why they’re all acting like they have a right to decide what I do and where I go.

“I’m not living off your charity,” I finally speak up, surprising myself with the sharpness in my voice. Silence falls as everyone looks at me. “I don’t plan to stay here long, but I’m more than willing to help out in any way that I can.”

“Really?” Casey says. “And just what kind of skills do you have? Aside from…” Her eyes drop to my chest and then below, her meaning unmistakable.

“I can cook. I know about crops. I can help grow things.” I’m scrambling for ideas. I’ve never had to account for myself before.

“It’s not an issue of whether or not you’re working,” Greyson says finally. “It’s about your safety.”

“My safety?” I ask, frustrated by their vague concerns.

“Yes. From unmated males,” Casey speaks up again. “They see an attractive female without a mate, and they think she’s fair game.”

I bristle at her words, feeling insulted and angry. They may not be as vulgar as Rack’s pack, but the intention is the same. “So, because I don’t have a mate, suddenly it’s open season on me? That’s ridiculous!”

“It may be ridiculous to you, but unfortunately, it’s how things work around here,” Greyson responds calmly.

“Well, that’s just great,” I mutter under my breath. At least at home, the mating process is gentler. Based on respect. This feels like a free-for-all.

“I didn’t say it was great,” Greyson replies sharply. “But it is how things are.”

I want to argue further, but Jagger places a hand on my shoulder and shakes his head slightly. The movement is so subtle that no one else seems to notice, but it effectively silences me.

“None of this is relevant now,” he says firmly. “Sierra intends to leave. And unless she decides she wants a mate, she can’t be forced into anything.”

I breathe a sigh of relief.

“Quite right.” Greyson nods. “Now, I’ll thank you all to show our guest some common courtesy.”

“Courtesy is all well and good, but if she’s staying permanently, she takes a mate,” Gage speaks up again, his eyes fixed on me. “We don’t have the luxury of taking on freeloaders.”

“We’ll cross that bridge when we get to it.Ifwe get to it,” says Greyson. “But that’s all that needs to be said right now. Thank you for your time.” As he dismisses the gathering, they file out in drips and drabs, leaving us on the platform. And as the pressure lifts, I feel my knees sag.

I may have found sanctuary here for now. But the message is clear; if I choose to stay longer – or even permanently – one of these males is going to claim me.

And I don’t want that. I don’t want that at all.

Chapter 10

Sierra

My head is still swimming as Greyson and Jagger move off to one side as the others leave. They’re engrossed in a conversation that clearly excludes me, and it leaves me feeling a little lost. Until a figure emerges from the dissipating crowd.

“Looks like I should have gotten here sooner.” Doctor Bea’s voice is warm as she reaches my side. “The boss says you’re not following doctor’s orders.”

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