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"Well, our gates aren’t for us to hide behind," Nerida said "They’re to better defend and protect what’s here"

When the felanced at her, Alanna bowed her head anew It was difficult not to stare when a mature woman’s speech came from the bow-shaped mouth of a six-year-old child Miah at least had soular features of an adolescent about to step across the threshold to womanhood

"We’ll advise Mel and increase our own security measures," Nerida continued "It sounds like we have reinforcements on standby"

"Yes The Council va the perimeter It’s our hope he’ll apprehend Stephen before the situation crosses our path"

"Regardless, consider yourself welcoave him a nod "Niall of course is alelco for him"

"For the usual compensation I suppose?" When Niall arched a brow, the two fes this tio You’ll be so fat Evan will leave you behind Then you’ll never be out of our clutches"

"Proainst him like an affectionate cat "Mel just went off shift She has that list ready if you want to get an early look at it" Affecting a passable Scottish accent, she added, "Though illnae be needing ye ’til the morrow"

The Scot got a nod of assent from Evan When Niall looked toward Alanna, sheat the floor I serve them They do not serve me

Niall touched her hair Alanna put all her effort into brushing her lips across his palm with the proper devotion and full subs at the cabin," she "

She pushed away the thought of his flesh carrying the musk of another woman’s body I am a servant I serve That is azebo, the boards vibrating as he descended the steps, ave her an excuse for her own "Master, do you need e?"

"You’re excused, Alanna" The gentle understanding made it more unbearable, but she bowed to the vaazebo before her reaction could choke her How far she’d fallen, that her emotions could co a vae the reality of being a servant

Because who understood that reality better than her?

21

SHE threw herself into unpacking After that, she set out so a handful of black-eyed Susans frolasses The refrigerator ell-stocked with stews, casseroles,Two apple pies had appeared on the counter, so she ate a slice that fairlyfor Niall and Evan was her job

She ie bedroo into her willing, slick folds, her throat arched to him, ample breasts pressed into his chest