Page 54 of Wolf’s Fated Bride

I rush down the steps. I knew this territory was cold, but this is brutal, even for me.

I could never live here.

Fuck this.

I take the first door back into the castle and enter a space that smells like food. A male wearing all black under a white apron startles at my entry, turns, and holds up a water hose from the sink. In seconds, I’m drenched.

Once I’m thoroughly soaked, he shuts off the water.

I twist my T-shirt and wring out some of the water. “I guess that’s one way to put out the fire.”

The male looks like he might pee himself. “Ash Fireborn?”

“Mmhm.”

“You can’t be.”

“I can.”

“No, they said you’re ugly.”

“Who said that?”

“Runa Stormcrest.”

I smirk. “She’s not a they, is she?”

“No.” The male swallows. “Can I offer you some dry clothes?”

I nod and drop the basket on the counter. The basket’s dry because I stretched out my hand when the water came at me, so the worker didn’t soak it. I peel off my sodden clothes and look up, expecting a set of dry garments, but the male is just standing there, a slow blush crawling up his cheeks.

“I forgot what I was supposed to do,” he stammers.

“Bring me clothes?”

With a nod, he walks away and returns with the pressed black kimono-style uniform worn by the kitchen staff.

“Perfect fit,” he says after I slide into it.

“Absolutely.”

“Was the basket not adequate?” he asks.

I frown. Oh, right. “We seem to be missing a sausage.”

His lips pinch.

I smile.

The male laughs. “I didn’t think you had a sense of humor.”

“Why not? Did she say I’m broody?”

“Boring was the word she used.”

“Do you only snitch on her or on everyone?” I ask.

“I’m trying to survive your visit, Alpha.”