Page 14 of The Lycan King's Secret Child

Xander: Studying her "Persistence is admirable, Miss Hart, but sometimes dangerous."

Amelia: "Are you trying to scare me off?"

Xander: "Merely cautioning you."

They stood in silence for a moment, the tension palpable.

Amelia: "If you won't grant me an interview, perhaps you could answer one question."

Xander: "Depends on the question."

Amelia: "Why all the secrecy? What are you hiding?"

He regarded her thoughtfully.

Xander: "Everyone has secrets, Miss Hart. Some are simply more valuable than others."

Amelia: "Value can be subjective."

Xander: "Indeed. Now, if you'll allow me, I'll escort you back to your car."

Amelia: Realizing she wasn't going to get more "Alright."

They walked side by side through the woods.

Amelia: "Your associate didn't seem too pleased to see me."

Xander: "Tobias is... protective."

Amelia: "You must inspire a lot of loyalty."

Xander: "Loyalty is earned."

Amelia: "And how does one earn yours?"

He glanced at her, a hint of amusement in his eyes.

Xander: "By respecting boundaries."

They reached her car.

Xander: "Safe travels, Miss Hart."

Amelia: "Thank you. And if you change your mind about the interview..."

Xander: "I'll be sure to let you know."

She got into her car, watching as he disappeared back into the trees. As she drove away, her mind raced with questions. There was definitely more to Alexander Drakov than he let on.

Her phone rang, startling her. It was Mr. Pierce.

Amelia: "Hello?"

Mr. Pierce: "Hart, where are you?"

Amelia: "Out following a lead."

Mr. Pierce: "Well, get back here. We've got a problem."

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