Page 41 of Rescued By the Beast
"Good idea." This time it's Ted who speaks. "What about toys?"
I clench my jaw. Damn, how could I forget that?
"I was so preoccupied with practical matters that I completely forgot about that..." I admit, frustrated.
"I have some at home," Ethan says. "I take in animals from time to time. I'll bring them to you."
I breathe a sigh of relief and let my gratitude show in my eyes.
"Thanks, mate. For everything."
Ethan is already heading for the door with quick steps.
"I'll go get them and be right back."
As soon as he leaves, Ted clears his throat, making me look at him. The expression on his face is different now, more serious, and it instantly puts me on alert.
"Actually, I didn't just come to meet Kitten." He begins, and the gravity of his words makes my body stiffen. "It's a warning, but it's personal, so I thought it best to come and tell you in person."
I let out a tense sigh, my heart beating faster.
"What?" I ask, my voice lower, anxiety rising. Something in Ted's tone tells me the news is not good.
"I've received news about the Wolfhart Clan. Liam has learned that you crossed his territory... and he's furious." Ted's tone is tense, as if he's expecting an imminent explosion.
I restrain myself from rolling my eyes, keeping my expression cool.
"Ted, I have bigger concerns than dealing with a spoilt wolf's tantrum." My response is laden with disdain, calculated to show that the situation does not affect me.
But inside, I know the issue is more delicate than I am willing to admit.
The bear narrows his eyes, clearly dissatisfied with my attitude.
"He won't let this slide." There is a weight in his voice, a warning I cannot ignore.
My gaze meets his, steady.
"Then let him try. If he thinks he can handle me, he'll find out what a mistake he made."
"Mark, I know it won't be physically dangerous for you, but..."
I take a deep breath, trying to stay calm.
"I'm not the one looking for a fight, Ted. If Liam wants to get beaten up and put his leadership at risk, that's his problem."
Ted sighs, as if trying to convince me to see things from another perspective.
"Your half-brother has always felt threatened by your strength." A shadow of concern darkens his face. "His jealousy will lead him to do something stupid."
I clench my jaw, feeling the beast inside me wanting to break free, but I look at the girl in my arms and instantly calm down.
"If he challenges me to a duel, he'll lose."
Ted crosses his arms and takes a step forward, more serious now.
"Still, I'd keep an eye on him, Mark."
"He can't hurt me, he's not strong enough, you know that."
