"Come have a taste"

Their journey back to the mansion was very slow because Isabella earnestly tried to buy herself some time.

Twice she got the offer to hand the gold-and-glass tray over and twice she politely rejected the offer. If she allowed Ralph carry it, he would see how her hands were shaking uncontrollably.

"So, enjoy your first day," Ralph said when they got to the second floor where his chamber was situated. "Remember, you can always come to me if you need anything. My room is just over there."

Isabella did not bother turning her head to follow his fingers. She had gone there once, and might go there again, because she doubted if she would be comfortable with Madam Margaux like she was with Ralph.

"Thank you... for everything."

"Oh, it's okay. Have a lovely day!"

Isabella murmured "and you too" under her breath as she walked up the stairs, her sandal making soft thudding noises.

The tray in her grasp felt a ton when she got to the Alpha's floor and looked into the darkness in the distanc