Chapter 56
Rebecca’s POV
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I stood before the full–length mirror, adjusting the crisp silver and black uniform Steve had provided. The blouse pinched uncomfortably across my chest, and the pencil skirt restricted my movement with each step. I slipped my feet into the black flats, exhaling with relief.
At least I won’t have to wobble around in those ridiculous heels all day. Small mercies.
My reflection stared back at me–eyes betraying anxiety I desperately tried to hide. My stomach knotted as I smoothed down the fabric. This job meant everything to me now. It was my chance to stop being a charity case, to contribute to my family’s needs without Dominic’s constant support.
Diana knocked softly on the door. “Miss Brown? Breakfast is ready downstairs.”
In the kitchen, she had prepared toast, fresh fruit, and coffee. “First day at your new job,” she said, pouring me a cup. “Raymond can drive you there if you’d like.”
“No, thank you,” I said quickly, too sharply. Softening my tone, I added, “I’d prefer to take the bus. I want to do this on my own.” My fingers tightened around the coffee cup. The last thing I needed was to arrive at my new workplace in Dominic’s luxury car with his personal driver. The other employees would immediately label me as someone’s pet project.
The morning air bit at my cheeks as I walked to the bus stop. As the bus rumbled through the city, I pressed my forehead against the cool window. Look at all these people heading to work. Normal people with normal lives. Not people caught between human and werewolf worlds. Not people sleeping in mansions they don’t deserve.
Dominic’s face floated through my mind. What would he think seeing me on this crowded bus? Would he laugh? Feel pity? I bit my lip hard enough to hurt. At least now I can contribute something–anything. Dad’s treatment is covered, but Mom and Jason… No. I’m not asking him for more.
Silver Collections looked imposing in the morning light. My heart hammered against my ribs as I pushed open the glass door, my palm slick with sweat against the handle.
Steve was arranging a display case. He looked up as I entered, his small eyes moving from my face down to my shoes, then back up again in a way that made my skin prickle,
“Ah, Rebecca Brown,” he said. “Right on time.”
He led me through the store, pointing out different sections. I followed dutifully, desperately trying to memorize everything he said.
“This is where our most valued clients are served,” Steve explained, gesturing to an elegant area with plush seating. “Only certain staff members are allowed to assist customers here.”
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12:08 Mon, Sep 22
Chapter 56
Two women entered from the back room. One was tall and willowy with straight blonde hair—immediately my body tensed, recognizing a werewolf from her confident stride and the dismissive glance she east my way. The Aber was shorter with curly brown hair–human, like me. My shoulders relaxed slightly at the sight of her
“This is Vanessa, our senior sales associate,” Steve introduced the blonde woman, who gave me a cold once over, Mer nostrils flared slightly as she took in my scent, and her lips curled downward. Does she smell him on me? Dominic Shame heated my face,
“And Emma, who’s been with us for about a year,” he continued,
Emma smiled warmly, “Nice to meet you, Rebecca, It’s good to have another human face around here/ Her zenÁRA welcome made my throat tighten unexpectedly,
Vanessa’s eyes narrowed at the exchange. She waited until Steve walked away before leaning close to me, her voice dropping to a whisper.
“Let’s get one thing straight,” she said. “I’ve worked here for three years. This is my territory. Don’t get in my way?
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