She completely disregarded me during my time in the store, yet I am fairly certain she entered because she recognised me.
“They must have observed our passing.” Enzo remarked.
“In other words, she is not entirely oblivious,” Ryder sighed. “Seeking anything atypical.”
Nolan nodded affirmatively.
Luca approached and seated himself, remarking, “Ryder, your timing is poor.”
“Indeed, it appears so,” he affirmed with a nod.
Sadie departed the hotel in a taxi nearly an hour and a half ago.” Instantly, all their gazes were fixed upon him.
Luca informed him, “We have not seen her.”
“It cannot be too distant; let us search the vicinity.”
They all rose and departed from the café.
Ryder stopped upon hearing Brianna’s name mentioned. A tall girl conversed with her mother as they exited a nearby coffee shop, expressing her admiration for Brianna Layla, her wedding dress, and her enthusiasm about collecting it in a week.
“Pardon me,” Ryder interjected, displaying a smile that showcased his charm and allure, “did you just encounter Brianna Layla in person?”
“Yes,” the girl affirmed, “she is remarkable,” smiling in return.
“Thank you, I intended to meet her today.” He acknowledged them with a nod and then turned to Luca with an expectant gaze, his irritation evident that she was present in the store without his prior knowledge.
“Ryder, you have been present for the majority of the day as well.” We have not observed her presence. It is impossible that she eluded us.
Ryder frowned; this was accurate; he had been present, only departing to attend to Sadie.
It was evident from the woman’s remark that she was present in the store. “Go and locate Sadie,” he muttered as he turned and strode down the street directly into Goddess Gown’s.
He locked eyes with Stella, observing her mouth twitch in genuine amusement. From her expression, he could only surmise that she was aware he had just discovered Brianna’s presence in the store, unbeknownst to his associates.
He directed his gaze towards the upstairs loft, and before Stella could utter a word, he ascended the stairs. He heard Stella chuckle to herself, aware that it was directed at him. He and Aiden nearly growled at her, struggling to contain their frustration upon discovering Brianna’s office vacant, yet the lingering aroma of the woman’s perfume indicated her absence was brief.
She profoundly despised the minute in which she concealed her scent, regardless of her location. Even within her own office. Furiously enraged with the woman for having inexplicably evaded him and his entire Alpha Unit.
“May I assist you, Mr. Wood?”Stella’s voice reached him laced with sarcasm.
His gaze shifted directly to hers. “Where is she located?””
Ryder rebuked her. The woman was positioned on the landing at the top of the stairs. She had previously tested his patience, and it appeared she was on the verge of doing so once more. Her expression, characterised by a self-satisfied smile, indicated her intention to repeat the action. Clearly encountered no difficulties in interacting with him.
Presumably confronted affluent individuals frequently and was unafraid to assert her position.
“Not present.” Kindly vacate Brianna Layla’s office, or I will be compelled to contact law enforcement.
“On what basis is a client seeking her?”“He retorted immediately.” He had committed no unlawful acts.
Observed the corner of her mouth rise slightly, obstinate and defiant woman, “Trespassing.”
“It is a store, essentially communal property.”
Ryder conveyed to her that she was unaware of his identity.
“This applies solely to customers, and Brianna Layla wishes to dissociate from Wood Industries.” I believe that is the new policy she implemented last week.
“I was entirely unaware of that, was I not?” I was not informed of the new policy; therefore, how could I be aware of it? “Proceed, Stella, contact the authorities…” he smiled directly at her, “I am an attorney.” He observed her astonishment, then leaned close to her ear. “Oh, did she not inform you of that?” He smiled.
“And a remarkably good one, descended from a long lineage of them,” he leaned back and allowed her to see his smile. “Now, where is Brianna Layla?””
“I have returned home for the day,” she stated succinctly.
“What constitutes home?”He enquired in return.
“That is irrelevant to you,” she declared icily before descending the stairs, distancing herself from him.
Ryder almost laughed; he genuinely appreciated this woman for her protectiveness, determination, and ability to assert herself. Brianna’s affinity for her was unsurprising, as she likely evoked the image of a wolf. He descended the stairs behind her, approached her counter, and gazed directly at her, offering his most captivating smile, which caused her facade to waver slightly, her eyes widening at his abrupt transformation.
Ryder was aware that his neutral expression did not render him attractive; rather, it appeared harsh and unkind to many. However, when he activated his charm and genuinely smiled, particularly at women, they eagerly sought to gain his favour, especially the humans, and she was no exception.
“Stella,” Ryder almost purred, “please assist me.” He maintained his smile while observing her retreat a step and shake her head as if to dispel confusion, her gaze traversing his face. Recognising that she was absorbing all of him, she was unable to resist; no human woman could. Indeed, few in number. “What actions can I undertake, Stella?”Ryder enquired gently, “to solicit your assistance.” He rested both elbows on the counter, providing her an intimate view of his eyes. Both humans and wolves were captivated by them.
