Alpha Hayley's Destined Mate by Andrea Townsend

817 An Exquisite Trap

Hayley’s POV:

t

Finished

Of course, I kept my thoughts well hidden, maintaining an expression of delight as I reached for the gift box with barely restrained eagerness, practically snatching it from Salazar’s hands and hurriedly lifting the

lid.

“My gosh! How exquisite!” I pitched my voice higher in artificial wonder.

For just a second, I caught a fleeting curl of disdain at the corner of Salazar’s mouth.

I knew, then. Despite his polished manners and deferential tone, he looked down on me with quiet contempt for being an “Omega.”

I finished my performance, then watched him with silent precision.

Salazar recomposed himself, a perfectly rehearsed smile sliding back into place. “It’s truly an honor that you’ve accepted it. Ms. Walton will be thrilled to see you in her chosen gown. It will mean more to her than any other gift.”

calculated innocence. “Really? That’s wonderful! I was

my fingers over the fabric. “Should I wash it first? It’ll

sound laced with barely restrained impatience. “That wouldn’t be necessary, Ms. Sander. Surely someone from the Sanders informed you? Evening gowns are

adjusting.” I ducked my head in manufactured

matter. Simply wear it as intended, and you’ll avoid any unfortunate missteps.” Salazar adjusted his cuffs, then added with the imperious air of a noble addressing a servant, “While you may only be a low- ranking Omega who recently returned to the

but laugh at his words–internally, of

always been, I’m still a Sander by blood and a Walton by adoption. Who was he,

of anger in my chest and smiled politely. “I understand. Thank you,

curt nod before taking his

car vanished beyond the gates, all pretense of wide–eyed

turned on my heel with the gift box in my hands. I can’t help but mentally applaud myself for that impeccable little performance of well–timed

a

carefully opened the

Salazar’s credit, he hadn’t been lying. Inside was a full ensemble: the gown, matching

An Exquisite Frap

Finished

to save