“No, I don’t think it’s a good idea. Let’s just keep this professional now,” Katie said.

The painter didn’t seem to take no for an answer. “Just one drink, come on.”

Alexis could feel rage building in the very pit of her stomach.

He leaned his face closer and put his hand on Katie’s hip. Seconds before Alexis was about to explode in anger, Katie ducked out of the painter’s arms and moved away.

“Excuse me, I have to deal with something in the kitchens.”

After Katie made a hasty retreat, Alexis watched the painter laugh with his fellow workmen and make a sexual gesture towards Katie as she walked away. Alexis leapt into action. She jumped over the banister and landed on the floor as if the height had been only a step. The painter looked at her in shock.

“How did you—”

He looked terrified, just as Alexis wanted. “Let’s have a little chat.”

* * *

Katie walked down into the large Debrek kitchen. It was full of staff getting food prepared for lunch. A voice behind her said, “Cuppa tea, Katie?”

Katie turned around and smiled when she saw the Debrek executive chef coming out of her office.

“No, thanks. I can’t stay long. I’m just trying to take a breather, Dane.”

“What happened?”

Dane was a recent addition to the staff. Amelia had recruited her and revamped the kitchen. Everyone was enjoying the new meals she and her staff prepared. Dane had short shaved hair with a blue flop of hair on top. She was part human, part shifter and had come recommended by Slaine.

“Just an idiot guy trying it on,” Katie said.

Dane crossed her arms. “Do you want me to go and have a quiet word?”

Katie smiled. “Don’t worry—I can handle the likes of him. I’m just letting him cool off. In fact I should probably get back up there—thanks for the sanctuary.”

“Anytime. See you at lunch,” Dane said.

Katie walked back up the stairs. Hopefully painter Dave had control of himself by now. She was only putting up with him because he and his team did such good work. Amelia had scoured London looking for the best painter and decorator. Dave was the best, so despite his hot hands everywhere, she had to calm things down and get him concentrated on work.

She opened the door that led from the kitchen staircase to the entrance hall and saw Dave and his crew hastily gathering up their stuff. A smug-looking Alexis was standing there, arms folded, watching Dave run out the door.

What had she done? “Alexis? What’s going on? Where are the painter and his team going?”

“You don’t have to worry. They will not be back.”

“What? What are you talking about?”

“I saw what he did. I made it pretty clear to him what would befall him if he didn’t leave.”

“You scared him off?” Katie said angrily. “I was handling it, Alexis.”

“It didn’t look like it from where I was standing.”