NixOrtikal

CQ 2024 entry.
When Lithe Hildebrand hires Zen Starke to retrieve stolen property belonging to the Maximillian Tribe nothing goes according to plan. 
Lithe, a workaholic and perfectionist, convinces Zen to let him go on the dangerous mission with him for fear that if mishandled it could ruin his reputation and career.
Intrigued, Zen is determined to keep his potential mate by his side at all costs.
For he’s never met anyone as captivating and sensuous as Lithe. 
When Lithe’s life is threatened, Zen makes a bargain to protect Lithe if he pretends to be his fiancé. 
Pressed for time, Lithe agrees since Zen is nothing like the media portrays him to be.
As a recessive omega he finds the dominant alpha irresistibly charismatic and fiercely loyal.
The problem is the feelings are mutual.
Despite their differences, the lovers embark on a dangerous quest that gets them more than they bargain for when they encounter murder, deception and the gift of everlasting love.

Zen's Gift

The mansion seemed so huge at times that Zen briefly wondered if guests ever got lost.

Zen followed behind Lithe as he passed the main kitchen and took a corridor adjacent from the main entrance.

It led to an elegant dining room, after the butler opened the door everyone else was already seated at the table and all eyes swiveled their way.

No one said a word when Zen brushed past the butler just to pull out the chair and seat an embarrassed Lithe with typical Allerdyce flair.

Despite his head being lowered Lithe had to admit that Lady Maria really outdid herself this time around.

A fire blazed in the hearth and scented candles were strategically placed around the entire dining room, the tables were decorated with white and yellow roses and beautifully arranged.

Lithe couldn't resist saying with admiration and warmth in his voice, "this is lovely Lady Maria. Thank you for inviting us to dinner."

Sabotage