Chap-156*The Angry Mob*

Cynthia Dion:  "Ready to leave the room?" he inquired, shifting his leg over the other as he rose from the couch, and I confirmed with a nod. He unlocked the door and headed toward the garden, where breakfast awaited. I pondered why Mr. Holt hadn't griped about his wife and her ex mate occupying his brother-in-law's room overnight. His silence might also be a sign of an impending storm. They all tended to be a bit sluggish in the mornings, particularly on weekends, often sleeping in and indulging in a late brunch. I spotted Maleeka, Mr. Holt, and Mara observing our arrival. As much as Maleeka desired to depart, she remained rooted, intent on asserting her claim to the house. Seated at the table, Atticus began to spread butter on a slice of toast for me, a gesture that earned a disapproving eye-roll and headshake from Mara. "I appreciate your Alpha qualities, but they might not score well in the mate department," Mara muttered, keeping her voice hushed for fear of Atticus's reaction. "T