The Alpha King's Mate

Chapter 01: Gone

"I'm sorry, Eleana," said Harold. 

Those three words managed to shatter my whole world. I stopped hearing things. Everything that Harold said after those three words was a complete blur. I felt like I was floating. 

"H-Harold. Please tell me this is just a huge joke—" 

"It's not, El. This is real. I reject you as my mate." 

Suddenly, breathing was hard. Every inhalation felt like she was being pierced by shards of glass. 

"But we were there! We felt it. We felt the mating bond. The moon goddess chose us to be mates. You felt it too! What is this?" 

Whispers in the court flooded my ears. I looked around. I could see some of them looking at me with pity in their eyes. Some were snickering. 

This can't be real. 

I and Harold have been mates. We were connected by the moon goddess. This is impossible. 

"Why? Why are you rejecting me as your mate, Harold? Did I do something wrong? Please let me explain. Please explain!" 

Harold looked at me with pity in his eyes and I hated it. I hated the look he was giving me. He should be looking at me with adoration in his eyes and not this. Why is this happening? 

She is so brazen to ask the future Alpha why he rejected her. It happens all the time. What is she making a big deal about? 

Whispers became louder and every word I heard was a knife through my heart. 

My knees buckled but I stood straight. I need to be strong. I need to hear his explanation. 

My parents were standing next to the platform where Harold was standing to make the announcement. I wanted them to comfort me. To tell Harold to rethink his decision. But they are not even looking at me. 

As if on cue, the crowd parted, and I turned to look to see who had just arrived. 

It was my sister. 

"Elise," I called. "Please help me." 

I hated how my voice cracked when I said those words. I can't read the expression on Elise's face as she walked close to where our parents are. 

And much to my surprise, she climbed the platform and stood next to Harold. I was expecting her to slap Harold. They have been friends since we were kids, and they often fight. Maybe Elise is going to avenge me for what Harold did. Maybe she's going to beat the shit out of him until some sense is knocked into him. 

But to my surprise, Elise held Harold's hand. Their fingers intertwined. Where my hand should be, it was Elise's. 

Murmurs erupted around the court hall. 

I looked at Elise to ask for an explanation but there was nothing on her face. I couldn't read the expression on her face. When I looked at my parents, they were looking away. 

That was the reason why they couldn't look at me. They knew about this. 

"What...What is the meaning of this?" I asked. The murmurs went silent. 

"This has to be some huge prank, right?" 

Harold shook his head much to my horror. "Elise is my new mate." 

I staggered back. My knees were shaking, and tears welled up in my eyes. 

"Harold, I am your mate. You felt that mating bond with me. We both felt it—" 

"And I felt it with your sister too. I felt the mating bond settling between me and Elise. I can't have two mates, Eleana. So, I am choosing her." 

"W-What?" 

Please let this be just a bad dream. Please let this be just a nightmare. 

But I never woke up. I remained standing in the middle of the court hall, confused, angry, and heartbroken. 

"E-Elise—" 

"It is the decision of the future Alpha, Eleana. We can't do anything about it." 

"Yes, you can do something about it, Elise! You could have rejected him!" 

Elise remained silent. Even our parents were not even saying anything. 

Of course. They have always favored Elise over me. 

"Unless you are in love with him too," I said, and Elise looked at me. "You love him too that's why you accepted him as your mate when you know too well it would result in me being rejected." 

Elise did not say a word. 

"Eleana—" 

"I am not talking to you, Harold." 

The crowd gasped. It was rare to talk to the future Alpha like that and it would take guts for a normal wolf to make the Alpha shut up. But I was furious, and I couldn't care less. If they execute me, I don't care. They might as well have executed me for what they have done. 

"Yes!" Elise yelled and she looked at me with that triumphant look in her eyes. "Yes, you're right. I have been in love with Harold for a long time. It killed me when you two became mates, but I did not say a word. I kept my pain hidden. But then the moon goddess gave me a chance and made me Harold's mate too. Why can't you just accept that, Eleana?" 

I couldn't believe what my sister just spouted. The sister who was with me ever since. The person I always go to when I am sad or happy. What has happened between us? 

"I have always hated how you manage to get everything, Eleana. While I just manage to get by. Now the universe is granting me a favor. Why can't you be happy for me? Harold chose me because he believes I have the better qualities to become the Luna of this pack. If you can't accept that, then it is better you leave." 

"Elise!" Father called. "You can't say that your sister!" 

I was stunned. I don't think I was even breathing. A tear rolled down my cheeks and that was when I came back to my senses. 

I stood straight and looked at them. At my parents. And the whole pack is present in the court. 

"You're right, Elise," I said. "I can't possibly accept this bullshit." 

Another collective gasp from the crowd. I stepped forward, forcing my feet to walk. 

"I accept the rejection," I muttered. Surprise was visible on everyone's faces. "I, Eleana Ambrose, accept your rejection, Alpha Harold." 

Then I looked at Elise and my parents. They were looking at me with wide eyes as though they already knew what I was about to say next. 

"And I will leave Midnight Bane pack as of today. From now on, I will not be staying in this territory. Should I see you and recognize you as a threat to my safety, I shall kill you. No matter if you are my family or someone I used to know." 

"Eleana, you can't possibly do this!" Harold stepped in. Fury was visible in his eyes, but I didn't care. I am furious too. 

I gave him a dry look. 

"You were not supposed to do this, either. And yet here we are." 

"Eleana, please don't do this," my mother called, stepping forward but my chilly gaze pinned her on the spot. 

"I wanted you to protect me. I wanted you to help me. But you stood and did nothing. It's always been Elise. She's always been the apple of your eye, Mother. You and Father have always favored her." 

"That is not true. Take your words back," Father yelled but I was already numb. I couldn't feel anything other than the desperate need to run as far as possible. 

"I won't take my words back, Father. From now on, you only have one daughter." 

I did not wait for them to say something more. In an instant, I was out of the courtroom and running through the woods. 

I felt my wolf, Violet, whining. She was rejected too. 

Let me take over, she said inside my head as I continued to run. I know she wanted a release too. 

"Please, Violet. Can you come out later?" 

Violet whined again but did not say anything more. I continued running and running until I felt it. 

I stopped abruptly when my heart constricted. It spread into my entire being as if something was clawing me from the inside. 

I thought it was Violet fighting her way out, but she was in pain too. I could feel her pain as she continued to whimper. 

I dropped to my knees, and I was breathing hard. And then a scream came out of my mouth together with Violet's howl. 

My insides were burning, and it felt like something inside me was being torn apart. 

The mating bond.  

The mating bond was broken after Harold rejected me and when I accepted it. 

I continued to scream as I clutched my chest. It was as if my heart was being carved out. The pain was unimaginable and when it was done, I was lying on the ground, sobbing. 

Eleana, please. Violet pleaded. 

I closed my eyes and I waited for her to take over. Fur started to grow out of me, and I felt my bones altering themselves to accommodate Violet's form. 

After a few minutes, Violet's white form stood. 

And she howled to the moon. She howled and howled as if wanting to challenge the moon's decision. She was hurt and betrayed too. And I curled in the dark corners of my consciousness as I let Violet's rage fill the dark, quiet night. 

Chapter 02: Rogue

I didn't know how long Violet kept running. One thing I do know is we are far from our pack's territory. 

Going back there did not cross my mind. I would never go back there again. Besides, I have already declared I am leaving the pack. I can't go back. I have nowhere else to go. 

It was a reckless decision, Eleana, said Violet as she stopped running. 

We both looked at the aerial view of the forest. 

We don’t accept bullshit, Violet. You know we don’t do that. 

She fell silent and huffed. I knew she agreed with me. When Harold rejected me, he rejected Violet too. He chose Elise over me and Violet. The mating bond exists no more. 

What happens now? I asked. 

I rest. You take over, she answered. She did not even wait for my response and slowly, I was beginning to emerge. The claws started to form hands and the fur has started to disappear. The cold whisk of September air hugged me as I sat on the grass, naked. Next to me, I saw a satchel containing some of my things including a set of clothes. 

I immediately wore it and looked around. Violet had sniffed the air earlier and couldn’t smell any other smell of wolves in the area. Which means the area is safe for me and her. We must stay away from Wolven territories as much as possible especially since I am without a pack. A packless wolf is easy prey. 

I have no idea what I would do next, but I know I should get away as far as possible. I could start a new life and build a normal life for myself. Maybe I should live with the humans. I have always been curious about how they live. The thought of starting over sparked hope inside of me. Suddenly, I was driven to do just those things and not worry about anything. Not worry about Harold who chose my sister as his mate and rejected me. Not worry about how our parents took Elise’s side and let me be. How I have been left out all my life. It’s time I make something for myself and not think of anything else. 

Are you sure about your plan? Violet asked. She can read my mind and I can feel her. 

“I’ve never been surer, Vi--” 

I immediately turned around when I heard a branch snap behind me. I felt Violet on high alert too. I looked around and used my wolf senses to sniff the air. I couldn’t smell anything. 

And then I remembered what Harold told me before. That some wolf packs can mask their scent especially when they sneak on their enemies. Am I going to face those kinds of wolves today? 

I remained on high alert and looked around. Aside from the trees around me, I couldn’t see anything. I couldn’t sniff something unusual in the air. 

We need to leave here, Eleana, said Violet and I agreed. 

I looked to the left and immediately went for the run. However, I stopped in my tracks when a gray wolf appeared in front of me. 

He was large. Larger than Violet. 

I heard Violet thrashing inside of me. Let me out. Let me take over. 

But even if I let her take over it won’t be enough. This wolf could tear me to shreds before Violet could come out. 

I took a step back as the wolf growled. But then I heard another growl behind me and then on my right. 

Fuck. 

They have surrounded me. Against three large wolves, I can’t possibly win. They could easily kill me. But in fact, being killed by these beasts would be the last thing I should be worried about. They could take me and put me in a cage. They could use me solely for their pleasure. Wolves are ruthless creatures, and they have no regard for what’s right or wrong. Especially during the mating season. 

The wolf in front of me snuffed the air and then a wolfish grin appeared on its lips. Before I knew it, he was turning into his human form. I was surprised he was still clothed and not naked. 

The other two wolves turned into humans too and like the first one, they were all clothed. 

“Looks like we’ve got ourselves a price, boys,” said the wolf in front of me. He had black hair and eyes. The other two wolves snickered. One thing about lands not inhabited by wolves is that it is also a free land the wolves could easily venture to. 

I stepped back to where I was standing before but then I realized it was a cliff. I have nowhere to go and I am perfectly cornered. 

The three wolves were bulky. When it comes to physical strength, I have no match for them. Fear gnawed inside me when I realized my fate. If I don’t run, these wolves will do the unspeakable. If I fight, I will lose. 

Before I could even think further, one of the men was quick to move and suddenly, he was in front of me. He hit my face with the back of his hand causing me to fly across the area and hit my back on the tree trunk. 

I gasped for air and before I could even recover, another was in front of me. He forced me to stand by grabbing my hair and pinning me onto the tree with just one hand. Much to my horror, he grabbed my shirt and pulled it, causing it to tear. 

I was exposed in a matter of seconds and they all snickered. 

My whole body was singing with pain from the impact, and I knew they were far from done. 

One of the men slammed himself into the one in front of me and grabbed my neck, choking me. 

I tried to claw his hand, but he was much stronger, and I was weak. Against a male wolf, I can never win when it comes to strength. 

I heard the sound of the belt being undone and I thrashed. 

“Let me go!” I tried to scream but I was only met with another strike on my other cheek. 

My mouth bled. I could taste the blood in my mouth and my head was spinning. I could hear Violet saying something but I couldn't understand what it was. But I know she wants me to let her out. I know she wants out because there is no way in hell that we are going down without a fight.  

The man pinned me harder against the trunk and he had already removed the remaining clothes I was wearing. With his knees, he shoved my legs apart. 

But I was determined. I am not dying here without a fight.  

Using every remaining ounce of my strength, I broke away from his grasp and I let my hand change into claws.  

I felt my sharp claw dig into his flesh until I felt his heart in my palm. His eyes widened when he looked at me and his grip loosened on my wrist. Before he could do something, I pulled my hand out with his heart on my palms.  

He staggered back, blood dripping from his mouth. He looked at me in disbelief as though he did not expect me to fight back.  

I stood and stared at him as he knelt. His heart was gone. Even the other two men were shocked to see what just happened. 

I have just killed a wolf by taking his heart out.

I remembered every pack's rules. Kill a wolf and you make the whole pack your enemy. This man's pack will surely come after me and they would easily kill me since I don't have a pack anymore.  

The realization hit me like a tornado and I gasped. I knew I had to run but then the other two wolves were already in front of me. 

"You just killed Baron," one of them said.  

"I--" 

"You bitch!"  

I cowered and closed my eyes when I saw him raise his hand.  

I waited for the strike to come but instead, we heard a voice.  

"Now, now. I never taught you to hit women, have I?" 

The voice was fluid, feline. Like he was smiling as he was saying those words.  

In an instant, the two males in front of me stepped back and surprise was plastered on their faces.  

Then I heard the footsteps from behind me. It sounded so casual and relaxed like the owner was just taking a stroll in the park.  

I was about to turn to see who it was when he was already standing next to me. The moment I saw his face, I almost stumbled back. 

No, this can't be!  

His blue gaze went to the dead man with a hole in his chest. Then his gaze went to my hand which was still holding the man's heart. Then his brow raised when he saw the scraps of my remaining clothes hiding nothing of my body.

He clicked his tongue before he faced the two other men who were about to attack me again earlier.  

"Bring Baron to the bayou," he said. His words were calm and they managed to instill fear in the two men. His presence was so intimidating that I was trembling in fear.  

He didn't need to raise his voice to command. Wolves--even those from another pack--would follow him.

The two men took the man named Baron's lifeless body and then they were gone.  

He then faced me. His eyes are going over my state. My chest was exposed and my pants were torn.  

"Now, what shall I do to you, little wolf?"  

I dared to meet his gaze and I almost dropped to my knees.  

Wolves recognize who's stronger. I recognize this man not just because of his intimidating presence but because I have seen him before.  

Lancelot Maximillian is the Alpha King. He lords over all the lands. All the Alphas respect him. Even if they don't want to recognize him as the King, they can't deny the sheer power that Lancelot Maximillian has. After all, he became the Alpha King for that reason alone.  

"Your people attacked me first," I said, forcing the words out of my mouth even as I was trembling. 

A feline smile curved his mouth as he angled his head to stare at my face.  

"Your mate just rejected you," he blurted out which made me surprised. "And from what I can tell, you don't belong to any pack. Not anymore." 

I swallowed hard. Of course, he would know about that. He’s the strongest Alpha of all.  

"You killed one of my people. According to every pack's law, the one responsible should be executed. And since you don't have a pack, there would be no trial for you."  

My insides went cold.  

No, this can't be happening. I can't be executed! I have a whole plan ahead of me! I still have things to do! I can't die. Not after I've just been betrayed.  

"You can't do this. They would have killed me if I did not fight back." 

"And for that, I commend your courage. But you are coming with me." He stepped forward.

Before I could even protest, I felt my consciousness leaving me. And I felt his strong arms wrapping around my body.  

"Sleep tight. I'll give you a swift death. Don't worry," he said and then I was out. 

Chapter 03: The Alpha King

The first thing I noticed was the cold drops of water on my face. And then I jolted awake, looking around.  

I was in a cell. A dungeon.  

I don’t know where I am and my brain is in a haze. What happened?  

Violet? I called. 

I got no response from my wolf and slowly, I stood. Trying to make sense of my surroundings. And then I realized I was almost naked because of the cold wind touching my exposed skin. But when I touched my shoulders, I noticed something was there.

A coat.

Where did this coat come from--

Then everything came back to me.  

The ocean blue gaze. Three wolves trying to kill me. The heartbeat of the man I killed. The feeling of blood on my hands. 

Lancelot Maximillian.  

I gasped and I fell to the ground with the sudden burst of memory.  

I just killed a wolf. A wolf that was part of the Alpha King’s pack. The coat on my shoulders was Lancelot’s. I saw him wearing it when he showed up. 

And I am going to die?

Panic welled inside of me. I need to get out. I need to run. That was the only thing on my mind. But how am I supposed to run when I am imprisoned? Can I really run from the Alpha King? He knows I am without a pack. That I was rejected by my mate. He will not hesitate to kill me because I have no one. And he will delight in it.  

There were nasty rumors about the Alpha King. Aside from the fact that he is the most powerful Alpha, he is also known to be ruthless. He once attacked a wolf pack and killed everyone in that pack just because one of the wolves from the other pack made the mistake of crossing the territorial border.

Wolves are territorial in nature. Alpha’s are even more territorial than ordinary ones. Lancelot Maximillian is the feared Alpha. A lot of other Alphas have challenged Lancelot to replace him as the Alpha King but none of them ever succeeded. 

In fact, Harold had planned to challenge him. Harold is strong. But I don’t think he would ever come close to the Alpha King. That is why when he told me he was going to be the Alpha King, I stopped him. I know he wouldn’t win. I know he would only lose his life fighting a battle he can’t win.  

The thought of Harold left a bitter mark on me and before I could dive deeper into the memory of the past, I heard footsteps coming closer. As much as I hated the coat, I wrapped it tightly around me to cover my exposed skin. I waited for someone to come close to my dungeon. 

After a few minutes, the person stood in front of me and that’s when I saw it was the same dark-haired man in the forest who cornered me.  

His expression was gloomy and even in my weakened state, I could sense his bloodlust.  

This man wants me dead. 

I did not say a word and just stared at him. Suddenly, he took out a bunch of keys and opened the door of my cell. I gave him a questioning look.  

“Stand up and get out,” he said, his voice contained enough venom.  

Slowly, I managed to get up and walked towards the cell door.  

Violet, I called again but there was still no response from my wolf. I don’t know what happened to her but I think Lancelot did something.  

I don’t know the scope of this man’s power but I know he could do something like prevent my wolf from coming out.  

When I neared the door, I could almost taste the poison in the man’s gaze. He grabbed my arm and slammed me across the wall. I winced in pain as the back of my head hit the concrete. 

“You killed Baron. You’re going to pay—“ 

He wasn’t able to finish what he was going to say when suddenly, he groaned in pain. His hand went to his head and he knelt on the ground, groaning. 

I stood there, surprised. What just happened? What is happening to him? If he dies now, I will be suspected of another murder—I need to run! I need to get away while this man is in pain.  

But then just as when I was about to take a step, a voice laughed inside my head. 

I hitched a breath when I realized whose voice it was. 

“Now, now. What fascinating ideas you have here,” Lancelot said. His voice was sensual—like he was making love to me. My hands went to my head. Why is he inside my head? 

“Oh, I think you already know the answer as to how and why I am here, little wolf. I am here because I can. I am here because I knew you would run.”  

“Get out of my head,” I spat but I only earned a hearty chuckle from him.

“Be a good girl and follow Marcial. I still have to punish you for killing one of my wolves.” 

“Your wolf gave me no choice—“ 

The voice was gone inside my head and coldness was left in his wake. The man named Marcial was not kneeling on the floor anymore and was gripping my arm a little too hard. I wonder what Lancelot did to him for him to kneel on the ground like that because of the pain.  

But I didn’t have time for questions. I know what waits for me outside the dungeon is not something good. I need to think of something. I need to think of a way to escape.  

However, all hope I have disappeared when I realized that Lancelot could get inside my head and read my every thoughts. How on earth am I supposed to escape a man who can invade my head and read my plan?  

Tears swelled in the corners of my eyes.  

Am I really going to die today?  

The sun was bright when I got out of the dungeon. When my eyes adjusted to the light, I looked around.  

I was in a courtyard. Surrounding us were sturdy walls and opulent carvings. Statues of gargoyles, wolves, and any other creatures from every nightmare, stood on every side. 

People stood around the courtyard. Wolves of the Alpha King’s pack, the Shadow pack.

Some of them were looking at me like I was their last meal. Some were sneering. Some were snickering. Some called me names I’d rather not repeat. But I walked ahead. My gaze was fixed on the dais where the throne was.  

The throne of the Alpha King.  

Then my eyes drifted to another platform on the left. And I saw a post there. I instantly knew what they planned to do as soon as I saw it.  

My eyes went back to Lancelot who was sitting on his throne, legs crossed and his chin resting comfortably on his hand. He was looking at me with a small smile on his face.

He looked so calm. He looked so kind. Anyone who doesn’t know him would think he’s a good man.  

But he is not. He is the most ruthless of them all. He doesn’t have mercy. And he doesn’t have a heart.  

“Such interesting flattery,” he said in my head and I glared at him sitting on the throne. I hate how this man could enter my mind whenever he likes. His smile widened as though he was enjoying us having a secret conversation inside my head.  

How can he do this? How powerful is he that he can even get inside another person’s head?  

“Where’s Violet?” I asked. 

“Ah. That one is feisty. I just made her sleep. She will be awake later once you feel enough pain.”  

Bile rose to my throat. He made my wolf sleep? How is that even possible? 

We reached the foot of the dais and I glared at him. He doesn’t seem to be affected by it and I did not expect him to be. Then he stood from his throne and looked at the other wolves around us.  

“Today we shall witness justice being served,” he started and his people cheered. They delight in terror. They delight in death. I shall be their entertainment today. 

“With the death of Baron, we shall serve justice in his name.” 

Baron, the one who tried to assault me and got what he deserved.  

I knew Lancelot could read what was on my mind and I know he was listening to what I was thinking because the moment I finished that statement, his eyes darted towards me.  

“Let her be burned alive,” he announced  

And the crowd cheered. My death is their amusement.  

Lancelot’s gaze remained fixed on me. Swift death, my ass.  

A rich and dark chuckle echoed inside my head.  

“I’ll make the fire extra hot so you’d burn faster. How’s that for swift?”  

The man named Marcial pulled me towards the other dais where the pole was. Dried twigs piled in the bottom of the platform where they would start the fire.  

Marcial started tying me on the pole and I winced when he tied it too tightly. But I did not show them I was hurt. The people of the pack have cheered, telling me I deserved to die for what I did to Baron. But I showed no reaction.  

I was scared shitless but it’s pointless now.  

When Marcial was done binding both my hands and feet, he came down and took out a match. He gave me one last look of contempt before he lit the twigs.  

Fire spread quickly and the cheers got louder. However, I could only hear the sound of the fire crackling as it continued to eat the twigs. Soon, it would eat me alive.  

The fire has reached the dais. It would only be a matter of seconds before it could reach my feet. The wolves have cheered. Their faces were smiling. Some were laughing. And then I remembered I was back in that courtroom in front of Harold and everyone else.   It felt like my heart was being torn apart again.  

Smoke started to rise as the fire grew.  

Unconsciously, my gaze drifted to where the Alpha King was sitting. Despite the smoke, I could see him looking at me, clearly enjoying the scene.  

But then his smile disappeared and something else flashed in his eyes. Something like horror.  

Before I could even process what it was, he was gone from his throne and suddenly, he was standing on the platform where I was. He brandished his arm and the fire was gone.

I looked at him, surprised. Why did he kill the fire? Why is he breathing so hard like he just came out from the marathon? Why does he look so scared?  

"Mate," he said. His throat bobbed as he looked at me, eyes wide. There was still fear in his eyes. Something I did not expect to see from him.  

This man is the feared Alpha King in all the lands and here he is, standing in front of me and calling me his mate.  

"W-What?"  

"You're my mate," he repeated and the ties on my hands and feet tightened around my skin, making me wince in pain.  

How dare he spout those words when he was the one who ordered to execute me? My fury for this man knows no bounds and I don't care about what he says. He is my enemy and I will not give him any satisfaction of seeing me break. I will not be with this ruthless man. 

So I gave him a wicked smile before I said, "Then I reject you as my mate. I would rather die than be with you—“ 

I was not able to continue what I was about to say when the bounds on my hands and feet disappeared. The fire has completely vanished like it wasn’t there in the first place.  

He walked closer to me. The action so graceful and calculated. Before I knew it, he was already in front of me. Too close to be called appropriate. And I felt his finger lifting my chin up.  

His eyes glinted with desire before he said, "You can't reject the Alpha King, little wolf. If I say you are my mate then you are my mate.”  

He squeezed my chin and never left his gaze on me as he said, “There shall be no execution.” 

The whole pack went silent as he made the announcement. Then he turned to face his people.  

“This woman is my mate,” he said. His voice was low and it contained enough poison to make the people in the courtyard stop breathing. “Anyone who dares touch or hurt her might as well be signing their death warrants.” 

I was too surprised to even think of anything. Everything happened too fast.  

Just yesterday, I was rejected by my mate for my own sister. I was harassed hours after. I was unconscious, I was imprisoned. I was almost burned to death.  

And now, I became the mate of the Alpha King. 

Chapter 04: To Trust Is Dangerous

“Welcome to my humble abode,” Lance chirped as soon as I felt my bare feet on the cold mahogany floor. I stumbled and when I realized his hand was on my waist, I pushed him away. And without support, I fell to the ground with a thud.

I glared at him and he was looking at me with that amused look on his face.

“For someone who was almost burned to death, you sure are enthusiastic,” he said and stuffed his hands into his pockets. There was a hint of mischief in his eyes and I could tell he was thinking of something I could never decipher.

A grin curved the corners of his mouth and he said, “It’s interesting how you kill me with your eyes and compliment me inside your mind.”

“Stop reading other people’s minds,” I hissed and did my best to stand. I had been shaking tremendously before he scooped me into his arms and transported me into this place.

“Oh, trust me, sweetheart, I am not reading your mind. Your thoughts are presenting themselves to me like food on a silver platter. Maybe you should work on that.”

How the heck am I supposed to do that?

I glared at him one more time as I finally gained my balance. The amused smile on his lips just fueled my anger. “Where am I and why am I here?”

I dared not to remove my gaze from him. Who knows what he’s going to do once I let my guard down? In my periphery, this place doesn’t look like a castle or anything that could symbolize his status as the Alpha King. It looked like a simple townhouse in the middle of nowhere. I wonder where the dungeons are. Perhaps this house only looked normal from the outside but actually has dungeons several feet underground and I am going to be thrown there.

I can’t let that happen. I immediately made myself note the windows, doors—any possible exits I could use.

“Perhaps you were too shaken by your near-death experience earlier that you weren’t able to process my declaration properly.” He placed a hand on his chest and went on, “I am your mate.”

“Bullshit.”

“Exactly my reaction the first time I realized it but here we are,” he said and looked around the house. I stole a glance but it was quick and I was just able to note the wide floor-to-ceiling glass window on my left side. Would it hurt if I jumped there and fell down? How high are we on?

“To answer your question, you are in my private residence and this is in the outskirts of my territory. There are barriers around the house so no one can enter unless I allow them to.”

Terror filled my heart. Does that mean I am trapped here?

“No, you are not,” he answered, reading my thoughts once again. “You can freely leave the house but I would advise you to consider that carefully. This may be my territory but some of my…more violent subjects roam the woods.”

“I said stop reading my mind!”

I felt my anger rising inside of my chest and yet, I still couldn’t feel Violet.

“Where’s my wolf? Why can’t I feel her? What did you do to her?”

He merely waved a dismissive hand before saying, “There is nothing to worry about. Your wolf is just sleeping inside of you. I shall let her out once I make sure you won’t kill me in my sleep.”

My brows furrowed and dread settled in. “What—are you saying that you’re sleeping here?”

“Well, this is my home so yes, I am sleeping in my residence.”

“Let me go, asshole. I can’t be here!”

The smile on his face went wider—no, it was feral.

“And where do you think should you be? Your pack? Oh…” he placed a dramatic hand on his chest as if to sympathize. “I forgot you left your pack after the heir of the Alpha rejected you as his mate and chose your sister instead. That was cruel, I must say.”

“It is none of your business—“

“Or perhaps you’d like to go back to the bayou where they can execute you for killing one of the skilled wolf warriors?”

“You are an absolute prick—“

“I don’t think you realize the situation you are in now, little wolf. I saved your ass and you're welcome,” he cut me off, his voice was low but his statement was sharp enough to cut through my brave front.

Fear sunk its teeth in me as he said those words. Of course, I am very well aware of the situation I am in now. Either I get thrown into the dungeons or he’ll force himself in me. There is no way I would accept this man as my mate. I have just been rejected and the pain from that was too much and I don’t think I would ever recover. I have already set myself to venture the world out there and live as normal as possible.

And then he comes and declares I am his mate? He’s the Alpha King! How absurd is that?

“I don’t feel the mating bond and therefore, I can’t accept you as my mate—“

I flinched as cold wrapped itself on my body. I stood frozen on my feet and I looked at him with wide eyes. He wasn’t doing anything. He was just standing there, hands in his pockets. He was looking at me with that cool gaze. But I know what exactly he was doing. His shadows, although, just a little of them were peeking from his back. They looked like they were just waiting to be released and caused destruction and chaos.

Tendrils of dark power wrapped themselves on my wrists, my ankles, and everywhere in my body as if keeping me in place. The power was too much, it was too overwhelming. The wolf instincts inside of me were thrashing, telling me to run in the other direction.

“As I said before, little wolf…” he trailed, and dark whisps of power swirled around me, caressing my face ever so gently. “…you can’t reject the Alpha King.”

My eyes met his and he wasn’t even moving. If anything, he looked bored. I could never imagine how powerful this man is. Subduing a wolf with just half a thought—it was enough to terrify me. Every cell in my body was screaming for me to kneel and ask for forgiveness. But another part of me is telling me to fight and not be bullied anymore.

“A-And what are you going to do to me? Are you going to throw me into a dungeon? Threaten me to do whatever it is that you want?”

He let out a sigh before running his hand through his hair. If it were any circumstances and I didn’t know who he was and what he was capable of, I would have swooned.

“I am not sure why you keep on thinking about being put in a dungeon. You will have your own chambers and you are free to roam this house to your heart’s content. As much as I love chatting with you, I am afraid I need to be somewhere.” The tendrils of power disappeared and I did not realize I was not properly breathing until he withdrew his power.

“I mean it when I said you should consider first before you plan to escape. The woods are not exactly a friendly place, especially to a female wolf like you. And if worse comes to worst, I would be forced to claim you and I am certain you wouldn’t like that. At least not now.”

My brows furrowed. Claim me? What does that even mean? I don't like the sound of it.

He turned and waved a hand but then I found myself following him.

“Wait,” I called out and he looked at me over his shoulder. “If…If we are mates, then why can’t I feel the mating bond? I can’t feel anything. And what do you mean by…claim?”

He let out a soft chuckle. “For your first question, we’ll figure it out. As for the second, I’d rather tell you about it when you feel less hatred about me.” He said it with such finality that I wasn’t able to retort.

Then he went on, “For now, there will be maidservants who will come to serve and help you settle in. If you plan to escape, make sure you get out of the forest alive so I can collect you still in one piece.” He let out a wicked grin and it only fueled my fury.

Before I could even stop myself, I ran to the nearest table picked up one small figurine of a lion, and threw it across the room. I watched as it flew and hit its mark—the back of the Alpha King’s head.

The figurine fell to the floor with a heavy thud and Lance halted. He might be the most powerful Alpha of this damned continent but that should have hurt him.

Ever so slowly, he turned and faced me.

I couldn’t read what the reaction on his face was but I was already preparing myself for death. But the gratifying feeling of hitting his head was enough for to quell my anger.

I’ve got nothing to lose. Might as well go all out.

Swift as lightning, I grabbed another figurine and started to aim his face.

“I dare you, little wolf,” he said. His voice was laced with enough warning that should have scared me but I stopped caring a little while ago.

I threw the figurine as hard as I could but with a flick of his wrist, the figurine changed direction and it flew straight to the opening door.

The creak of the wood echoed inside it as well as the sound of the figurine hitting someone else’s forehead.

It fell down the floor with another heavy thud and my jaw dropped as I saw there was another person in the room. Someone who just arrived.

The man was equally shocked as I am. His eyes were wide as he looked at the figurine on his feet and then to Lance who was standing not far ahead.

His hand went to his forehead, unable to believe what just happened. Then his eyes landed on me and my whole state—barefoot, almost naked with my torn clothes, and furious.

“As much as I’d like to know how there are flying figurines around here, I think I am more interested in knowing who you are, my lady.”

He bowed graciously and I couldn’t help but grimace at the gesture.

Great. There is another conceited man in the house.

I glared in Lance’s direction and he definitely read my mind screaming to be as far away as possible, as he said, “Your chamber is on the second floor. First door to the right.”

Without saying anything, I turned and ran straight to the stairs without looking back.

The moment I saw the door, I immediately went in and closed the door. Even though I know a lock would be useless should he decide to barge into the chamber, I still locked it.

It was then that I let my knees give up and I sat on the floor, letting everything sink in.

Chapter 05: Her Choice

I convinced myself it didn't matter.

That the posh room that is my chamber and the maidservants ready to serve should I need them didn't matter. Even the magnificent view of the snowcapped mountains from my window was not enough to convince me to stay. I wasn't stupid and I won't be easily bought off by nice things.

I was determined to escape.

For hours, I was alone in the house. However, I mainly stayed in my chambers so I don't know if Lance and that other man were still there and are very quiet or if they left. I wager it's the latter.

I don't know when they will be back but I asked the maids and they said they usually come home at night time—mostly midnights, which is terrific.

I concocted my plan then. I couldn't see the maids but I know they are just there, expertly hidden and trying to make themselves as invisible as possible. If they received a particular order from Lance not to make me uncomfortable, I don't know and I don't care. I don't appreciate it. If not for this invisible mating bond I couldn't even feel, he wouldn't have batted an eyelash as his cronies burned me alive. He's a cold-blooded murderer.

You killed one of his men. You're a murderer as well, said a part of my thoughts. I shook it away. What I did then was self-defense. I had no other choice. Had they been so civil and just left me alone, it wouldn't have ended that way.

I strayed my mind away from the memory of the sticky blood coating my hand and the feel of a man's heartbeat on my hands.

I still have much time to execute my plan. When dinnertime came, food was already served at the dining hall. There were no signs of the maids who prepared the food but I indulged myself with the feast. I would need the energy for my plan to work.

Counting the hours in my chamber, I started preparing. There were clothes prepared for me so I used them. However, I wanted to curse whoever designed the clothing as it barely covered most of my skin. I don't know if this is the Alpha King's way of taunting me but I am not going to give him the satisfaction. I tore the dress and gave it a filthy gesture, imagining he could see me doing such a thing.

Thankfully, there was one piece of clothing that looked appropriate enough for my planned adventure.

I swallowed hard as I watched myself in the mirror. Doubt started to crawl into my veins but I refused to give in to it.

I need to leave. I can't be locked in here, dolled up inside a pretty house like his personal plaything. I can't be his mate. Surely, there has to be a mistake.

I have only ever loved one man and that was Harold. How could I ever be with another man?

He chose your sister over you. You certainly can be with another man.

I shook the thought away. Even if me and Lance were mates, I still couldn't feel the mating bond settle in. That's why I need to leave before I feel it. Otherwise, it would be very difficult for me to break it and leave.

Taking a deep breath, I walked out of my chamber. Three hours have passed since I've had my dinner and I waited until the maids settled in their own chambers. Talking to them earlier helped me plan carefully. Around this time, they must be sound asleep.

Swiftly, I walked down the set of stairs. I was thankful the wood did not groan in protest as I tiptoed down. I eyed the door and my heart pumped with excitement.

Lance warned me of the wolves in the woods but I think I can manage well enough. Violet is still asleep inside of me and I could barely feel her. Which means wolves will not sniff me out as I venture through the woods. Hopefully.

I reached the door and I felt my heart was going to explode. Some part of me was telling me to stay and just accept the Alpha King as my mate, while another part screamed for me to run. I knew I had to follow my instincts. Getting involved with the Alpha King is not a good idea, after all.

The knob was cold against my palm as I twisted it. The door creaked open and the cold bite of the night breeze wrapped itself around my exposed face. I looked down and saw another set of stairs. The house was located on some kind of an elevated place—a hill, I figured.

Slowly, I closed the door behind me and watched the surroundings. There is no one there. Save for the sound of the crickets gracing the night with their peaceful sound, there was nothing else. I looked back at the house proudly standing on the hill--a bright and lively-looking place, very much in contrast to its owner who seemed to be the embodiment of darkness.

Before I could change my mind, I immediately stepped down the stairs. It only took me less than ten minutes to get to the bottom. There was a small garden and from the looks of the healthy bushes, well-trimmed topiaries, and meticulously carved statues, I could tell it was well taken care of. My mind immediately darted to the image of Lance tending the gardens and I blinked as the image did not sit well. He couldn't be the one taking care of the garden himself, could he?

Peeling my gaze away from the majestic view, I set my gaze on the forest ahead. The darkness coming from it seemed to beckon me to come. Like a trap to an unsuspecting prey. Dread crawled inside my system, ready to pounce should I give it a chance. One look at the forest could send a sane person to the other direction. But right now, I am much too desperate to even think of what's sane or not. My life has spiraled downhill uncontrollably and it was never sane to begin with.

My feet trembled as I took the first step closer to the forest. I don't know if Lance was just scaring me earlier about the wolves but I certainly don't want to encounter one tonight. Not in this state.

The cold bite of the wind continued to prickle my skin, making me shiver. The hair on my back rose maybe because of the cold or the dread. Or perhaps a mixture of them.

I did not dare look back at the house and continued to walk to the forest. I could have sworn the woods whispered to each other but I kept on mumbling to myself it was just my wicked imagination, fueled by fear and anxiety.

If I do get out of here alive, will Lance really find me? The thought made my stomach turn leaden. I don't want to be found by anyone. Not by my pack and certainly not by him.

The trees seemed to move closer to my path. However, thanks to my impeccable sense of sight, I was able to navigate with little difficulty. I ignored the trees and started running, maneuvering myself over thick roots. As I got deeper, the surroundings became even darker. The light of the moon that was supposed to be bright was covered by the thick canopy. It was like entering an entirely new world. A dreadful one.

When I was roaming around Lance's house earlier, I saw the map. I saw how the end of this map would bring me to a port city. I could ride a ship and sail somewhere. I don't care where it is, as long as it is not here.

The thought of sailing away only fueled my desire to get out of the forest as fast as I could. Camping for the night was a good idea but I couldn't risk it as well, especially if this place is swarming with wolves.

I tried calling Violet but she was still unresponsive. I couldn't feel her still and I felt like she was locked away somewhere, out of my reach.

"I'm going to find our way out of this, Violet. And I am going to wake you up," I mumbled.

My walking slowed as I tried to be as quiet as possible. But this feat was proven impossible as I heard a twig snapped not too far away from me. I stood frozen and slowed my breathing. I sniffed the air and muttered a low curse. Even without Violet, I still have impeccable senses. And right at that moment, I smelled the very thing I was dreading to encounter.

A wolf in heat. No, not just one wolf.

I paused and never dared to move. I think I might have stopped breathing as I heard the wolves close in.

Of course, they would smell me. Who was I fooling? Did I really think I could escape this forest unscathed? Why did I not believe Lance when he warned me earlier?

I braced myself. I don't know if I am going to hold myself well in a fight against several wolves given my condition but I refuse to make it easy for them.

I kept a watchful eye on my surroundings. The trees seemed to continue closing in and the air seemed to thicken, making it hard to breathe. I have spent too long in these dark woods that I could have sworn I heard the darkness whisper back as I try to mumble myself words of encouragement.

Something moved on my left side and I was quick to brace myself. It was a good thing I did because the attack came all too suddenly that I barely had time to shield my body from it. The next thing I realized, I was flying across the area and my back hit the trunk. I grunted in pain as I fell to the ground. The dried leaves were brittle against my clammy skin.

I pushed myself to get up and I did, ignoring the aching of my body.

The wolves surrounded me and I couldn't count how many of them there were.

One thing for sure is that: they're not going to make this quick and easy for me as well.