“And of course, with an Omega rank, you would need express permission from me if you want to train to fight.” I shot daggers at the Beta as the tears started falling down my cheeks. I was conflicted about the idea of allowing myself to fall into the fated bond and all it entailed. On one hand, I had an undeniable attraction to the sheer power and strength of Liam. The fated bond caused everything around him to be dull while he shined. But on the other, I was terrified that if I allowed that bond to be formed, I would no longer be able to protect myself or those I loved. Maybe it would be best to go rogue, escape from here, and never look back.
It was like the Alpha heard my thought, although I don’t know how, and a glint of something terrifying passed through his eyes.
“And be warned, child, if you attempt anything like you have been planning.”
“I have no idea what you are talking about,” I tried for defiance but cringed when I saw the flash of gold in the Alpha’s eyes again.
"Don't play coy with me, Erica. I know you've been trying to get Grant's help to escape." My stomach dropped and anger coiled within me like a snake ready to strike. Betrayal stung like an open wound, but I forced myself to remain calm, my jaw clenched tight.
"Grant wouldn't –" I began, only to be cut off by Alpha Declan.
"Grant has loyalties to this pack, and it seems he values them more than any misguided attempt to help you run away," he said coldly. I bit back a snarl, despising the fact that he was right. Grant had chosen his loyalty to the pack over our connection, leaving me exposed and vulnerable. I couldn't decide whether I was more furious with him or with myself for ever trusting him in the first place. I should have known not to trust someone here.
"Fine," I spat out, unable to keep the bitterness from my tone. "You've made your point. I won't go anywhere without your permission."
"See that you don't," Alpha Declan warned, his expression unyielding. “Because if you do try, you will be severely punished. Even if you get past the border guard, I will send out my best trackers after you, and I will have you dragged back here. You will be restrained in silver chains in the dungeons for as long as I see fit.” I couldn’t help the sob that came as I buried my head in my hands. How had my life turned to this in such a short time? No, I refuse to stop fighting. I will play along until I get my chance, so I looked back at the Alpha with determination. He was still sitting there, leaning forward on his desk, his chin resting on his entwined hands.
“I have one condition of my own,” I declared. His only acknowledgement was a raise of his eyebrows.
“No one knows,” I stuttered slightly and my voice cracked. “About my wolf, or the fated bond, I mean.” I looked over at Liam and saw him looking at me. He still looked upset, but nodded his head.
“That’s okay,” he said. “I plan on proving myself to you, anyway. I can be quiet until then. But I ask for something in return.” I looked at him expectantly and waited.
“Please give me a chance.” I looked at him for a moment before nodding my head. He nodded back and smiled, his eyes showing his happiness. I couldn’t help the smile back. I looked back at the Alpha, who was quietly watching our exchange, and I bowed my head in submission.
“Please, Alpha,” I whispered. I looked back up and was surprised to see what looked like sadness in his eyes. He nodded his head slightly.
“You have my word. No one else knows unless you tell them.” I felt relief sweep through me, I didn’t even realise how much this had been worrying me.
“Then I accept your offer.”
Chapter 20
Liam
Isatinthechair next to Erica and watched her intently. I hated to see the tears that fell down her beautiful cheeks as my father commanded her life like it was just another piece on his board. It was so out of character for him as well. Obviously he was thinking of his pack, and of Erica, but he seemed to be going about it in an unusually harsh manner. It took everything I had not to go for him when he threw my mate across the room. That and Gregg mind linking me and telling me to stay still.
“Then I accept your offer,” Erica said, bringing me back to the room from my mind. I smiled at the thought of working with her on the business. I already worked alongside my father, and Erica probably didn’t realise it yet, but this meant that we would be spending more time together.
“Wise choice,” my father said. His eyes flickering to me before settling back on Erica.
His eyes glazed over, and a few seconds later, a knock came at the door. Genevieve Sinclair, or Gen as we called her, entered. Gen was a kind-hearted member of our pack, always ready with a smile and a helping hand. Her blond hair cascaded down her back, framing blue-green eyes that sparkled with warmth and good humour. She appeared petite, yet possessed a strength that belied her delicate features. Like most members of the Silver Stone pack, I found it impossible not to like her.
"Alpha Declan, you requested for me?" she asked cheerfully, giving a slight bow.
“Remind me of your name again, dear?” my father asked, even though I knew full well that he knew who she was.
“It’s Gen, sir. Genevieve Sinclair.”
“Are you related to Amaury Sinclair?”
“Yes sir, I am. He’s my papa,” she proclaimed with a big smile.
“That’s good. He’s a good man, your father.” Amaury was one of our top warriors. He was just barely beaten out for the Commander role by Grayson Thompson, and that was probably because every single one of Grayson’s six children were amazing warriors. Gen smiled proudly.
"Gen. I have a task for you," he replied, his voice firm but not unkind. "This here is Erica, she is a new pack member."
"Oh how lovely," Gen beamed, clearly excited to help. Turning towards Erica, she extended her hand.
