Billionaire Alpha's 99 Deadly Games

hapter 21

Over the past month, Aria had contemplated escape countless times.

But Lucas seemed to have installed some supernatural GPS in her DNA-no matter where she went, he materialized within minutes. The few times she had attempted to slip away had only resulted in

even tighter restrictions.

As punishment for her last attempt, he had "temporarily suspended" her contract with the Northern Alpine Dance Company. His explanation to the artistic director had been surprisingly tactful-they needed quality time after their lengthy separation. Once they were formally mated, she could naturally return to dancing

Yes. Mated.

During that meticulously orchestrated press conference, Lucas had not only announced her miraculous resurrection but also unveiled their upcoming mating ceremony, scheduled just four weeks later.

Aria had known nothing about this until she watched it happen live on stage, resulting in a confrontation afterward that changed absolutely nothing about his plans.

Today's excursion to the luxury district was supposedly to select mating ceremony accessories. The dress itself was already being custom-designed by three separate ateliers competing for the

privilege.

Having completed his transaction, Lucas returned to the private suite and gently took her hand. "Shall we?" he asked with that self-satisfied smile that made her skin crawl.

Aria maintained her practiced silence, allowing him to lead her from the boutique to the waiting car without resistance.

past the tinted windows, her expression betraying the desperation she fought to

with Lucas Thornwood. The very thought

impossible. Every exit was watched, every message monitored, every potential ally carefully

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Billionaire Alpha's 60 15

Chapter 21

to be forced into a mating bond with the man who had methodically tortured her for years? The legal implications seemed absurd in modern pack law, yet

otherwise.

hands tightened in her lap until her knuckles turned white from the pressure.

typical pre-mating jitters, Lucas had cleared his afternoon schedule to take her

destination, however, his phone lit up with what appeared to be

planned. "I'II join you as soon as I can," he promised, already scrolling

car, Lucas leaned in for what

causing his lips to land on her cheek instead

briefly in his expression before his practiced

crumbled. She frantically dug through her purse for antibacterial wipes, scrubbing at

area was raw and stinging did she finally discard the wipe with

Aria seated alone by the panoramic windows. Security personnel positioned discreetly at each exit remained a constant reminder of her captivity. These wolves, supposedly protecting

Aria picked half-heartedly at the multi-course

a server, placing an