Contract With The Alpha King by Brey Mitchylle

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20:47 Sat, Nov Chapter

23

Elijah faced his mother with the same calm demeanor he always maintained, his wine glass in hand. Queen Luna Lyanna sat across from him, her piercing green eyes locked onto his Beside her, Carissa sat silently, her posture stiff, clearly uncomfortable with the tension in the room.

"A mate!" Queen Luna repeated, her frown deepening. "Elijah, understand your desire for independence, but you're not just anyone. You're a prince, participating in the Rite of Kings. Your choices have consequences, not just for you, but for the entire kingdom. Why would you bring a woman here, one you intend to marry, without informing your father or me

Elijah sipped his wine, letting the rich liquid linger on his tongue before swallowing. He met his mother's gaze, unflinching, "Because it was a decision I needed to make on my own. I'm not a child, Mother I'm fully aware of the responsibilities I

carry

Queen Luna's expression softened slightly, but her eyes remained stern. "This isn't just about you, Elijah. The Rite of Kingst is about proving your worth, your ability to lead and to make alliances that will strengthen the kingdom. Bringing a woman here, one who hasn't been vetted, who comes from a family with its own complexities-this is not something to take lightly."

"I'm not taking it lightly." Elijah replied, his tone steady. "Fiona is not just any woman. She's from the Rosenthal family, yes, but she's also more than that. She's strong, intelligent, and capable. She's someone I've chosen because she complements me, not because of her family's status or connections."

Queen Luna's brow furrowed as she considered his words. "And what of Carissa?" she asked, glancing briefly at the woman beside her. "The Montego family has been a close ally for years. They've supported our kingdom in ways that cannot be ignored. Carissa herself is well-known and respected. You know the implications of your choice, Elijah."

Elijah didn't look at Carissa, keeping his focus on his mother "Miss Carissa and I have known each other since we were children, but that's all there is to it. She's a friend, and I value that friendship. But I'm not going to marry someone because it's expected of me. The Rite is about finding a true partner, not fulfilling old expectations."

Carissa remained silent, her gaze fixed on the floor, but a faint blush crept into her cheeks. Queen Luna sighed, a mixture of frustration and concern in her eyes. "You've always been stubborn, Elijah, but this is different. You're a prince, and with that comes the duty to ensure the kingdom's future. Marrying someone like Fiona-someone who brings uncertainty-could have repercussions we can't foresee."

table with a soft thud, leaning forward slightly. "Repercussions?" he

Luna's face tightened with anger, her usual composure cracking, "You-how could you- Her lips trembled, her brows furrowing deeply. "You seem to be saying

she said, her eyes wide and pleading as she looked at Elijah. "I didn't mean for it to

He turned his gaze back to his mother, ignoring Carissa's apology. "Father promised me that I could marry who never I wanted.

eyes flashed with frustration. "And why not? Marrying someone like Carissa would

once I win the Rite of

is wrong." Queen Luna said, her voice lips. "I'm making the right choice for myself, Mother. Tomorrow, Fiona and t will be paying an official visit.

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Sat, Nov 30

Chapter 21

63%

into fists. She opened her mouth to speak, but

of the room, leaving

warmth of the flames did little to ease the tension that lingered from his confrontation with his mother. Regor stood nearby, his usual stern expression in place.

Highness, Regor

you think of my mother, Regor?

the ancient texts, certain wolves were destined to have only one true mate, a bond so profound and primal that their bodies would not respond to anyone else. It wasn't just about attraction or affection; it

that could heal him. This is where the

his secret-his curse-until

his desire immediate and overwhelming. At first, he hadn't understood it. He had tried to dismiss it as mere attraction, but the intensity of his reaction to her had only grown stronger. It was then that he realized