Contractually Yours, Alpha by Giftemmy

Chapter One Hundred and Seventy Two

Chapter One Hundred and Seventy Two

I took a quick shower, though every step sent pain shooting through me. Cynthia said it would pass-I couldn't see that happening anytime soon. But then again, I shouldn't rely on her words.

I stared at the mirror. New bruises covered my body, some deep enough to leave permanent scars-like the ones on my arm and lower stomach, where I'd been shot. I had no idea how Cynthia managed to get the bullet out, but the bruise wasn't fading anytime soon.

All those responsible for what happened to me were now locked in the dungeons. Phil had advised me to delay the trials until I was stronger-it was wise counsel. I couldn't afford to appear weak before them.

I wasn't sure why I was here, standing in front of Aric's cell

I unlocked the door and stepped inside. He was pale-no doubt from blood loss- but his injuries had healed. Somehow, he had managed to remove the bullet. The moment our eyes met, his gaze darkened. Even in his weakened state, I could feel his anger.

"Who did this to you?" he asked, as if forgetting he wasn't in the best position himself.

"Rebels," I answered. "I imagine seeing me like this satisfies you?"

"I will kill them."

The anger in his

did he seem to grasp where he was-and how empty

be there. I'm

11

words. "I don't need your apologies. I don't want

look of sympathy in his eyes; it almost made me believe

wanted the wrong thing. My own people turned against me. I could have died. And I keep wondering... what am I doing wrong? What am I missing? I don't know what else to do. And now, I feel like

"You aren't a failure."

him a glare. "Of course, you'd say what you think I want to hear."

died, but you didn't. And I know about Alexander-I only know that because the guards here gossip more than bored housewives. But even with your mate gone, you're not wasting away in grief. You took the reins. That's what makes a true leader. Your father saw it top. If he hadn't been trying to keep you safe, he would have passed

you know

told me. He knew this was your

he had fooled me before. But then I thought about his sister; he had betrayed

1/2

Hundred

wanted his sister

"What is her name?".