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 eyes wasn't

I reminded him. Only then did he seem to

sorry I couldn't be there. I'm

11

My voice cut through his words. "I don't

made me believe that despite everything, he still cared for me.

To rule. To become an Alpha. It was everything I had ever worked for. But only now do I realize I 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

"You aren't a failure."

him a glare. "Of course, you'd say what you think I want to hear." I pushed to my feet. "I shouldn't have come

not wasting away in grief. You took the reins. That's what makes a true leader. Your father saw it top. If

you know

he told me. He knew this was your destiny, and I knew

had fooled me before. But then I thought about his sister; he had betrayed me for a reason. It wasn't because of his ambition

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Hundred and Seventy

his sister

"What is her name?".