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."

in

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

be there. I'm

11

"I don't need your apologies. I don't want to hear

hated the look of sympathy in his eyes; it almost made me believe that despite everything, he still cared for

it more times than I could count. 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 what else to do. And

"You aren't a failure."

think I want to hear." I pushed to my feet. "I shouldn't

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

you know

was

his eyes, but I looked away, reminding myself how easily he had fooled me before. But then I

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Hundred and Seventy

wanted his sister

"What is her name?".