Contractually Yours, Alpha by Giftemmy

Chapter One Hundred and Eighty Nine

Chapter One Hundred and Eighty Nine

I'd seen Aric fight before, seen him furious and full of rage, but I had never seen him completely lose himself. He moved with astonishing speed, lunging at her and landing a brutal punch to her face, the sickening crack of her nose breaking echoing through the room.

"You told me she was alive!"

"You fucking sicko!" Punch.

"You used me!" Punch.

Tears streamed down Aric's face, his pain sharp and consuming. Despite everything, I understood-losing a loved one was a pain that never truly faded. Everything he had done, every choice he made, was for his sister, driven by the desperate hope of saving her. It was what any big brother would have done he had fought for her, believing he could bring her back home.

punching her; now he stared at his trembling hands, as if struggling to believe what he had just done. I stepped to his side, ready. Cynthia wasn't the type to take a beating without striking back-I stood ready, expecting her to unleash whatever 'magic' she had on

did nothing. Shock flickered across her face, but then, just like that,

was all for nothing. She told me Rose was still alive. She deceived me, but I

had to do to save your sister, and I forgive you for

mouth to say something, but that's when

They're here.

Phil was certain the Onyx Alpha wouldn't delay, and he was right. Still, a part of me had hoped for more time. I knew what was coming-I understood the cost of war. Even in victory, not everyone would make it. I would have to face the fallen, pack soldiers who had fought and died. There was another option-one I had refused to consider. If I married Alpha Derek, no one would have to die.

my mind, something

and Phil were by my side almost instantly. "The soldiers have taken position and are

them to hold

This time, it was Austin who spoke. My advisors rarely questioned

repeated myself, my voice steady. "Tell them to hold