Contractually Yours, Alpha by Giftemmy

Chapter Two Hundred and Eleven

**BETA PHIL'S POV**

EARLIER... (MATE BALL)

I wasn't born into any of the 'noble' bloodlines. None of my ancestors had ever been part of the Alpha, Beta, or Gamma clans, so I never thought I could ascend to such a position. But if my mother were alive today, she would wear that same warm smile-the one that said, 'I told you so.' She had believed in me, even in times when I didn't share that belief.

Pack members stepped forward to congratulate me. I couldn't recall the last time I had felt this happy.

Then, I caught the scent.

Many years ago, I would have been overjoyed; many years ago, the thought of finding my mate-my other half- consumed me. But those prime years were gone, and now I saw how people were overly obsessed with the ideology of having mates. We didn't need mates to be complete; it was all a matter of the mind. I never needed one.

So why now?

Why now when everything was finally falling into place?

Abandoning my half-drunk glass of champagne, I rose and followed the scent. That's when I saw her. She had also come to a stop, and then our eyes met.

She wore a black top and an equally black skirt, with fishnet tights beneath and black shoes to match. Her skin was naturally pale, but I could tell the whiteness of her face was enhanced by makeup. Her eyes were painted black, and she had multiple piercings-on her nose, lips, eyelids, ears, and even her belly button.

this time, I could almost overlook it. Her dark brown eyes were huge and sad. She could pass for seventeen, but of course, she had to

she took a step forward. I turned around and walked

*Present*

still think

have felt

the Riverdale Pack. They were a small pack, not too far from the Nightshade pack. I informed Alexander of my whereabouts, but he had no idea what I was going for. Perhaps Kaida had already told him about my mate, but he hadn't asked why I was visiting the pack. Now, I stood before the small

front steps and knocked once. The sound of approaching footsteps told me someone was

late thirties, stood by the door. She had black hair, just like

Philip Dawson." I introduced myself, and immediately her eyes lit

of course you are. And I'm Rebecca Ashford. Selene's mother."

into the small cottage,

a visitor. It's Beta Phillip," Rebecca called out. "She'll be out

few minutes.

1/2

Hundred and

Coffee? Tea?" she asked and I was about

of it.

do.

away. Please, make yourself at home," she said before walking

a seat on the small, worn-out couch. When she entered, it wasn't Rebecca who returned with