Alpha Of Darkness And The Half-Breed Healer

Chapter 1 Life of Nia

NIA'S POV

Life didn't exactly feel the same after the death of my mother; her death forced my father and me to run for our dear lives away from the Crescent pack into the woods. There is bad blood between humans and the werewolves. However, that didn't matter in my parents' case; it was love at first sight for both of them. My mum had found her mate in my father, who is a human. She didn't care about turning her back on her kind. My dad was a wandering explorer who settled wherever the nights met him. Being the daughter of the head of the omega clan in the Crescent pack, they had to let my mother and her love interest be. When they gave birth to me, it was a bit hard for everyone to accept a half-breed like myself, but they couldn't voice out their displeasure because of how vicious my mother could get. She is the pack's healer, and her presence is the bane of the pack's existence.

Things went on smoothly until she got stuck with an unexplainable disease; a healer treated my mother with everything considered appropriate for use. Eventually, she gave up the ghost despite being a healer. Rumors began to spread that the goddess cursed her due to her association with my father. Some members of the pack got enraged and came after my father and me. My grandparents tried their best to protect us, but they had to let us go when their lives were also on the verge of danger. My father and I had since then found solace in the middle of the woods after working hard to build us a livable cabin for seven days. I have never met someone as hardworking and resilient as my father. I see him walk around with slumped shoulders cause the death of my mother weighs intensely on him, and some nights, I hear his quiet sobs. I made a promise to my dead mother to ensure that he finds happiness eventually. I hope to grow up to improve his life; he is stuck because of his need to look after me. Sometimes, it's my fault that my family got plagued with so much trouble. Probably, if I hadn't been born, both of them would have had no choice but to go apart and live as expected by the order of their opposing society.

My eyes lightened up at the sight of my father, and I ran towards him, helping him with the hunting sack in his hand. "Nia," he called out in his usual husky tone. "How is my angel doing today?" I giggled, hugging him by the waist. "I'm fine, dad. What took you so long?" Laughing lightly, he showed me his bounty. He had hidden the deer with one hand behind his back. "Here you go, my princess." I jumped in excitement, grinning from ear to ear. "We are going to have a feast tonight." He ruffled my hair. "Yes, baby. We would have a feast. Come with me; let's get to work."

I followed him to the back of the cabin, where we skinned the animal and prepared daily meals. Having wandered for a long time, my dad knows how to survive wherever he finds himself. We got down to business as usual, mostly involving him doing everything while I watched in awe. I sighed, staring at his muscled arms. "When are we going to leave this place, Dad?" I asked. He kept mute, still focusing on the woods he arranged to make a fire. "Dad!" I whined, stomping my foot. He exhaled, "Stop being dramatic, Nia. I need to get this done on time to enable us to retire into the safety of the cabin before nightfall."

"This is exactly why I am tired!" I lamented. "Until when would we keep running? They don't want us at the Crescent pack, but we can try out another pack where no one would know about us."

Aside from hiding away from the angry members of my mother's pack, we still have to deal with rogue wolves around the woods. They move around, searching for prey to pounce on. And from what I have heard, they feast on humans. Since we took solace in the woods, my father and I permanently retired too early into the cabin. There is no liberty to sit outside when the moon shines brightly. I don't know how long this has to continue.

"I wish it was that easy, baby. You are eleven, and you still haven't shifted. I don't know what I would do if we settle into another pack, and you get subjected to bullying from your peers because you are different," he said.

"Mum clearly said I would shift when my body is ready. What does this have to do with me being a half-breed?" I bellowed angrily.

He kissed his teeth, "It has everything to do with you being a half-breed. And I know it's my fault, baby. I need to protect you at all costs, pending the time you can stand up for yourself. Full werewolves shift from age eight, and you have never shown any sign regarding harboring a wolf."

Tears pricked at the back of my eyes. I remembered how my few friends became more distant when they all turned, and I was still my usual self. I heard people talking about me being a complete version of my father and how I would never be able to change into a wolf or own one. Their words made me feel like an outcast; probably, that is what I am.

Wiping the tears that trailed my face angrily, I stood up and entered the cabin, shutting the door tightly behind me. "We would talk about this during dinner, baby. I promise!" Dad called out. "I'm sorry if I said something wrong. I love you!" I tried not to smile at his assuring words. But changing my mind, I grumbled and moved to open the door and apologize for my rude behavior. The moment I opened the door, his eyes stared at me fearfully. "Go back inside," he whispered.

I didn't understand what he meant until I saw the shiny, dark, golden eyes that peered through the darkness of the night. In a flash, I saw a full fur jump at my father with its claws, and with my heart in my mouth, I stood dead on the spot. I practically peed on myself as I watched my father struggle with the fierce-looking brown wolf. My dad had learned some fighting skills from my mom when she was still alive and well. He could wield just about any weapon he laid his hands on. He had snatched the long knife he was making use of from the ground to defend himself. My hands shook hard as I held onto the doorknob, watching him try hard to protect himself, but the wolf obviously had enough time and wouldn't back down easily. I felt dizzy when the wolf clawed at my father's arm, tearing off his flesh. I gulped hard at the horrendous sight, hoping to gather enough courage to help him. But I know staying locked up here is the best assistance I can offer him now. As if he knew this horrifying day would come, he has always pleaded with me to stay indoors just in case such a situation occurs. That way, he would have enough courage to fight, knowing I was safe.

A short sigh of relief escaped my lips when Dad slashed the wolf with his knife on the face. I am sure the wound will go deep. However, that single act made the wolf more vicious, and with one loud howl, he jumped at my dad, clawing at his neck directly. Within a few seconds, I saw my father on the ground with blood gushing out of the deep gash on his neck. Sneering, the wolf strolled majestically toward me. For a moment, I thought it had seen me. Instead, it held the dead deer with its canines and walked away.

I couldn't move my legs as the tears fell uncontrollably. I waited, hoping my dad would stand up and say he had only pretended to be dead to distract the wolf, but he never came to me. Summoning courage, I walked with wobbling legs towards my lifeless father. My hands shook hard as I tried to touch his pale face. The moonlight shone brightly on him, and I could see his features.

"Wake up, Dad." I held him by the shirt, shaking him hard. "Wake up! You promised to look after me till I get to shift. You can't leave me all alone, please. Wake up." I wailed.

It took a long minute for it to dawn on me that my father was dead and wouldn't be coming back home to me ever again. Yelling painfully, I leaned on him, crying profusely. I can't believe I lost two parents in a year. Maybe my friends were right about me having an unfortunate star. Why do the people who love me and would do anything to protect me have to leave me hanging without keeping their promise? There will never be an answer to my questions, and I am not getting any of my parents back. The tears burst like heavy rain, and I didn't try to hold myself back as my dad's blood-soaked my clothes.

***********************

My eyes fluttered open, and I tried to remember where I was and what happened. When my eyes met my dad's already blue face, it reminded me of the unfortunate incident the night before. I can't believe I fell asleep in such chaos. It was morning already. I tried to cry, but the tears weren't coming. My eyes were tired. Standing up, I entered the cabin, grabbed a bag, and stuffed a few clothes into it, not forgetting to hold the only thing that reminds me of my family: a picture locket with a picture of my parents and myself from when I was six months old. Looking around the cabin, I know it's useless to stay back. I can only last a night before I meet the same fate as my father. I can only hope I can navigate the nearest village before nightfall.

Giving my father one last look, I silently promised to try my best to survive. He had risked everything for me. With tears, I followed the path that led directly out of the woods. My dad had intentionally created the route in case we eventually needed to run one day. I believe he had foreseen this tragedy happening. Another about of tears trailed down my face as I walked the path with the fear of getting into the wrong hands.

When the sun was about to set, I caught sight of the village. As I walked into it, happy to be among people, I saw everyone running around as the weather had changed, and it seemed like it might rain. There was a house with a large oak tree in front of its gate. I ran to the place to shield myself from the rain. The rain didn't care that I was an orphan and had just recently lost my remaining parent. It poured heavily on me, and despite hiding under the tree's umbrella, it wasn't enough to protect me from the pelting drops. Signing into resolve, I leaned against the tree bark, trying hard not to cry bitterly. The rain stopped just like it had started; aside from the wet ground and leaf, there was no actual sign of its presence.

My head tilted as I got sleepy, and out of nowhere, a bright light shined on my face. A woman who appears to be around the same age as my dead mother or probably some years older stood, arms akimbo, next to the person with the torchlight.

"I was wondering if it was a person or a wild animal. Who are you?" She inquired.

"Please don't hurt me. I am just a little girl," I called out to avoid getting shot on the spot.

They moved closer to me as the light got lowered. The person holding the torch was a man. "What is a girl of your age doing here unguarded?" The man asked.

I sniffed, "I was coming with my father, but he got into an accident and died on the way," I lied partially, knowing it would be too much of a hassle explaining myself.

"Where is your mother?" The lady asked.

"She is dead, too," I responded.

"Which means you are an orphan, and you have no one to be with," the man stated, looking towards the lady.

I could guess that they were couples from the way they interacted with each other. After what seemed like forever and a long look at me, the lady reached for my hand, "come, let's get you some warm food and a blanket. You would freeze out here," she said, leading me into their house with the man following behind.

Chapter 2 Wolf-less Girl

NIA'S POV

TEN YEARS LATER

I thought meeting Levi and Stephanie Hayes was an answer to my prayers. But instead, it's the exact interpretation of going from the frying pan to the fire. The night Levi and Stephanie took me in, I received good treatment. However, their true colors couldn't resist showing off after they adopted me. Adoption felt like a great idea to me then, and unknowingly, I had sold myself to unlabeled slave traders. They made my life miserable; every day comes with a different dimension of maltreatment. They have three children, all older than I am. They go by Caleb, Kingston, and Mindy, respectively.

Caleb and Mindy seem to harbor a different kind of hate towards me, but Kingston, on the other hand, is the sweetest sibling anyone can ever wish for. My misery started after living with them for about six months, and Mindy asked me to run with her in our wolf form. I still haven't shifted, and I didn't think it would be a problem until that moment. The whole house went agog as they lamented about taking in a wolf-less and considered unfortunate person like me. I realized hatred has a different level to it. My heart races any time I hear them call my name. I wasn't allowed to associate with any of the neighbors cause it was their way of keeping my secret from the others and saying it would taint their identity as full-blooded wolves.

I always wonder how they would react to the truth about me being a half-breed. It's a deficiency when a werewolf born doesn't own a wolf, or such a wolf is latent. I held a grudge against myself and my dead biological parents, especially for bringing me future woes. My dad was right about me shifting too late because of my inherent genes. Just when I had lost hope about ever becoming a full werewolf, I became a newly turned wolf on the night of my nineteenth birthday. It was the best moment of my life. I didn't want to change form and kept roaming around the woods in my wolf form. For the first time, the family did look excited on my behalf. The joy only lasted that night as I was back to my awful reality by morning. I am no different from an in-house maid. I have to be at their beck and call. No one cares if I am on the verge of breaking down as long as they get what they want. Sometimes, I feel like there is a hidden intention towards me. I wonder if my life could pay for whatever it is.

A heavy sigh escaped my lips as I scrubbed the plates with every strength. I wash a mountain of used plates every day, and I wonder if other unseen beings make use of them. I am twenty-one now, and the desperation to escape my current state of living is at its peak. The only thing that can save me from the claws of the Hayes family is meeting my mate soon. Every one of the children except Kingston and I is mateless, even though Caleb and Mindy sleep with other people aside from their mates. I realize they intend to end up with a rich person for a mate, as instructed by their parents. Kingston seems to be disinterested in letting them live their dreams through him. He prefers love over material things.

My case is entirely different; I haven't fallen for anyone. No rejection or acceptance so far. Considering how much time it had taken me to shift, I worry that I might end up not having a mate till I clock thirty.

"Boom!" Someone exclaimed behind me, and I almost fell into the sink in fear.

I glanced back to find Kingston looking pleased with himself. "Really? You almost scared me to death."

He laughed, ruffling my hair. "You are always scared about everything. It was just a small scare. What are you thinking about?"

I sighed in despair, turning back to my work. "Nothing." Silence reigned between us for a while before he cleared his throat.

"I know it's been a long time for you, Nia. I want you to know that I would be in support of whatever you decide on. I love my parents, but they haven't been the nicest despite agreeing to be your parents on paper. Forgive them on my behalf."

I sniffed, "It's nothing, Kingston. I have gotten used to it now."

"That's not true; you can fool everyone else but not me. I know you are desperately seeking a mate as your escape. But I wish you would take my help and get a job far from here. You don't need anyone to improve your life, and only you can give yourself the freedom you deserve."

I paused, letting the soap foam dry on my hand. I won't deny just how much help Kingston has done for me. He taught me how to read, and I even got to take the high school leaving certificate exam because of him, which I passed pretty impressively. We did all of this without the knowledge of the others. He dreams far and beyond for me, but I have learned to accept the sad truth about my life and not wish for too much.

"I don't want to fill my head with baseless dreams. I am grateful for everything you have done, Kingston. But what I need right now is a mate. That's the safest escape from here."

With a loud sigh, he pulled me a tight hug. Releasing me, he stared deep into my grey eyes. "So, the Alpha is holding a large banquet on behalf of his sister at the pack-house, and other packs are invited too."

My face lit up, "is this what I am thinking?"

He nodded, "Yes, you should be able to meet your mate there. I have got you the most suitable dress. It's happening tonight. You wouldn't get to know them since they hardly involve you in any relevant discussion. All that matters now is convincing our parents to let you go."

"Where the hell does she intend to go?" An unpleasant voice growled behind us.

Kingston and I turned around to look at the intruder. Mindy stood by the kitchen entrance, staring at me with utmost disgust. I gulped uncomfortably, pulling at my shirt to cover my exposed neck. Sometimes, I feel like there is something on my body that makes me unworthy of being looked at.

"Kingston, what's all that rubbish I hear you saying to her?" Mindy's salty voice hollered.

Folding his arms together, Kingston matched her expression. He is always at loggerheads with his siblings because of me. "What did your ear catch?" Kingston retorted.

"Why would you get her hopeful about attending the banquet?" Mindy gritted.

"Nia has every right to be at the banquet just like everyone else. She needs to find her mate."

Mindy laughed hysterically, "You give this peasant too much hope. It's your fault that she dreams beyond these walls. I am telling Mum and Dad about this right now," she said, storming off.

And there goes all of my excitement; Mindy would ruin this for me. It's her favorite pastime. Kingston stared pitifully at me before running after her. For some reason, I find myself running after them. Nia, this is my only opportunity out of this house. If I miss this chance, I might as well just commit suicide.

"Get back here, Mindy!" Kingston called out to her. But it was too late, and she was already standing in front of Levi and Stephanie, seated on the house's porch.

"What's the noise all about?" Stephanie inquired, glaring hard at me. I lowered my gaze.

"Can you imagine, Mum?" Mindy began. "Kingston is urging Nia to prepare for tonight's banquet. She isn't going, right?"

There was a brief pause and silent communication between both parents. Levi cleared his throat, "Actually, Nia would be going to the banquet. She can't live with us forever. Every one of our children needs to find a mate."

"Dad!" Mindy whined.

I stared at Kingston in disbelief, and he looked taken aback, too. This sudden change in attitude is a different dimension of Levi and Stephanie, whom I have never met before. Does something smell fishy, or are they having a change of heart?

"You don't need to worry about the dress. I got Nia one already," Kingston said, smiling. "Thanks so much, Mum and Dad." I found myself bowing and thanking them profusely, and this was the following best news after knowing I could shift.

Stephanie chuckled, "That's enough; you should go and get ready. We are all going to leave together."

Grabbing my hand, Kingston pulled me in with him after making a face at Mindy. She would get back at me for that. But I care less right now. I can only believe any one of them when I find myself at the banquet.

Kingston wasn't joking when he said he got me a beautiful dress. It's a long silver dress with a V-shaped neckline and a slit that hugs my body shape quite well. I was surprised when Stephanie brought me a pair of heels and a necklace to wear with it. There is no way I wouldn't be bringing home a mate tonight. My heart soared as I felt grateful for their support when I needed it the most. Despite looking all dolled up and pretty in her red ball dress, Mindy appeared unhappy, and her eyes kept boring holes into my back. I didn't give her the satisfaction of being uncomfortable. I sat stiffly in the car that had us, the children, with Kingston driving. Levi and Stephanie had taken another car, which was right in front of us.

I have never enjoyed seeing the pack house, let alone a room big enough to contain hundreds of people. Every young person in attendance looked their best, and I could tell it wasn't just me who was desperate for a mate. Colorfully decorated, the food was mouthwatering, and anyone could have whatever they wanted. Since I didn't have anyone to talk to the moment we arrived, unlike the others whose friends had gotten a hold of them. I made my way to the food table. I could feel Mindy's eyes on me, but I didn't let that bother me. My first stop was the dessert table. My belly growled in excitement at the sight. Reaching out for a plate, a sudden sweet smell filled my nostrils. I ignored it and placed a cake on my plate.

The smell came stronger again, and I could feel my wolf awaken; goosebumps rose at their peak, and I became restless. My eyes searched the room hurriedly, dropping the plate as I rubbed at my arm. The hair on my neck rose.

My wolf panted, "Mate!" A gasp escaped my lips when I registered my wolf's call. My mate is here. I am going to be accessible soon. My mate is calling out for me. Following the smell, I walked past many people standing in the way. I was anxious to meet the one person who would help me live freely, and maybe I would eventually have a dream. It felt like my heart skipped a beat at the sight of him. I guess he was looking for me, too, and locking eyes with the tall, handsome, ginger-haired man with a prominent dimple. I know for a fact that I don't want anyone else. He moved with a proud gait, and his attire looked expensive. I know that from Kingston, which keeps me abreast of the world beyond grocery shopping and the home I know.

"Mate?" He asked; his voice sounded like music to my ears.

" nodded expectantly, staring up at him like he was an angel. "Yes. I'm Nia Hayes, your mate."

He was about to say something when, in an instant, a lady about the same age as me pulled him to herself, kissing him passionately. My heart stopped immediately. I swallowed hard, trying to make sense of the situation. I could sense some people becoming aware of us, stretching their necks to know what was happening. After ending the kiss that seemed forever, Mr. Ginger-haired cleared his throat.

"There is no need to introduce ourselves since we wouldn't meet again. My father was right about coming here and meeting my mate. This here..." He held the lady who stared up at him lovingly by the waist. "She is the love of my life and the only one I want to spend my lifetime with. I'm glad we got to meet now 'cause it wouldn't be fair if you had had to wait all your life for me." He explained.

I stood dumbfounded, finding my voice. I blinked severally. "Are you rejecting me?"

The lady giggled childishly, "Are you that slow? These words are the longest he has said to strangers, and that is because he is quite thoughtful of other people's feelings. Anyways, what he is trying to tell you in a sentence is that he wants nothing to do with you. Have a good life. Let's go, baby." She said, holding his hands as they left.

Dread and fright gripped me as I hugged myself, looking around the room. My eyes met with those of Levi and Stephanie as it appeared their eyes never left me. It made me want to cringe in a deep room and never show my face again. There has never been a time I felt this humiliated. On second thought, I looked towards my adoptive parents again. They still had their eyes on me, even though it appeared discreet this time. Could it be that they are the ones behind ginger-haired rejection? But there is no possible way they would know my mate before me. I guess they are just a bit worried. The tears stung at the back of my eyes like a laser. There goes my only chance for freedom. I gulped, wobbling in my heels. I almost fell flat on my face. The excitement I felt while trying to meet my mate didn't make me realize I had hit my toe, which seemed swollen.

Finding a chair next to the food table to sit on, I threw my head to the back to keep the tears from falling. Maybe I am cursed, and freedom isn't in my fate. Still lamenting bitterly, I felt a firm hand grip my arm, pulling me along the crowd. It took me a minute to get myself together, and I looked at the intended kidnapper, who turned out to be Kingston.

"Where are we going, Kingston?" I asked, trying to wiggle free from his hold.

"Just stay natural and come with me. Stop acting like you aren't familiar with me." His voice sounded cold. Kingston has never spoken rudely to me ever before.

I nodded gently, following him. He kept looking behind him like he was running from someone. He didn't stop until we stepped out of the auditorium and near the exit.

"What's going on? You are scaring me." I said, finally getting my hand back to myself. He exhaled, glancing behind again. I noticed his eyes were red, like he was trying not to cry. "Are you okay?" I asked again.

Kingston held my hands softly, "forgive me, Nia. I should have known something fishy happened when they acted so nice towards you."

"What are you talking about? Who are they?"

"Our parents. I just eavesdropped on their conversation now; they hoped your mate would reject you. They had made a pact with the Alpha to sell you off to him."

"What Alpha?"

"The same Alpha of our pack. Sunset Pack."

I gasped. Everyone knows how ruthless the Alpha is. He is Darkness. Rumor has it that he has slept with all of the maidens assigned to serve him, and he buys off young ladies that catch his interest from their families, which means he automatically owns them and does whatever he wishes to them.

My lips shook as fear rose in the depths of my throat. "Did they know that I would get rejected? Why would they want to sell me off? Do they hate me that much?"

"I don't know the details, but Dad has some financial issues, and the Alpha has had his eyes on you for a while now. How that happened, I have no idea, and it worked out in their favor that you got rejected by your mate. Or, probably, they had something to do with it. Your actual mate is the Beta of the Black Saint pack, and that would have been a blessing to you after all the years of your suffering. I'm so sorry, sister."

The tears fell as I leaned against the water fountain next to me. I am lost and confused. I have no idea what to do next. Kingston knelt in front of me, searching his pocket. He brought out some cash and handed me a phone.

"I know I might not be able to do much now. But I know if you return home with us, you will end the rest of your life being a sex toy for the Alpha. I want you to run as far as your legs would carry you and never come back. That phone has my contact saved on it, and please let me know if you are safe."

I shook my head in disagreement. "But where would I go?"

"Anywhere. Go anywhere as long as it's not here. If you hide here at the pack, my family will find and torture you. I can't stand that, Nia. Please go. That cash would help you rent out a room for the night. I promise to find you. Run, Nia, please. They would come out to find you now. Please leave, and I know you are strong enough to survive. If not for anything, run far away from me and our family. Please, sis."

Seeing no way out, I hurriedly wiped my tears, hugging Kingston tightly for the last time. I took off the heels as the tears returned and ran as fast as my legs could carry me with no destination. Just like I had done ten years ago to save my life, I am running again, hoping I won't wound up dead this time around.

Chapter 3 Alpha Gael

GAEL'S POV

I inhaled the air of the musty room, which might sound weird, but I like the smell that comes from the gathering of so many people in one place. It lets me feast my bright eyes on the most beautiful of all and make her mine. It's no longer news that the male population of the pack hates me. It's not like I care. I am the Alpha of the Sunset Pack, and I would get whoever and whatever I want. That is the perk of being the leader.

My eyes roamed the room as I searched for my interest for the night. She is supposed to come to me today. I don't need to worry much about her refusing me because many of my concubines willingly give themselves off to me. However, I am generous enough to pay a reasonable amount for them. I try to make my subjects happy. Being a delight to the eyes, people with good eyesight love to feast on me. For some reason, I find myself unnecessarily patient with this new girl.

I have been seeking her face for a long while, but she fades off like Cinderella, and the only difference is she doesn't precisely wear or own a glass slipper. During one of my random mall tours, I saw her innocently leaving the place. Since then, I have asked my men to monitor her closely. Without too much ado, her parents were ready to sell her off to me without hesitation. I get her tonight, and they get paid. It's always a very juicy transaction, and I can't wait to roam my long fingers on her milk skin tonight and have her wiggle under my weight, which could either be in pain or pleasure. I don't give a fuck, as long as I am enjoying every bit of it.

"Are you at it again?" A displeased tone bickered behind me.

Pouting tiredly, I turned to stare at her. "What is it, Gemma?"

Gemma folded her arms angrily, "why do you always have to do this to me? Don't you have tons of women at your beck and call? Why are you still desperate for more?"

I furrowed my brows, staring blankly at her. "Are you questioning my authority right now?"

She gulped slowly, "I didn't mean it like that. I think the party is beginning to get to me."

"Then go find something to do or, better still, get some sleep. Could you not make me lose it? I am enjoying the night too much as it is." I warned.

She sauntered away hurriedly, leaving me to my thoughts. As much as I desire Gemma, she still has to know her place. I don't fancy people who try to act too important in my life. It irks the shit out of me. I groaned when I couldn't see my intention anymore. She had been talking to one ginger-haired guy the other time, and I had sent one of my girls to him to whisper to his ears not to try anything stupid. Turns out he is her mate.

A devilish grin appeared on my face, and the young man looked like he would throw up when he turned away from her. Somebody must have broken his heart, poor guy. They would have difficulty getting over each other, but I am sure they would be fine. It can't be that bad. I want to laugh out loud so severely. It feels good to have that much control.

Motioning towards the head of guards, he ran a few steps to me. "Yes, Alpha."

"Where is the girl? She is supposed to be given out to me tonight. I don't know what's going on and why I can't see her. Ensure to find her." I ordered. "While doing that, bring those bloody parents to me."

She and her family had better not play funny with me. I have had cases of some families agreeing to sell off their daughters and eventually backing out because they feel sorry for themselves. I don't take unfulfilled promises lightly, so I always keep my end of the bargain by paying them handsomely.

"If it isn't the man of the hour." The Beta's second-in-command and my best friend, Ezra, taunted.

I snickered, downing the rest of my champagne. "What do you want from me?"

"I thought you were taking a new interest tonight. Why are you looking like someone who got dumped along the way?"

I glare at him, "For a subject, you have a big mouth. I am still your Alpha, you know." If not for Ezra being more of a brother to me than a friend, I would have loved to wring his neck. Frustrating me is his favorite playtime.

He laughed heartily, "Talk to me. What's going on?"

I didn't get to respond before my guards dragged in the parents of the intended girl. My face morphed into a tight frown.

"Where is she?" I growled.

The wife appeared to have a bolder look, unlike the husband, who seemed to quiver a little-such an imbecile. "I have asked my daughter to get her, dear Alpha. You don't need to worry."

A cold snort escaped my lips, "you think I am worried? If I smell a bit of foul play around here, I promise to teach you and your entire family a lesson you will never be able to forget in a lifetime. Keep them by the side." I instructed.

Ezra was no doubt stifling a laugh, and he is the only one who disregards me when I am trying to play a tyrant. "What if you end up not liking her?" He whispered in my ear.

"Shut up!" I retorted. The intention is not to like her. I need a new play toy. Sometimes, most of the ladies end up working as my maids when they eventually don't catch my interest. I can't have my money go to waste, so they have to work without getting paid. "I want this one in particular." I grinned.

"No one catches your interest better than Gemma. You should forget about all of this and settle with her."

"Not here, Ezra. I am having a party, and I only want to enjoy every bit of it. Get the fuck out of my ear!" He raised his hands in surrender. "Alright, I am on my way. Have fun."

My patience began to run thin after Ezra left; the party didn't seem so appealing anymore. The lots were super drunk and acting horny. I think I am ready to get out of here. My thoughts halted when loud murmurs bounced through every corner of the room, and people seemed to be moving out of the way to give room to whoever was making a fuss. A smirk formed on my lips when the guards dragged her to me with her hair. My night feels complete.