CHAPTER THREE
681 Words
ALPHA KYLE’S POV
I was still standing outside Whitney’s door after her Beta had pulled her away. Her outburst had shocked the onlookers, but not me. As I stared at the closed door, memories of her younger self flooded my mind—impulsive, stubborn, always choosing her own path and rarely listening to anyone.
This was exactly the reaction I had expected.
I laughed softly, almost manically. When I finally looked around, I noticed the servants staring at me in shock.
“Everyone, return to your duty posts,” I ordered.
No one moved.
My smile faded. I released my Alpha voice, sharp and commanding, and within moments, the hallway cleared as everyone rushed back to their duties.
Just then, Tessa came running toward me, an envelope clutched tightly in her hands. She was panting and clearly terrified to speak.
“Alpha—”
“Come with me,” I said calmly. “My study.”
She nodded immediately and followed without question.
“Where did she go?” I asked once we were inside.
Tessa sat stiffly across from me, pale and shaking, as though one wrong word might cost her life.
“Cat got your tongue?” I asked as I stood and walked toward her.
She stiffened further, watching me as if I were a predator circling its prey. As much as I hated to admit it, her fear wasn’t entirely misplaced.
“Alpha… she left,” Tessa whispered.
“She?” I echoed, raising a brow.
“She left,” she repeated.
I burst out laughing.
Tessa looked both horrified and confused.
“There’s no need to be afraid,” I said, waving a hand dismissively. “Sit. Let me explain.”
I returned to my seat.
“Whitney wants to find her mate. I understand that—and I admire her determination. I have no doubt that within the two years I promised her, she will bring him to me.”
Tessa’s eyes widened, but she listened closely.
“When the council made their decision, I saw no need to argue. Whitney’s resolve alone is enough to challenge them. By agreeing, I simply fueled that resolve.”
Her mouth fell open slightly.
“I know she accepted the scholarship,” I continued calmly. “I know where she is. But I won’t interfere. She needs time—time to be alone, to find herself, and ultimately, to find her mate.”
Tessa looked stunned… and impressed.
“All I need from you,” I added, spreading my hands, “is for you to keep her informed about pack matters. She may be away, but she is still the Alpha-to-be.”
I paused, then held out my hand.
“And the letter.”
She handed me the neatly folded envelope, bowed, and quietly left.
I opened the letter and unfolded the paper, instantly recognizing Whitney’s neat handwriting.
Dad,
I know you must be angry that I left, but please don’t stay angry for too long. You’ve always been my guide—my light in this dark world—especially whenever I missed Mom. You’ve played both roles of a parent better than anyone ever could, but now I have to go.
I smiled faintly and continued.
I don’t know what your story with Mom truly looked like, but from the way you spoke about her, it must have been a love you never wanted to end. Fate was cruel. That kind of love—along with a future for myself—is what I’m going to look for.
My chest tightened as I read on.
Please take care of yourself. Take your meds and rest properly. Don’t let those old elders stress you too much.
Stay the confident, happy man I’ve always known.
Don’t worry about me—I’m still your impulsive little firecracker, and I can take care of myself.
I love you, Dad. I’ll miss you more than you know.
Your little princess,
Whitney
I smiled softly, folded the letter, and placed it carefully in my drawer.
Then, silently, I prayed for my daughter’s safety.
- Writer
