Laughter surged around me. The pair paraded past while everyone started waving money like it was some type of spectacle. I remained there, frozen, still not knowing who this so-called Alpha was. People spoke about him like he was deadly. Even the most confident individuals appeared uncomfortable just talking about him.
I prayed I’d never meet him.
Or maybe I already had and didn’t even know it.
That notion made my stomach twist.
I bent down, grabbed my sandwiches, verified they weren’t smashed, and sneaked out before anyone noticed me. I didn’t belong in that crowd. Not today.
I proceeded back to Principal Isabetta’s office, walking carefully. I could already feel the bruise forming on my face, which ached from the earlier slap. I pushed my hair loose and let it fall over the side of my face, obscuring what I could. I did not want her to enquire.
I knocked.
"Come in!"
I cautiously kept my face turned away as I slipped inside. She handed me a bundle of papers, and I walked over, put down the sandwiches, and stood quietly.
"This is White Wolves Monarch's college application. Additionally, attempt to catch up on history, as you're behind. You are holding the book, Supernatural History. The chapter "How and Why Werewolves Were Made" is halfway done. Commence at the beginning. You'll require it.
I opened the book, sat down in the corner, and nodded. I didn't understand the need for werewolf research. Everything seemed exaggerated or fictional. But since I arrived, nothing has been typical. Perhaps the situation was merely a component of the insanity.
I completed the application. I am unsure of my chances of acceptance. However, it seemed that Principal Isabetta believed I had a chance.
I remained silent for the remainder of the day, hardly moving, my eyes fixed on the textbook. After what transpired in the lunchroom, I would rather not confront anyone.
I'm really missing Elisa and Nico. Later, I had to text them.
Principal Isabetta called me back at the end of the school day.
"Come in tomorrow for history, please. I'll find out about your examinations by the end of the week. I may also have another plan in the works. You could begin taking college classes early if you're interested. In any case, your time here is nearly over."
"Really, wait? although I only completed the form today."
"Yes. The Chancellor is someone I know. I included a favourable comment. the mere formality of the application."
"Whoa... I'm grateful. Actually. That would be fantastic.
I smiled for the first time of the day.
I nearly skipped out of the main building. However, Mason and Kelly suddenly showed up as I was about to reach the stairs. My heart fell. I made an effort to avoid them.
It's too late.
They obstructed my way.
I retreated until my back collided with the wall.
Kelly was the first to move. She pushed my hair aside, stroked my face, and snickered when she noticed the bruise she had previously caused.
Adorable. "Are you also attempting to cover your neck?"
Her fingers dragged over my flesh. She wiped at the concealer.
"Mason, looks like the Alpha's already had his hands on her."
Mason’s grin twisted.
He shoved Kelly away and grasped my neck tightly.
His hand encircled my throat, though not with force—at least, not yet. Meanwhile, his other hand began to explore, and he pressed himself against me.
"Is this how he performed? Was he rougher? You seem to enjoy this, don't you?"
He leaned in.
His lips contacted mine.
Panic surged inside me.
I heard Kelly giggle, undoubtedly enjoying the show. I pushed on Mason’s chest, but he wouldn’t move. It was happening all over again. The scenario was just like before.
Since my Ex, I've never let someone get close.
This was not going to happen.
Never again.
I kicked.
Hard.
My knee fell in the most painful spot. He moaned, withdrew, and bent over, cursing.
I didn't hold out.
With my feet banging on the sidewalk, I snatched up my purse and ran off. I continued until I arrived at the mansion.
I arrived late.
Fantastic.
I quickly changed in the maid's locker room. I put on my uniform and took off my school clothes. I pulled my hair up and threw my belongings in my locker. The best I could achieve was a messy bun.
The bruising had returned.
No cover-up.
It's too late to make it right.
In any case, I am here to help.
After grabbing my cleaning cart, I went upstairs via the elevator.
The first stop was his room.
He had not yet arrived. Excellent.
After stripping the bed, I lay out new silk sheets and put the old ones aside. It had a clean, slightly cedarwood-like fragrance. To be honest, it's pleasant.
I worked quickly.
The ensuite follows. pristine.
The first room is complete. There are still twelve rooms to complete.
He would now be in his office. I knew he was returning early, but no one spoke. I sensed it. This anxiety pervaded the atmosphere. It was like walking into a room right after a fight.
My mind was racing as I worked.
Could you help me understand why I didn't defend myself earlier?
What made him touch me in that way?
Was power involved? Was control at issue?
With trembling palms, I scraped harder.
To them, I was nothing. They treated me as if I would remain silent, allowing them to do as they pleased.
No more.
My mind flashed to Mason's face.
He was wearing an arrogant expression.
That terrible query.
Newcomer, was this how you liked it?
He would eventually find out. I wasn’t someone who stayed afraid forever.
I finished the bedroom and wheeled my trolley to the next room. His study was down the hall. I stood at the door and listened.
Quiet.
I went on.
It was too quiet in the mansion. My footsteps echoed. I gave the chore my full attention, dusting, scrubbing, and folding towels as if it were the most essential thing in the world.
Because it was at the moment.
I'd collapse if I didn't divert myself.
I detested feeling weak.
However, I sensed something more as well.
Anger.
And perhaps—just possibly—that was sufficient to keep me upright.