Chapter 0174

Seven years? That explains why I never detected her presence. My destined mate had been imprisoned as a blood donor since I reached maturity. Had she not escaped when she did, I might never have discovered her existence. The passage of time had nearly driven me to accept a chosen mate instead. My fury toward the vampires burns white-hot. They stole my mate from me, and they will suffer for it.

When Nathaniel returns, his flirtatious banter with Seraphina ignites my temper. He's deliberately provoking me, though as Beta he should show proper respect to his future Luna. The bastard knows exactly which buttons to push.

It stings that Seraphina believes I'd return her to those parasites. She doesn't recognize our mate bond yet, but her perception of an Alpha's role is dangerously warped. Though she's not officially part of my pack, no honorable Alpha would condemn their mate to such torment. This makes me question what horrors shaped her views. Her parents abandoned their pack - that always traces back to leadership failure. Either their Alpha was the problem or refused to address it. Either way, he poisoned my mate's understanding of what an Alpha should be.

I've effectively led Nightshade Pack since age ten. Though my father held the Alpha title until his death, his ability to govern died with my mother. Nathaniel's father, my father's Beta, guided me in ruling. He protected our vulnerable pack and taught me everything required of an Alpha.

At sixteen, my father seemed relieved to finally join my mother in death. The transition of power flowed smoothly. I retained Nathaniel's father as Beta until Nathaniel came of age and assumed the position officially.

I've always taken my Alpha responsibilities with deadly seriousness. Knowing other Alphas abuse their packs - and I know they exist - enrages me. I refuse alliances with any Alpha known for mistreating their wolves. Given Nightshade's current status as the strongest pack nationally, most seek our favor.

I anticipate Blackthorn Pack will surpass us at next year's quadrennial Alpha competition. While I edge out Adrian in strength, his two Guardians - one being his Luna Evelyn - tip the scales. Gregory's wheelchair may prevent competition, but he'd dominate if he participated. And Evelyn is formidable alone. I may surpass Adrian, but not Adrian and Evelyn combined. Losing our top ranking next year won't trouble me. Though I haven't spoken to Evelyn since her birthday, I update Adrian periodically about Victor's situation. I'll also warn him of potential vampire attacks. Our alliance remains solid regardless of rankings.

When I inform Seraphina about the bounty, I expected distress - but not this magnitude. She must understand leaving isn't an option. Beyond my refusal to let her go, her safety demands she stay under my protection. Too many hunters would pursue her.

When she spirals into panic, I realize she needs a system shock. 'Kiss her,' Dorian suggests. It's as good a solution as any.

The instant our lips meet, her flavor explodes across my senses - raspberries and whipped cream, even sweeter than her scent.

Suddenly I comprehend Adrian's violent protectiveness over Evelyn after recognizing their bond. Were our positions reversed, I'd struggle not to decapitate him. No one touches my mate. NO ONE. She belongs to ME.

She's finally calmed when Dr. Whitmore enters. "Ah, our patient is awake."

Had I not been watching closely, I'd have missed it. I'm not certain I actually saw what I think I saw. It's impossible. Yet for one fleeting moment, Seraphina's eyes flashed golden - the unmistakable mark of a Guardian.

"Dr. Whitmore," she introduces herself.

"Seraphina."

"A pleasure, Seraphina. I've overseen your care since your arrival at Nightshade Pack. May I examine..." She trails off, noticing the disconnected IV.

"She removed it," I interject, observing their interaction.

Dr. Whitmore glances between us. "The IV contained only saline, vitamins, and liquid nutrition - nothing harmful. Medically, I recommend reinsertion. Would you permit me to place it in your other arm?"

I track Seraphina's darting gaze between the doctor and myself. Her distrust is palpable - she fears restraint but won't voice it. A flicker of terror surfaces before she masks it. I want her healthy, but more crucially, I need her trust.

"Are there alternatives, Doctor?" I ask. Seraphina's shoulders relax marginally.

Dr. Whitmore considers. "If Seraphina commits to eight ounces of water hourly - precisely hourly - and small meals every three to four hours, we could forego the IV. Do you agree, Seraphina?"

"Absolutely," she answers instantly.

"Very well. I'll prepare a tracking sheet. Alpha, who will monitor her?"

"I will." Her shock at my declaration is brief but telling.

"Yes, Alpha."

After completing her examination, Dr. Whitmore prepares the tracking forms. "Seraphina, noncompliance means reinstating the IV tomorrow. If you want it removed, adhere strictly to the regimen."

"My thanks, Doctor," I say, escorting her out. She hesitates as if to speak, then thinks better of it. "Until morning, Alpha."

Closing the door, I turn to my petite mate. "I imagine you'd appreciate a proper bath?"