Marked Twice by the Alpha King novel Chapter 23

Chapter 23

We appreciate your attention to these matters, Wilson said, reviewing the paperwork Jackson had brought. “Miss Sophia has always had impeccable taste)

Jackson smiled, the picture of a devoted fiancé. “She’s quite excited about the ceremony. By the way, I heard Blake hired a new combat instructor for Lucas.”

Wilson nodded stiffly. Indeed, Miss Rivers started this morning.”

“Rivers?” Jackson feigned surprise, though he’d learned of Ava’s employment days ago through his network of informants. As in William Rivers daughter? The traitor from Shadow Creek?‘

Wilson’s head snapped up. “The very same. Why do you ask?”

Jackson leaned forward conspiratorially. I’m surprised Blake would allow someone with such… questionable connections near his son. Especially given her history

“History?” Wilson’s eyebrows rose with interest.

I’ve known Ava for years, Jackson said smoothly. “She’s quite troubled. Brilliant fighter, certainly, but unstable. She suffers from a serious learning disability that affects her judgment. She once confessed to me that she struggles with basic instructions and reading–hardly qualities you want in an instructor for the Alpha King’s heir.”

Wilson’s frown deepened. “The Alpha King seemed confident in her abilities.”

“Blake sees her combat skills, which are admittedly impressive,” Jackson conceded with calculated reluctance. “But her impulsiveness makes her dangerous. I’d keep a very close eye on her interactions with Lucas. For the boy’s safety, of course.”

Wilson nodded slowly, doubt clearly taking root. ‘I appreciate your concern, Mr. Hayes. I’ll certainly monitor the situation carefully.”

“I should mention, Jackson added, lowering his voice further, ‘she has a history of… unconventional methods. At the Academy, she frequently disregarded established protocols. Claimed they were limiting or some nonsense.”

“Disregarded protocols?” Wilson looked genuinely alarmed now. “In what way?”

Jackson feigned hesitation. “Let’s just say there were incidents. Training accidents. Nothing that could be definitively pinned on her, but patterns emerged. The Academy records would show it, if you have access.”

I’ll speak with the Alpha King about obtaining those records, Wilson said, making a note in his leather–bound planner.

“I wouldn’t, Jackson cautioned. “Blake might see it as overstepping. Perhaps it’s better to watch her carefully first, gather your own evidence. If she behaves erratically or endangers Luca’s in any way, then approach Blake with concrete concerns.”

“Perfect,” Jackson said, rising from his seat. “And perhaps don’t mention our conversation to anyone. I wouldn’t want to interfere with Blake’s decisions or appear biased due to my connection with Shadow Creek matters.”

As Wilson escorted him to the main entrance, Jackson spotted a maid carrying fresh linens toward the west wing. He made a mental note–Ava would be staying in the east wing, where all staff quarters were located. Perhaps he could arrange for some of his more loyal pack members to be hired at Blackwood Manor. Having eyes and ears within the household would prove useful.

Td better be going,” Jackson said, shaking Wilson’s hand firmly. “Sophia’s expecting me for lunch. But please, if you notice anything concerning about Miss Rivers, don’t hesitate to send word. For Lucas’s sake.”

As Jackson departed Blackwood Manor, satisfaction coursed through him. Wilson was already predisposed to distrust Ava–his seeds of doubt would only reinforce that suspicion The more obstacles in Ava’s path, the faster she’d fail and return to Shadow Creek… where she belonged.

And where she would have no choice but to accept his offer to save her father. The full moon–and William Rivers execution date—drew ever closer. Time was on Jackson’s side, and he knew exactly how to use it.

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