My Fated Alphas Cruel Game novel Chapter 15

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15 Chapter 15 First Day Working

15 Chapter 15 First Day Working

Elena’s POV

I had barely settled into the uncomfortable couch when the sound of our front door opening made me freeze. Mom shouldn’t be home yet. When I glanced toward the entrance, Marcus stood there like he owned the place.

“Threatening my staff isn’t exactly the smartest move you could make. Especially when I’m within earshot.” His voice carried that familiar edge of authority.

“My bad.” The sarcasm dripped from my words.

“I was meeting with Viviana’s uncle.” He stepped further into our tiny space.

“Right. The Alpha you’re trying to impress.” I stood, crossing my arms defensively.

“What was so urgent that you needed to see me?” His dark eyes studied my face.

“That ridiculously expensive dress you bought me, the one I planned to return? It’s missing. Someone took it.” I kept my voice steady despite the frustration building inside me.

“That’s why you demanded I come here?” He seemed genuinely surprised.

“Yes. The thing probably cost more than we make in months, and I wanted you to know it’s gone. I was going to give it back, but now I can’t. Sorry.” I shrugged, trying to appear

indifferent.

“I already told you to keep the dress.” His tone softened slightly.

“I didn’t want to keep it. I planned to return it. For all I know, Viviana grabbed it when she saw me wearing it yesterday. She did break into our home last night.” The memory of her intrusion still made my blood boil.

“Viviana didn’t take anything. Beta Hugo has it. He’s having it professionally cleaned and will return it this afternoon.” Marcus’s explanation caught me off guard,

“Why bother? I don’t want the thing. It doesn’t belong in this place.” I gestured around our shabby trailer.

“I purchased it specifically for you. Besides, I’m supposed to be here delivering some form of punishment. Viviana insisted on it in front of her uncle. She didn’t appreciate how you spoke to my housekeeper.” There was something almost reluctant in his

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15 Chapter 15 First Day Working

admission.

“Maybe I’m tired of people treating me like garbage.” I shot back.

“Why aren’t you in school today?” He changed the subject abruptly.

“I have enough credits to graduate. School’s finished for me. I start at the factory tomorrow, working for practically nothing.” The reality of my situation hit me again as I said it out loud.

“The factory manager hasn’t contacted me for approval.” His brow furrowed.

“He probably figured you wouldn’t care enough to bother.” I met his gaze directly.

“Perhaps. What’s driving you to work there?” He seemed genuinely curious now.

“Because we desperately need the income. Take a look around if you haven’t noticed.” I swept my arm toward our worn furniture and cramped living space.

His eyes moved briefly around our modest trailer before he nodded slowly.

“If anyone questions you, tell them you’re on probation.” He turned and headed for the door without another word.

I stared at the closed door long after he left, my mind spinning with confusion. What kind of game was he playing? Why wouldn’t he punish me? He’d disciplined pack members for far less serious offenses. Did he really come here just to see me?

Last night he’d struck me across the face simply for talking to other guys, yet today he showed no anger after I’d threatened his housekeeper in front of his girlfriend and her influential uncle. The uncle he was clearly trying to build a relationship with.

Nothing about his behavior made sense. One moment he was cold and distant, the next he seemed almost protective. I couldn’t figure out what he wanted from me.

I spent the remainder of the day at home, trying to make sense of Marcus’s visit. I went to bed as early as possible, knowing tomorrow would start before dawn.

The alarm buzzed at four in the morning. I dragged myself out of bed and pulled on my warmest clothes, though they weren’t nearly warm enough for the job ahead.

For once, I was leaving before mom. She worked such long hours that seeing her still asleep while I prepared for work felt strange and unsettling.

The warehouse manager greeted me when I arrived and showed me around the facility. When the first delivery truck pulled up to the loading dock, my real education began.

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