My Fated Alphas Cruel Game novel Chapter 9

9 Chapter 9 Alpha Ball Debut

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Elena’s POVO

Marcus appeared at my doorway, his eyes scanning me from head to toe with an intensity that made my skin burn under his scrutiny. The way he stared made it seem like he was seeing me for the very first time. Whatever he had expected when he sent over that dress, this wasn’t it. Several heartbeats passed before he managed to collect himself.

“We need to leave now.” His voice carried that familiar commanding edge.

“Are you planning to tell me our destination?” I crossed my arms, studying his face for any hint of what was coming.

“An Alpha ball.” The words fell between us like stones.

“And you’ve decided I’m your plus one.” Skepticism dripped from every syllable.

“Only Alphas and their Lunas receive invitations. Everyone understands that a pack draws strength from having a Luna at its head. Since fate decided you’re my mate, you’ll be accompanying me tonight. I refuse to give those bastards any reason to question my pack’s power because they don’t see a Luna standing beside me.”

The brutal honesty of his words hit me like a slap. “Of course. Should have realized I’m just decorative arm candy for the evening”

I snatched the matching handbag he’d included with the dress and headed for the door. We stepped outside where a sleek black limousine waited under the dim evening light.

Just as we approached the vehicle, Viviana materialized from the shadows like some vengeful spirit. Her designer dress hung in tatters, makeup streaked down her cheeks in dark rivers, and her hair looked like she’d been through a tornado.

“Why the hell are you dragging that worthless bitch to this ball instead of taking me?” Her voice cracked with rage and desperation.

Marcus’s entire body went rigid beside me. “I already explained this to you, Vivi. I don’t owe you explanations about my decisions. Now get yourself cleaned up and make sure you look presentable when I return home.”

The growl in his voice made even me take a step back.

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9 Chapter 9 Alpha Ball Debut

Beta Hugo appeared behind her like a shadow, his hands firmly gripping her shoulders as he pulled her away from the limousine. Marcus and I slipped inside the luxurious interior while the driver smoothly pulled away from the curb and headed toward the main road.

“How far is this ball?” I asked, watching familiar territory disappear through the tinted

windows.

“A neighboring pack hosts it. The drive takes about two hours.”

“Why do we need to arrive so early?”

“These events begin before sunset. All the Alphas spend considerable time networking, forming strategic alliances, making deals. Tonight I intend to forge as many beneficial partnerships as possible. My pack needs every advantage we can secure.”

Something in his tone made me turn to study his profile. “Why exactly does your pack

need these alliances?”

His jaw clenched. “That concerns pack business, not you.”

“Right. How foolish of me to think I might matter.”

“Your ankle seems much better. You’re walking without that limp.”

“The pain has mostly faded.” I kept my voice neutral.

“Good. I’m pleased to hear your recovery is progressing.”

Silence settled between us like a heavy blanket. Neither of us seemed inclined to bridge the gap, especially after Viviana’s dramatic scene at the house. Her words echoed in my mind, along with Marcus’s promise that she better have herself together by his return.

My stomach twisted as I wondered what punishment awaited me once we got back home tonight.

Despite everything, I found myself appreciating the changing landscape outside our windows. Years had passed since I’d left pack territory. Not since childhood, maybe when I was ten years old. The freedom of movement, even temporary and controlled, felt intoxicating.

Even knowing Marcus would keep me on the shortest possible leash tonight.

Anxiety gnawed at my insides as we drew closer to our destination. Marcus had built

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9 Chapter 9 Alpha Ball Debut

quite a reputation for himself, and none of it painted him in a flattering light. He ruled through fear and absolute control. Other Alphas knew better than to cross him or test his patience.

His pack had grown large and powerful, with guards whose loyalty ran bone–deep.

I could only imagine the thoughts running through people’s minds when they saw me arrive as his supposed mate tonight.

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