Protect Me Alpha King novel Chapter 26

"Tell me something about that woman," I pressed, not wanting to be left behind. "It's too late to retreat, Nora. You already mentioned the name of someone who shouldn't be named. If you won't tell me, I will inform the alpha king that you spread gossip about the woman," I threatened. I wouldn't tell the alpha king about what Nora did, but using it to gain some information would be a great help.

Nora's breathing accelerated. I felt sorry for what I said, but this was also for my benefit.

"Nora. Tell me what you know."

Nora glanced at each side, on the quiet hallway of the palace, and gulped. Her face went ashen, as she played with her hands mumbling some incoherent words. The only words I was able to decipher were punishment and death.

"I never say anything," Nora denied, turning her back and walking faster. "Let's not talk about this if you value your life. Even if you are his personal slave, he will not spare you!" One time she looked horrified and the next thing she was laughing as if she had gone mad. "Black Heart. That's what they say is mad."

"Nora!" I said, getting her attention. "Focus on me, will you?"

She faced me, recognized me, and said, "I don't want to die!" she exclaimed, trembling. Her eyes watered. "The alpha king has ears. He knows every movement inside the palace— from the East, West, North, and South wing. Nothing is hidden from him. If he found out that I was talking about that woman, he would order his guards to kill me!" she said with an alarmed look on her face.

"I will not let that happen," I said, in an attempt to comfort her. "Believe me."

I did not think I had the power to protect her, but I can try.

She laughed and her eyes glinted. "You won't. When the alpha king got mad because of what you did, consider yourself dead." And Nora ran, losing the dignity she was trying to keep, and went to the alpha king's chamber.

"Nora! There are a lot of things I want to ask!" I said, but the only thing that answered me was the echo of my voice along the eerie silent hallway.

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The alpha king was impatiently waiting for Nora and us when we reached the chamber.

He folded his arms in front of his chest, wearing his wardrobe but underneath that fabric, he was nude.

"Your Majesty. Sorry to keep you waiting," Nora exclaimed, and bowed. Her voice quivered, still shaken at what she had said earlier.

"It's all my fault, Your Majesty. Please don't blame her," I said, grinning and trying to calm the woman beside me.

Poor Nora.

He tapped his foot on the cold floor while looking at Nora and me. The former looked like she will have a heart attack later, while I never let the alpha king know my real emotions.

I continued showing him my smile, hoping it would somewhat remove his anger. Even for a little.

"Your Majesty, this is Nora—"

"I know her, River. I know the names of every single one of my slaves."

"Ow. Impressive, Your Majesty!"

"Don't smile when I am not in the mood."

I cleared my throat, erasing my smile.

"My apologies, Your Majesty."

"What I am wondering is how you manage to make me wait for almost an hour. Why does it take longer for you to return, River? Their quarter is only a couple of minutes of walking."

Nora and I looked at each other, the former getting paler.