The Claiming by Cooper novel Chapter 7

Jara

As we pull into the area, I can see the mass of males pushing to see this year’s trophies.

“Savages.” Hana says.

“May they choke on their excitement.” I say as we watch the omegas get out, listening to the wolf whistles.

“I have no intention of acknowledging them.” Hana says. I can’t help but smile.

“You ignore them, and I’ll basically challenge them, daring them to try and capture me.” She chuckles.

“That should get them going.”

When Hana steps out of the car, I can feel the intensity of the energy increase. When I step out, it’s almost overwhelming. But I am an Alpha, and I will not be cowed by these assholes who think I’ m nothing more than a trophy to be won.

“Let’s remember everyone, our top priority is the safety and protection of our females.” The Master of Ceremonies says into the microphone as we climb the stairs to the stage.

When I get to the top, I see that the guards are aiming their guns into the crowd. The energy tames somewhat, but as I watch, a fight breaks out and several men shift and begin fighting.

Hana leans over to whisper in my ear. “Omegas?” Omegas are generally calm and deferential to ranked members. However, they are not as adept at managing strong emotions and the amount of

testosterone in the air is suffocating.

I lift my nose, trying to decipher between the multiple scents in the area. “And a Gamma, I think.”

As we watch, the one I think is a Gamma tears into another wolf as a second wolf jumps on his back, biting down on his spine. Shots ring out, followed by the yelping of wolves. As we watch, two omegas are forced to shift back. The one I think is a Gamma, shifts, but doesn’t move. He’s either paralyzed or dead.

“Four fewer for us to deal with.” Hana says quietly beside me. I turn and see our female omegas, their eyes wide with fear.

“Hey. It’s okay. They won’t get to you and sadly, this probably isn’t the last time a fight will break out.”

They nod but don’t look away.

“Look at us.” Hana demands and they do. “You’re safe up here. If any of them get past the guards, we won’t let them get you.”

“Hana is right. We won’t let them hurt you.” I add.

Elder Carson comes up to the stage. “Please remove the offending parties and escort them out of the territory. They are eliminated from the claimant pool.”

Several guards rush up, dragging the four wolves away. I still can’t tell if the Gamma, or whatever he was, is dead, but I guess it doesn’t matter now.

“Anyone else want to test my commitment to keeping the peace?” Elder Carson challenges the group. I like this guy.

“If not, then let’s continue.” He says and gestures Beta Michael back to the microphone.

He steps up and begins again. “As you all know, this year’s pool of females is higher than it has been in years. Not only that, but we

also have a Beta and our last remaining Alpha female up for claiming this year.”

I can’t help the snarl that curls my lip. I feel like livestock on parade for those interested. It makes me sick. As I stare into the crowd, I catch the eye of a man who is obviously an Alpha. His eyes are locked on mine and there’s a smile on his face, something akin to pride. He’s good looking as all Alphas are, muscular, tall, with longer black hair that brushes his shoulders and grey eyes that look kind.

I pull my gaze from his and continue perusing the crowd. When I see him, the snarl on my face erupts from my mouth, causing the entire gathering to quiet down. Alpha Typhon’s look is smug as he stares at me with leering possessiveness. The fucking bastard.

Everyone in the crowd turns to see who has caused such a response from me. The sound of low growling begins echoing in the crowd and the smug look drops from his face.

“Okay, let’s meet this year’s pool of contestants. First up, Annabel.” Beta Michael says.