Page 141 of Mated to the Wolves

“There are some who believe you are under powerful enchantments.”

He can’t believe I’m buying his bullshit. I stare at him without saying a word.

“I have to take this accusation seriously.” His wide smile shrinks.

“But I’m not.”

Concern deepens the lines around his mouth and eyes. It’s at odds with the spicy smell of anger and malice perfuming the air.

“How would you know?”

“I’d feel it.”

“Poor orphaned pup. You’ve had no one to teach you our ways, or look after you properly.”

His words make me uncomfortable.

“I’ve done just fine on my own.” I grip the arms of the chair.

“Yes, then. It’s different now. There’s too much at stake to leave anything to chance.”

He eyes me with disdain, a deep frown on his face.

“You’ll have to be looked over.”

“I have a mate that’s a healer.”

“Yes. That’s what made you even more susceptible. Having someone in your clan with such extensive knowledge of herbs can be a blessing or a curse.” I gawk at him. Is he accusing Kirk of wrongdoing? How low is he willing to sink to keep up this charade?

“I’m not sure I follow you.” I feign ignorance, hoping to get a better idea of what we’re dealing with.

“I got rid of Kirk for a reason.” His face flushes and his hand balls into a fist.

“You chose him for me.”

“I took the advice of an older woman on her way out.”

“She’s the Volva.”

“For now.” The two words sound like a threat. “Things are changing and we must adapt.”

Is that fear or regret flickering in his eyes? Walking to the bar, he flips over a tumbler, uncorks a decanter of whiskey, and pours it half full. He reaches into the inner pocket of his suit and reveals a white glimmering substance.

“Just a few sips and the truth will be known.” He unscrews the lid and places a few droplets in the glass.

“Alpha, I don’t feel comfortable taking this without a mate present.”

“Silly girl. Do you think you have a choice? You will drink this.” The Alpha’s command has me on my feet in an instant.

I walk toward him like a zombie, fighting every step I make. Sweat breaks out on my hairline. My heart knocks wildly in my chest.

Vision blurring, I dig my fingers into my palms, drawing blood.

I shuffle to a stop a foot away.

His eyes widen. “Now.” Doubling the power of his command, he reels me like a fish on a hook.

He hands me the drink. I take it, bringing it to my lips.

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