Page 32 of The Alpha's Fated Destiny

He clutches his throat, dragging in mouthfuls of air as he does.

The rest of the Alphas look subdued, but when their eyes turn toward me, there is newfound respect in them.

"There's not going to be a banquet," I declare, disgust etched all over my face. "So much for swearing loyalty to me. We're leaving."

I turn around and begin walking, but Connor gasps out. "I'm sorry! I wasn't…please forgive me! One more chance, Queen Sophia!"

Confused, I stop in my tracks. It's not like I'm going to kill him, so why is he apologizing?

Brian steps up beside me, his voice low, reaching only my ears. "You've rejected him in front of every pack in the South Alliance. They will all turn their backs on him now, unless you stay for the banquet. What do you want to do?"

I press my lips together. Why is this so complicated?

I glance toward Alex, who's watching me, calmly. He seems relaxed, as if he knows that I'll make the right decision.

The murderous intent in me has begun to fade. I know I'm physically weaker than all those who stand here. Thankfully, my magic gives me an edge. When they saw me in my weakest moment, those that had just sworn loyalty to me had sought to take advantage of me.

It's a ruthless world, and I have to carve my space into it, or else be eaten alive.

But I also don't want to be another version of Karina.

My jaw tense, I turn to look at Connor, who is now standing, his face pale. As soon as our eyes meet, he begins, "I didn't mean to disrespect you. Please let me throw the banquet in your honor, and I will prepare the flights for you in the morning."

Seeing him pleading in front of the others makes me realize the reality of Brian's words. The proud Alpha is willing to debase himself to get back in my good graces. That's how powerful a rejection from the leader of an alliance is.

I could still turn away from him—be harsh so that the others learn a lesson from him. But my heart won't let me be cruel. He was testing how far he could push me and he failed, and he knows that now.

"Queen…"

"Very well."

I have to force myself to sound pompous, and I catch Alex looking away, his lips twitching.

Relief is stark on Connor's face, and the other Alphas also relax. Brian shoots me an approving look.

I guess I did something right for once.

***

The banquet is a lavish affair.

Being in the spotlight is a strange experience for me.

"Try not to scowl." Alex nudges me.

"Why do I feel you're enjoying this?" I give my mate an annoyed look.

"It's a fine banqu…"

"I meant my misery."

He takes a bite of the roasted mutton leg on his plate before chuckling. "You call it misery. I call it you getting used to this kind of thing. And you'll have to."

We're sitting at the head of the table. The other Alphas and shifters are too busy getting drunk. I've never actually attended a celebration banquet, and I ask, "Are all banquets like this?"

Brian, who's sitting on my left, nods. "It's an excuse to let loose and drink yourself into a stupor. Banquets in the South are notorious for this."

"The food is excellent," Alex points out.

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