Page 28 of Cruel Alpha: Season One

Protocol number who-gives-a-fuck: Never question or challenge the alpha’s authority in a public setting.

But the list never said anything aboutdiscretelyasking questions, so I lean to my left to whisper into his ear.

“Were they forced to be here?”

Caspian’s gaze slides to me as we stand side-by-side, staring at the lineup.

“No, Annalise, they weren’t forced to be here,” he answers through gritted teeth. “They’re here of their own volition and, believe it or not, they consider it an honor to serve you.”

My breathing quickens. “Then, why haven’t they spoken or evenlookedat me?”

He sighs and I get the feeling he’s annoyed by this sidebar conversation, but it feels necessary.

“Because they’ve been trained not to speak in your presence unless spoken to. And, out of respect, they must also keep their eyes to the ground. It’s improper to gaze upon a noblewoman, ornoblemanfor that matter, without their express permission.”

There’s a twinge of sickness in my gut as I steal another glance at the girls. Winifred’s blonde curls frame her child-like face. You’d never know she’s recently turned eighteen. She could easily pass for several years younger. And Elizabeth’s reddened cheeks make me feel protective, knowing that only happens when she’s nervous or afraid.

This estate is no place for either of them, but… what if at least one part of what Caspian said is true? What if theyarehere of their own volition? The idea of it has a streak of selfishness jolting through me, feeling a rush of excitement. It’s brought on by the possibility of having someone under this roof who actually knows and loves me. Maybe itwouldn’tbe so bad having them stay.

“You’re worried about your cousins,” Caspian whispers next, and I feel my eyes widen with surprise yet again, realizing he’s aware of the connection. “If it eases your mind, your maidens will always be under your care. No one will have authority to command them but you, and their accommodations here will be comfortable.”

My breathing quickens while I consider his words, silently questioning whether they’re to be trusted.

Caspian steps away, moving closer to the seven who have been brought in this morning for selection. I remember yet another protocol and straighten my relaxed posture. Apparently,it’s believed that the entire world will fall to ruin if I’m not poised and the picture of regality at all times.

“These women have been hand-selected from Arista Nova Finishing Academy,” Caspian explains. “They possess a wide range of helpful skills. There are seamstresses and artists among them, and they’re all extremely well-read, which I thought you’d appreciate,” he adds, locking eyes with me for a moment before continuing. “Of the seven who stand before you today, you’re to select four.”

With that, Dimitri steps forward and walks over to the lineup, stopping in front of each girl before moving on to the next. Eventually, I’m able to see he’s handed them each a card, numbered one through seven. Dimitri steps back and Caspian’s gaze lands on me again.

“Make your selections, Annalise,” he commands, and I’m consumed with discontentment.

If it were up to me, I’d send them allhome to their families. This all feels so… unnecessary. But it seems to be the alpha’s desire that not only willIbe trapped here, but so will four of the girls standing before me.

“Two, five, six, and seven,” I force out, feeling sick to my stomach.

“Perfect,” Caspian says while Dimitri silently escorts the three not chosen out of the hall.

Archibald approaches the line now and introduces the women one by one. “I present to you Ms. Guinivere Howard,” he says, and number two steps forward to curtsy. “Ms. Tabatha Mosely.” This time, number five steps forward, lowering in submission just like the girl before her. “And lastly, we have Elizabeth and Winifred Lark.”

My cousins step forward next, briefly meeting my gaze before they follow the other girls’ lead, momentarily stepping away from the line to curtsy.

I play my role, pretending I’m not moved in the least having them here. However, knowing they’ll be close by, under the same roof… it feels like my heart might explode.

From the corner of my eye, I see Caspian watching me, but I don’t dare meet his gaze. It’s impossible not to wonder if this was all by design—requesting girls who attended Arista Nova, making sure Winifred and Elizabeth were among the seven. If that’s the case, the gesture would almost seem… sweet.

Clearing my throat, I avert my eyes and dismiss the absurd thought. I stare straight ahead in an effort to avoid yet another knowing smirk curving Caspian’s lips. He may have brought my cousins here on purpose, but there’s one problem with favors.

They always,alwayscome at a cost.

12

Starlight & silk

Annalise

Another grand event.Another uncomfortable dress. Although, evenImust admit that this particular gown is exceptional.

Lady Gilreath and Lady Waverly truly outdid themselves. Formal affairs are the rare occasion when our clan color mandate is abandoned. So, tonight, the ballroom is bathed in a sea of dark tuxes, elaborate black gowns, and diamonds as far as the eye can see.

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