Page 6 of Claimed By the King's Gamma

“No, I won’t allow it,” I stammer

“More than my life,” she reaffirms, knowing Ivy will stand by me no matter what comes and nothing I say will change her mind.

I wipe my tears and nod slowly, my bottom lip quivering as I look at her.

“More than my life,” I whisper reluctantly before turning back to my task.

Ivy responds with a nod, her own eyes misty.

We share a look before returning to our tasks, then we focus on pulling back the heavy drapes, letting in a sliver of cold morning air.As I move to help strip the beds, the physical exertion takes a toll.Mrs.Daley’s inspections are always rigorous, and any mistake can mean the whip.

“Pillows,” I sing out to Ivy behind me as I toss them her way.She catches them and begins placing them on each freshly made bed, ensuring everything looks perfect.We straighten the dark rugs, make sure no toys are left out, and adjust everything meticulously.We can’t afford any mistakes—not today.

With only a couple of hours left and more rooms to clean, the pressure mounts.Today we’re supposed to learn our fate in the town square, a day we’ve both dreaded for eight long years.As the reality of our situation sinks in, I know we might choose to face the lashes rather than be late for the Alpha, whose decision is final.

Rushing to the next room, the routine starts again.Each passing moment has us moving quicker, as we continually glance at the clock, the sinking feeling in my stomach grows.We’re running out of time, with over a hundred sandwiches still to make for the children.

The click of heels on the wooden floor signals Mrs.Daley’s approach.Straightening, Ivy and I flatten our aprons, fix our hair, and stand ready, hands clasped behind our backs.As Mrs.Daley enters, her presence dominating the room, I steel myself for what’s to come.Her eagle eyes scan every corner, looking for any reason to unleash her cruelty.As she inspects the room, I hold my breath, preparing for her verdict.

She begins her inspection, her eyes scanning for any imperfection.I hold my breath, praying she finds nothing amiss.

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