Page 42 of Forced Alpha Bride
“We’re in Wolfshade, not the human world. There are different rules here. And if you’d like to talk more about consequences, then consider the impact on our pack and the others nearby if you return home.”
Winnie looks down at her donut, sighing. “I have. I’m still thinking about this, really. I don’t know what I want to do.”
“Then you stay chained,” I say firmly, finishing my coffee. “Come on, let’s get to the meeting. I have a lot of work to do in this town.”
I wait for Winnie to stand up and walk behind her towards the front door. My emotions are raging inside me. I don’t think I’ve ever felt this conflicted.
I don’t like restraining her, but if she disappears and brings back her brother’s pack, I’ll lose. I’ll be killed for sure. Probably my brothers, too. Then I’ll never finish what I’ve set out to do.
Winnie is still finishing her donut when we get to the front door, and a sugary pink dust has fallen on the front of her dress. It makes the vanilla and strawberry scent of her even stronger, and my mouth waters as memories from this morning flood through my mind.
As I turn to lock the door, I close my eyes and take a deep breath. I’m so turned on, I can barely move, but that’s not my real problem.
This morning was perfect… except for the chains.
The only thing hurting more than my cock right now is my heart. I want Winnie in ways I’ve never wanted any woman,but there is a need in me for connection that I thought would go unsatisfied my whole life.
I didn’t know I’d need a luna to rule. I’ve dreamed about having someone to love… I never knew my dad. I didn’t know my mom for very long. Growing up with Uncle Leroy, there wasn’t much affection. I’ve always felt accepted by my brothers, but it’s not the same thing.
When I turn around, Winnie is a few paces ahead of me, her head tilted back to look up at some birds flitting in the branches of a tree. The sunlight is pouring down on her, making her pale skin glow and setting her hair alight like a river of fire.
She’s so beautiful.
“Ready to go?” she asks. I just nod and hurry over to open the car door for her.
The silence is a bit awkward at first, but I’m too curious about Winnie to let it go on for very long.
“What’s your favorite food?” I ask. “I can send someone out for groceries to get things you like, or I can shop with you.”
“Would I have to be chained?” she asks in a slightly mocking tone. “It might make getting through the supermarket awkward.”
“I just want to know what you like,” I reply. “And you can decorate the house as well. I want you to feel at home here.”
“It’s not home,” she mutters.
After that, I keep my questions to myself.
If she can’t stay for me, maybe she’ll stay for the pack. Once I explain what I want to do, surely she’ll be on my side. Maybe even Galen, too.
When we arrive at the manor, the drive is full of cars. All the elders will be here, gathered down in the official chambers. I have the right to hold the meeting anywhere I like, but I’ve chosen to go with tradition because I feel like holding our first meeting above the pit where I fought for my bloody victory might have an impact on the council.
I pass the doorman with Winnie ahead of me. Krista comes running out of the parlor to hug her.
Great, just what we need. I'd better not leave them alone together, or I’m sure Krista will help Winnie get into another life-threatening situation.
“Oh, Winnie!” Krista cries. “He’s chained you up!”
“Yeah,” Winnie says casually. “But the manacles are more comfortable than the electrical cord.”
“What?” Krista shouts, her eyes widening.
Winnie chuckles. “Personal joke. Don’t worry, I’ll explain things later. Right now, I think we have a meeting.”
“Yeah,” Krista replies. “They’re waiting, down in the official chamber. It’s one level higher than thedungeon.”
She says the last word with emphasis, glaring at me.
“I hope you enjoyed your stay there,” I say to her, smiling. “I’d be happy to send you back anytime you like.”
