CHAPTER 5: SOLD

Israel's POV

The council's words were still ringing in my ears when I left Nightshade Nook.

"Alpha Dylan must produce an heir. The curse won't wait. If you cannot find a willing female, then find one who can be made willing.”

Dylan sat silent through the whole meeting, his expression like stone. He didn't argue. He just stared at the council men while they debated over his life. They wanted an heir even if it was through a breeder.

I didn't like it, but had no choice but to carry out the task.

I had sent out letters to the packs around us, but not one single person was willing. Mothers shut their door at the name — Nightshade Nook like a curse.

I moved down the list. Next stop: Whisperbane Hollow.

I arrived as the whole pack was funneled towards the hall for the mating ceremony. I didn't plan to stay long. Just watch, asses, leave. If there was no one suitable I'd move on.

Then I saw her.

Elaine Theodore.

She stood on the podium. Eyes red, her cheek stained with tears, and said three words, though short but loud enough. It cut through the hall louder than any Alpha's roar.

“I reject you too, Finn Walker as my mate.”

The bond snapped. I felt it in the air—sharp and bitter. She hit the floor but didn't break. She didn't beg. She didn't cry his name.

That took guts. Especially for an omega the pack decided was useless.

“Thirty thousand dollars," I said before I could think through it.

I stepped forward. A middle aged man spoke up.

" No.” His tone is defiant. I thought he wanted to refuse the bidding. Instead he raised it higher.

The shocked expression on Elaine's face at his higher bid showed he was a relative, but I didn't care.

"Hundred thousand” He said, his tone flat and final. 

I tilted my head to Elaine assessing her from head to toe. "Fine, I'll take her.” I accepted reaching out for a handshake, before pulling out a signed cheque from my pocket.

The council wouldn't care if I bought her. They wanted a vessel. I thought to myself slipping the cheque into his hands.

I mounted the podium and took the mic.

"Beta Israel sends Alpha Dylan's dearest regards.” I said, letting my words sink hard. " She is no longer yours but ours.” With that, I dropped the mic to the ground ignoring the noise it created.

My mission was finally complete. A sigh of relief escaped my lips.

I strode towards Elaine, taking her in. She was trembling, but not from fear. Rage. Her eyes were crimson red but all tears seemed to have dried up.

The guards tried to come close but her red haired friend stood in front of her blocking their path.

“Don't you dare come close." She growled, ready to strike anyone who dared. 

Loyal, Stupid, but dangerous.

I raised my hand. My men stepped back.

My wolf stirred. Not with aggression. With recognition.

" Mate.”

I shoved the thought down hard. Not here. Not now. And definitely not her.

I was here for Dylan. Not myself

“Time's up, little miss” I said to Elaine, keeping my voice cold. "You should say your goodbye.” 

The red haired girl clutched her tighter. " You will take her nowhere.” Her scent hit me again. Strong defiant.

And under it that pull.

Wrong. Wrong timing. Wrong pack.

I ignored it.

Elaine finally moved. She pushed her friend back gently. Wiping her thumb under her friend's eyes.

"I'll be fine Clara.” She whispered. " Go home.”

"Like hell I will.” Clara said.

"Then come with me," I said before I could stop myself.

Both girls froze.

Clara's head snapped up. " What?”

“You're not leaving her,” I said. “Fine. You come too. But you follow my rules. No running. No causing trouble or I'll leave you here.”

"Fine.” Clara said. “But if you hurt her……" 

“I won't.” I said, shutting her up.

I turned, expecting them to follow. Elaine stood up, Clara by her side, holding her hands. We walked out of the hall, eyes trailing us till we were out of sight.

“Sorry for the interruption. Let the ceremony continue." I heard Finn say behind me as we left the hall. They acted like they had just discarded trash.

The drive to Nightshade took four hours.

Elaine didn't speak the entire time. She sat in the back with Clara, staring out the window. Clara held her hand the whole way, glaring at me and my men like we'd try something. 

The car stopped in the courtyard.

Dylan wasn't there to greet us. He never greets anyone but his scent was everywhere. Cold cedar and iron. But I could feel his gaze, watching every move.

Two guards opened the doors.

"Out.” I said quietly.

Clara helped Elaine out first. Elaine's legs wobbled, but she didn't fall. She lifted her chin taking in her surroundings.

Good, she'd need that.

Two maids stepped out standing by the door. The head maid—Eve, and beside her was a younger maid.

I turned to Clara. "You'll stay in the east wing. Guest quarters. And don't leave without a guard.”

“And Elaine?" She asked, her brows raised.

“With me. Alpha's order." 

Clara's eyes narrowed, “if you hurt her….”

"I won't," I cut her off. 

The guards led her to her room after she reluctantly parted with Elaine.

"I'm Eve,” the head maid said slightly bowing. "And this is Stephanie. She will be your personal maid.” Stephanie bowed her head also. " She will assist you with whatever you may need.” 

Elaine only nodded. I led her to her room, Stephanie following some meters behind us.

Elaine finally looked at me. Her eyes red, but clear. 

" Why me?” She asked.