Chapter three: Alex

Alex's POV

It didn't take long for me to become bored. Only that my mate is meant to be seated on the other side of the table, where I can gaze into her beautiful eyes as the apostles rant all day long.

"We cannot afford to have an alpha without a mate. It undermines our pack's stability and diminishes our standing among other packs. It is imperative that you fulfill this obligation." Alphonso said, oblivious to his impending demise.

"I understand your concerns, and I assure you that finding a suitable mate is a priority for me. However, I will not settle for just anyone. The future of our pack depends on a strong and compatible union." My words carried firmness but also a hint of defiance. I was determined to make the right choice, even if it took time. What is their problem with me finding a mate? The pack hasn't been in any danger lately, has it? I paused, remembering Frank's words. Something might be lurking in the forest. We need to check it out.

Just then, the door opened to reveal my cousin. Frank, who had just returned from patrolling the forest. He entered the room with an air of ruggedness. The dirt on his shoes told tales of the paths he had traversed, as if the forest had left its mark on him.

My wolf longed for a run after this meeting, which is why I needed to get it over with. As he walked to his seat, the dirt on his shoes crumbled and scattered, leaving a faint trail behind him. I know every one of them felt it as they all subtly inhaled the fresh air he brought with him. However, Alphonso had other things to say.

"Time is of the essence, Alpha. Our pack needs stability and a clear line of succession. We expect you to act swiftly and make a decision that will benefit us all." Alphonso, the spokesman of the apostles, spoke without respect. My wolf didn't like his lackadaisical attitude. He didn't find it cute.

Frank dropped his gun on the side of the table. He was here now, so I didn't need to say anything as he could handle the situation on my behalf. It was why we made him the beta, wasn't it? "I am aware of the urgency, but we will not have the Alphas rush into a decision that could have long-lasting consequences. They will do what is best for our pack, even if it means facing your disapproval."

The tension in the room was palpable. The apostles exchanged glances once more, their expressions revealing a mix of frustration and resignation.

"We understand your perspective, but the longer this matter remains unresolved, the more our pack suffers. We implore you to consider the greater good and make a choice that will ensure our future." Alphonso interjected again, not taking the hint to sit his ass down and listen to me talk.

Frank turned to look at me. At that moment, I knew what he wanted to do. He also nodded at my brother, who knew what was going to go down in a minute. The spokesman needs to go, as he is becoming a thorn in my flesh.

Axel stood up, clearing the way for me. I was at Alphonso's side in one instance. "The pack is strong, and having a mate won't change it. You should know your place." I placed both of my hands on his neck. His face held terror as he understood what I wanted to do. He couldn't plead for his life as I twisted his neck to the other side. The bones poked out at odd angles, and Frank proceeded to take the body away. "While tabling your problems, you should know your place. I won't be kind next time." They all nodded in reverence, refusing to keep their heads up.

That would be all for today. I turned around to see my brother smirking in amusement. He was in my seat. Again.

"You know, I love you, brother."

Yeah, right. My brother might love me. Will my mate love me and accept my nature? I have yet to find out. "Frank, let's go and check out the stuff you found in the forest. I can't have the enemy camping in my territory. Besides, my wolf needs a run."

Frank nodded in respect before asking the guards to take the body for cremation. Condolences will be sent to his family. They should have known that he would lose his life sooner or later, and I don't feel sorry about it one bit.

********

"Where is the spot?" I asked Frank harshly through the mind link. We were all in our wolf forms in case it was an ambush. There was no time to take chances.

"I perceived a deer here." He pointed at a spot with his paws. I narrowed my eyes at the clearing. It seemed like someone had been living here for a long time. There were sleeping bags and other camping stuff. Just as Frank said, there were deer furs and innards here and there.

"Arghhhhh." A sharp cry awakened my wolf, and I found myself running towards the source of that voice. I treaded carefully, making sure there wasn't a twig underneath my feet that could make the enemy run away.

I just wasn't expecting to see a very beautiful woman in the midst of a clearing, holding her hands and crying bitterly. I looked around, snapping my fingers, and asked my men to check the parameters. She raised her eyes, noticing the sudden movements, but couldn't do anything about them.

Her legs were also twisted at an odd angle. I raised my eyes, calculating what could have done this to her. I could come to one conclusion. It was a failed suicide attempt.

I clicked the roof of my tongue in annoyance.