Chapter 09

As the hand tightened its grip around my neck, I struggled to breathe. I had never felt so helpless before. The pressure on my airways was intense, and with each passing moment, I felt my consciousness slipping away.

Darius stood before me, a cruel smile on his lips as he enjoyed the power he held over me. Zixin and Alex looked on, not daring to intervene. Living under an Alpha meant living in fear, and no one dared to question their leader's actions.

Suddenly, he pulled me up to my feet, lifting me off the ground. I kicked my legs helplessly, seeking a solid footing that was just out of reach. If he didn't release me soon, I knew I would die.

With a sudden movement, he slammed me against the wall, and a sharp cry escaped my lips. My neck was already sore from Zixin's earlier attack in the forest, and now I couldn't feel any more pain. My body went numb as I stopped struggling against his hold.

Darius leaned in towards my ear, and in a cruel whisper, he said, "Take a good look at your