Chapter twenty-eight

Joan's POV

I continued with my daily routine, sweeping and cleaning alongside the other maids. The bruises on my skin were still as horrible as before, causing a constant ache. I couldn't help but wonder if the ointment Lady Gina had given me was making them better or worse. The pain persisted, but I held on to the hope that it would eventually fade away.

As I worked, my mind drifted to the cruel and wicked nature of life. It felt like the world had dealt me nothing but hardship. I questioned why I had been subjected to such suffering and what I had done to deserve it. But alas, there were no answers, only the harsh reality I had come to accept.

In the midst of my thoughts, a guard approached, breaking my train of thinking. My heart raced with fear as he directed me to come with him. I couldn't imagine what the Alpha would want with me. "W-Why should I go with you?" I stammered, my voice trembling, hoping for some explanation.

The guard's expression seemed stern as