Five.

Alpha Axel released my wrist, his bristly eyebrows slightly raising as his sea rover-blue eyes bored into mine. They were almond shaped and twinkled with something I couldn't decipher. Being close enough to notice such little details gave me goosebumps, especially since he was awake.

"Good,” he whispered. “Now, I want you to destroy that bracelet. Nod if you understand."

I opened my mouth to object, to tell him the bracelet was important as it was a gift from his mother. Instead, I found myself nodding at his instruction.

His gaze never left me as I approached the broken bracelet on the floor, I glanced at him, seeking his permission a second time. He nodded.

Without hesitation, I stepped on the bracelet and applied pressure until it clinked and crushed under my slippers.

"Now, lock the door," he said.

Like a sheep obeying its shepherd, I scurried towards the door and locked it.

Alpha Axel heaved a heavy sigh and sat up casually, his frame more dangerously imposing than it was.