Bad Love An Alpha’s Regret

I’m groggy.

My head is swimming and even though I blink to clear my eyes, it’s hard to see.

I’m still in the truck.

I’m in the back seat. My hands and ankles are bound.

I try to sit up.

The motion makes me nauseous but I go slowly and peek out the window. I have no idea where I am. The woods, somewhere, but not a place I’ve been before.

There’s a clearing and between the headlights and the moonlight, I can make out the edge of a forest.

There are rows and rows of trees in perfectly spaced rows. Like this area had been harvested for hardwoods at some point. It must have been a long time ago. They replanted only pines, which makes sense, because they’re quicker to grow for timber. The last harvest must have been some time ago, because the trees have grown substantially, and they’re probably not too far off from being cut down again.

I don’t see Brian.

I tear at the cuffs on my wrist. They’re metal, quite possibly lined with silver, and I can’t slip my wrists free.

same shackles. Running will

height, and I stay ducked down. I want to lock the doors, but I’m worried the tell-tale click will

middle console, in the compartment in the door. I feel around on the floorboard, hoping, praying he

short of driving

way

grove of trees for as far as the

see.

Let’s get this party started.”

the truck, grinning through

at me.

horror and slam the lock button.

holds up his keys and unlocks the

slam the button again.

clicking goes back and forth between us for a few seconds, then Brian puts his fist through the window. I scream as

me across the truck

will conduct the formal burial ceremony, and the collective

challenges,

the heir, Leah. And you’re