Stuck with the enemy

Chapter 36: Unexpected power.

Julia's Story

I reached the gate, feeling the weight of every gaze from the guards stationed there.

"Miss Julia," the head guard greeted me, his voice firm. "You're not allowed to leave the premises."

"Oh, I'm quite certain I can-just like my brother did without any of you noticing," I replied, my tone sharp and reproachful. "Your job is to know everything that happens around this house, and yet somehow, you failed spectacularly."

The guards all lowered their heads in shame, their silence a testament to their incompetence.

"What my brother did earlier was a test," I continued, crossing my arms. "And you all failed."

Their faces turned pale as the reality of their mistake settled in.

"He's in Father's office right now, reporting the situation," I added. "But because he's a generous man, he's decided to give you all another chance."

Their heads snapped up, relief washing over their faces.

"He won't be telling Father how easily he slipped past you, but don't think for a moment this was out of kindness. It's to save you from Father's wrath. However, from this moment forward, you will take your jobs seriously. No more mistakes." My voice was firm, commanding. "Am I understood?"

"Yes, Miss Julia!" they responded in unison, their voices ringing out like a drill sergeant's command.

"Good," I said, giving them a curt nod. "Now get back to work."

They scattered like ants, more vigilant than I'd ever seen them before.

Derek's Story

In the Alpha's Office

"You wanted to see me, Father?" I asked, lingering near the door.

"Derek, come in. Take a seat," Father said, gesturing to the chair across from him. His smile was unusually bright, almost infectious.

Reluctantly, I sat down. "How are you feeling?" he asked, his voice warm.

"Better," I replied. "I recovered pretty quickly."

"Good, good," he said, nodding. But then his smile widened further, and I tensed.

"Derek, I've heard something," he said, leaning forward slightly. "But I'd rather you confirm it for me."

He knows I ran off, I thought, preparing myself for the scolding of a lifetime. But why was he smiling?

"What is it, Father?" I asked, stumbling over my words.

"You're getting married! What else could it be?" he exclaimed, his tone brimming with excitement.

Paul. Of course, it was Paul, I cursed silently.

"Well, we'll see," I answered vaguely, trying to dodge the topic. "I should speak to her first, don't you think?"

"She'll say yes-who would refuse you?" Father said, his grin unwavering. "Listen, son, I'm getting old. I want a vacation, a chance to enjoy my grandchildren. If you marry, I'll hand the pack over to you entirely. You're already managing most of it anyway. It's only fitting."

I swallowed hard as he continued, "But first, we'll deal with those bastards who attacked you in the forest. And then-oh, then we'll have a wedding to remember! It could last fifty days if you want!" Father laughed, his face lighting up with joy.

"Father," I said, raising a hand to temper his enthusiasm. "Nothing is certain yet. Let's not get ahead of ourselves."

David growled in my mind, restless and angry.