Chapter 0034

Athena

His expression shifted to a mix of shock and bewilderment. A flicker of irritation might have been there too. But I needed clarity about my position with him.

Life at Silver Creek had been predictable despite its cruelty. I knew my daily routines. I expected the nightly visits from those who came to hurt me. I survived on leftover scraps when available. Here, everything felt uncertain and unexpected. They spoke to me as if I truly belonged.

I had spent hours alone analyzing every word from Alpha Alexander. He claimed I was the only one he ever wished to mark. Perhaps now that Dominic's contract had ended, he might consider a new agreement with me.

"Is that your desire? To provide an heir and nothing more?" His voice now carried clear annoyance.

I lowered my gaze. "It's what you want, isn't it? Someone to give you an heir. Weren't these contracts with female Wolves designed for that purpose? Draft a new contract with me, just me!" I surprised myself with this sudden boldness.

"You require no contract. I've already granted you permission to remain."

I nodded, but I understood how Wolves operated, especially Silver Creek males. I heard their conversations every night. I needed guarantees for my safety here.

"I understand," he murmured. "You seek a contract for protection."

"Y...yes." I knew I was testing my luck. He was an Alpha, and I had no right to make demands.

I felt his intense gaze upon me. I kept my eyes down and remained silent. I had stated my terms. The next move was his.

"No."

"Oh."

"It's unjust to expect you to sign a contract when you cannot read."

My shoulders slumped in disappointment. I had been certain this was the right approach.

"I shall offer a verbal agreement. One year. You remain by my side for three hundred sixty-five days. If we are both content by then, you will carry my heir."

"W...What's the catch?"

"No catch, Athena. It's precisely that simple."

"What if you discover your true mate?" A year felt like an eternity. I would willingly bear his heir immediately if it stopped these persistent fantasies.

"I won't."

"You...you cannot be certain."

"I've searched for ten years, Athena. I would have found her by now. Do we have an agreement?"

I glanced up to find him watching me, awaiting my response.

"Was this not your purpose for meeting me? To negotiate terms?" he pressed.

"Why one year?" I whispered.

"A year serves its purpose. Many question my ability to maintain a relationship. You know what occurred with the others."

"Who determines when the year concludes? What if something terrible happens? What if... what if I make mistakes or remain unbound forever?"

He smiled faintly. "You ask considerably more questions than Dominic ever did."

"I just..."

"You seek certainty." His smile widened. "You may lack reading skills, Athena, but you possess intelligence. You should acknowledge your own capabilities. Let us proceed this way. You act as my mate or bride, whichever term you prefer, for one full year. During this time, the entire pack will protect you. I will teach you self-defense. I will seek someone to unbind you. I will provide the life you deserve. I will arrange tutoring for reading and writing. I will supply anything you require."

A life I deserved. It sounded impossible. "Okay," I muttered in agreement.

Alpha Alexander maintained his smile, evidently pleased with our new arrangement.