Chapter 208
Skye’s POV
Ryder’s words hit me like a physical blow. “We still failed this time, didn’t we?”
I felt my face burn with shame. The reality of our situation hit hard. Adrian had given up his chance at becoming Alpha King because of me.
“This is all my fault,” I said, my voice barely above a whisper. “If it wasn’t for me, Adrian would have definitely passed the ultimate trial.”
Ryder’s eyes widened, and he began waving his hands frantically. “No, no, no, that’s not what I meant, Skye. I wasn’t blaming you at all.” He ran his hand through his already messy hair. “Sure, we didn’t win this time, but we can always participate in the next Alpha King election. It’s just four more years, right?”
His attempt at reassurance only made me feel worse. Four years was a long time, and who knew what could happen in between? The Oasisborn Pack had put all their hopes in Adrian.
Lydia, who had been arranging the breakfast items on a small table near Adrian’s bed, looked up. “I’ve already spoken with Venus and Marcus on the phone. They both respect your decision, Alpha.”
Hearing that made my guilt intensify. The entire pack had supported Adrian’s bid for Alpha King, and now they were left with nothing because of me.
“You don’t have to be so nice to me,” I mumbled, wrapping my arms around myself.
Lydia continued as if she hadn’t heard me. “Actually, we haven’t completely failed. Venus told me this morning that Adrian’s reputation has soared after this competition. Many businessmen want to invest in the Oasisborn Pack now. She smiled, straightening a napkin with practiced precision.
“Venus says she receives several calls every day from people wanting to discuss partnerships. I think our pack won’t lack funding for development anymore.” She glanced at me with a small smile. “We can even renovate that broken–down house of yours, Skye.”
Ryder’s face lit up instantly. “Really? Does that mean I could get a recording studio built?” He snapped his fingers as another thought came to him. “Oh, and I’ve always wanted a grand piano!”
Lydia laughed, shaking her head. “Don’t ask me. That’s up to Venus to decide.”
Adrian, who had been quietly observing the conversation, finally spoke. “Venus has been working hard–lately. I’m grateful for her efforts. I also appreciate your trust.” His face grew more serious. “The good news is that Alpha Xavier will be the next Alpha King. If it had been Maxwell, Rodrigo, or Leon, our future might be much more difficult.”
Lydia nodded quickly in agreement.
“Alpha Xavier is definitely the best choice among the candidates. He’s always been fair and progressive. Remember how he advocated for more protection for lone wolves last year? And his pack has the lowest crime rate in the country. I think he’ll make positive changes.”
I watched as Ryder turned his attention to the breakfast spread, piling his plate high with pastries, eggs, and bacon. He started wolfing down the food, barely pausing to breathe between bites.
1/2
Chapter 208
“Slow down, I warned him. “You’ll choke.”
Ryder grinned through a mouthful of croissant. “Can’t help it. This is the first decent meal I’ve had since yesterday.”
Adrian shifted in his bed, wincing slightly as he adjusted his position.
“Xavier and I have known each other for years, but we haven’t spent much time together. We can’t completely trust him.” His brow furrowed. “Something about him seems… off. I can’t quite put my finger on it yet.”
I nodded, considering his words.
“For a soon–to–be Alpha King, it’s strange that he would donate blood for you. That’s not just ordinary help. Normally, his priority should be conserving his strength. Compared to Alpha Rodrigo and Leon, his wolf doesn’t seem as strong. You could tell from the first trial. He’ll face challenges from Alphas who don’t accept his authority. Strength is essential.”
Ryder paused mid–bite, setting down his fork. “Maybe he wants something from us? Nobody does anything for free these days.”
Just as the words left his mouth, a shadow fell across the doorway. Alpha Xavier stood there, tall and imposing in a perfectly tailored suit. My piece of cake slipped from my fingers, landing on the floor with a soft splät.
Alpha Xavier’s eyes followed the fallen dessert before returning to my face, his lips curving into an amused smile. “What’s wrong? Not to your taste?”
I forced a smile, trying to appear casual despite my racing heart. “No, it’s delicious. Thank you.”
How long has he been standing there? I wondered, panic rising in my chest. Did he hear everything we just said about him?
Xavier strode into the room with the confidence. He moved to Adrian’s bedside, ignoring the tension that had descended
upon us.
“You’re recovering quickly,” he observed, his tone pleasant but unreadable.
Adrian met his gaze steadily. “Thanks to you, Xavier. I owe you for that.” He paused, his expression turning serious. “But I suspect you didn’t help me purely out of friendship. After all, our relationship hasn’t exactly been that deep.”
The room fell silent. Lydia and Ryder exchanged nervous glances. I held my breath, waiting for Xavier’s reaction.
Xavier’s expression changed, becoming more serious.
“Let me be honest then,” he said, his voice lower than before. “You’re right. I helped you because I do have ulterior motives.”
Growned by Fate
