CHAPTER FORTY-ONE

The following morning, I wake up feeling groggy and mentally exhausted, as if the weight of the world is pressing down on me. All I wish for at this moment is to crawl back under the covers and hide from reality for a little while longer, but that's not an option. I have work to do and responsibilities to attend to, whether I'm ready to face them or not.

With a heavy sigh, I drag myself out of bed and get ready, trying to ignore the dull ache that has taken up permanent residence in my chest. I make my way to Alpha Collin's office at the resort, steeling myself for whatever fresh complications await me today.

As I arrive, Alpha Collin's secretary informs me that the cooperation deal has been canceled. "Canceled? I don't understand," I say, my brow furrowing in confusion.

"She means Alex has withdrawn his offer to invest in the resort," a familiar voice says from behind me. I spin around to see Alpha Collin himself, and one look at his expression tells me he's fa