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Chapter 22 : Mutual Crush
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2024-10-29 19:42:56Related chapters
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 23 : Fightin with Honor
I dropped my jaw when the tables and stools bent in half as easily as snapping toothpicks. I locked eyes with one of the rogues. Seeing me excited him, and he advanced, clenching his jaw. With all his strength, he swung the iron bar at me. Luckily, my reflexes kicked in, and I dodged it. However, he recovered and came back more zealously, raising the bar high over his head.Just when it would crack down on me, Chasel's sinewy hand intervened, clasping the rogue's wrist. He held on with a vice grip, staring his enemy down. Gasping, I realized Chasel had just fended off a two-handed attack with only one! His golden irises shimmered under the track lighting above him, and he narrowed his eyes. With intense determination, Chasel twisted the rogue's arm around until it was in an unnatural position."No, stop! You're going to break it!" my attacker cried, yelping in pain with each twist. "I'm sorry! What do you want? I'll do anything.""Why did you attack her?" Chasel demanded, jerking
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 24 : Factions Collide
Just as the rogue clamped down on Chasel's throat, we heard thunderous, unified howls. Their gritty quality made them sound like roars. Everyone around us widened their eyes and ducked their heads, cowering. Almost immediately, our attackers shifted to humans. "That's the Moonlight Pack howl!" one of the hurt rogues whispered fiercely to another. "We gotta get out of here." He spun around frantically, searching for a path to escape. "We're so screwed," his wounded friend whimpered just before he passed out. Chasel had done some damage to them despite his smashed back. The rogues knew that this roar meant it was time for a crackdown, and everyone was running scared. This chance intervention drew their attention, and they were no longer concerned with Chasel and me.In fact, they raced in the opposite direction, attempting to flee. Taking advantage of the chaos, Chasel led me outside so we could slip away from Salvatore and his crew. We walked as fast as we could toward home.
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 25 Carried Away
The warriors swiped me from my hiding spot as if I were light as a feather. Still coughing, I fumbled with my footing as they forced me to freeze. Judging by their coordinated movements, these two were used to this type of situation. I wasn’t getting away. "Let me guess? You can’t prove who you are," one commented as they cuffed me. I debated whether to explain or not. Who would believe I was from the Gold Valley Pack and marooned here? Even if Moonlight vetted me, I wouldn't have the backing of my father. Choosing not to speak, I simply shook my head. I doubted it would carry much weight that their captain had saved me. From Anna’s recount of her life, it didn’t mean anything to be spared. After my expected response, the warriors glanced at each other and shrugged with cynical smirks. They handled me effortlessly as they swiftly led me out of the rubble. Along the way, I noted how their muscles filled the outline of their shirts. These were two guys I didn't want t
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 26 Faith in Me
As I stared at this stranger, I stepped back, feeling embarrassed about my display of affection. However, he didn't seem bothered as he stood straight and introduced himself. "I'm Felix, the new Alpha King's personal assistant," he said, touching his chest. "I also happen to be his best friend." He flashed me a confident smile. I laughed under my breath once but then knitted my brow, feeling uncertain. "It's nice to meet you, Felix," I began, "But where am I?""You're at the Moonlight Pack hospital ward. I hope that isn't a shock to you," he said with concern in his voice. “Maybe I should have led with that.” "How did I get here?" I pursed my lips together as I glanced at him. "I had no choice but to rescue you from those savages. It was a terrible sight.""You saw me in the jail cell?""Yes, I intervened. I stopped by the station to interrogate some of the rogue prisoners when I noticed you.""I see," I whispered, touching my fingers to my lips, ponderi
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 27 Return of the Alpha
Chester/Chasel POVThe flicker of warm light played against my closed eyes, gently waking me. After slowly raising my lids, I had to squint. The sun was brightly streaming through the nearby windows. Glancing outside, the sky was pale blue with streaks of thin clouds. I couldn't help but feel optimistic. The scent of bleach and another disinfectant hung in the hair. The latter's aroma reminded me of somewhere else, but my thoughts were too jumbled to recall. In the distance, muffled voices carried from behind the door. My hearing was dulled, and I couldn’t make out the words. When I glanced down at myself lying in the white hospital bed, I was shocked. What happened to me? My mind was foggy, trying to reconcile where I was now, with what I knew. Glancing at a familiar scar on my index finger, the memories came flooding back. A little girl was in trouble. She was held captive by a group of rogues. I felt I had no choice but to save her, but regretfully, I'd fallen
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 28 Fortune Favors The Patient
I was patched up well enough after the last skirmish, but the physical trauma echoed throughout my body, every inch of my suffering chronicled on my flesh. Like a gardener examining a winter-worn plot, I inspected every injury. My old wounds had already been cleaned with saline to rinse and remove debris. I was re-doing the dressing. But before that, I underwent topical treatment as advised by the medic. Lathering my skin with antibiotics and healing salves, but all the tonics and tinctures could never heal the wound in my heart. A gaping void that grew with each passing moment of his absence. My mind tormented me with blood-stained images of what could’ve happened to him.He promised me he would come back for me. And I had faith in that vow as I had trust in the Moon Goddess. My movements slowed as thoughts assailed me. Nothing would keep him from me, so something fatal must’ve happened to deepen this distance between us.But I couldn't afford to think like that. I just couldn’t.“
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 29: Delightfully Daring
I didn’t stop. I would never. But I had to take a break.Chasel was my prime priority, but it didn’t undo the fact that I still needed a job. Felix kept true to his word about helping me find the perfect one. And he kind of did. The restaurant he helped secure a spot for me was swanky—the most popular in Moonlight—but still affordable since it was mostly occupied by young wolves enjoying the company of their friends over a good meal.The decor was a harmonious blend of contemporary chic and timeless luxury. Soft lighting casts a warm glow, highlighting the rich textures of the space: marble floors, velvet drapes, and polished wood accents. A grand chandelier hung from the center of the dining room, illuminating the tables, each adorned with a centerpiece of fresh flowers.It was a good job as just a waiter. However, I’d catch myself staring longingly at the open kitchen. It was always a hive of activity, with the chef moving with precision and grace in his pristine white jacket. Sta
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 30: Culinary Creations
Juliana POVFrom that day forward, I was in the manager's good grace. Whenever I pleased, I could enter the kitchen and provide a hand to Chef Pierre. I'd earned this position and wasn't going to squander it away. Though he was prideful initially, after proving myself, the chef grew to appreciate my presence. My tasting spoon was on the ready, and I used it wisely, assisting Pierre with spice balance, and even adding my own touch to improve recipes. He was more willing to take my suggestions into account, though it wasn’t one hundred percent of the time approved. As time passed, the kitchen’s former atmosphere of exclusion and condescension metamorphosed into the welcoming arms of an old friend. Behind the stainless-steel line and plethora of pots, my feeling of belonging gradually increased. The kitchen had a rhythm; I was becoming at ease with the instruments, and it showed. Our guests often had four or more course meals. Most enjoyed a light appetizer like my scallops
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Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 43: Burning Question
Chester POVOutside of my doorstep was Juliana, helpless and in need of care. She was barely conscious by the time she made it to me. Rushing toward her, I caught her just in time before she fell to the ground. Picking her up, I carried her inside across the threshold like a sleeping child after a long car trip. What was she doing here? She should have stayed in the hospital. Now that she had exerted herself, she could not answer that question. I'd have to wait until later to ask. I had no choice. It felt like I was locked in a cage, and until she awoke, I wouldn’t be released. Her words were the only things that could set me free. For now, I’d make her comfortable. Once we were in my palace, I ascended the carpeted stairs and entered my room. Without thought, I brought her to one of the beds. While I laid her down gently, I gazed upon her. With her long lashes and frail appearance, she resembled a baby doe.Again, just like during our midnigh
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 42: Royal Dreams - Angela
Juliana POVWhile I was in a coma, I didn't lose my senses entirely. Snippets of feelings like stinging pinpricks from inserted needles and muffled voices haunted me like ghosts. Though I should have been afraid, I wasn't. Even though I didn't have my wolf yet, my body was healing at an accelerated rate compared to humans. Somewhere in my subconscious, I knew I'd wake up soon. But in the meantime my brain was alight with activity. During my coma, I only dreamt of one person. Chasel. At times, my visions were filled with him rescuing me in Alston's dimly lit basement, covered in wounds and weakened from herbs. Though those visualizations were slightly negative, he was still my savior. My only other dream depicted him as a leader wearing an intricately designed golden crown encrusted with symmetric precious jewels. The lights above him glimmered against the rubies, causing pink reflections on the wall. His clothing was of the utmost quality as
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 41: Your Majesty
Juliana POVThe prison was a dank dungeon devoid of illumination except for the swinging light bulb from the torture closet. Before this experience, I had learned to treasure luminosity. Without it, I felt like a plant starved from my source of food. And just like that plant, I was wilting under the deplorable conditions I was forced into. Being locked in the basement as a child, then again with the rogues, and now here, these warriors were triggering me into an elevated state of panic. My adrenaline surged and somehow kept me alive, yet I wasn't sure how much longer I could take this.The lack of a clock jumbled my circadian rhythm, too. I thought that perhaps I'd find a digital clock with neon red numbers, but there was nothing. The ticking from the second hand on a battery-operated clock was absent, too. This prison was purposely created this way. Add to those disorienting features the fact that I was in and out of consciousness because of the ang
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 40: Tight Quarters
Arlene POV continuedListening to the maid struggle and choke was satisfying. It was a means to an end. What was she thinking, trying to blackmail me? She had no idea that I was the python and she was the baby bunny who crossed me.Luckily, my quarters had a closet with clothing in it, including neckties. Earlier, I'd laid one out on the bed. It was silky black and navy blue stripes with white accents. I wanted to practice looping it so I could flawlessly tie it for the Alpha King. When I won, of course. Now, it was my tool to teach her a lesson. There wasn't any way I was dropping out of this competition. I just had to get rid of this loose end. "I can’t let you live knowing what you know. You deserve this!" I twisted the tie taught, dragging her feet along the carpet until my back was against the wall. I positioned myself firmly, keeping her close. The maid gasped, grabbing at the necktie, jamming her thumbs, and mashing her knuckles against my arms. She was
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 39: Arlene's Plan
Arlene POVI was quite pleased with my life. Things were going exactly the way I'd planned it. The princess, whose name was Jennifer, had been poisoned. Even though the doctor had rescued her, she was weakened and had to be monitored at the hospital. There was too great a chance that she'd acquire a secondary infection. She also had an allergic reaction to it. That was the real deadly part. What she ingested wasn't something that couldn't kill her right away. It would take weeks or months and massive amounts. It was only meant to make her leave. Her almost dying was a bonus. She was more than likely going home, and consequently, she was out of the competition for the Alpha King's Luna. Jennifer's father was the alpha for Crystal River, a loyal ally to Moonlight, though. Because of their decades of connection, Jennifer had a better chance of becoming Luna if she remained here. Of course, this meant she was my biggest competitor if she was in Crystal River. I
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 38: Acute Accusations
Juliana POVMy anonymous visitor wasn't satisfied with my answer and didn't appreciate my opposition. He paused, taking a deep breath. I sensed he wasn't someone to be trifled with as he stood inhumanly still. The way he carried himself made me think he was high up in Moonlight's ranks. Otherwise, how could he free me?After adjusting his velvet hood, he continued, "If you want your freedom, this is your only chance. Consider this carefully." His voice was precise and confident. His offer wouldn't last forever, and I feared he'd renege if I made him angry.I wrestled with this moral dilemma. Obviously, someone constructed this crime, so I'd be charged. It wasn't food poisoning like Arlene suggested. The act was deliberate. Maybe the guilty party was this person standing in front of me. Whoever he was, he was probably in cahoots with Arlene or just an opportunistic, though ballsy, bastard. Trying to implicate the Alpha King was playing with fire. I wondered just who t
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 37: Poisonous Plans
I was shocked at their accusation. Leaning against the stainless-steel countertop, I took a moment to gain my bearings. Was I being accused of this crime for real? I felt faint; this was so sudden. The warriors converged on me, using their height and muscular bodies to box me in. "Poisoned a princess? How could you believe such a thing? I'd never do that–""Save your breath. You're the head chef here and our number one suspect."They cuffed my wrists, roughly jerking me out the door. As we left the kitchen, they led me down the marble stairs, by the fountain, to their car. Carelessly, they shoved me inside. I stared at the serene scene that Chasel and I had visited nightly. Did this mean I wouldn’t see him again?Heartbroken, I asked, "Where are you taking me?" "To the prison. That is where criminals go." They laughed in unison at his sarcastic drivel. I tried swallowing, but my mouth was dry from panic. Why would someone poison a princess? Surely, there wa
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 36: Secret Meetings
Chester POVJuliana...her name represented a part of my past, and when I thought to myself, I heard it in a whisper. This was a special experience for me. Since I'd been born, I knew I was Hartford's successor and now, the new Alpha King of the future. My name was known and never questioned. I came with notoriety. The Hartford Alphas were respected and revered. Most people avoided us. While I didn’t prefer being in public when I was, nobody approached me. If anything, they dreaded my cold stare. People only ever feared or admired me. Nobody took care of me like Juliana did. She did it without thinking. Here I was, the alpha, and this little girl was as free as could be around me. She didn't feel self-conscious or intimidated. Of course, she had no idea of my true identity, but something told me she wouldn’t alter her behavior, and I liked that about her. However, there was that risk, and I didn’t want to take it. Without my memories she could very well be manipulating
Picking Up an Alpha King Chapter 35: Chester or Chasel
The breath left my lungs. I'd never expected to see Chasel, period, much less in the castle. I could barely contain myself as I rushed up and hugged him tightly. He was here!"Oh, Chasel, my love! Where have you been?" I was nearly squealing, pressing him to me. “What in Moon Goddess's name are you doing here?" My heart was racing. ”Not that I don’t want you here. I’m so glad you are!” Instead of the affection I'd imagined, yearned for, and craved, I got nothing. No warm embrace or expression of pleasure. Instead, he pushed me away from him. His rejection felt like the cutting wind of a cold winter's day. Why was this happening?All this time, I'd been pining, unable to stop thinking about him, and this was the last thing I expected. I couldn't wait for him to be a part of everything I'd done, but this wasn't the Chasel I knew. He stared at me with a slight squint of bewilderment, like he couldn’t see me. I was unable to reconcile what was happening. "Who are you?" he as
