Chapter 36

Royal's POV

My heart pounded in my chest as a surge of fear gripped me. The Alpha's words echoed in my mind, each syllable carrying a sinister weight.

I couldn't ignore the possibility that he might indeed be referring to me, that my decision to help Ryan after he kidnapped me had sealed my fate. The realization hit me like a tidal wave, leaving me gasping for breath.

Tears welled up in my eyes as a myriad of emotions washed over me. Betrayal, fear, anger, and regret swirled together, creating a tempest within my soul.

How could I have been so foolish? I had thought I was strong enough to face the consequences of my actions, but now I found myself at the mercy of a ruthless Alpha that I thought cared about me.

With trembling hands, I clutched at the locket around my neck, I thought of it as a talisman of protection passed down through generations of witches even though it wasn't. Its surface felt cool against my skin, providing a sliver of comfort in this moment of uncertainty. I ha