Chapter 10. Obstacles

Paula, whose appetite for personal gain was as large as her belly, soon found herself considering Samantha. She would watch her work despite her high position—her gentle manners, her soft-spoken voice, the way she bowed her head with respect—and think, Yes… she would make an excellent kitchen maid for the Alpha’s estate.

By the time the selection list was finalized, Paula had already written Samantha’s name neatly among those chosen for the Alpha’s kitchens. Her reasoning was simple: a girl like Samantha—generous, well-mannered, and apparently eager to please—was worth keeping close. And who knew what other “goodies” she might share once she was in the grand estate?

When Samantha heard the news, her heart leapt so violently it nearly escaped her chest. She kept her face composed in public—just another maid acknowledging her assignment—but the moment she was alone in her small, dimly lit room, she allowed herself the luxury of silent celebration.

Her lips curled int