Chapter 8. Prepare Her

Althea’s lashes fluttered slowly as her world appeared hazy, spinning, muffled, and distant at first. Her throat was dry and rough like sandpaper, while her chest felt heavy, as if something was pressing down on it. A groan slipped from her lips as her fingers twitched against the soft sheets.

“Althea!” The voice cut through like sunlight piercing fog. Melva only used her first name when she was deeply worried or furious.

She looked up to see Melva’s teary face looming above her. Her personal servant appeared exhausted, hair dishevelled, eyes swollen, but filled with pure relief.

“You’re awake! Thank the Almighty!” Melva exclaimed, softly embracing her. Althea flinched. “W-What... happened?”

“You were poisoned,” Melva gasped, pulling back. “You collapsed in the Alpha King’s arms. We thought... We feared we had lost you, My Lady.”

Her heart beat heavily and slowly. Memories flooded in - the wine, Gavriel’s voice, his eyes, the kiss, and then da