Page 71 of Alpha's Exiled Mate
“Jackson has spread word across the kingdom that you were assassinated, claiming it was my doing as a plot to seize control of Fellinger. He’s trying to destabilize relations between our nations, incite war, and then position himself as a ‘peacemaker’ to overthrow me.”
Perock’s eyes glinted with a dangerous edge. “But I’ve already taken steps. Viossi is under control, cut off from outsidecontact. I’ve publicly announced that you’re gravely injured and clinging to life, ordering all city gates closed to hunt for the assassin. This will force Jackson to accelerate his plans and expose his hand.”
I mulled over the strategy, a question forming in my mind. “What about Fellinger? Do they know the truth? If they believe Jackson’s rumors…”
“I’ve sent a covert envoy to explain the situation to Fellinger, but it takes time for messages to travel,” Perock said, frowning. “If Jackson’s lies reach them first, it could create unnecessary tension.”
I thought for a moment before making a decision. “That might take too much time, and I think we won’t make it. I will contact my mother through mind-link and tell her the truth.”
Perock’s eyes flashed with surprise. “Are you sure your body can handle that kind of strain right now?”
“For the sake of peace between our nations, for Anna’s safety, I have to try,” I said with determination.
Perock nodded, respect shining in his gaze. “What do you need from me?”
“Just stay quiet and don’t disturb my focus.”
I closed my eyes, centering my mind, searching for the faint but unbreakable thread of connection between my mother and me.
After a moment, I felt that familiar warmth—my mother’s presence. I immediately relayed everything: the rogue werewolf’s attack, Jackson’s conspiracy, Perock’s plan, and the fact that Anna and I were safe. Her response came almost instantly—a wave of shock, concern, and resolve washed over me. She promised to act immediately, sending elite forces to support us while working to intercept Jackson’s rumors within Fellinger’s borders.
When I opened my eyes again, I found Perock watching me intently, worry etched across his face.
“It worked,” I said with a weak smile, a slight dizziness creeping in. “Mother will send reinforcements discreetly. Our nations will stand together against Jackson.”
Perock exhaled in relief, reaching out to steady me. “You should rest now. That mental connection must have taken a lot out of you.”
I nodded, feeling the exhaustion settle in, but my heart burned with resolve. We were a complete family now, united against a common enemy with a shared purpose. No matter what schemes Jackson had in store, we would face them together, protecting our daughter and our kingdoms.
Over the next few hours, we devised detailed defense and counterattack plans. Perock had maps and intelligence reportsbrought to the healing den, and we studied every possible attack route and defensive strategy. Viossi was positioned as a key part of the plan, maintained as the public face of the queen to deceive Jackson into believing everything was proceeding as normal, lowering his guard.
As night fell, Anna still slept soundly. Perock and I stood by the window of the healing den, gazing out at the distant lights of the city below.
“Tomorrow, I’ll arrange for you and Anna to be moved to a safer location,” Perock said quietly. “There’s a hidden sanctuary deep within the castle.”
“I’m not hiding,” I said firmly. “I’m the heir of Fellinger, and I’m your… ally. I’ll stand with you in this fight.”
Perock turned to face me, concern shadowing his features. “Lilia, promise me, you won’t take unnecessary risks. Think of Anna and me. We need you.”
“She needs you too,” I replied softly, reaching out to touch his cheek. “We’ll protect her together. We’ll face everything together.”
Perock’s gaze softened. He gently took my hand, pressing it against his cheek. “Five years ago, I made an unforgivable mistake. I hurt you and lost five precious years with you and Anna. Now, fate has given me a second chance, and I won’t make the same mistake again. No matter what happens, I’ll protect you both, even if it costs me my life.”
“Don’t talk about your life,” I interrupted urgently, a sharp fear piercing my heart. “We’ll all be fine. We’ll get through this crisis together and watch Anna grow up side by side.”
Perock smiled, though a flicker of something unreadable passed through his eyes. “Of course, we’ll get through this together.”
He gently pulled me into his arms, and I rested against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.
In that moment, it felt as if we had returned to five years ago, to the sweet instant when I first felt the pull of our fated bond.
But this time, our hearts were wiser, I knew our love deeper, and our determination stronger than ever.
Chapter 23
Perock
I walked along the dimly lit corridor until I reached the safe house.