Page 3 of Forced Alpha Bride

Yes, I answer, even though I’m starting to panic.

That’s great! We don’t often get high-profile candidates like you. It just so happens we have a bachelor in need of a first family's connection.

Oh?I reply, truly surprised.

Yes, dear! Over in Gryphon Eyrie, I’ve just had an application from a gentleman who is specifically looking for a refined lady who can enhance his social position. I think this role would be perfect for you!

I snort softly, chuckling as I shake my head.

I can do that.

I know you can! Your social connections and poise are very valuable in the right setting. Would you like to arrange a meeting?

For a few seconds, I stare at the screen. A big bubble of nerves is rising in my guts, but the huge wave of arousal inside me pushes against it, leaving me in a state of pure, raging anxiety.

If I don’t do this, then nothing changes. What if she really can help me?

Iris, I type quickly.Do I have your assurance that this match will be favorable?

Of course, dear! I consider all the variables when I put a couple together, and your ongoing happiness is my only concern.

But what about chemistry? Are you sure I will get along with this guy?

My cheeks are burning red again, and I don’t know how to express my concerns and keep my dignity at the same time.

Winnie, let me put your mind at ease. Identifying chemistry between couples is what I do best. I admit it can be difficult in the beginning for some of them, but that’s only because the feelings are so strong. Do you understand?

I think about Clara and Galen and how they struggled initially compared to how they are today. I didn’t see Lexa and Kit in their early stages, but I heard about their troubles, and looking at them now, you’d never guess they started out that way.

Okay, I type back.I’m in. Tell me what to do.

I’m arranging a meeting at Gryphon Eyrie tomorrow. I’ll meet you by the fountain at ten with your mate. Sound good?

I tap my finger on the edge of my phone while I think. Gryphon Eyrie is along Lycan Pass, a fair distance from here. I’d have to leave right now if I want to make it in time.

Are you going forward, dear? This is a matter of some urgency.

Yes, I type back.I’m leaving right now.

I leap up from the bed and throw a few things into a backpack, bouncing around the room and keeping my thoughts away from the reality of what I’m doing. I know if I think too hard about it, I won’t go.

What if I meet this guy, and I’m just dead inside like I was with all the others?

It’s too horrific to contemplate, so I push the thoughts away.

If worse comes to worst, I’ll get out of it somehow.

Once my bag is packed, I sit down on the edge of the bed and text Krista. The one great thing about this is that I’m going to be with my best friend.

Krista, you awake? I’m coming up to the Eyrie.

I wait a few minutes, but there’s no reply. Frowning, I try again.

Hey, babe, you around?

My phone feels like a brick in my hand as I stare at it, seeing no response.

It’s not like Krista to leave me hanging. What’s going on?