The Gifted Series The Fated Alpha Queen

Isabelle”s Point of View

I had reached my breaking point; exhaustion and frustration consumed me. After completing my last class of the day, I caught sight of him: my father. He stood in the heart of the college campus, a towering figure, accompanied by another wolf shifter. This newcomer possessed a formidable presence, with his tall stature, muscular build, and penetrating dark brown eyes that seemed to peer straight into my soul.

Malik.

My heart raced as I approached them, feeling the weight of my impending fate tighten around my neck. I knew what awaited me, and fear gripped me tightly.

My father spoke first, his voice unwavering and resolute. "Isabelle, you're well aware of the reason for my presence," he declared. The stern lines etched on his face signaled that this conversation wouldn't end favorably. He intended to impose an impossible choice upon me.

"You must agree to an arranged mating within our pack now, or else I cannot guarantee your position as the future pack alpha when the time comes."

Silenced by shock, I stood there, unable to utter a word. It didn't matter that I had anticipated this moment. I had hoped for the chance to sway my father's decision. I had been raised all my life with the understanding that my purpose was tied to this destiny. However, over the past year, my father had wavered, casting doubt on my future.

Part of the reason why I was sent off to college was to explore my options and determine if I had the resilience to follow the prescribed path I had been handed. Now, the mere thought that everything could be snatched away from me left me devastated.

"This isn't fair," I protested, my voice laced with frustration. "An unmated female can lead this pack just as effectively as one with a mate. No offense, Malik." I glanced over at the man who had accompanied my father.

"The discussion is over. These are my conditions. You can choose to accept or reject them, but I require your answer immediately. You cannot become the alpha without a mate. Too many within the pack harbor doubts, and without the bond of a mate, you won't possess the strength to defend yourself against those who would seek to usurp your position. It will be for the best this way. You'll have the freedom to pursue your desires. Consider it a hidden blessing."

I clenched my jaw tightly, my teeth grinding against each other. I couldn't see any blessings within his words. "When?" I managed to utter through my clenched teeth.

"The upcoming Black Moon occurs in fourteen months. You can complete this semester, and then it will be time for you to return home. This will provide ample opportunity for you and Malik to become better acquainted and garner support from the pack before my retirement."

"No, that's too soon," I blurted out, unable to contain my protest.