The Alpha King's Mistress Chapter 88: Clashing Of Words

My eyes caught Samantha looking annoyed for some unknown reason.

Isaac guided me to the right of Nicholas, smoothly pulling out a chair for me to take a seat.

"You're absolutely stunning," a woman exclaimed, admiration evident in her voice.

"Alpha Nicholas is a lucky man to have you by his side,"

"I always knew our Alpha had exceptional taste, but this... this is another level," another member added, nodding appreciatively.

The compliments continued to flow. Some sounded genuine, but others were not, especially when the subtle gazes of some focused on my too-revealing dress.

I gave them a fake laugh, softly saying, "Beauty's just a bonus; brains are my real asset. I think that’s why Alpha Nicholas chose me."

I glanced at Nicholas with a small smile, hearing him sigh in relief beside me. I think I am too soft on him because when I felt that he suddenly felt less tense, I was happy that I could help him in some way.

“We apologize for calling you so suddenly,” a kind-looking man suddenly said, “We are just curious to know who the woman that was supporting the Alpha King was.”

"No worries, it's fine. But to tell you honestly, I was a bit surprised that the council was curious about such matters. You know the affairs of the Alpha King.”

The room fell silent, and a collective clearing of throats followed, some reaching for their water. It was interesting to watch the foes and allies seated at this long table.

A few moments later, I laughed, breaking the tension, and softly said, “But I thought to myself, maybe they are just really concerned about the Alpha King, so they want to know everything about him, including his personal affairs. It was a touching thought, don't you think so?”

I saw half of the table holding their smirks and smiles, while the other half were frowning and now glaring at me.

“Yes, absolutely,” an old man answered, smiling at me.

“You're right, Miss Florence. Don't you think so, Mr. Caldwell?” a middle-aged woman asked.

I felt my wolf snarl in my head, demanding the blood of this very man. I turned my attention to Keith, whose gaze was fixated on me. I knew he must have an idea of who I am. There’s just one thing he would need to do. To confirm it.

He smirked, holding my gaze, “Of course. We are just concerned. Anyways, I am pleased to finally meet you, Florence. But it's all thanks to Miss Samantha for bringing you up to us.”

“Oh really?” I turned to Samantha with a smile, "Thank you Samantha for your kindness in letting me meet the famous members of the Werewolf Councils."

Samantha forced a smile, “You're welcome.”

Suddenly, another old man interrupted, “May I ask, when will your contract with the Alpha King end? I would gladly want you—”

Before I could respond, Nicholas cut in with a sharp tone, even making me flinch, "Not anytime soon."

The man cleared his throat and slightly bowed in fear, “T-that’s a slip of the word. Forgive me, Your Highness.”

I glanced at Nicholas and saw his brows deeply furrowed. His jaw clenched. He took a deep breath as if to control himself, and to my surprise, he handed me his coat. I smiled at him and gracefully donned the coat. The coat was so big on me that it almost covered me, leaving only a small part of my skin showing. It smelled like him, and it just made me feel calm and relaxed.

My attention was suddenly caught by Keith, who had been staring at me, and asked a question, “May I ask where you are from?”

I shrugged, “I grew up and was raised in the Nightshade Pack.”

“That was a very small pack and long gone due to some epidemic.”

I already have this story memorized and used for years. I knew that the Nightshade Pack has little to no records about that pack. No one knew what happened there aside from the epidemic.

“Yeah. I am one of the survivors there.”

Another chimed in, “We are very sorry for what happened to your pack.”

“It’s okay, and it's been a long time already. I barely remember anything. My parents were also dead when the epidemic happened. Fortunately, I left the pack early.”

“How old were you at that time?”

“14.”

“Why would you even ask, Mr. Caldwell? Clearly, if a beauty like her were from the bigger packs, we would know,” a man chuckled.

“Yeah, we would instantly know just by her strong presence.”

With just that, the room erupted with laughter. While Keith just remained silent and drank his wine.

“You all are too—” I tried to say, but was cut off when Samantha, looking annoyed, blurted out.

"She can't shift."

A collective gasp filled the room, but I calmly took a sip of the wine placed on my side. The urge to slap Samantha was strong. Like really strong.

Keith, looking amused, asked, "Is that true?"

Looking straight at Keith, I said, "Yes. I mean why would I need to shift when the Alpha King can protect me?"

“Uhm…yes, yes of course” There were few reluctant agreements from the council.

Another middle-aged woman chimed in, “Agreed. Trust is crucial, especially for those of us who aren't shifters.

“And for the non-shifters among us, it's even more critical. We need that trust for our packs to thrive” others replied.

Heads around the table nod in agreement. And I glanced at Samantha, who was now glaring at me.

But I guess Keith was not done questioning me, “May I know who your parents are?”

Before I could give a ready and fake answer, Nicholas firmly stated, "I think she has answered enough questions today. So, I hope everyone can agree that it's time we get back to our discussion,"

The council members awkwardly agreed, and I couldn't help but admire how composed and cool he was.

“Yes, of course, Alpha Nicholas” Keith forced a smile before glancing at me.