The Alpha's Exiled Mate Chapter 187

Freya’s POV

I frowned, trying to place the name. It took me a moment to remember—Alexander Grey was Thorne's father, the former Alpha of Grey Moon Pack and still a powerful figure in wolf society.

"What does he want with me?" I asked, suspicion creeping into my tone.

"He didn't share the details," the man replied. "But he was quite insistent that we bring you to him immediately."

I hesitated, my instincts warning me against going anywhere with these strangers. But refusing a direct request from a former Alpha, especially one as powerful as Alexander Grey, could have serious consequences—not just for me, but potentially for any progress being made to locate my family.

"Give me a minute," I said finally, closing the door to undo the chain.

I quickly changed into fresh clothes, making sure I was presentable enough to meet someone of Alexander Grey's status. Whatever he wanted, I needed to appear confident and composed.

When I emerged, the two men—Delta wolves by their scent—flanked me as we walked to their waiting car. Neither spoke as we drove through the city, heading not toward the Grey Estate as I'd expected, but toward the Grand Lunar Hotel, one of the most exclusive establishments in Moon Bay.

We were escorted directly to the presidential suite on the top floor. One of the Deltas knocked on the door, and a voice from within called for us to enter.

The suite was opulent, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the city. Standing by those windows, his back to us, was a tall figure with silver-streaked dark hair—Alexander Grey.

"Thank you for bringing her," he said without turning. "Wait outside."

The Deltas withdrew, closing the door behind them. Only then did Alexander turn to face me, and I was struck by how much he resembled his son. The same strong jawline, the same penetrating gaze, though Alexander's eyes held decades more experience and calculation.

"Freya Riley," he said, his voice carrying the quiet authority that comes from years of unquestioned command. "The last time I saw you was three years ago, at your trial. You've changed."

I stood my ground, refusing to show the intimidation I felt. "Exile does that to a person," I replied evenly.

He gestured to a seating area. "Please, sit. We have matters to discuss."

I moved to one of the plush armchairs, perching on its edge rather than settling in. Alexander took the seat opposite me, studying me with an intensity that reminded me uncomfortably of Thorne.

"I'll be direct," he said after a moment. "You need to leave Silverstone territory. The Stone Pack is not a suitable place for you."

I stared at him, momentarily speechless at his audacity. Then, a bitter laugh escaped me. "Your future Luna drove me from Moon Bay, and I listened to her. I left. Now you track me down in Silverstone territory and tell me to leave here too. How is it that you can't tolerate my existence anywhere?"

Alexander's expression remained impassive. "This isn't about tolerance, Ms. Riley. It's about what's best for all parties involved."

"And what about what's best for me?" I challenged. "I didn't seek out your son, Elder Grey. He's the one who keeps appearing wherever I go. I didn't ask to be dragged into whatever game is being played between your pack and Alpha Stone's."

"My son has responsibilities to his pack and his future mate," Alexander replied, his tone hardening slightly. "Your presence is... complicating matters."

"Then perhaps you should speak to your son about that," I countered. "I'm just trying to survive in the world your family created for me when you stripped me of everything."

Alexander leaned forward, his eyes boring into mine. "If you cooperate with my request and leave this territory, I can make it worth your while. Out of respect for the old alliance between our families, whatever you need—financial support, a new identity, even information about your exiled family members—I would do my best to provide."

My heart stuttered at the mention of my family, but I forced myself to remain calm. "And if I refuse?"

"I'm not here to negotiate, Ms. Riley," Alexander said, his voice taking on a dangerous edge. "A banished Beta doesn't have the luxury of terms."

Anger flared hot in my chest, and I felt my wolf bristle beneath my skin. "So you're not offering me a choice at all. You're threatening me."

"I'm offering you a path that benefits everyone," he corrected. "Including yourself."

Before I could respond, the door to the suite opened without a knock, and Mark stepped in. Surprise flickered briefly across Alexander's face before he composed himself.

"Alexander, sir," Mark said with a respectful nod. "Please forgive my intrusion. Alpha Thorne has urgent matters that require your immediate attention."

Alexander's eyes narrowed slightly. "This is rather inconvenient timing, Mark. Can it wait?"

Mark's expression remained perfectly professional, but I caught his quick glance in my direction—a silent signal that I interpreted immediately. He was here to interrupt this meeting, to give me a chance to leave.

"I'm afraid not, sir," Mark replied smoothly. "It concerns the vote in tomorrow's council meeting. There's been a development that Alpha Thorne believes you should be informed of immediately."

Alexander sighed, clearly displeased but unwilling to dismiss his son's urgent request. "It seems our conversation must be cut short, Ms. Riley." He turned back to me, his expression stern. "Consider what I've said. The offer stands, but not indefinitely."

He gestured to the Deltas, who had reappeared at the door. "Please escort Ms. Riley back to her residence."

As I stood to leave, Alexander added in a quieter tone, "Think carefully about my proposal, Freya. Sometimes, walking away is the best protection one can choose."