Page 34 of Alpha Chained

I want to stay lost in these moments here with her. I want to keep her safe. I don’t like leaving her alone in this place.

What if they take her?

My one ray of sunshine.

What the fuck, Riot?

I can’t think this way. Parker said she could stay. I have to believe he’ll stick to his word. It’s probably the only thing the man has ever shown about himself that isn’t reprehensible. He keeps his promises.

“I’ll be back soon,” I say as I head out the door. The disappointment on her face is the last thing I see before I leave.

Does she feel the same way?

Probably not. I guess I’m some sort of safety net for her now. She’s likely worried about what might happen to her while I’m away. I can’t blame her. I’m worried, too. But I cling to the hope that she’s going to be fine.

“You’re looking well-rested, champ.” Parker’s heading down the hall toward me. “Maybe it was a good idea to give you the girl, after all. Keep you on form.”

I nod, not having an answer. He falls in step beside me as I take the regular route out to the surface of the Enclave.

“I’ve decided to give you a few days’ break,” he says as we walk. I slant a look at him. “Not for too long.” He chuckles. “So don’t think you can rest on your laurels. But I have a big match planned, and I want you in condition.”

“A big match?” I keep walking.

“Yes. The clients you impressed so much. They have a new champion. Some hotshot who’s hit the circuit. Cleaning up, they say.”

“Good to know.”

“They think it’s a sure thing. He’s been cutting a swathe through the underground ranks. But I know he’s no match for you, champ.” He slaps my shoulder.

“Sure,” I say.

“They say he’s huge. Another animal like you. But that’s no big deal. He doesn’t have your experience.”

“He doesn’t?” I slant another look at him.

“No. He’s still a juvenile. The kid’s not even shaving yet.” He chuckles again. “Though who could know how you animals work, right? I bet you shave from birth.”

“A kid?” I frown. “You mean a child?”

He’s got to be joking.

“Not a child. An animal. A bear. Their Russian bear.” He gives a dry chuckle. “Still, you’re more than a match. I’ve seen you in your beast form.”

“You want me to fight a boy?” I can’t believe what I’m hearing.

“Why are you making me spell this out? Age is irrelevant. Besides, animals mature quicker. I had an old Labrador who I had to put down at ten. So, this beast is practically geriatric. Come to think of it, you’re prehistoric.” He laughs as if this is the funniest thing in the world.

“We are not dogs, Parker!” I’m seething. “You’re talking about a little boy!”

“He’s a killer, Riot. Don’t let it bother you.” Parker’s hand is still on my shoulder.

“How could it not bother me?” I shake my head in disbelief.

“You’re making a big deal of this.” He’s scowling now. “I’m not discussing it further. You’ll do as I say.”

I stop. “No.”

“What do you mean no?”