The Alpha's Cinderella

Chapter 28

Mathilde

I sat alone in my dimly lit room, feeling a sense of unease that I couldn't shake. Something was off with Damon, and I couldn't quite put my finger on it. It was as if he was hiding something, but I couldn't figure out what it was.

I absentmindedly fiddled with the pages of the book on my desk, trying to shake off the feeling. Then, the sound of a gentle knock on my door pulled me from my reverie. I stood up and opened the door to see who it was.

An omega stood in the doorway, her eyes filled with urgency. “The Alpha wants to see you, Miss Mathilde. He told me to fetch you in his study.”

My brows creased upon hearing that. “Tell him I’m on my way.”

The omega took a bow and left. After quickly putting on something decent, I immediately strode through the hallway toward his study.

As I stood before the alpha, I couldn't help but feel a mix of anxiety and anticipation. I had been summoned for a reason, and I knew that my words and actions at this moment could have a major impact on our future.

I greeted him with a curtsy, and his piercing eyes bore into mine.

"Mathilde," he began, his voice calm yet filled with concern, "tell me, how is Rina holding up?"

My mind raced, and I knew this was my chance to manipulate the situation to my advantage. I took a deep breath and adopted a sorrowful tone, letting my voice tremble slightly to sell the act. "Alpha, Rina is... she's taking her father's death very hard," I began, allowing my words to linger for dramatic effect. "She cries most of the time, barely eats, and can hardly sleep. It's heartbreaking to witness, truly."

I watched the alpha's expression closely, and to my surprise, I saw a genuine flicker of concern in his eyes. I was familiar with that look; it was the same look my useless, deceased husband used to give me whenever I was near him.

As I continued to speak, my thoughts raced. I had been observing the alpha's interactions with Rina for some time now, and it was clear to me that he harbored deeper feelings for her.

That was my opening, my opportunity to manipulate the situation to my advantage.

"Alpha," I continued, carefully choosing my words, "I've noticed how you've always cared for Rina, how you've watched over her. It's evident that you share a special connection with her." I let a sly smile play on my lips. "I could only wish your son was doing the same for her."

I intentionally infused a hint of resentment into my voice, hoping to pique his curiosity, and he took the bait.

“Damon? What did he do this time?” His voice dripped with disappointment, confirming my suspicions all along. The formidable alpha seemed to have taken a liking to my beloved daughter!

A new plan began to take shape in my mind. Why pursue an alpha heir when my lovely daughter could potentially capture the Alpha herself?

“Forgive my insolence, my mighty alpha, but I believe Damon is taking my daughter for granted.”

“How foolish he must be!” he exclaimed. “Rina is a remarkable woman. She will be a perfect Luna for this pack!”

“Thank you for your gracious words, your highness. Sometimes, I can't help but wonder what Rina sees in him. Oh, my apologies! I didn't mean to say that.”

“No, no, no! Please, continue,” he insisted. “I'm keen to understand how my son is treating your precious daughter.”

“Well, if you'll permit me,” I continued, “Lord Damon seems to be neglecting Rina, causing her to believe that something is wrong with her or that perhaps Damon is losing interest in her. Earlier, she tried visiting his office, hoping to spend some time with him, but your son chose his work over her. I understand his responsibilities as your heir, but it's difficult to watch my daughter wait endlessly for him, only to end up heartbroken when he doesn't show up.”

The Alpha listened intently, his clenched hand revealing his displeasure with what he was hearing. “Sometimes, I find myself wishing for a different wolf to be Rina’s husband. Someone who can shower her with attention. Someone mighty and capable of protecting and supporting her. Someone, perhaps, like you.”

The Alpha appeared taken aback by my words but remained silent. A heavy silence hung between us, and I couldn't help but smile secretly, knowing that I had finally gained the upper hand.

“May I ask a favor, my Alpha?” I inquired.

“What favor?” he replied.

“Perhaps you could visit my daughter in her quarters to strengthen your bond with her. You know, to be the person she can rely on and to be there for her when she needs it the most.”

I could see the Alpha's thoughts churning as he absorbed my words. I had successfully planted the seed of an idea in his mind, one that could potentially work in my favor. With that, I left that seed to grow. I was fully committed to this game, and I had no intention of losing.

It was the Alpha's final words that solidified my advantage in the game. "Can I see Rina tonight?" he asked.