The Alpha King's Rejected Mate

Camila's POV

With a forceful grip on my arm, the Alpha dragged me downstairs to the main hall, a spacious area capable of accommodating over 200 people. It seemed he had mind-linked everyone, as every member of the pack was present, ranging from newborns to toddlers, teenagers to adults, and elders. My mouth fell open as I realized he had summoned them all for my punishment. This meant he was incredibly serious about making an example out of me, and a sense of impending danger gripped me, causing a fearful gulp.

The hall was filled with various activities. Some pack members were seated on couches, while others stood or engaged in conversations with their mates or friends. Children ran around, playing and giggling. However, as soon as Alpha Cassius made his appearance, the entire room fell into a hushed silence. Every individual stood up straight, like disciplined soldiers, and bowed deeply, showing their respect to the Alpha. They remained in that position until...

"Rise," commanded Alpha Cassius. As everyone straightened up, their eyes still fixed on him with a mix of respect and pride, they hadn't even noticed my presence. The Alpha decided it was time to draw their attention to me, and he forcefully pushed me forward, causing me to nearly lose my footing. It was then that their gazes turned to me, and their expressions transformed into pure disgust and hatred.

Once again, Alpha Cassius grabbed my arm and pulled me back, his nails digging into the same spot as before. The pain caused me to tremble, but I bit the inside of my cheeks to stifle any cries or screams. This time, he applied even more force than necessary, and I was certain it would result in yet another bruise on my hand.

"As you all know, today's breakfast was delayed," Alpha Cassius began speaking in a deceptively calm manner, but I knew it was just the calm before the storm. "And I must mention, it wasn't just a mere delay of one minute, three minutes, or even five minutes. It was delayed by a whole hour." He emphasized the gravity of the situation. "All because she was too lazy to wake up early and put in an additional hour of effort to prepare breakfast." With his words, he once again pushed me forward, exposing me to the angry faces of the pack members.

"Now, as you are all aware of the rules, it's important to understand that anyone who breaks them will face punishment. Because of her actions, you all were delayed by a total of one hour, which could have been utilized for productive work instead of wasted on someone who never contributes and spends her time sleeping or lounging around," Alpha Cassius declared, his words piercing through my thoughts. I couldn't help but be bewildered by their accusations. Don't I work tirelessly in this pack? The majority of the household chores are carried out by me. However, before I could voice my objections, Alpha Cassius's voice interrupted my thoughts.

"I have decided to give her the most severe punishment to ensure she learns her lesson and doesn't repeat the same mistake again." Wicked smiles spread across the faces of the pack members as someone from the back began shouting, receiving support and amplifying the chorus of voices that reverberated throughout the hall.

"Because of her, we were late for school!"

"I couldn't make it to the salon!"

"We missed our training session!"

Accusations were hurled at me from every direction, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia for their absurd behavior. My eyes involuntarily rolled at their lack of perspective. Seriously, I managed to prepare food in just one hour—a feat that should be considered super fast and commendable. Yet, they remained displeased. Are they mad, or am I? Whoever made the claim that men are never content with what they have was clearly right. They always crave more.

"Silence!" A powerful voice boomed, instantly silencing the hall. The pack members immediately bowed their heads, submitting to his authority.

"Her punishment has already been determined, and I summoned you all to witness it firsthand. I want you to understand the consequences of daring to defy me. Follow me to the training grounds, now!" Alpha Cassius growled, leaving no room for discussion. A wave of dominance emanated from him as I whimpered in fear. He forcefully grabbed my arm and began dragging me along. I resisted, pushing against his strong grip, but my struggles only tightened his hold. His claws dug into my arm, causing unbearable pain that eventually led to a piercing scream escaping my lips—so loud that if we were still inside the pack house, it would have shaken its very foundation.

"Shut the hell up! If you don't stop struggling, I have no qualms about ending your pathetic life right here and now. I'll make sure your last moments are the most agonizing and torturous experiences you've ever endured. You'll beg for a swift death, but I won't grant that wish so easily. I'll relish every stab I have planned for you. So, stop struggling and come with me like the cowardly dog you are," he hissed angrily, his face inches from mine. His eyes transformed into a menacing black, and I noticed fur starting to emerge from his skin. Trembling with fear, I flinched and looked down as he continued to drag me.

After what felt like an eternity of being forcefully pulled, we finally arrived at the training grounds.

"Go and stand in the middle," Alpha commanded with a cold tone, forcefully pushing me away. I stumbled but managed to regain my balance. Looking back at the pack, I saw them standing in a united formation behind him, resembling an army. Some wore smirks of satisfaction, while others appeared disinterested. The thought of defying his order briefly crossed my mind, but the memory of his deadly threat instantly extinguished that idea. Fear consumed me, causing my body to break out in a cold sweat. Reluctantly, I complied and made my way to the center of the training ground. My palms clenched and released repeatedly as I scanned my surroundings, hoping to find an escape route or a hiding place to delay this dreadful situation. But there was nothing—just an open field with the scorching sun bearing down on me.