The Alpha s Battle

Lola tightened her grip on her bag, her fingers clenching around the worn leather strap as she stood before the gates of Tamsin City's pack territory. The massive iron gates loomed over her, an unspoken reminder of the life she was stepping into. She swallowed, her gaze steady as the guard approached.

"Name?" the guard barked, his eyes cold and uninterested.

"Lola Reece," she replied, her voice steady despite the knot forming in her stomach.

The guard grunted, scribbling her name down on a clipboard before gesturing for her to follow. "Alpha Mike's orders are clear. You'll be briefed on your duties once you're settled. Until then, stay out of the way."

Lola nodded, stepping through the gates and feeling the weight of the guard's eyes on her back as she walked into the pack's territory. She tried to keep her head high, but the glances and whispers that followed her made it difficult. Her mind flashed back to the small room she'd been kept in for days, the instructions given to her echoing in her mind: obey and survive.

"Look at her," a voice muttered to her left. She didn't turn, but the words reached her ears all the same. "Another one traded to our Alpha. Wonder how long she'll last."

Lola took a steady breath, focusing her gaze on the main building ahead. A towering structure of stone and wood, it stood as a testament to Alpha Mike's reign over Tamsin City. She had heard rumors of him-his ruthlessness, his strict code, his commitment to his pack above all else. And now, she was here, just another tool in his arsenal.

---

Inside, a young woman met her with a wary smile, extending her hand.

"Jessica," she introduced herself. "I'm here to show you around."

Lola shook her hand, grateful for the small act of kindness. "Thank you."

Jessica led her through the main hall, her voice soft but laced with caution. "I don't know why they sent you here, but... try to keep your head down. Alpha Mike doesn't take kindly to anyone stepping out of line."

"Noted." Lola's lips tightened. "I'm not here to make trouble."

Jessica gave a slight nod. "Good. I'll show you to your quarters."

As they walked, Jessica glanced at her out of the corner of her eye. "So... what's your story?"

Lola hesitated, unsure how much to share. "I was traded."

Jessica's face softened. "I'm sorry. It's... it's not easy here, especially for someone in your position."

"I'll manage." Lola's voice was firmer than she felt.

The quarters were small and bare, with a single bed, a small table, and a window that looked out onto the training grounds. Jessica lingered in the doorway, her face clouded with concern.

"If you need anything, you can find me near the training area. Just... be careful."

Lola gave a small smile. "Thanks, Jessica. I appreciate it."

Jessica nodded before leaving, closing the door softly behind her. Lola let out a long breath, sinking down onto the bed and looking around the room. This was her life now, for better or worse. And as much as she hated it, there was no going back.