Chapter 26

Alpha Axel's POV

I woke up with a pounding headache, my mouth dry and aching.

The room was dimly lit, the curtains drawn shut. It had been two weeks since I last saw Rachael. Two weeks of unanswered calls and unanswered prayers. I had been drowning my sorrows in alcohol, my only companion in this lonely room.

As I lay there, contemplating the meaninglessness of it all, a sudden burst of sunlight pierced the darkness and assaulted my eyes. I groaned and turned my face away, shielding my eyes from the intrusive brightness. I heard a rustling sound and a soft voice, which made me reluctantly open my eyes.

There, standing by the window, was the queen herself. The queen, with her regal poise and a warm smile. She had always been supportive of me, reminding me of my responsibilities as an Alpha. She was the reason I had a pack to care for, to lead and protect. But lately, I had lost sight of that, lost in my own despair.

"Alpha," she said gently, her voice carrying the weight of concern. "