LXXXVIII

"It's good to see you again," the Alpha King said with a smile.

The sentiment on his face, the way his eyes twinkled - I almost believed him. The sound of his voice tried to wrap around me like a warm hug welcoming me home, but I didn't let it.

"The feeling is not mutual." My voice was cold, a clear juxtaposition to my father's demeanor.

My father's face resonated with sorrow, but he nodded. Under the desk, I fiddled with my phone. It was possibly the most important part of the plan.

We only stared at each other for a few moments. I had so much to say, and no idea where to start. With a sigh, he reached for the open bottle and poured himself a glass. The red wine looked alarmingly like the blood that was on his hands.

"How have you been, Margaret?"

I grimaced at my old name. "I'm alive. I've learned you can't ask for much more."

Faolan chuckled, as if the little incident where he almost had me executed was just a simple misunderstanding we could smooth over.

"You know I didn't kill he