The Betrayed Princess Rising (Lylah and Ezra) novel Chapter 39

Chapter 39

Lylah’s POV

Finished

“Bambi, did I say something that offended Alpha Ezra?” I asked softly as the little robot rolled closer, its sensors blinking,

He paused–processing, before answering in its clear tone. “Daddy is angry. But he will not stay angry with you for long.”

I exhaled, my shoulders easing slightly. I hoped that was true.

The moment I mentioned ending the mating contract, something in Alpha Ezra had snapped–raw power flaring beneath his calm exterior, his control stretched thin. Perhaps it wasn’t the idea itself that angered him, but the fact that I dared to voice it. An Alpha did not like decisions being taken out of his hands especially not ones tied to bonds, fate, and dominance.

I would tread more carefully from now on.

“Alright, Bambi,” I said, forcing brightness into my voice. “Please show me video tutorials for simple meals.”

The holographic interface flickered to life, displaying step–by–step recipes.

I memorized one quickly, then slipped into the kitchen to try it, only to discover the cupboards were painfully empty.

“Bambi, show me the nearest grocery store.”

Then, I returned to my room, pulled on my coat, and headed for the door. The store wasn’t far. I’d be back before Alpha Ezra even noticed I was gone.

My fingers were just about to press the exit panel when,

“Lylah.”

I turned.

Ezra stood behind me, already dressed in a dark coat, his presence filling the space like a silent command. His eyes studied me with unsettling sharpness.

“Are you going somewhere?”

“To buy groceries,” I answered. “I’ll be quick.”

His gaze lingered for a second longer before he said, “I’ll go with you.”

“With me?”

“You’re still unfamiliar with the territory,” he replied evenly. “I won’t have you wandering alone.”

His voice was calm. Whatever storm I’d stirred earlier had settled, at least for now. Relief warmed my

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Chapter 39

chest, and I smiled.

Finished

Ezra summoned Damon to drive us. Unfortunately, I’d chosen the worst possible timing.

The grocery store was crowded–wolves mingling shoulder to shoulder, scents overlapping and clashing in thick waves. Voices echoed, heat rose, and the air buzzed with restless energy.

It was everything an Alpha like Ezra hated.

Damon had mentioned it yesterday–Ezra avoided crowds. He always traveled with private convoys, entered through exclusive access points. Being surrounded like this, boxed in by noise and unfamiliar scents, set his nerves on edge and made his temper sharp.

I saw it immediately. The tightening of his jaw. The subtle flare of power beneath his skin each time someone brushed past him. His wolf prowled close to the surface.

I hurried through the aisles, then gently caught his sleeve and tugged him aside.

“Where are you taking me?” he asked.

“Relax,” I murmured. “I’ve got you. We’re in the lifestyle section. It’s much less crowded and more spacious.”

His shoulders eased a fraction. He nodded once, trusting me to lead.

That was when I noticed them.

Hamsters. Fish. Small animals are tucked into glass enclosures.

“Ezra,” I said carefully, “how about getting a pet for the penthouse?”

“A pet?” His brow furrowed.

“Have you ever had one?”

For a moment, I expected dismissal. Instead, he said quietly, “In Moonclaw. A black panther.”

A chill slid down my spine. “That’s… not exactly common.”

“No,” he agreed.

I smiled softly. “Then maybe something smaller this time. Something gentle. It will make the penthouse feel more alive.”

He didn’t argue, Just nodded.

My gaze landed on the turtles.

“We’re getting turtles!”

He stared at me. “Lylah. Are you serious?”

I laughed softly. “They’re small, quiet, easy to care for. They won’t interfere with your productivity.”

1:20 pm

Chapter 39

白

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