Chapter 36

### Chapter 0036

Nan rolled her eyes, then walked over to me. She wrapped her arms around me and pulled me in for a hug. “Are you okay?” she asked, her voice filled with concern.

I sat alone, feeling the heat of unshed tears in my eyes. I nodded, trying to hold back my emotions. I didn’t want to cry in front of my classmates; I wanted to stay strong and not let them see me break.

“Yeah,” I said, trying to sound casual, even though my heart was heavy.

to sound rude.

“It was just a misunderstanding,” I explained to her.

“Did Gavin do anything to help?” she asked.

I raised my brow, surprised by her question.

“Why would he do anything to help?” I replied, trying to keep my tone calm.

She smirked and nudged my shoulder as we walked through the dining hall toward an empty table.

“Because he ran after you guys so fast,” she said, “barking orders at his Beta to find out information on Carol.”

She explained, “He looked really angry, and I think it’s because he wanted to protect his darling Judy.”

I knew she was just teasing, but her words made my cheeks feel hot.

“You are being ridiculous,” I said, trying to hide my embarrassment.

“I’m not his darling Judy,” I murmured. “We almost slept together once, but we haven’t talked about it since.”

“Whatever you say,” she chuckled.

Just then, a waitress came by our table and handed us a glass.

I poured myself a glass of champagne. Just what I needed right now—a little alcohol.

I took a slow, steady sip and winced at the bitter taste. I wasn’t really a fan of champagne, but I needed something to help me relax.

“Let’s just enjoy the rest of the party,” she said, giving me a faint smile. “He didn’t revoke your reward, did he?”

I shook my head.

“No, he didn’t,” I replied.

“I never got to make my speech,” she said, a little disappointed. “I’m kind of bummed about that.”

“I’m sorry that B*tch ruined your moment,” Nan replied with a pout. “But don’t worry, karma will come back around and bite her in the ass.”

“I’m sure of it,” I said confidently.

I took another long sip of the champagne until my glass was empty.

“I need another one of these,” I murmured.

“It’s an open bar,” she replied with a smile.

“Look over there at the bar,” she said, pointing. “It’s sponsored by the Landry Foundation, just like this whole award ceremony. I heard through the grapevine that Gavin is a major shareholder in this school. He practically owns the place.”

I raised my eyebrows at her words. This was new information for me too.

I walked over to the bar to grab another drink.

“Congratulations on the reward,” a man said from next to me. When I turned to look, I saw him smiling.

I saw Alpha Edward sitting next to me. He was the leader of a smaller pack nearby and always came to these types of ceremonies. Many other Alphas from nearby packs attended too, especially if they had members who were candidates for the event.

Chapter

006

“You don’t think I’m unworthy?” I asked, feeling the effects of the alcohol as I took another sip of my drink.

“I think if anyone deserves this reward, it would be you,” he said, winking at me.

“I was cheering for you,” I said.

“Thanks, I appreciate that, Alpha,” he replied.

One of the candidates was from Edward’s park, so I was surprised he supported me instead of her. But I decided to focus on my own choices.

“Can I buy you another drink?” he asked.

“It’s an open bar,” she replied.

“Then let me order you another drink,” he said, trying again.

I was on my second glass and already feeling good.

I was feeling a bit dizzy, but I didn’t want to refuse the offer. I just wanted to numb the pain and embarrassment I felt.

“Yes, that would be great. Thank you,” I said to him.

“Can we get the lady…”

“Can we make it a little stronger? She seems to need it,” he said to the bartender. “How about a tequila shot?”

I knew that was a risky choice, but I found myself nodding in agreement, not really caring about the consequences.

I was probably making a big mistake.