The Runt novel Chapter 25

Part of me wants to deny that this was my father's plan all along – getting Penelope to reject me and thereby weaken me physically to the point he could take me in a challenge. This is my father – no way he manipulated Penelope and I in such horrible ways and yet... that is exactly what I think he did. He never wanted to retire but when I came of age, he had no choice and he has been biding his time ever since. My bringing home an 'undesirable' mate only allowed him to put a twisted, evil plan into motion and everyone went along with it perfectly.

My Goddess.

And now I'm going to face my father in a fight to the death for control of our pack, and ultimately – the right to even exist. I won't win – my father is a strong wolf and my inability to shift means I must stay human – he'll destroy me in seconds. I will still face him without hesitation because that is what is expected of me – I will defend my pack with my life, and they will watch me die for them with honour. My father will not be able to say the same thing, but I know he has no shame about the path he took to get to this point – the people he used, the lives he destroyed. None of that bothers him nor will it ever and tragically, my pack will pay the ultimate price – as will Penelope. My father was a tyrant when he was in charge before and I don't see things being any better his second turn around – if anything, they'll be worst. He is somehow angrier, more bitter with the way life turned out for him and once he has the power back... it won't be good.

The fight is tomorrow.

And tomorrow I shall die.

PENELOPE, DARKNESS

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AJ, EFFORTS

Again.

After he put her in this situation in the first place.

PENELOPE, SILENCE

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