“Yeah?” I call out as I get to my feet, and barely avoid thumping my head on a beam. Sometimes I’m so tired that I can crack my head three times before I make it to the bed, yet barely feel the impact.

“The alpha wants you,” a male voice responds.

I do a mental run-through of the day as I try to figure out what I could’ve said or done to deserve punishment. When nothing comes to mind, it only increases my wariness.

“I’ll be down in—”

“Now. I’m taking you.”

I stare at ...