The Alpha's surrogate secret.

Willow’s POV.

“They will take your brother by sunrise,”

The words hit me harder than the cold floor beneath my feet.

I looked at my father who said those words, his face tight as it lingered with worry, right there I knew he wasn't joking. My dad doesn't joke.

“How much?” I asked, though my voice already shook.

“Three hundred thousand dollars,” he said quietly, “it's a war debt,”.

I gulped hard as sweat formed on my face. Though the war ended weeks ago, it had a huge impact on our pack. Most of our warriors were dead and now children are about to be sold as slaves for the repayment of the debt.

My heart was heavy as I thought about Elena, my younger sister, who has a sharp tongue but a kind and a fearful heart and my brother Maxwell, who always hides a knife under his pillow for fear of the attackers.

I stood up, the chair scraping the floor loudly,

“Is there no other way, dad? I mean for us to save the people and specifically my siblings”

My dad cleared his throat,

“There is,”

“Really what's that?” A little surge of excitement formed in my tone.

“There is a contract,” he finally stated, “An offer,”

“From who?” My chest tightened

“Alpha Silas of the Black fang pack,”

The name alone sent chills to my spine. Everyone knew Alpha Silas, a cold, ruthless and powerful Alpha. Who knew war to be his natural language.

“I won't be his mate,” I said instantly.

“No, that's not the case. It's a different offer,”

That made my stomach drop even further.

“He needs an heir. The council asked for it. His bloodline must continue before he can go into a political marriage,”

I looked at him, “So?”

“So he needs a surrogate,” he carefully stated.

“No, dad… you can't be serious” I muttered.

“You're strong, healthy and unmated, so you're the best candidate,” he said.

His eyes softened, “Are you willing?”

I laughed, sharp and broken, “Willing to carry a child for a man who won't think twice before killing me?”

“He is offering the full payment for our debt,” he sharply said, “And the full protection for your siblings,”

My breath caught.

Protection for both my siblings. The storm inside me dissipated,

“So what are the terms?”

He cleared his throat, “No emotional attachment, no physical contact outside medical procedures… you will live in his estate until the child is born. After that, you will leave,”

I heaved out, digging my nails tightly into my palms, trying to figure out what to do. But I know nothing can change this offer. It felt like it was meant for me even though I felt terrified of Alpha Silas.

“When do I get to make the final decision?” I asked, my heart beat increasing slowly.

“Until sunset,”

I didn't come out of my room instantly, I needed time and space to think deeply. I know I can't make rash decisions