Chapter 24 - Down to the Barracks

Ella's hands trembled as she packed up the final of her possessions in the battered little bag that had seen her through many moves and uncertain times. The chamber that had always been her refuge, a small sanctuary within the vast Alpha estate, felt chilly and uninviting. She felt as though the walls were closing in on her, telling her that she was no longer welcome. With a quick glance, she noticed the letter on the bed, its edges a little crumpled from all the times she had opened and read it. The Alpha's daughter Lydia had written in her short note, "You are no longer needed here," which was nothing short of cruel. “Proceed straight to the army's camp. At first light, a van will come get you.” “Did she really have to write an official letter? Ugh!” Ella muttered to herself as she kept the paper aside once again. Lydia said she was to give the letter to the commander once she got there. The words cut deep across her heart, and it wasn't just because the comments happened