Marked By The Mad King Alpha (Phoebe and Perry) novel Chapter 216

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**TITLE: His Mercy Tastes Like Hunger**
**Chapter 216: Unanswered Questions**

**Phoebe’s POV**

At first, an unusual silence enveloped the table where Justin, Orion, and Wade sat. The atmosphere felt thick, almost tangible, as we all navigated the awkwardness of the moment. But then, breaking through the tension, Wade, the youngest of the trio, spoke up with unrestrained enthusiasm.

“This meat tastes incredible! What’s your secret cooking method? I’ve tried my hand at cooking before, but every time, I end up burning everything to a crisp.” His honesty was refreshing, and it was evident he was genuinely impressed.

Under the table, Justin discreetly nudged Wade’s leg, a silent cue for him to tone it down. Wade caught on quickly, his cheeks flushing slightly, but the silence that followed felt oppressive. He couldn’t help himself, and moments later, he blurted out again, “The sauce has fantastic flavor! Though, if I’m being honest, it could use a bit more heat.” His comments were not directed at anyone in particular, just a stream of thoughts escaping his lips.

Orion, with a narrowed gaze that could cut glass, shot back, “You can’t even cook, yet here you are critiquing someone else’s food?” Wade ducked his head, the playful banter suddenly feeling like a reprimand.

“My apologies,” he mumbled, his voice barely above a whisper.

Their playful exchange lifted my spirits, and I couldn’t help but chuckle at their lighthearted bickering. The sound of my laughter drew their attention, and all three of them turned to look at me, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern.

Please, keep the conversation going! I thought to myself, feeling the weight of the awkward silence threatening to give me indigestion. I quickly jotted down my thoughts on a piece of parchment and held it up for them to read.

Justin and Orion exchanged glances, clearly uncomfortable, while Wade’s face lit up at the chance to engage further. He turned to me with a newfound respect, “Are you enjoying the meal, my queen? What dishes do you prefer?”

Once again, Justin kicked Wade’s leg beneath the table, a warning against becoming too familiar. I could sense the protective undertones in his actions—after all, I was still a queen, not just a friend to be casually addressed.

But I placed my hand over Justin’s, signaling him to ease up on Wade.

I prefer this atmosphere; your sternness is unnecessary. I scribbled another note, asking, What foods do you both enjoy? With that, the four of us delved into an animated dinner conversation. The initial tension melted away as the three men discussed various topics, while I chimed in whenever I could.

We lingered at the table even after our plates were cleared, completely absorbed in our dialogue. As we spoke, I noticed the sky outside had darkened significantly, the looming clouds hinting at an approaching storm.

“Rest well, my queen. I’ll let you know when dinner is ready,” Wade said, standing to escort me back to my room. His tone was gentle, and I appreciated the kindness in his voice.

Thank you, I mouthed silently, and he bowed respectfully, a gesture that warmed my heart.

Wade was truly endearing. I admired his innocence and the way he spoke about Gamma Timothy with such reverence. It was evident he held the gamma in high regard. When Justin and Orion teased him, I could see the frustration building in him, a reflection of his loyalty and respect.

I aspire to match Gamma Timothy’s strength, Wade had declared with earnestness.

Justin and Orion, however, couldn’t resist making jokes about whether Wade had any romantic feelings for the gamma, which only served to irritate him further.

“I respect him! Your comments are highly disrespectful,” Wade shot back, his voice filled with indignation.

Somehow, I found their playful banter amusing, a welcome distraction from the weight of my earlier conversation with Marcela.

Once in my bedroom, I opened the balcony doors that faced the sprawling forest. The tallest tower of the palace was visible in the distance, standing like a sentinel against the darkening sky. It was so close, yet felt impossibly far away.

Though not much time had passed, I already felt a deep longing for Perry. My thoughts drifted to what he might be doing at that very moment.

According to our plan, Perry should be nearing the border soon, which meant he was likely traveling right now.

I miss him… I mused silently as I gazed up at the darkening sky, feeling the weight of my emotions pressing down on me.

As if in response to my thoughts, the first drops of rain began to fall, prompting me to retreat back inside.

My bedroom was filled with an array of books, and I picked one up to occupy my time until dinner. Given the earlier pleasant atmosphere, I found myself looking forward to the evening meal with a sense of anticipation.