Alexander’s POV
I sit in my office, surrounded by a sea of reports and paperwork. The dim light of my desk lamp creates a cozy atmosphere, but my focus is unwaveringly fixed on the reports handed to me by one of my betas earlier today.
As Alpha, it’s my duty to oversee the affairs of our pack and address any internal issues that may arise. This particular report has piqued my interest, as it hints at something more sinister. I can’t help but suspect foul play from those who aspire to take my place as Alpha.
Furrowing my brow, I lean forward and delve into the reports, examining each line meticulously. The words blur together as I absorb the information, my mind racing to unravel the hidden truths buried within. My office becomes my fortress, shielding me from the distractions of the outside world as I immerse myself in the intricacies of our pack’s affairs.
Years of experience as a leader have honed my instincts, enabling me to sense the undercurrents of ambition and envy among those yearning for power. Their eyes speak volumes, their subtle maneuvers revealing their desires. I’m no stranger to the games they play.
Leaning back in my chair, my gaze shifts from the reports to the ethereal glow of the moon outside my window. It casts a tranquil light over the landscape, offering solace in this moment of reflection.
But my mind strays back to the events of the previous day when I finally stood before Sophia once again after a year of absence. The longing for her had gnawed at my heart during our time apart, and I had feared that she would reject me, resentful of my sudden departure. Yet, deep down, I knew she was understanding, and I had a sliver of hope that she would welcome me back into her life.
She didn’t hate me. Instead, her eyes held a mixture of joy and relief as we locked gazes. The connection we had shared hadn’t dissipated despite my absence. In truth, I had never truly distanced myself from her. During the early days, I would clandestinely visit her apartment at night, just to catch a glimpse of her, my heart aching with longing. But as time went on, my responsibilities grew, and I could only keep tabs on her from a distance.
The realization of my deepening feelings for Sophia struck me like a bolt of lightning after our separation. It was a revelation that had taken me by surprise, growing stronger as our children matured. Our children, became my solace during moments when I felt like a mere ghost in her life.
I recall the laughter shared with our kids, the warmth of their hugs, and their innocent questions about my absence. They accepted me without reservation, filling a void that had lingered within me. Their presence reminded me of what truly mattered, and why Sophia couldn’t just be a surrogate.
A moment later, there is a knock on the door, interrupting my thoughts. “Come in,” I call out without looking up from the reports I am working on.
Ethan enters, his demeanor more serious than usual. He bows respectfully before me and addresses me as Alpha. I raise an eyebrow, sensing that something is amiss. “What is it, Ethan?” I inquire, gesturing for him to proceed.
“Alpha, I have come to give you the daily report,” Ethan says, his voice steady but with a hint of urgency. “There have been recent sightings of rogues in one of the mini-packs. They’ve been causing quite a bit of havoc.”
Rogues? The mention of their presence catches me off guard. It has been years since we last encountered them within our territory. My mind races, considering the implications. Rogues are unpredictable, driven by their own desires and untethered by the bonds of pack loyalty. They pose a significant threat to the safety and well-being of our pack members.
Concern etches lines on my forehead as I contemplate the situation. “Tell me more,” I prompt, my voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and worry. “What have these rogues been doing?”
Ethan takes a deep breath before continuing. “They have been trespassing in our territory, targeting our pack members and causing disruptions. It seems they have no regard for our rules.”
I lean back in my chair, absorbing the gravity of the situation. The safety of our pack is paramount, and the presence of rogues jeopardizes that. I cannot allow our members to be vulnerable to harm, especially from those who have nothing to lose.
Leaning forward again, I fix my gaze on Ethan. “We need to gather more information about these rogue sightings,” I instruct. “Understand their motives, their intentions. We must assess the scale of this threat and devise a strategy to protect our pack.”
Ethan nods, a sense of purpose in his eyes. “Of course, Alpha. I will do everything in my power to gather the necessary information and handle this situation efficiently.”
“Good,” I say to him. “If you do need to leave free pack to get appropriate information, make sure ro bring skilled guards along with you.”
He bows and clutches an arm to his chest. “I understand, Alpha. I shall get going now.”
As Ethan turns to leave, a sudden recollection crosses my mind, causing me to call out to him. “Wait, Ethan,” I interject, my voice filled with a mix of concern and suspicion. He pauses and looks back at me, waiting for my next words. “Investigate the two brothers, Tyler and Jake,” I instruct, my tone measured but firm.
Ethan’s brows furrow in surprise as he processes my request. “Do you suspect they might be of harm to Miss Sophia?” he asks, a hint of apprehension in his voice.
I shake my head, not entirely certain of their intentions but cautious nonetheless. “I can’t be sure, but it’s better to be careful,” I reply. “Look into three generations of their ancestry, and gather everything you can find about them in detail. We need to understand their background and any potential connections to these rogue activities.”
Ethan nods, his expression determined. “I will leave no stone unturned, Alpha. Consider it done.”
“Thank you, Ethan,” I acknowledge, grateful for his commitment. “Keep me informed of any significant findings. We need to be prepared for any eventuality.”
With a final nod, Ethan leaves my office, his steps echoing down the corridor. As the door closes, I take a moment to collect my thoughts.
Soon after Ethan left, the door is suddenly opened, and I look up, surprised by the intruder’s courage to enter without permission. I hear Candace, my secretary, trying to intervene and explain the protocol, but the person barges in, ignoring her words. It’s Emilia, my cousin. I’m not surprised by her audacity; she’s the only one who would dare to act so insolently.
I quickly intervene, instructing Candace to return to her post and assuring her that I will handle the situation. Candace glances at Emilia once more, bows respectfully, and exits the room, closing the door behind her.
Now alone with Emilia, I observe her with a cool gaze, my demeanor distant as always. She, on the other hand, wears a playful smile, seemingly unaffected by my coldness.
“Look who’s saving the world like always,” she says.
My frustration mounts as I listen to her playful banter, her disregard for personal boundaries evident in her mischievous grin. I know her well enough to understand that knocking before entering is a concept she delights in ignoring. With a resigned shake of my head, I try to regain control of the conversation.
“How many times have I told you to knock before entering, Emilia?” I ask, my tone tinged with resignation.
Emilia shrugs, undeterred by my reprimand. “Oh, come on, Alex. You know I like to ruffle your feathers a bit,” she replies, her voice filled with playful mischief.
Sighing, I realize that there’s no use arguing with her. Emilia has always been a troublemaker, and I have long accepted that fact. I decide to shift the focus and ask about her return.
“When did you get back?” I inquire, genuinely curious about her travels.
Emilia’s expression turns sour, and she glares at me, her eyes filled with a mix of disappointment and frustration. “Why didn’t you come to pick me up at the airport, Alex?” she questions, her voice laced with reproach. “Instead, you sent someone else to do it. I had to deliver myself to you.”
I know she isn’t really offended, but anyway, she is the little princess of the family who enjoys throwing tantrums.
“I’ve been busy. Let me make it up to you.”
She immediately beams, obviously pleased to have achieved what she wants. She clasps her palms in excitement. “Buy me the new island in Vienna as compensation.”
“No, that’s too much.” I eye her. She was definitely out to rip me off.”
She pouts and seems thoughtful for a momenr before saying, “How about the cabin yacht that has been launched?”
I sigh in resignation. “Fine.”