Alexander’s POV
As I sat in my study, reviewing some reports and plans for the Shadow City, Ethan’s entrance caught my attention. His demeanor was composed but there was a hint of urgency in his expression. I leaned back in my chair, giving him my full attention.
“Ethan, what’s the matter?” My voice was calm yet expectant.
He cleared his throat, his gaze meeting mine. “Emilia has returned to Shadow City, and she’s brought two men with her.”
I raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. Emilia was known for her spontaneity, but this seemed out of character even for her. “Two men? What’s her explanation for their presence?”
Ethan’s lips quirked into a half-smile. “She claims they’re new residents of Shadow City.”
I leaned forward, my interest growing. New residents were a rarity, especially ones that Emilia would willingly vouch for. “New residents, you say?”
He nodded, his expression holding a mixture of amusement and skepticism. “Yes, it seems so.”
A smirk tugged at the corner of my lips. “Emilia always knows how to stir up trouble, doesn’t she?”
Ethan chuckled softly in agreement. “That she does.”
I leaned back in my chair again, a thoughtful expression on my face. “And she’s returned and brought along two companions. My grandfather won’t be pleased when he finds out.”
Ethan nodded in understanding. My grandfather held traditional views when it came to outsiders, especially humans, entering Shadow City. Emilia’s actions were bound to raise eyebrows.
“Summon Emilia to my palace,” I instructed, my tone decisive. “I want to gather more information about these newcomers and Rogues intentions.”
Twenty minutes later, I stood in the palace alongside my grandfather, beta Zane, and a few other elders of Shadow City. The atmosphere was tense as we awaited Emilia’s arrival. When she walked in, her carefree demeanor seemed almost at odds with the seriousness of the situation. My gaze remained steady on her, assessing her every move.
Upon spotting Sophia at my side, Emilia’s face lit up with a mischievous grin. “Sister-in-law, you’re here too? How delightful!”
Sophia’s cheeks flushed slightly, caught off guard by Emilia’s casual approach. “Hello, Emilia.”
I remained silent, observing the interaction between the two women. Emilia’s playfulness was evident, and while I wasn’t particularly fond of her capricious attitude, I couldn’t deny that her addressing Sophia as “sister-in-law” seemed to please her.
As I observed the entrance of Emilia, my grandfather’s disapproving huff didn’t go unnoticed. He was quick to criticize her for her prolonged absence from the city, commenting on how she had been gallivanting in the wilderness without returning. His tone was both scolding and teasing, a unique blend that only my grandfather could master.
“Emilia, my dear, you’ve been out in the wilderness for so long. Have you forgotten the comforts of Shadow City?” His voice held a complaining edge, his gaze fixed on her.
Emilia’s response was as cheeky as ever. With a mischievous grin, she stuck her tongue out at him, her tone teasing. “Oh, Grandfather, you know I value my freedom too much to be confined within city walls.”
The mention of “freedom” seemed to be a trigger for my grandfather, who sighed in exasperation. His views on the importance of stability and responsibility clashed with Emilia’s carefree spirit. Yet, despite their differing perspectives, there was an underlying affection in his interactions with her.
“Freedom, yes. But a suitable husband might offer you some happiness too,” my grandfather mused, his tone mockingly suggesting a solution to her wayward adventures.
Emilia’s eyes danced with playful defiance as she retorted, her words dripping with sarcasm. “Oh, Grandfather, don’t worry. I have my wonderful sister-in-law to keep me company. Who needs a husband?”
My lips twitched with amusement as I watched their banter unfold. Emilia’s casual and unfiltered approach always managed to elicit reactions from those around her. My grandfather’s brows furrowed, torn between amusement and irritation. His concern for her well-being often clashed with her determination to live life on her own terms.
The mention of “sister-in-law” seemed to catch my attention again, I love this word. While Emilia’s choice of words was meant to provoke, it carried a sense of familiarity that wasn’t lost on me. As my gaze shifted to Sophia beside me, I caught a hint of bashfulness in her expression. It seemed that Emilia’s playful demeanor had taken her by surprise.
Before the exchange between my grandfather and Emilia could escalate further, I decided to interject, my voice calm yet authoritative. “Emilia, we’re here to discuss a serious matter.”
Emilia’s playful expression shifted, and she turned her attention to me. Her smirk remained, a silent acknowledgment of the shift in conversation. “Of course, Alpha. Serious business.”
I gestured for her to continue, my tone steady. “Tell us what you know about the Rogues.”