Chapter 24

Nor a knelt beside him, her hands resting gently on his arms.

“Alez, listen to me,” she said softly. “You’re my son. No one could ever take your place in my heart. But you have to understand, being kind to others doesn’t mean I love you any less.”

Alex sniffled, avoiding her gaze. “It feels like you do,” he muttered.

Nors pulled him into a hug, holding him tightly.

“I’m sorry if I’ve made you feel that way, I’ll do better, Alex. But you have to meet me halfway, okay? No more pushing people away or picking fights. Can we agree on that?”

Alex hesitated, then gave a small nod. “Okay,” he murmured.

Nora smiled, brushing a stray tear from his cheek. “That’s my boy. Now, let’s go talk to your coach. I’m sure he’s eager to see what you’ve got today.”

The schoolyard was a swirl of activity, filled with the laughter and shouts of children enjoying their morning.

Nora stood to the side, taking in the vibrant scene with a calm demeanor.

The sunshine filtered through the trees, casting dappled patterns on the pavement as children darted between their parents and friends.

Just as she turned to check on Alex and Brian, a familiar tug on her sleeve drew her attention.

Alex stood before her, his expression a mix of irritation and expectation

“You forgot something.” he said firmly, his small arms crossed over his chest.

Nora tilted her head, amused but playing along. “Did I now? What did I forget?”

“A hug,” Alex said, his lips pressed into a pout.

“And a kiss,” he added, glancing pointedly at Brian, who stood quietly by her side.

Nora chuckled softly. Of course, how could I forget?

crouched down, pulling Alex into a warm bug before

immediately, though his gaze flicked provocatively toward

quelled half of Alex’s

despite its childish

at the abrupt demand, before realization

a slight smile, “I think I

Alex frowned. “What?”

jealous,” Nora said, her tone light but teasing. You don’t want anyone else taking your place in my heart,

looked momentarily caught off guard, then crossed his arms again. “There’s no such thing. I know I’m your favorite

back a laugh, finding the

to diffuse the tension between the

you out of the crowd before you start a wrestling match here.*

moved to a quieter corner of the schoolyard, Alex took the opportunity to

left, Alpha father

21.7

Chapter 24

brushing off the shove

carried a note of firm reprimand. “That’s not how we treat our classmates. You could have hurt Brian.” She knelt to look him in the eyes. “Especially if you’re going to be

of his shoe against the pavement, his

know,” he muttered, not meeting her gaze. “But I just don’t like it when you’re

take anything away from you when

Alex gave a

gently urged him. “Now, let’s make things

Brian. “Sorry,” he said grudgingly. “But I’m still going to beat you

chance. I’ll

a glare, their rivalry reignited but redirected

almost time for class. Let’s get you both back

tightly around Nora, holding

brushing a hand

hesitated, glancing down at his shoes. 1. I haven’t seen you much lately,” he admitted in a quiet voice. “I miss when you’d say good morning every

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