Chapter 13

Ethan stepped over the lifeless man’s b*dy and exited the small, foul–smelling room. He settled into the back seat of his car, closing his eyes briefly. As the engine roared to life, he let out a sigh, relaxing into the seat as the car pulled away. His destination: the hangar where his private jet awaited. His corporation had expanded significantly, and his pack thrived; everything seemed perfect. In the country, Ethan Roberts was a formidable force, feared by many, but within himself, he harbored an unexplainable sadness, an emptiness.

Another sigh escaped his l*ps as the car came to a halt, and he stepped out into the crisp cold air. “Everything’s ready, boss,” someone said.

1

Ethan’s focus was on acquiring a new company, a top priority was transferring it to his country. He was leaving for a meeting with experts to finalize the purchase when his phone vibrated, displaying Bella’s name. “Bella,” he answered softly.

“Where are you?” she thundered, her annoyance evident. Ethan sighed, “Christopher just died. I don’t think throwing a party is suitable, wasn’t in the mood for one. Something came up. Am leaving the country.”

Bella’s frustration was palpable, “What was I supposed to do? With several dignitaries présent, I couldn’t just cancel on them because a pack member of a clan they know nothing about died! You know how important tonight is to me. Don’t you?”

Ethan sighed deeply, “We’re taking off in a while. I’ll call you once I land.”

“Really, Ethan?,” she replied from the other end.

“Fine!” She yelled into the phone, and the line went dead. Bella, now Bella Roberts, clutched the phone tightly, vibrating with anger. She was the wife of renowned Ethan Roberts, part of the Los Angeles power couple. Dressed in an elegant black dinner gown, she looked every bit the important, untouchable woman. This wasn’t the first time Ethan had left her hanging, but she was determined not to let him ruin her night. She had guests to attend to, and she sauntered down the steps of their lavish mansion.

“James,” she called to the butler, “The Alpha won’t be coming home. Don’t bother with the spare suit.” She walked away, heading for the expensive sleek car.

“Thank you,” she told James as he assisted her into the car. “You know, ma’am, the Alpha isn’t avoiding you. He’s just really busy. Don’t let this ruin your night. Enjoy your night, ma’am,” he said with a bow.

Bella nodded, settling into the car. “Drive,” she instructed.

****

“Let’s watch Buttercup Princess,” Daisy demanded, her eyes fixed on the TV. “Nooo, let’s watch Paw Patrol instead,” Liam suggested, crossing his arms defiantly.

Hazel’s children were embroiled in a morning argument. From the kitchen, Hazel glanced at them, a small smile playing on her l*ps. Daisy’s fever had reduced, and she was now better, having been discharged from the hospital. The delightful scent of breakfast wafted through the air, enveloping the family in its warmth. As a family of three, they had settled into their morning routine. The kids squabbled over which TV show to watch, a familiar morning ritual.

Hazel chose not to intervene, confident that they would eventually reach an agreement on their own. The bickering continued unabated.

12:10

kitchen. You watch for now, but once I’m back, I’m in charge of the remote. Okay?” Daisy declared in a bossy tone, stomping off to the

you making pancakes?” Daisy asked, her voice

replied, using the endearing nickname she had given her daughter due to her obsession with pebbles and her small,

in moments later, abandoning the TV. “Come back. We’ll watch Buttercup Princess,” he conceded, a small frown on his face. Watching TV shows with Daisy was

agreement. “Ok,”

slight pout. Both kids loved to sneak bites

handed the spatula to Daisy, while Liam eagerly

Liam called between mouthfuls, “When we go to our new home,

to go to

he declared, his eyes lighting up with hope. “I’ll

disliked school, a sentiment not shared by his sister, who loved going

her curiosity piqued. “Why don’t you like school?” she asked, attentive to

weird,” Liam replied soulfully, his sensitive werewolf nose making the experience less

I get to say goodbye to Miss Mary?” Daisy inquired, her

We’ll go to school tomorrow one last time so you can say goodbye

said, her voice tinged with

I also have a dad?” Liam asked, his

attention shifted immediately to Liam, surprised by the unexpected

But I don’t,” Liam explained, a hint of sadness in his

start asking about their father. “We have a dad. Don’t we,

Who told you that?” she asked

tell Aunt Chloe that our dad is also there. And that

“Really?” Liam inquired.

“No, and Daisy, you shouldn’t be listening to grown–ups talk. You don’t have a dad. He’s not part of our

12:40

referring to the man who had been a consistent presence in their lives,

does love you guys. Your father…

words.

decided to be honest with them. “Listen, my little ones, your dad is no longer with us. It’s just Mommy you have. Don’t you love Mommy anymore?”

running to

me, Aunt Chloe, and Big Noah. And we love you

in Los Angelos?”

not Angelos

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255