Fell for the Alpha-less Queen

Chapter 383 A Real Christmas

"Alright, enough. It's Christmas-don't go looking for trouble," Cedric muttered, scolding Winona under his breath.

Tessa hadn't had it easy these past few years. If he were in her shoes, he'd be doing everything he could to make it up to her too-especially after learning she'd awakened as a high-rank wolf and that her boyfriend was none other than Alpha Landon.

Winona scowled and looked away, the moonstone bracelet on her wrist suddenly feeling more like a shackle than a gift.

After handing out presents to the rest of the family, the old man turned to Avery with a final gift-a leather music folio.

"I heard musicians like you need something like this. Makes it casier to carry your sheet music."

Avery was stunned. He had never once expected to receive a Christmas gift from someone else's family. Inside the folio, a tiny snow-moon wolf totem was delicately.embroidered. The stitching was fine and precise-clearly handsewn with

care.

It was the first time in years he'd received a Christmas gift in someone else's home, and it moved him more than he expected. "Thank you, Grandpa..." he said, voice catching in his throat. Then, flustered, he fumbled through his backpack and pulled out a USB stick.

"I recorded this track on my phone last night. Added some bass overtones and coyote howl samples... I heard good music can resonate with the wolf soul- maybe even soothe its beastly nature..."

a heartbeat. Should help you sleep better. Even your

part of this family's Christmas. So he'd thrown this together at the last minute, hoping it would

quiet, scornful chuckle, clearly unimpressed

old man shot him a glare and took the USB with both hands.

on the old man's face, Avery finally let out a breath

rest of the family exchanged their gifts, it was

hadn't gone out of her way for most of the family. She'd just grabbed some things they might need- cigars, wine,

you always say you can't sleep at night, so I made you a lavender pillow. I added calming herbs used by

consulted Samuel for the herbal

adored the gift, hugging

treasure.

1/2

28 May

A

new piece she'd

exchange, everyone gathered by the fireplace. They sipped hot cocoa while warming themselves by the fire. Yardley cranked up the volume on a rock version of a Christmas song. Avery casually picked up a guitar and joined in with an impromptu jam session. The old man tapped his knees to

Sinclair family had a rare moment of peace-no being together. rguments, no drama, just the

that evening, Avery said his goodbyes and returned to