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..."

so it mimics a heartbeat. Should help you sleep

hadn't expected to be part of this family's Christmas. So he'd thrown

scornful chuckle, clearly unimpressed by such

both hands. "Thank you, my boy.

man's face, Avery finally let out a breath

exchanged their gifts, it was Tessa's

her way for most of the family. She'd just grabbed some things they might need- cigars,

handed him a delicately wrapped cloth pouch. "Grandpa, you always say you can't sleep at night, so I made you a

even consulted Samuel for

gift, hugging the pillow to

treasure.

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Wed 28

383 A

was a new piece she'd composed

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 the rhythm. Snowlight flickered through the windows, mixing with the warm glow inside. The star-shaped lights on the tree shimmered like pieces of quiet

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

Avery said his goodbyes and returned to his