Page 54 of Alpha's Forbidden Fate

“I wanted to apologize for my brother’s behavior yesterday,” he says sincerely. “He can be... overprotective sometimes.”

I raise an eyebrow, surprised by his words. “Overprotective? That’s one way to put it.”

Grayson shifts uncomfortably, running a hand through his hair. “Look, Liam may seem tough on the outside, but he’s actually really loving and gentle. He just... cares a lot, you know?”

I find it hard to believe, especially after our encounter last night. “I’m sure he has his moments,” I say dryly.

Grayson sighs, looking crestfallen. “Yeah, he does. But I understand if you don’t want to work with me anymore. I’ll find someone else to tutor me.”

I feel a pang of guilt at the thought of turning him away, but I know it’s for the best. “Yeah, maybe that’s for the best,” I say, trying to sound convincing.

He nods, his shoulders slumping. “Okay then. I’ll let you get back to your work.”

With that, he excuses himself and walks out, leaving me feeling conflicted. Maybe I’m being too harsh on Liam. Maybe Grayson’s right and he really is just trying to protect his family.

But I can’t shake the feeling of unease, the memory of his cold and distant demeanor. I can’t risk getting involved with someone like that, not when I have so much to lose.

I gather my things and head out to my car, feeling a sense of relief as I drive away. I’ll stick to my blood bags and stay away from the Night family. I don’t want any trouble, and I intend to keep it that way.

I get home feeling drained and exhausted. I only managed to get through two blood bags today. Pathetic, I know, but sometimes that’s just how it goes.

I’m craving some comfort food, something warm and soothing. So, I decide to call Mariya’s my favorite restaurant. Hopefully, they won’t send Grayson to make the delivery. I can’t deal with any more Night family drama today.

The phone rings a couple of times before someone picks up. “Mariya’s, how can I help you?” a woman’s voice says.

“Hi, I’d like to order some soup for delivery, please,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady.

“Of course. What kind of soup would you like?”

“I’ll have the chicken noodle, please.”

“Sure thing. Is there anything else I can get you?”

“No, thank you.”

“Okay, I’ll need your name and delivery information for the driver.”

I give her my address and payment information, and she says, “Ok, your order should be there within an hour.”

“Great, thank you.”

I hang up and head to my room, changing into my pajamas. I grab a novel from my bedside table and settle down on the couch, ready to lose myself in another world.

I’m engrossed in my book when the doorbell rings. Must be the soup delivery. I set my book aside and head to the door.

I open the door, and sure enough, it’s the delivery man, holding a bag with my soup inside.

“Hello,” I say, trying to sound friendly.

“Hey,” he replies, handing me the bag. “Chicken noodle, right?”

“Yeah, that’s it. Thanks.”

He smiles, taking the tip I offer him. “No problem. Enjoy your meal.”

I nod, saying thank you again, before closing the door. I carry the bag to the kitchen and set it down on the counter, feeling a wave of anticipation wash over me.

I grab a bowl and spoon out some soup, savoring the aroma as it fills the air. It’s exactly what I need right now—warm, comforting, familiar.

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