Page 79 of The Alpha's Forbidden Heir

“Don’t apologize,” I cut her off gently, my hand cupping her face. “You’re safe. That’s all that matters.”

Elias wraps his arms around my neck, hugging me tightly. “I was so scared.” he admits, his voice small.

I squeeze him. "I know, little one. I know.”

Chapter Twenty-Four

Aria

Asoft knock at the door wakes me from sleep.

“Luna, breakfast is ready,” a voice calls from the other side.

“I’ll be down shortly,” I reply, my voice still groggy from sleep.

After a quick bath and dressing in a soft dress, I make my way downstairs. The moment I step onto the main floor, the sound of bustling activity hits me. Maids move hurriedly through the halls, carrying trays of food, arranging tables, and whispering among themselves. The faint smell of freshly baked bread and roasted meat wafts through the air, making my stomach rumble.

Curious, I stop a young maid who is rushing past me, a basket of flowers in her arms.

“What’s going on?” I ask gently. “Why is everyone in such a rush this morning?”

The maid pauses, her cheeks flushing. “Oh, Luna, it’s the event,” she says, her voice hesitant.

“Event?” I repeat, frowning. “What event?”

She seems to hesitate as though she’s said too much. “You’ll see, Luna.” she says hurriedly before darting off down the hall.

Before I can press further, a familiar voice calls from the stairs.

“Mom!”

I turn to see Elias bounding down toward me, his dark curls still a mess from sleep and his wide grin making my heart swell.

“Good morning, my little one,” I greet, kneeling to catch him as he throws himself into my arms.

“I’m not little anymore,” Elias protests, his tone serious. “Dad said I’m a strong wolf now!”

I laugh, ruffling his hair. “Oh, is that so? Well, you’re going to need a big breakfast if you want to be as strong as your dad.”

Elias puffs out his chest proudly. “I’ll eat everything, promise!”

“Let’s see if you can keep that promise,” I tease, leading him into the dining hall.

The long table is filled with steaming plates of food—fluffy eggs, crisp bacon, fresh fruits, and pastries glistening with sugar. Elias’s eyes widen as he climbs into his seat, already reaching for a stack of pancakes.

“Slow down,” I say, laughing. “You’ll choke if you eat too fast.”

Elias grins but doesn’t slow down much. “Where’s Dad?”

I glance around, realizing Bane is nowhere in sight. “I’m not sure,” I admit. “Maybe he’s busy.”

“Busy with what?” Elias asks through a mouthful of pancakes.

I shake my head, trying not to smile. “Chew first, questions later.”

Elias giggles but obeys.

Halfway through our meal, the dining hall doors open, and Rook steps in. His sharp eyes immediately find Elias, and he smiles.

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