Claimed By The Ruthless Alpha Dominic
tement grew at the thought of my brother finally returning home. Maybe, just maybe, Valen would help me av
always agree. She believed that finding a mate could change my life for the better, and while I understood her point, I couldn't shake the feeling that it would
running a hand through his sandy blon
," I replied, keeping my
nt our eyes met, we both broke into wide grins. As Valen approached, I noticed how much he had chan
ed me into a tight hug, lifting me off the ground. His fa
huh?" he teased, settin
eyes. He always could. A knowing smile played on his lips, and I
g brunette emerged from the sedan, her face a mix of shock and jealousy. I quickly re
ment as she approached us. She was beautiful, with deep brown eyes and a sprinkle of freckles that
came over me," she apologized,
na," I replied, wanting to
rly enthusiastic hug. Typical Aria, always making everything about herself. Despite my disdain for the idea of having
mily, I made my way over to Astrid. Raven and
warmly at Astrid, surprised to s
m," she said, her voice full of relief. Her words made me smile even wider,
sn't so bad," Rose sa
retorted, rolling my eyes mental
ietly, glancing nervously at the others. I watched as my father clapped Vale
ve you are," Raven quipped, s
're more equal," Astrid said, looking genuinely confused. Her words surpris
round," I stated firmly, m
Raven laughed, giving Gideon a pointed look,
ed, a mischievous glint in her eye
get along just fine," I
len and Astrid to join them for lunch. I seized the moment to speak
efore you go in?" I asked,
arm around Astrid's waist. I kept my focus
d set on making sure I go. Can you help me out? You know how I
with thought as he
urrowed in concentration. I could tell
one for a moment?" he asked,
" Raven said, though I could
len asked gently, and I could tel
nodded, instantly r
air, a habit he'd picked up from our father whenever he was stressed.
his voice filled with concern. His words hit me like a blow, and I t
te what they want," I whispered, wrapp
ld fix what's been broken inside you for so long," Valen's words were gentle, but they didn't lessen the sting. Why did eve
away as tears finally spilled over.
elf not to cry. After a few deep breaths and a small pep talk, I made my way to
lp you?" Raven asked, he
I'll just try to make the best of it, and if I find a way to escape, I will
with a small smile, though something in his eyes seem
cheered, starting the car an