Chapter 131
Erin’s POV
His phrasing–part challenge, part invitation–sent a shiver down my spine. Before I could formulate a response, he had already turned away, speaking in low tones with Mark about the boundary situation. I watched his tall figure walk toward the SUV where the driver waited, my heart still pounding fiercely in my chest.
“Miss, please, Derek’s personal driver bowed slightly as he opened the car door. “The Alpha has instructed me to see you safely home.”
I nodded in thanks, sliding into the backseat, immediately surrounded by the rich scent of expensive leather. As the car pulled away from Stone Group, I found myself staring out at the city lights flashing by, replaying every moment of the day in my mind.
I shifted in my seat, still remembering the pressure of his hand at my waist, how his fingers had tightened possessively.
Every time I recalled how he had leaned against the window–his powerful frame tense, his gaze focused and burning as he looked at me–my breathing would quicken, my heartbeat intensifying.
The intimacy between us was developing at a pace that was both exhilarating and terrifying. Just weeks ago, I had been certain the Pack Alpha would never acknowledge our Soul Bond connection, let alone act on it. Now, his heated gaze followed me wherever I went, his touches lingering longer than necessary.
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My thoughts drifted back to that moment in his office, his nose trailing lightly along my neck, sending currents of electricity throughout my body. Even now, my wolf paced restlessly beneath my skin, anxious and pacing, as if calling out a name–the name of her mate.
I couldn’t deny it to myself any longer. Despite my attempts to resist, I had fallen hopelessly in love with the proud Alpha.
More importantly, despite all the rumors about him, Derek had looked me in the eyes today and assured me they were lies -he had never been inappropriately involved with any other woman. 1
When he spoke those words, the golden glint in his eyes told me everything I needed to know. I had his full attention, and he had no intention of letting go.
“Miss Blackwood, we’ve arrived at your home,” the driver’s voice pulled me back to reality.
“Thank you,” I answered, unable to hide the joy in my voice.
“Would you like me to escort you to the door?”
“No need, I can manage. Please give Mr. Stone my goodnight.”
The driver nodded respectfully, and I stepped out of the car, my mood light despite the night’s chill.
I pushed open the front door gently, immediately surrounded by warm light and the enticing aroma of home–cooked food. Mother emerged from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a towel, her face brightening when she saw me.
“You’re home late, I was beginning to worry,” she said, though her eyes sparkled with something unusual.
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Chapter 131
She walked over to me, gently cupping my face. “You look well. More vibrant than before.”
I nervously tucked a strand of hair behind my ear, suddenly self–conscious under her all–seeing gaze. “Do I? It must be because work is going well.”
Mom shook her head, a knowing smile playing at her lips. “A mother always knows her daughter’s heart. Especially when her scent changes.
My eyes widened in surprise. “Mom, what are you talking about?”
She simply smiled mysteriously, gesturing for me to join her in the dining room. “Dinner is ready. Oh, and your brother Aaron called today.”
At the mention of my brother, my shoulders immediately tensed. “Oh? That’s good news. What did he say?”
“He asked specifically about you. That boy is always so worried about you.”
I swallowed. “Mom, did you tell him about…”
She shook her head firmly. “No, of course not. I told him you were working at a regular company as you requested. He scolded me for letting you work alone without considering safety concerns, so I told a little white lie that Tomas works at the same company and looks after you.”
I squeezed her hand gratefully. “Thank you, Mom.”
During dinner, I noticed Mother had prepared an unusually generous meal. She poured me a cup of a special herbal tea, steam rising in delicate curls, carrying an earthy aroma.
“This will help stabilize your emotions,” she explained meaningfully,
I sipped the tea, tasting mint and some herbs I couldn’t identify.
“Aaron mentioned that the Pack Alpha is taking a special interest in his training, Mom continued. “He was having difficulty with some advanced skill tests, but the Alpha personally promised to guide him. Such an honor.”
I looked down at my plate, hiding my expression. “Yes, you’re right. We’re fortunate to have such a Pack Alpha.”
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