Bonded to My Ex's Alpha Brother (by CalebWhite) novel Chapter 146

Each comment stirred a flare of annoyance in my heart. I found myself suppressing the urge to growl at these females, to tell them Derek was mine–my Soul Bond, my Alpha. The possessiveness surprised me with its ferocity.

Amy noticed my expression and leaned closer. “Someone’s jealous,” she teased, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

“I am not,” I denied, though my flushed cheeks betrayed me.

I decided to give them some space, knowing how much Amy had been looking forward to speriding the evening with Jack. “I’ll go get us some drinks,” I offered, walking away before they could protest.

As I made my way through the crowd, I felt a sudden shift in the air–a warmth, a familiar scent of cedar and leather that quickened my pulse. Then a deep voice spoke directly behind my ear, close enough that his breath tickled my skin.

“I didn’t expect the silver–blue gown to complement you so perfectly.”

I froze, Derek’s proximity making my entire body tense. I turned slowly to face him, finding him even more breathtaking up close. His eyes, usually cold gray, darkened as he looked me over, lingering on the exposed skin of my neck and

shoulders.

“You look breathtaking tonight,” he murmured, his voice low enough that only I could hear.

My cheeks burned at his words, the wolf beneath my skin turning excitedly, recognizing her mate. I struggled to find my voice. “Thank you, Alpha. You look… impressive as well.”

A hint of a smile touched his lips, making my heart skip a beat. His gaze continued its unhurried assessment of my appearance, leaving heat wherever it traveled. Under his scrutiny, I felt both exposed and cherished.

“There you are,” Amy called, approaching with Jack. “We were wondering where you’d gone.”

Derek turned to greet them, unexpectedly extending his hand to Jack. “Thank you for coming tonight. I trust you’re enjoying yourselves?”

“Absolutely,” Amy answered enthusiastically. “The estate is incredible.”

Derek nodded, his expression warming slightly. “When Erin added your father’s name to the guest list, I knew it was for you. Though she could have simply told me directly.” His gaze slid to me, a hint of humor in his eyes.

Amy’s eyebrows rose at Derek’s attention to detail regarding me. “You… noticed that?”

“I notice everything about my personal secretary,” Derek replied calmly, though the mensity of his gaze suggested more than professional interest.

He reached out to take my hand, his fingers warm as they enclosed mine. “Speaking of which, I need her assistance. If you

don’t mind?”

“Not at all,” Amy responded, giving me a meaningful look.

As Derek led me through the crowd, his hand remained firmly around mine. His palm against my hand sent currents of electricity, making my skin tingle. I was acutely aware of the gazes that followed us, speculation obvious in their looks.

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Chapter 146

“Where are we going?” I asked, slightly breathless from trying to keep up with his long strides.

“To meet the Alpha of the Northern Pack, Derek answered, his thumb absently stroking the inside of my wrist. He specifically requested to see you again.”

I swallowed nervously, remembering our last meeting and how Defek had skillfully controlled the negotiations. Is everything alright with the agreement?”

Derek glanced down at me, his expression softening slightly. “Everything is fine. He simply wishes to congratulate us on our successful partnership.”

We found the Northern Pack Alpha in a less crowded section of the estate, conversing with Beta Tom. His face lit up with unexpected warmth when he saw us approaching.

“Alpha Derek!” he greeted enthusiastically, extending his hand. “And the lovely Miss Blackwood. What a pleasure to see you both.”

I studied him curiously, surprised by how cheerful he seemed despite having conceded major financial advantages during negotiations. Had Derek given him something extra after I’d left?

“You look particularly beautiful tonight,” the Alpha said to me, his eyes twinkling. “If I had a son, I would encourage him to pursue an Omega like you.”

I felt Derek’s hand tighten almost imperceptibly around mine, his voice deceptively calm as he responded, “I wouldn’t let her leave the Darkwood Pack.” The possessiveness in his tone sent a shiver down my spine.