Bonded to My Ex's Alpha Brother (by CalebWhite) novel Chapter 157

Erin’s POV

I pushed open the front door, exhaustion weighing on every muscle. The familiar scent of lavender and pine greeted me, momentarily soothing my frayed nerves. Walking through the hallway, I saw Mom wrapped in a thick blanket sitting by the fireplace, holding a leather–bound book of wolf legends.

“Finally home, Erin,” Elena said, setting down her book and extending her hand to me. The firelight cast shadows across her face, highlighting the fine lines that had deepened over the years. Though she smiled warmly, I could see the worry hidden in her eyes.

“Sorry, Mom,” I said, dropping my backpack by the door and kicking off my shoes. “The bus was late. I dragged my feet across the hardwood floor, each step requiring more effort than usual.

Mom adjusted her position, patting the space beside her. “You used to be so eager to share stories from the academy with me. Now Stone Group takes all your time.” Her nose twitched slightly, catching my scent. “Even your essence has changed, child.”

I sighed deeply and slid onto the sofa, resting my head on her shoulder. Closing my eyes, I said softly, “I just want to rely on our family. Relationships outside the pack are too complicated.”

Mom suddenly turned her head, studying my face with the perceptive gaze that had always made it impossible to hide anything from her. “This isn’t like you. Who’s made my little wolf cub so dejected?” She gently stroked my hair, fingers

working through the tangles. “There’s a man’s scent mixed with yours.”

I quickly shook my head in denial, but the wisdom in her eyes told me she wasn’t fooled. “Erin,” she said softly, “when the

Moon Goddess chooses your Soul Bond, that connection changes everything. I can see that change in your eyes.*

Her hand found mine, her grip surprisingly strong despite her frail appearance. Her voice lowered, becoming serious. “You know about my heart condition. If I could see you established in a stable bond with your Soul Mate before I leave, I would

go peacefully.”

My eyes grew moist, and I turned my head, pretending to admire the dancing flames in the fireplace. I didn’t want her to see my tears. Suddenly, I turned back and hugged her thin frame tightly. “Don’t talk like that! Aaron and I need you,

always.”

I could feel her heart beating against mine, steady and reassuring, and I silently prayed to the Moon Goddess that it would

continue for many years to come.

When I finally opened my eyes, the afternoon sunlight filtered through the bedroom curtains. After talking with Mom, I had retreated to my room, and the previous night’s sleeplessness had finally caught up with me. The digital clock on my nightstand showed 5 PM–I had slept the entire day.

A gentle knock sounded at the door. “Erin? Are you awake?” Mom’s voice called softly. “You should eat something.”

“Coming,” I replied, my voice hoarse/with sleep. I dragged myself from the bed, not bothering to check my appearance in the mirror. What was the point? The person I had tried to impress clearly only saw me as a potential plaything.

á

Downstairs, Mom had prepared a simple meal of herb–roasted venison. The rich aroma made my stomach growl, reminding me I hadn’t eaten anything the day before.

1/2

2

Chapter 157

As I ate, I absentmindedly scrolled through my phone, bracing myself for the aftermath of last night’s party. To my

surprise, all photos of Derek and me at the event had been completely removed from the pack’s social network. A cool wave of relief washed over me. Perhaps Derek had ordered the photos removed to avoid further speculation about our relationship–or lack thereof.

Thinking of him still sent a sharp pain through my chest, a mixture of hurt, anger, and underneath it all, a traitorous longing that refused to disappear.

My phone buzzed on the kitchen counter, Amy’s name flashing on the screen. I hesitated for a second before answering.

Verify captcha to read the contentVerify