Hiding My Twin Pups From their Alpha Dad novel Chapter 12

“You’ve got the whole pack buzzing about you, Alpha Orion,” a smooth, velvety voice called out from behind the bonfire. Lucien Marrow stepped into view, his confident stride and tailored dark suit immediately drawing the attention of everyone nearby. He extended a hand toward Orion, who was watching the newcomer with cautious curiosity.

“Lucien Marrow,” he introduced himself, a disarming smile lighting up his sharp features. His deep voice carried an air of authority, but his charm softened it, making everyone within earshot instinctively trust him. “Representative of the Silverstone Pack. We’ve been keeping an eye on the rogue activity along our borders and thought it was time to strengthen alliances.”

“Lucien.” Orion shook his hand firmly, his tone neutral but respectful. “We’re always open to strong allies. But I wasn’t expecting a diplomat tonight.”

Lucien shrugged, his dark eyes scanning the gathering as if memorizing every face. “The timing seemed right. I like to get ahead of things.” His gaze landed on Felicia, who stood a few feet behind Orion, holding Max and Danny close. For a fleeting second, something flickered in Lucien’s expression—recognition? Interest? But it was gone as quickly as it came.

“And who might this be?” Lucien asked, stepping slightly closer and addressing Felicia directly.

Felicia stiffened under his scrutiny. His demeanor wasn’t threatening, but something about him felt… too smooth. Too perfect. “Felicia,” she replied curtly, not volunteering anything more.

“Ah, the famous Luna,” Lucien said, tilting his head slightly. “Or should I say, former Luna? I’ve heard whispers of your strength and resilience. Raising twins, no less, and carving out a place here. That’s no small feat.”

Felicia’s lips tightened. “Whispers travel fast, I see,” she said, her tone polite but guarded.

Lucien smiled. “When it comes to extraordinary people, they always do.”

Orion cleared his throat, subtly stepping between Lucien and Felicia. “Lucien, I’m sure we’ll have plenty to discuss about alliances and rogues later. For now, enjoy the festival. It’s a night for celebration.”

“Of course,” Lucien replied easily, holding his hands up in mock surrender. “But I’d like to talk to Felicia again before the night is through.” He turned to her one last time, his gaze steady. “Your strength is admirable, Luna. Truly.”

Felicia gave him a curt nod, her grip tightening on Danny and Max’s hands. She didn’t trust this man, not yet. But as he walked away, his steps measured and deliberate, she couldn’t shake the feeling that Lucien wasn’t as harmless as he seemed.

The firelight flickered as the festival wore on, but Felicia couldn’t relax. Her mind was still racing from her confrontation with Damien earlier. She had been so careful for five years—so careful. And now everything was unraveling.

Her eyes wandered, searching for Damien in the crowd. She spotted him near a group of pack warriors, his tall frame unmistakable. He wasn’t laughing or joining in the revelry. Instead, his gaze was fixed on her and the boys, burning with intensity. She hated how her heart betrayed her, skipping a beat under the weight of his stare.

“Mommy, can we go play near the food tents?” Danny tugged at her sleeve, his wide eyes hopeful. Max nodded eagerly beside him.