Chapter 133
Saturday came around quickly, and after hours of dress shopping and trying on various outfits, I settled on a classic high–fashion chapeau that suited me perfectly. As I made my way down the stairs, a familiar figure caught my eye in the lounge.
Clara.
She sat on the couch, her shoulders hunched, eyes rimmed with red, a stark contrast to her usually composed demeanor.
hadn’t seen her look this disheveled before. I thought of the possible drama that she might be showing now.
Noticing me, Clara straightened, her tired gaze meeting mine. “Sophia,” she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. “I need your help.”
I didn’t want to sit down next to her so I asked her while standing. “What happened, Clara?”
She took a shaky breath, struggling to steady herself. “It’s Ryan,” she whispered, the desperation in her voice cutting through the silence. “He’s missing. No one’s seen him for days, and I… I don’t know where else to turn. I thought maybe… maybe you could help me find him?“.
After meeting Clara, I contacted Ethan via video link and he explained how he had just dispersed a handful of people who had been prying into my business.
“Do you know what’s happening with the Stardust Pack?” he asked, his voice low and cautious.
I shook my head, a little confused. “Not really… what’s going on?”
With a sigh, Ethan started, “The old Alpha of the Stardust Pack had a stroke a few days ago. Too much alcohol, years of indulgence… he just collapsed in bed, and he’s in serious condition. He might not make it.”
“Is that so?” I replied, genuinely surprised but not overly affected. I barely had any connection to the Stardust Pack’s affairs.
Now, all his children are fighting to become the next Alpha,” Ethan continued, giving me a meaningful look “Ryan’s throwing himself into the fight, too.”
I raised my eyebrows in disbelief. “Ryan? But he’s… well, he’s not even a recognized heir, right? I mean, with his status being a…”
Shapter 1
Ethan nodded. “Exactly. He’s technically the old Alpha’s bastard child. But he’s trying to use anderhanded tactics, getting into some dark business deals. From what I hear, he’s willing to do whatever it takes.”
I frowned. “Ryan was always like this. Power will corrupt him more?”
Ethan sighed. “Yes true, Power changes people. That’s why I’m warning you: stay away from him, Sophia. If he’s that desperate, he won’t hesitate to manipulate anyone who stands in his way.”
I took in Ethan’s words, nodding. “Don’t worry. I know better than to get tangled up in all that.”
Ethan relaxed slightly, relieved by my answer. He gave me a look reassuring nod before signing off..
I turned to my wardrobe and picked out a dress for the evening. Lauren had told me about the birthday party, and I had promised to join.
After an hour of getting ready, I arrived at the hotel, where both of my housemates, Lauren and Jia, were waiting for me in the lobby.
They were dressed to impress, each looking elegant and polished. I felt a little out of place but smiled, greeting them warmly.
“Ready?” I asked, trying to match their excitement.
They nodded enthusiastically, and we made our way to the ballroom.
The hall was decorated in shimmering gold and soft pastel lights, with large floral arrangements on every table.
I scanned the room, noting the mix of unfamiliar and familiar faces, but then froze when my eyes landed on a figure I hadn’t expected to see.
Linda.
She was surrounded by a crowd, soaking up the attention. Her expression was humble, even bashful, but I could tell she was enjoying every bit of admiration that came her way. It seemed the news of her arson arrest hadn’t spread, and she was here acting like she was the belle of the ball
Jia took my hand and whispered excitedly, “There’s my friend, Christina! It’s her birthday today.”
As we approached, Christina spotted us and walked over with Linda beside her. She smiled brightly. taking Linda’s hand.
“Let me introduce you all,” she said proudly. “This is none other than the Iron Claw Alpha’s girlfriend, Linda. She’s also a friend of mine!”
Linda gave a modest smile and turned to Christina, shaking her head as if embarrassed. “Christina. please don’t say that…”
Her voice was soft, almost demure, and her expression was one of feigned humility. But her tone was calculated, and I could see right through her act. Her eyes darted to me, and I could tell that my presence had made her uncomfortable.
