Love Times Four My Stepbrothers Are My Mates (Alayah) novel Chapter 110

**When Broken Stars Drift Across Empty Midnight Skies by Troy Mason Venn**
**Chapter 110: Elders**

**Bastian’s P.O.V.**

“Who exactly did I speak with on the phone to arrange this meeting?” I inquire, my tone steady but laced with curiosity. A male, whom I recognize as the phalpha, steps forward, his demeanor suggesting a mix of confidence and apprehension. “I mentioned her name during our conversation, and that she would be accompanied by her four Mates. Can you enlighten me as to why you chose to withhold that crucial detail from your Father?” I press, fully aware that any deception will be swiftly exposed by Nathan, who has an uncanny knack for reading people.

“I thought you were joking; I’ve never heard of a female Alpha before,” he replies, his expression unyielding. Just then, a woman, presumably his Mother, delivers a sharp slap to the back of his head. It’s evident that this young man is woefully ignorant of his own lineage—his Grandmother was one of the first female Alphas in our history.

He instinctively rubs the back of his head, casting a sheepish glance at her. The tension in the air is palpable as it becomes clear that her patience is wearing thin. “Your Grandmother led this Pack longer than you will be alive if you continue down this path,” she growls, her voice a low rumble that commands respect. “You should know better than anyone that a female Alpha is not a rarity.” Her words hang in the air, and we can all hear him murmur a meek, “Sorry, Mom.”

Once the Alpha has acknowledged his mistake, we pile back into the SUVs and follow him deeper into the heart of the territory. We eventually come to a halt in front of a quaint Pack-house, where I can see the Gamma family waiting for us on the porch, their expressions a mix of anticipation and concern. The moment I exit the SUV, Jarrom begins pacing anxiously in the back of my mind, and I immediately comprehend why as I take in the scene before me.

I step around the vehicle, my gaze locked onto the most stunning female I have ever seen. The air is thick with unspoken words as she takes a tentative step forward, yet a male stands protectively in front of her, blocking her path. “Don’t you dare touch her,” Jarrom growls, and I instinctively take a step forward, eliciting a small, appreciative smile from the enchanting female.

“It would be prudent to continue this discussion inside,” Alpha Bane suggests, and as I step onto the porch, I find myself beside the female that has captivated Jarrom’s attention. My hand rests gently on her lower back, guiding her toward the office as she moves gracefully to a couch that faces the window.

“Alpha, I apologize for my Gamma’s reaction. The only excuse I can offer is an ancient one. My Mother discovered that many Wolves and Lycans tend to reject their Mates if they belong to a different kind of shifter, and Janina is a Leopard,” Alpha Bane explains, his voice tinged with regret. I can feel Jarrom’s irritation simmering within me; the thought that someone might assume I would reject her for not being a Wolf or a Lycan is infuriating.

“Alpha Bane, we are aware of a portion of your Pack’s history, and we recognize that you have a mixed Pack. To reassure Janina’s parents, I have no intention of rejecting her,” I assert, managing to keep my voice steady and devoid of any growl that might betray my rising anger.

I sense Janina relaxing beside me, and her Father quickly apologizes for his earlier reaction. Janina’s mother chimes in, explaining that they are the youngest of twelve, consisting of seven Lycans and five Leopards. She assures me that they will send over all the information our Pack doctor will need, as treating a Leopard requires a different approach, and they are eager to assist in any way possible.

“Alpha Alayah, I don’t believe that’s the true reason for your visit, is it?” Alpha Bane inquires, a knowing smile gracing his lips. Alayah shakes her head, her gaze shifting to me, and I can see the relief in her eyes that we’ve found this connection. We are determined to ensure Janina feels at home here; my mother will undoubtedly adore her.

“No, you’re correct. That’s not why we’re here. We have a prisoner in our dungeons who has been there for over a year and refuses to answer any of our questions,” Alayah states, and as she elaborates on the situation, I find myself tuning out the conversation, my focus solely on Janina. Standing at about 5’7”, I suspect she will grow even taller once I mark her. Her golden, curly hair cascades just below her shoulders, and I can’t help but hope that all our offspring inherit her mesmerizing sky-blue eyes. Jarrom is entranced by her, and she giggles when she glances up at me, noticing the way my eyes shift between my own color and Jarrom’s.

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