Love Times Four My Stepbrothers Are My Mates (Alayah) novel Chapter 26

**When Broken Stars Drift Across Empty Midnight Skies by Troy Mason Venn**
**Chapter 26: Idiots**

Throughout my childhood, I always believed that Nathan would be the one deeply impacted by the absence of his Mate. Yet, as the years have unfolded, I’ve come to realize that it is Nikolay who bears the weight of this disappointment most heavily. Each time Khal delivered the news that there was no connection, I could see the flicker of hope dim in Nikolay’s eyes. The way he spoke of Alayah, however, ignited a spark that was both beautiful and heartbreaking. It was a look I recognized all too well, reminiscent of the way Dad’s eyes would light up when he spoke of Mara. It’s a look shared among every mated male when they mention their beloved.

“Alright, let’s head over to see Erick and his father,” I announce, rising from my chair. My brothers follow suit, eager to accompany me as we descend the stairs toward the Delta office located on the ground floor. This space will serve as their new workspace, a hub of activity when they’re not out training our Pack members or patrolling the borders that define our territory.

The next few hours are spent diving into the myriad responsibilities that come with being a Delta. I can feel the excitement radiating from my brothers as they absorb every detail about their new roles. But I can’t shake the thought that with this new responsibility comes a wave of attention from the females in Autumn Pack, all of whom will undoubtedly be vying for their attention once the news becomes public.

**Alayah’s p.o.v.**

With just four days remaining until our crucial meeting on Monday morning to discuss the financial status of both Packs, my mind is a whirlwind of thoughts. The image of Noah’s expression when he first saw my outfit keeps replaying in my head. It was as if he wanted to send me back to my room to change. Frustrated, I shake my head for what feels like the hundredth time, attempting to clear my thoughts. I take a sip of my latte, refocusing on the screen in front of me. There are still budgets to review, and I can’t afford to be distracted.

As I stare at the budget for our training grounds, it becomes evident that our Gamma and his Deltas are meticulous with their finances. They replace only what is necessary, ensuring that no funds are wasted. The same holds true for the kitchen budget; every purchase is accounted for, with no frivolous expenditures in sight. It’s clear that Alpha Randell has entrusted the right people with these responsibilities, and I can’t help but smile when I recall a particular note in the kitchen budget.

I had to summon our Head Omega to my office to clarify a few points, and once she explained everything, I couldn’t help but grin. Alpha Randell’s birthday is approaching, and it’s a well-known fact that he despises the idea of throwing a birthday party. He sees it as a waste of resources. However, this year marks his sixty-fifth birthday, and I was genuinely taken aback to learn he is much older than I had initially thought. It should not have surprised me; after all, we Lycan’s age slowly, and it often takes a long time for us to show signs of it.

Luna Vicky had tasked our Head Omega with the challenge of organizing a surprise birthday party for Alpha Randell, but under one condition: Luna Vicky had to remain completely uninvolved. I offered my assistance, and she assured me she would reach out if she needed help. Closing the budget for the training grounds, I decide a stroll would do me good before lunch; I really need to clear my mind.

The quickest route to the outside is through the main living room, and that’s precisely where I’m headed. However, the moment I hear Noah’s voice, I freeze in my tracks. “No, we haven’t found our Mate yet. Our Lycans have been unable to feel a connection with any female, and we are seriously considering attending the next Mate meeting,” he says. My heart sinks as I hear a female voice respond.

“Perhaps you should think about a chosen Mate. As the future Gamma, you’ll need a strong female by your side, and your Mate might not be of a suitable rank. I believe you should consider taking a female from a long line of Warriors to become your Mate…” The rest of her words fade into the background as I whirl around, unable to bear it any longer. I storm out through the back door, too stunned to acknowledge anyone I pass.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify