EPISODE 90
Caleb suddenly ran toward me, his small feet kicking up dust as he barreled forward with unrestrained energy.
“Mama!” he called, his voice full of excitement.
I opened my arms without hesitation, welcoming him as he crashed into me. His tiny arms wrapped around my waist, squeezing me tightly as if I would disappear if he let go. He nestled his face against my stomach, shaking his head playfully while giggling.X
My hands instinctively ran through his dark curls, feeling the warmth of his little body pressed against mine. But as quickly as his joy bubbled up, it vanished when he turned to face Syrus.
The moment Caleb’s bright eyes landed on him, his expression soured, the carefree happiness from moments before melting into something much colder. His small lips twisted into a frown, and his brows furrowed in displeasure.”
He wasn’t afraid, not in the slightest. If anything, the way he squared his shoulders and lifted his chin made it clear that he saw Syrus as an intruder in his space.
Caleb glared at Syrus, a deep possessiveness flashing in his golden–tinged eyes.
This had become a habit of his ever since he had learned to walk. At first, I had thought it was endearing how he clung to me, how he would waddle after me wherever I went. But it had become more obvious as he grew up.
Caleb didn’t want to share me with anyone, not even his playmates. He would outright refuse to let them take food from my hands, puffing up in defiance if they tried so much as tried.
I had to tell him countless times not to be selfish, trying to teach him that love wasn’t something that needed to be hoarded. Eventually, he relented, at least a little. Now, a handful of people have earned his approval, granted access to my presence and the food I prepared
But Syrus??
He hadn’t made the list yet.
Syrus didn’t seem to mind, though.
If anything, he found it amusing. He had been told by the elders that dominant alphas, especially those still young, were naturally possessive of their closest family. And with Caleb growing up without a father, it was only natural that his attachment to me was even stronger.
“Why are you here? Caleb demanded, his little voice dripping with authority far beyond his years.
Syrus knelt to Caleb’s level, a lazy smile curving his lips. “I came to see your mother.”
Caleb’s frown deepened. “You’ve seen her. Now leave.”
Syrus feigned deep thought, rubbing his chin playfully. “Hmm. No, I don’t think I will,”
The other children, who had been playing nearby, watched the exchange with wide eyes.
They had always admired Syrus. He was, after all, the third son of the reigning Alpha. While he lacked the intensity of his older brothers, he was still someone to be respected. Yet here was Caleb, barely five years old, openly challenging him.!
A battle of wills unfolded between the two. Caleb, stubborn and unyielding, and Syrus, amused and unwavering. It became a game, a friendly banter, where Caleb did everything he could to drive Syrus away, and Syrus playfully blocked his efforts at every turn.
“You can’t stay.” Caleb crossed his arms!!
“I can.” Syrus smirked.!
“You shouldn’t.”
“But I want to.”
Caleb huffed in frustration, his small foot stomping against the ground. His playmates murmured amongst themselves, still awed that he dared to challenge someone of such high status without an ounce of fear.
Then, the atmosphere shifted.
A presence far stronger than any of us had felt before entered the space. The air grew heavier, charged with authority. and instinctively, the children straightened. The laughter and playful murmurs died down. Even Syrus seemed to tense slightly.
I
Urned just in time to see Sayeru, the next Alpha of the Moon Shard Pack, approaching with several subordinates trailing behind him. His gaze was sharp as it swept over us, his powerful aura demanding attention.!!
Without a word, everyone greeted him with the customary bow of respect.
Syrus, however, remained relaxed as he straightened from his kneeling position.!!
“Brother,” he acknowledged, “What brings you here?”
Sayeru barely spared him a glance before responding. “There’s been a flood in the nearby pack’s territory. They need
assistance. I’ll be heading there myself.”
“I see.” Syrus waved his hand as if dismissing him. “You go and have a good time.”
Sayeru frowned. “Since I’ll be out assisting them, you’ll be the one to take charge of the annual pack exchange.”
“What?” Syrus raised an eyebrow. “What about Second Brother?”
Sayeru’s expression remained impassive. “His wife is about to give birth. He will stay behind.”
Understanding flickered in Syrus’s gaze before Sayeru continued, his tone firm. “Since you have nothing else to do, you may as well handle this exchange. You’re quite friendly, so this job suits you well.”
Caleb, who had been listening closely, suddenly hummed in agreement. His tiny chest puffed up, clearly pleased that Syrus would be leaving.
Syrus, catching the triumphant look on Caleb’s face, chuckled before turning to Sayeru. “I’ll accept the mission.
Caleb’s smirk widened.
“But,” Syrus added, looking directly at me, “only if Marian comes with me.“”
The victorious expression on Caleb’s face shattered in an instant.”
“No!” He shouted, stepping in front of me protectively. His little body was shaking, his fists clenched at his sides. “She’s not going anywhere with you!
The tension in the air–grew thick. Even Sayeru, who rarely showed emotion, seemed momentarily surprised by Caleb’s dutburst..
Syrus tilted his head, amusement gleaming in his eyes. “Are you saying you won’t let me take your mother?”
“That’s exactly what I’m saying!” Caleb nearly growled, his small frame vibrating with the force of his emotions.!!
For a brief moment, something flickered in Syrus’s gaze, something calculating. But it was gone just as quickly as it appeared. He leaned forward slightly, his voice dropping to a whisper only Caleb and I could hear
“Then what will you do if I take her anyway?”
Caleb’s entire body tensed, his golden eyes burning like embers. For a long moment, he said nothing, his small fists. trembling at his sides. Then, before he could speak, Sayeru exhaled sharply.
“Enough of this,” His gaze settled on me, unreadable yet firm. “Marian, you will accompany Syrus.
I blinked. “What?“”
“It’s decided,” Sayeru said, finality laced in his voice. “The pack exchange requires a representative with strong ties to the community. Your presence will ensure cooperation.”
Caleb’s breath hitched. “No!”
He turned to me, desperate “Mama, say no
I opened my mouth, ready to argue, ready to refuse. But then, Sayeru’s next words sealed my fate.t
“This is not a request”
And just like that, I had no choice but to go.
