Free Web NovelChapter 28: Chapter 28 Someone Waits Inside
Bella’s POV
We spent time exploring the surrounding area, but nothing seemed out of place except for the tree that appeared to be withering in an odd pattern.
Beyond that peculiarity, everything appeared perfectly normal.
The children ran around playing, though each time one of them climbed onto the swing set, an uncomfortable feeling settled in my stomach.
Hugo refused to push any of the swings when the kids asked. His discomfort was obvious.
I watched him constantly clearing his throat and running his fingers along the back of his neck throughout our visit.
Alpha Jack remained puzzled, standing there with a confused expression as he tried to understand why this location held any significance.
Once our examination concluded, we made our way back to our vehicles.
"Bella, I’ve organized a dinner gathering for you and your children, and I was hoping you would join my family and me," Alpha Jack announced.
I agreed to his invitation with a nod.
"Hugo, I expect you to attend as well," he said, giving Hugo’s muscular arm a friendly tap before heading toward his vehicle. freewёbn૦νeɭ.com
"His family?" I inquired curiously.
Hugo climbed into the driver’s seat, fastening his seatbelt securely.
"He remains unmarried. His current living situation is with his grandmother. His other relatives have all died, though he maintains a strong bond with Lady Norma," Hugo clarified, turning to check on the children in the backseat.
"What’s the matter? Were you concerned he might have a wife?" he asked with a hint of jealousy in his tone.
I chose not to acknowledge his comment. Whenever he made such remarks, I made it my practice to completely ignore them.
He eventually ceased making those types of statements once he understood I had no intention of responding.
"Well, I suppose I’ll see you this evening then," he mentioned as he transported me back to the hotel.
I dedicated the remainder of the afternoon to caring for the children while simultaneously attempting to analyze the interviews we had conducted with the affected kids.
Several other children had mentioned peculiar details, but I struggled to connect all the pieces together.
What exactly was happening in this place?
What made only the children vulnerable to whatever this was?
After spending several hours working, I finally chose to prepare myself for the evening meal.
Tara selected a gorgeous black dress that made her look like a tiny princess.
Leah chose a green outfit, while Zack opted for blue denim pants paired with a crisp white shirt.
He appeared absolutely charming with his hair styled with a side part and smoothed back neatly.
My children were genuinely the most precious little angels anyone could ask for.
For my own outfit, I selected a black dress that hugged my figure perfectly, cinching at my waist, flowing at my hips, and featuring a deep V-neckline that displayed my collarbone and the gentle curve of my chest.
I accessorized with a diamond necklace that hung beautifully, though it settled slightly between my breasts.
After styling my hair in soft curls, I applied rich brown lipstick and coordinating eyeshadow.
When I emerged from my bedroom, my children immediately began praising my appearance enthusiastically.
They served as my most devoted admirers, constantly commenting on how gorgeous my hair appeared and how striking the lipstick looked.
Zack declared that brown was perfect for me because it complemented both my hair and eye color.
In their opinion, the shade made my green eyes appear even more vibrant and captivating.
While my children continued their enthusiastic compliments, the door swung open and Hugo entered, wearing entirely black attire.
Time seemed to freeze momentarily. My gaze became fixed on him and his movements, so self-assured and fluid.
His slightly wet hair was arranged flawlessly, with several strands cascading across his forehead. ƒrēewebnoѵёl.cσm
His stunning gray eyes became more intense, and his jawline appeared even more defined than I recalled, enhanced by subtle facial hair.
He approached and glanced down at the children.
I observed how his expression grew tender and a slight smile began forming when he looked at Zack, but I understood he was restraining himself from engaging.
I had specifically requested that he maintain his distance.
When he raised his head to meet my gaze, he quickly looked down, then looked up again.
It was the most peculiar double take. His eyes moved from my hair to my eyes, then to my lips, and finally settled on my neckline.
His gaze remained there briefly before he gave me a quick glance and turned away.
"If everyone is prepared, we should depart," he said, running his fingers through his hair and touching the back of his neck.
"Yes, we’re all set," I responded, my heels clicking against the floor as I walked alongside my children. Hugo allowed me to take the lead.
After we got comfortable in the vehicle, I noticed him adjusting the rearview mirror so it pointed toward where I was sitting.
I couldn’t understand his reasoning for this adjustment. Then he repositioned it again until our eyes connected through the mirror, and he maintained that intense stare without hesitation.
I was the first to break eye contact, ending the moment between us.
We remained silent during the drive. When the mansion finally appeared before us, my body grew tense once more.
The previous time I had visited this place was when I came to inform the Alphas about my pregnancy.
I exhaled deeply, exhausted by these constant emotional triggers.
After Hugo stopped the vehicle, I hesitated before getting out. I remained seated, staring at the entrance, the same place I had once fled from in tears.
Following several minutes of silence, I finally exited the car.
My children were drowsy, so I realized I needed to finish dinner promptly to get them home for proper rest.
I grasped Tara and Zack’s hands while Leah walked slightly ahead of our group.
Upon entering the mansion, the children immediately became fascinated by all the photographs and artwork decorating the walls, primarily featuring werewolves.
This was completely new to them, so naturally, they became excited each time they spotted another image.
Alpha Jack and his grandmother were already present, waiting for our arrival.
They welcomed us with genuine warmth, and the grandmother requested that I come nearer.
I moved closer, and she placed her hand softly on my head before offering me a kind smile.
"Your children are absolutely beautiful," she observed, looking at them fondly.
Tara, Zack, and Leah stepped forward, politely introducing themselves exactly as I had instructed them.
"I have brought you some presents," announced the elderly woman, Lady Norma.
She had earned recognition for her participation in various wars and remained the sole female warrior who had continued serving actively through the years.
From my knowledge, no other woman had participated in those conflicts, making Lady Norma a true symbol of strength and courage.
"You really shouldn’t have. They already possess plenty of toys," I said, feeling somewhat uncomfortable as her warriors brought the gifts forward.
"Nonsense, children can never have too many things, isn’t that right?" she said with a warm smile.
I was amazed that she appeared much younger than her actual age. Perhaps in her late seventies, possibly even early seventies.
"I’m delighted you’ve arrived. There’s also someone here who wishes to meet you," she mentioned.
This revelation surprised me because I had assumed it would only be our small group. Who could possibly want to see me here?
