I Ran From My Psycho Step-brother Straight Into The Alpha's Lap novel Chapter 117

**When Night Grows Softer Hope Returns To Lead Us by Asa Rowan Finn**

Talya recounted every detail of the day’s events to Sage, her voice tinged with worry. “I’m honestly convinced that Liam is going to—”

“—kill them?” Sage interjected, her tone steady and reassuring.

Talya shook her head vehemently, her brow furrowed in concern. “No, you didn’t see how he was dressed. It was like he was ready for a fight!”

Sage held her ground, a hint of amusement in her eyes. “I didn’t say he wouldn’t break into their homes and give them a taste of their own medicine, but I’m certain he won’t go that far.”

“That’s not exactly comforting, Sage,” Talya retorted, her voice laced with anxiety.

“Sorry,” Sage replied, though her lack of remorse was evident in her tone. “But honestly, I can’t believe you got expelled for three days. These next few days are going to feel like an eternity.”

Talya let out a sarcastic laugh. “Oh, yeah, because ruining your life is my favorite pastime.”

“You should feel a little guilty,” Sage teased, a playful smile creeping onto her face.

Talya sighed deeply, her expression turning serious again. “But really, you need to be cautious over the next few days. I have no idea what’s going to unfold tonight, but steer clear of those three at school. I wouldn’t put it past them to come after you to get back at me. Just… keep your guard up, okay?”

“I promise I will,” Sage assured her, a note of determination in her voice. “By the way, how’s your face doing?”

“It’s definitely sore tonight, but thankfully, no stitches were needed. That’s a small victory,” Talya replied, trying to remain optimistic. “So, with any luck, it should heal in a few days.”

“Thank goodness you didn’t have to work tonight. That would have been a nightmare,” Sage remarked, relief evident in her tone. “I’m really glad Liam stepped in and got you out of it.”

“Yeah, at first I was annoyed, but now I can’t imagine having to work all night,” Talya admitted, a hint of gratitude softening her voice.

“What’s on your agenda for the next three days?” Sage inquired, her curiosity piqued.

“Well, if my face heals enough that I don’t look like I just crawled out of a horror movie, I’ll keep my hours at work,” Talya said, a hint of a smile returning.

“That sounds like a plan,” Sage said, nodding in agreement. “And during the day, you can help out Grandpa and Grandma around the house. You never really get the chance to do that.”

In her dream, Talya found herself once again in that enchanting field. This time, she kicked off her shoes and socks, reveling in the sensation of the cool water as she waded into the clear creek. The chill was refreshing, invigorating even, and she couldn’t help but laugh as she splashed about, feeling utterly carefree in this serene landscape. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed the wolf had returned. Excitedly, she climbed out of the water, snatched her footwear, and made her way to the tree where the wolf rested. Settling at its base, she watched him intently, curious if he would speak this time.

Time slipped by, and impatience began to gnaw at her. She fidgeted with the blades of grass around her, shifting her feet restlessly as she kept her gaze fixed on the wolf, awaiting his words. Yet, he remained motionless, his piercing eyes locked on her. The stillness felt reminiscent of her early school days, when her first-grade teacher would scrutinize her every move.

“Okay, I can’t stay silent any longer. Are you going to talk?” she finally broke the silence, her voice echoing in the still air. The wolf remained still, his gaze unwavering. Frustrated, Talya slipped her socks and shoes back on. “Well, it was nice seeing you again,” she said, rising to her feet. She brushed the dirt off her clothes and was just about to step away when the wolf finally spoke.

“It takes skill to be quiet, to sit still, to wait,” he said, his deep voice resonating in the tranquil space.

“Oh, thank goodness you finally spoke! I was starting to think I had imagined all of this,” Talya exclaimed, relief flooding her.

“Sometimes it takes a lifetime to acquire those skills, especially for humans,” the wolf replied, his tone contemplative.

Talya frowned, pondering his words for a moment. “I suppose wolves are inherently good at being quiet and still,” she mused aloud.

“It is in the stillness that you find strength,” the wolf said, his gaze steady and wise.