I Ran From My Psycho Step-brother Straight Into The Alpha's Lap novel Chapter 143

**When Night Grows Softer Hope Returns To Lead Us by Asa Rowan Finn**
**Chapter 142**

Talya felt utterly drained, her spirit sagging under the weight of everything that had transpired. There was no energy left to engage in an argument, so she simply let Liam lift her into his arms. The warmth of his chest was comforting, and she nestled against him, feeling safe as he carried her into the kitchen. He gently placed her in a chair, and she took a moment to breathe deeply, relishing the moment of calm.

With a swift motion, he opened a bag and revealed a sub sandwich. “It’s chicken salad,” he announced, his voice laced with a hint of pride.

“Yummy. Thank you,” Talya replied, a smile breaking through her fatigue.

Liam then produced three more sandwiches and a few bags of chips, his expression casual. “Just so you know, two of the guys guarding the house are joining us for lunch, if that’s alright with you.”

Talya nodded, her mind briefly flickering to the men stationed outside. “Of course. I forgot there were guys outside.”

“Good. Then they’re doing their job,” Liam affirmed, his tone firm yet satisfied.

“They can come inside,” Talya offered, her kindness shining through. “They don’t have to stay outside the whole time.”

Liam shook his head, a hint of playfulness in his eyes. “Yes, they do.” Just then, the front door swung open, and two ruggedly handsome men stepped into the kitchen.

“Talya, this is Wyatt and Steven,” Liam introduced, his voice steady. Talya looked up, taking in the sight of the two muscular men who had just entered.

“Good night, is it a wolf thing that you all look so handsome and are built like tank trucks?” Talya quipped, her playful nature shining through.

Wyatt and Steven exchanged amused glances, grinning at her remark, while Liam shot her a mock scowl. “Talya,” he growled, his tone half-serious, half-teasing.

“What? I’m just sayin’,” she replied, her grin widening.

“Well, don’t,” he retorted, moving closer to her, his gaze intense. “You’re only supposed to notice one man in this room,” he said in a low growl that sent a shiver of excitement through her.

“Oh, right,” Talya said, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Which man is that supposed to be again?”

Liam plopped down next to her, his expression a mix of annoyance and amusement. “Eat your sandwich, woman.”

Talya burst into laughter, the sound brightening the atmosphere. For a fleeting moment, Liam’s scowl softened into a begrudging smile.

Turning her attention back to Wyatt and Steven, she expressed her gratitude. “Thanks for doing security,” she said genuinely, her voice warm.

Both men nodded in acknowledgment, and the room fell into a comfortable silence as everyone began to eat. Talya took a generous bite of her sandwich, savoring the flavors. “Mmm,” she murmured appreciatively. After swallowing, she glanced at Liam. “It’s really good. Thank you.”

A smile tugged at the corners of Liam’s mouth. “You’re welcome.” He kept the conversation flowing effortlessly, sharing light-hearted banter that made the lunch feel even more enjoyable.

Once they finished eating, the guys excused themselves, returning to their duties outside. Liam turned to Talya, lifting her gently once more. “Where do you want to settle?” he asked, his voice low and caring.

Recalling the awkwardness of being carried by Paul, Talya shook her head. “No, I’m good. Thanks.” With that, she hopped back inside, closing the door behind her with a soft click.

Once in the kitchen, she took a moment to catch her breath, glancing at the list of meals she had planned. Supper was on her mind, and she decided to make Chicken Alfredo—something simple yet satisfying that wouldn’t require too much time standing at the stove.

Just then, a quick knock echoed at the front door, followed by Wyatt’s voice. “Talya, your groceries are here.”

“Oh, great! Come on in,” she called out, standing up and hopping out of the way as Wyatt and Steven entered, arms laden with bags. They carefully set everything down on the counters, and she felt a wave of gratitude wash over her. “Thank you so much.”

“We’ll help put them away,” Wyatt offered, already pulling items from the bags. Working together, he and Steven efficiently organized the groceries. Talya attempted to assist, but soon realized she was only getting in their way. With a resigned smile, she stepped aside, allowing them to do their work. Once they finished, they checked in with her to see if she needed anything else before disappearing back outside.

Alone in the kitchen, Talya surveyed the space and decided to get started on dinner, knowing she’d be slower with one arm. She opted to tackle dessert first, wanting to get it out of the way. Cream cheese brownies were her choice, a crowd-pleaser she hoped everyone would enjoy. She also made a mental note to find out what kind of desserts Liam liked. After the brownies were in the oven, she turned her attention to the sauce and chicken.

The afternoon sped by, and while Talya worked at a slower pace, she felt a sense of accomplishment as five o’clock approached. The salad was prepped and just needed dressing, while the pasta, chicken, corn, and sauce were all ready. The garlic bread was finishing up in the oven, filling the air with a mouthwatering aroma.

Just then, she heard the front door creak open, and she turned around, her heart racing in anticipation. Liam stepped around the corner, his eyes widening as he took in the scene before him.

“Hey,” Talya greeted, her smile brightening the room.

“I can’t decide whether I should hug you for making what smells like an amazing dinner or scold you for doing all this when you’re supposed to be resting,” he said, his frown mingling with admiration.