I Ran From My Psycho Step-brother Straight Into The Alpha's Lap novel Chapter 191

**When Night Grows Softer Hope Returns To Lead Us by Asa Rowan Finn 191**

**Chapter 191**

The ceremony unfolded in a breathtaking manner, far beyond anything Talya could have ever imagined. Emma, Madison, and the other remarkable women of the pack had truly outdone themselves, pouring their hearts and souls into every intricate detail, ensuring that the event was nothing short of magical. Even Sage, the usually reserved and enigmatic figure, had surprised everyone with her unexpected contributions, adding an element of wonder to the celebration. The air around them was electric with joy and festivity, wrapping Talya in a warmth that she knew would be etched in her memory forever.

After days filled with laughter, music, and the presence of friends and family, Talya finally found herself in a rare moment of solitude. The vibrant energy of the festivities had begun to fade, with most guests returning to their homes, leaving behind only the echoes of their merriment. Liam had stepped away momentarily to find Garrett, wanting to share a final word with him before they both took some time away. In this quiet interlude, Talya felt as though her heart might overflow with happiness, a sensation that was both exhilarating and surreal.

But just as she began to savor her solitude, a voice broke through the tranquility like a sudden storm. “Hey, beautiful, can you tell me where Garrett is?” Talya turned, her eyes landing on a man she had never seen before, his presence unsettling.

“He’s in a meeting right now,” Talya replied, her voice steady but her heart racing. “Is there something I can help you with?” she added, striving to maintain her composure despite the unease creeping in.

The man offered a grin that felt too familiar, taking a step closer, invading her personal space. “I can think of a lot of things you could help me with,” he said, his tone suggestive, making her skin crawl.

Talya forced a smile, instinctively stepping back, a flicker of discomfort igniting within her. “I really need to be somewhere,” she stated firmly, hoping to end this interaction swiftly. But before she could retreat further, his hand shot out, gripping her wrist with an unsettling force. Talya’s heart raced, panic flooding her senses as she locked eyes with him, her expression shifting to alarm. “Let go of me,” she demanded, her voice rising with urgency.

“Liam!” she called out, desperation lacing her tone.

In that instant, she heard Liam’s low, furious voice slicing through the chaos. “I suggest you remove your hand from my mate immediately if you want to keep both of your hands intact.” The man’s grip faltered, his bravado crumbling as he raised both hands in a gesture of surrender. Liam positioned himself protectively in front of Talya, a fierce barrier against the stranger.

“Sorry, man, I didn’t know,” the intruder mumbled, his confidence evaporating in the face of Liam’s fury.

“You didn’t know?” Liam echoed, his voice cold as ice. “You couldn’t deduce that the stunning girl, adorned in a beautiful dress at a mating ceremony, was likely the one who was mated? Who are you?” His tone was sharp, demanding answers.

“Maverick Benson. I’m the beta of the Orlando pack. Our pack just arrived in town, and my Alpha sent me to check in with Garrett,” the man replied, his bravado now a mere shadow of its former self.

“It’s Alpha, not Garrett,” Liam corrected sternly, his eyes narrowing, radiating authority.

Maverick managed a weak smile, wisely choosing not to provoke Liam further. Talya, now standing firmly beside Liam, scrutinized the man before her. When he turned to meet her gaze, he winked, a gesture that made her stomach churn with unease. Before she could react, Liam lunged forward, delivering a punch that landed with a sickening crack. Blood sprayed from Maverick’s nose, and he howled in pain, the celebration around them fading into chaos.

“You broke my nose!” Maverick shouted, indignation flooding his voice.

“What’s going on here?” Garrett’s voice cut through the turmoil, authoritative and commanding.

“This crazy man broke my nose!” Maverick exclaimed, still clutching his face, a mix of disbelief and anger.

Garrett crossed his arms, his expression unreadable. “This man is my beta,” he stated flatly. “Who are you, and what business do you have on our pack land?”

“I’m Maverick, the beta from the Orlando Pack,” he replied, frustration dripping from his words.

Garrett shot a pointed look at Liam. “Welcome,” he said, turning back to Maverick. “I apologize for the rough introduction. Where is your Alpha?”

“He’s outside. He sent me in to check in with you,” Maverick explained, still nursing his broken nose.

“Liam, take Maverick to Paul,” Garrett instructed, his tone leaving no room for dissent.

“Are you kidding me? It’s my mating ceremony!” Liam protested, anger flaring in his voice, his protective instincts still on high alert.

“Then perhaps you shouldn’t have broken his nose,” Garrett retorted smoothly. Turning back to Maverick, he added, “Liam will escort you to our healer. I sincerely apologize for my beta’s behavior.” With that, Garrett turned and strode away, leaving a tense atmosphere hanging in the air as Maverick and Liam exchanged heated glares.

“Come on,” Talya urged, tugging gently on Liam’s hand. “Let’s go find Paul.” She felt a mix of concern and annoyance at the unexpected turn of events. Liam muttered something under his breath, but she didn’t catch it, nor did she want to. A quick glance over her shoulder confirmed that Maverick was following them, his presence still looming.

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