I Ran From My Psycho Step-brother Straight Into The Alpha's Lap novel Chapter 198

**When Night Grows Softer Hope Returns To Lead Us by Asa Rowan Finn 198**

**Chapter 198**

As I sit at the table, the steam rising from the bowl of tomato soup in front of me creates a comforting haze. The southwest chicken melt beside it looks equally inviting, and yet, as I take it all in, a swirl of comfort and anxiety dances within me. “It’s a whole bowl of soup and a sandwich, Wyatt,” I say, attempting to inject a note of levity into the atmosphere. Wyatt’s skeptical glance suggests he’s not entirely convinced by my attempt at cheerfulness, yet he digs in anyway. I take a cautious spoonful, allowing the warm, rich flavors to envelop my senses. “This is really good,” I confess, a genuine smile breaking through my earlier tension.

Will, ever the easygoing one, adds, “It’s a place our pack frequents often. They know how to do comfort food right.” His words resonate with me, reminding me of the simple joys we sometimes take for granted.

Suddenly, Wyatt shifts in his seat, his hand slipping into his pocket. When he pulls out a small object, he presents it to me almost bashfully. “Sam, I picked something up for you while we were at one of the stores,” he says, his tone unexpectedly serious.

Intrigued, I lean in closer. “What is it?”

“It’s a razor blade,” he replies, his voice steady despite the sheepishness in his demeanor.

I meet his gaze, confusion swirling in my mind like a storm. “Uh, thank you?” I manage to say, still uncertain about the gesture.

“It’s for you to keep in your shoe,” he explains, and my brow furrows deeper. “I saw it online. They say to drop it in your shoe, and you have it with you at all times. I thought, with everything you’ve been through, it might help with your peace of mind.” He shrugs, vulnerability flickering in his expression. “Just knowing you have it with you.” The unspoken implication hangs heavily between us—just in case something happens again.

“Thank you, Wyatt. That really means a lot,” I reply, feeling a swell of gratitude in my chest.

Despite their hearty appetites, both Wyatt and Will finish their meals before I do. Wyatt stands up, cup in hand, and looks at me with a playful smirk. “Need a refill?”

I glance down at my cup, realizing it’s nearly empty. “Sure. Thanks. It’s raspberry iced tea,” I say, my voice lightening a bit.

“Why am I not surprised?” he teases as he heads to the beverage station to refill our drinks. Meanwhile, Will and I gather our trash, tossing it into the bin, sharing a moment of camaraderie that feels grounding.

“Thank you for lunch; that was really good,” I say as we step outside, the crisp air wrapping around us like a gentle embrace, invigorating and refreshing.

Wyatt turns to me, a warm smile lighting up his face. “You’re welcome.”

Just as I’m about to follow him to the car, something catches my eye across the street. My heart plummets, and I freeze, every thought in my mind evaporating in an instant. A cold wave of fear washes over me, the kind I had hoped never to feel again.

“Sam? Sam?” Wyatt’s voice breaks through the haze, shaking me gently. “Sam, what is it?” His voice sounds distant, muffled by the rising panic in my chest. “Will, get the car.”

I don’t wait for further instructions. The realization hits me like a punch to the gut—he’s back. The complete thought crystallizes in my mind, overpowering all else, and instinct takes over. I run. There’s no room for conscious thought, only the primal urge to escape. I sprint as fast as my legs can carry me, adrenaline surging through my veins. Suddenly, strong hands grip my shoulders, and I scream, pushing against them with every ounce of strength I possess. I refuse to return with them. I will never go back there.

“Sam! Stop! It’s me. It’s Wyatt!” The urgency in his voice penetrates the fog of my fear.

It takes a moment, but I finally recognize him. “Wyatt?” I gasp, my breath coming in ragged bursts.

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