I Ran From My Psycho Step-brother Straight Into The Alpha's Lap novel Chapter 26

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

Sophie grasped her fork with a sense of eagerness, ready to dive into the delightful dessert before her. However, just as she was about to take her first bite, Liam’s teasing voice cut through the air. “You’re not going to argue with Torin about it first?” he asked, a playful smirk dancing on his lips.

With a defiant spirit, Sophie took a generous bite, her cheeks bulging with cake. The moment she tasted it, a laugh erupted from Liam, filling the space with warmth. Sophie closed her eyes in bliss, a soft moan escaping her lips as she savored the flavor. It was heavenly, possibly the most exquisite thing she had ever tasted. She took another mouthful and moaned again, the sweetness wrapping around her senses like a comforting hug.

Torin shifted closer, his presence suddenly intense as he leaned in, his breath warm against her ear. “You need to stop making sounds like that in public,” he murmured, his tone teasing yet serious. “Or I’m going to have to kill every guy that is close enough to hear you.”

Sophie felt a rush of heat flood her cheeks, turning her face a deep crimson. In her surprise, she nearly choked on the rich cake. Across the table, she heard a cough that suspiciously sounded like a laugh. Embarrassed, she muttered an apology, her voice barely audible. “I’m sorry. I won’t do it again.”

Torin’s gaze remained locked with hers, a glint of mischief in his eyes. “I didn’t say I didn’t want to hear it again, just not in public,” he said, his voice low and teasing.

Confusion washed over Sophie as she searched his expression for clarity. His eyes seemed to pierce through her, and without breaking their gaze, he slowly reached out, brushing his finger against the corner of her mouth. He brought that same finger to his lips, sucking it in as if savoring the taste. “You’re right. It’s delicious,” he said, his voice deep and gravelly.

In that moment, Sophie felt as if her face could burst into flames. She wanted nothing more than to disappear beneath the table. Pushing the plate away, she declared, “I can’t eat anymore.”

Before she could even finish her sentence, Liam had seized the plate, devouring the remaining piece of cake in three swift bites. Sophie couldn’t help but laugh, “That was impressive,” she remarked, admiring his voracious appetite. He flashed her a grin, and from the corner of her eye, she caught Torin’s gaze lingering on her, though she quickly looked away, feeling a mix of shyness and intrigue.

When their waitress returned, she leaned over to collect their plates and cups, inadvertently giving the men a rather generous view. Sophie shot her a glare, grateful that the men seemed oblivious to her discomfort. “Was everything okay?” the waitress asked, her tone cheerful.

“Yes, thank you,” Torin replied dismissively, and Sophie felt a grin tug at her lips. However, that smile faded when Torin turned his attention to Liam. “All right. Let’s have it.”

A heavy feeling settled in Sophie’s stomach, akin to a rock weighing her down. Suddenly, the realization of how much she had eaten hit her, and she wished she had restrained herself. “What time is it?” she interjected, her voice laced with anxiety. “I need to get back to work.”

“You have time,” Torin said, his tone firm yet calm.

Sophie felt a flicker of uncertainty. Did that mean she still had a few precious moments left in her break, or was it an indication that he simply didn’t care about the time? Either way, she realized she was at their mercy until they decided she could leave.

Catching Liam’s encouraging nod, Sophie closed her eyes, feeling the weight of the moment settle on her shoulders. This was her responsibility. She was alone in this. Turning her gaze to Torin, who was watching her with an intensity that made her heart race, she took a deep breath.

“All right. So here’s the thing,” she began, her voice wavering slightly. “I may have misled you with more than just the car.” She winced, bracing herself for his reaction.

His eyes narrowed, a storm brewing within them. Sophie rushed to spill the truth before she could lose her nerve. “I don’t have a house,” she confessed, her heart pounding.

Torin’s frown deepened. “An apartment?” he asked, his voice laced with confusion.

“Well, um, close, it’s sort of like that. You see, I—”

“Sophie,” Liam interjected, cutting her off with a serious look. He turned to Torin, his expression unwavering. “She’s staying at Hope House,” he stated plainly.

Sophie watched as Torin’s expression shifted, surprise etched across his features. He fell silent, standing abruptly and pulling out his wallet, laying down two crisp hundred-dollar bills on the table. Sophie’s eyes widened in shock, but before she could process what just happened, Torin was at her side, extending his hand. “Let’s go.”

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