I Ran From My Psycho Step-brother Straight Into The Alpha's Lap novel Chapter 76

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

“Hey, when’s the mating ceremony happening?” someone called out from the crowd, their voice slicing through the air like a knife.

Sophie felt a sudden tension grip her body as she stood beside Torin. He sensed her discomfort immediately and began to gently stroke her arm, his touch both reassuring and warm. “We’ll keep you posted,” he replied, his tone casual and confident. “But for now, it’s getting late. If anyone has any lingering concerns, feel free to approach Liam or me after this meeting. Otherwise, you’re all dismissed. Enforcers, please remain here; I’ll assign you your tasks shortly,” he commanded, his voice firm yet calm.

As he released his hold on her shoulder, he extended his hand towards her, and she took it willingly. He guided her toward the back door, and she noticed that the audience remained seated until they reached the exit. It dawned on her moments later why—once they stepped outside, the crowd began to disperse, each person offering their congratulations as they passed by. Sophie’s cheeks ached from the constant smiling by the time the last of them exited the building.

Soon, only the enforcers remained, and then Max entered the space. “Enforcers!” he called out, his authoritative tone commanding their attention. The enforcers quickly moved to the front, ready to hear his orders.

Corin, ever the reliable companion, led Sophie outside towards the waiting car. Kyle and Madison followed closely behind, maintaining the same seating arrangements they had before. Once they were all settled in, Madison turned to Sophie and gave her shoulder a gentle pat. “You were fantastic up there,” she said, her eyes sparkling with admiration.

Sophie chuckled softly, brushing off the compliment. “I didn’t really do anything noteworthy,” she replied modestly.

“Sure, but you didn’t faint or throw up, which is definitely a win in my book,” Madison replied with a grin that was infectious. Sophie laughed again, her gaze drifting to Torin, who offered her a small, encouraging smile.

They waited a few more moments until Max emerged with the enforcers. Once everyone was loaded into the vehicles, they began their journey back to Torin’s house. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of excitement and the aftereffects of the meeting.

Upon arriving and climbing out of the vehicles, Max wasted no time barking orders at the enforcers, his leadership evident in every command. Sophie followed the others inside, her mind still buzzing with the events of the evening.

“I’m going to change,” Sophie announced, her voice tinged with a sense of relief.

“I’ll come with you,” Madison replied, linking her arm with Sophie’s as they made their way to her room. “I wasn’t joking earlier. You really held it together up there, especially when Torin kissed you like that,” she added, her grin widening.

Sophie felt a rush of heat rise to her cheeks at the memory of that public kiss. “Honestly, I didn’t feel composed at all,” she admitted as they entered her room. She quickly gathered her clothes and slipped into the bathroom to change. When she returned, she found Madison comfortably perched on her bed, a look of anticipation on her face.

“Training is at six tomorrow morning, right?” Madison asked, her tone playful yet serious.

“Absolutely,” Sophie confirmed, feeling a sense of determination wash over her.

“Are you sure you’ll be able to sleep tonight?” Madison asked, genuine concern etched across her features.

Sophie nodded reassuringly. “I’ll be fine. You should get back to Kyle now.” They shared a brief hug before exchanging goodnights.

Sophie felt a swell of gratitude for this remarkable man. “Thank you,” she finally said, her voice barely above a whisper. She sat up and wrapped her arms around him, feeling a surge of courage. Turning her head slightly, she leaned in, and he met her halfway, their lips connecting in a kiss that ignited a spark between them.

He took control of the kiss effortlessly, pulling her closer until she found herself straddling him on the bed. The intensity of the moment escalated, and she felt his hand slip under her shirt, tracing her spine with gentle caresses that sent shivers through her body. After what felt like an eternity, he pulled back slightly, and Sophie gazed up at him, her heart racing.

“You’re a good man, Torin. I could see how much your pack respects you tonight. You’re a true leader to them,” she said, her voice filled with sincerity.

“I hope so,” he replied, a hint of uncertainty creeping into his voice. It was an odd contrast to his usual confidence, leaving her momentarily taken aback.

“You are,” she affirmed, her conviction unwavering.

“Thank you,” he said, his expression softening. “I should let you get some rest,” he added reluctantly.

Sophie slipped off his lap and crawled back under the covers. He stood up, leaning over her to place a gentle kiss on her lips. “Sleep well, beautiful,” he murmured in a low voice, and just like that, he was gone.

The moment he left, Sophie felt a pang of longing in her chest. Despite his imposing stature and the intensity he often exuded, he had an uncanny ability to envelop her in a sense of calm and peace. Those comforting feelings lingered with her as she slowly drifted off to sleep, the events of the day fading into the background of her dreams.