I Ran From My Psycho Step-brother Straight Into The Alpha's Lap novel Chapter 78

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

**Chapter 78**

Sophie burst through the door, her frustration palpable. “I don’t know what to wear!” she exclaimed, her voice tinged with panic.

Madison stepped into the room, her demeanor calm and collected. “Alright, take a deep breath, Sophie. We’re heading to fight night, not a prom. Just wear what you usually wear when we hit the gym together,” she suggested, her tone soothing.

“Are you suggesting I show up in my sports bra and yoga pants?” Sophie replied, incredulity lacing her words.

Madison raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. “That’s your go-to outfit, isn’t it?”

Sophie sighed, her mind racing. “Well, yes, but that’s just between us and sometimes your husband. Tonight is different; the entire pack will be there, including Garret. I can’t just waltz in wearing a sports bra in front of everyone!” she explained, the weight of her anxiety settling heavily on her shoulders.

Madison shrugged nonchalantly. “Well, that’s what I’m wearing,” she said, a hint of defiance in her voice.

“Do the other females wear that?” Sophie inquired, her curiosity piqued.

Madison inhaled deeply, determination shining in her eyes. “Sophie, we’re going to fight night to show everyone that you’re a fighter. This overthinking isn’t helping you get into the right mindset. Honestly, I don’t care what you wear. What matters is that you pull yourself together and get ready to fight.”

Sophie nodded slowly, taking a moment to gather her thoughts. “You’re right. I’m sorry for freaking out,” she admitted, a wave of relief washing over her.

“Do you have any other t-shirts that would work?” Madison asked, her tone shifting to a more practical note.

Sophie bit her lip, feeling sheepish. “No, that’s the problem. I’ve been panicking because we didn’t buy any short-sleeved shirts that would be suitable.”

Madison huffed, exasperation creeping into her voice. “Then wear the stinkin’ bra and let’s get moving.”

With a determined nod, Sophie grabbed her clothes and dashed into the bathroom. She hurriedly pulled on her yoga pants and slipped into her purple and black sports bra, the most modest one she owned, featuring a high-cut front. The back displayed an intricate design of cross straps, while the pants boasted a matching purple band at the top. She quickly donned her socks and sneakers, then pulled her hair into a high ponytail. For a fleeting moment, she considered adding a touch of makeup but quickly dismissed the idea. This wasn’t the time to mask her determination with cosmetics; she needed to showcase her strength as a fighter.

As she gazed into the mirror, she attempted to summon feelings of confidence, hoping to project an aura of intimidation. Just then, a knock echoed from the door. “What are you doing in there? Hurry up!” Madison called.

“I’m coming!” Sophie replied, her heart racing as she grabbed her sweatshirt and phone, rushing to join Madison outside. In the living room, Kyle waited, his impatience evident.

“We’re going to be late,” he stated, glancing at his watch.

“I know, it’s Sophie’s fault,” Madison said, frustration lacing her words.

“Sorry!” Sophie exclaimed as they hurried out to the car. Kyle and Madison settled into the front seats, while Sophie slid into the back. She shifted to the middle as two other enforcers joined them, introducing themselves as Noah and James. Sophie nodded politely at each of them but refrained from shaking hands, feeling a mix of nerves and determination.

Before long, they arrived at the massive gym. Sophie stepped out of the car, her heart pounding as she followed Madison and Kyle inside.

The atmosphere was electric. The music pulsed through the air, and the gym was alive with energy. Sophie scanned the crowd, uncertain if Torin was present. Madison had assured her he wouldn’t miss this event, but doubt lingered in Sophie’s mind. “I’ll go sign you in,” Madison said, her voice cutting through Sophie’s thoughts. Sophie nodded, waving her on. Kyle accompanied Madison, leaving Sophie momentarily alone.

She took a deep breath, absorbing her surroundings. The bleachers were packed with spectators, a mix of wolves there to enjoy the night and those ready to fight. The fun-loving crowd clutched drinks and snacks, laughter mingling with the thumping music.

“Has he slept with you yet?” the dark-haired girl probed, a wicked glint in her eyes.

“That’s private,” Sophie retorted, her cheeks flushing.

“Sounds like a no,” the dark-haired girl replied smugly.

“He said wolves don’t mess around; they wait for their mates.” Sophie’s words hung in the air, a desperate attempt to assert her place.

The girls burst into laughter, the sound ringing mockingly in her ears. “Oh, honey, how naïve can you be?” the blonde said, shaking her head. “Look around. Do you really think all these strong, sexy men are just waiting for their mates?”

Sophie felt a wave of confusion wash over her. The blonde stepped even closer, her voice low and taunting. “They’re not. I don’t know why Torin is interested in you right now. Maybe it’s because you’re human—a mystery, something new and shiny. But trust me, once he tires of you, he’ll seek out a wolf, a real woman who can give him what he needs in bed. Wolves aren’t like normal men, sweetheart. They require much more than you, a human, could ever provide.”

Anger surged within Sophie, her voice firm. “Stay away from Torin; he’s mine.”

“Is he though?” the blonde challenged, invading her personal space. “He hasn’t even marked you as his. He might be entertained by you for now, but just remember…” She stepped back slowly, her words hanging ominously in the air.

“You’re not his first,” she whispered before both girls walked away, their laughter echoing in Sophie’s ears.

Sophie stood frozen, watching them retreat. She turned away, struggling to catch her breath as the weight of their words settled heavily in her mind. Her hands trembled, and she felt a wave of nausea wash over her. How could she possibly fight now? Had everything Torin told her been a façade? Had he been with that… her mind recoiled at the thought.

Suddenly, the doors at the far end of the gym swung open, and Sophie’s heart skipped a beat as she spotted Torin, Kyle, and Max sauntering in. For a fleeting moment, her breath caught in her throat. They were all clad in matching black sweatpants, tight black t-shirts, and combat boots, exuding an aura of danger and power. Torin, leading the pack, looked especially formidable. Sophie quickly averted her gaze, unable to meet his intense stare. She raised her hands to shield her eyes, trying to block out the reality of the moment.