I Ran From My Psycho Step-brother Straight Into The Alpha's Lap novel Chapter 99

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

The first man lifted his gaze, locking eyes with Talya. “I’ll take a black coffee and a bowl of whatever soup you have on hand,” he stated, his voice steady yet devoid of warmth. Talya quickly scribbled the order down, her pen gliding over the notepad as she focused on the task at hand.

“And what about you, sir?” she inquired, turning her attention to the second man, who sat across from his companion.

“Same,” he replied, his eyes still glued to the table, as though he found the grain of the wood more interesting than her presence.

“Alright, I’ll fetch that for you,” she said, forcing a cheerful tone into her voice as she pivoted away from their table. As she walked toward the kitchen, she concentrated on maintaining a calm demeanor, even though her heart raced slightly. “Hey, Joe?” she called out, her voice echoing slightly in the bustling diner.

Joe turned from his post at the grill, a spatula in hand and a hint of grease on his apron. “What’s up, sweetheart?” he asked, his tone warm and inviting.

“Could you take care of those two guys in my section?” Talya requested, lowering her voice. “I don’t know what it is about them, but they’re giving me the creeps.” She glanced back at the men, who remained engrossed in their silent conversation.

Joe’s brow furrowed slightly in concern. “Sure thing. You just leave them to me. Why don’t you clock out early and head out the back door? I’ll handle it from here.”

A wave of relief washed over Talya. “Thanks, Joe,” she replied, her shoulders relaxing just a bit.

“Anytime,” he said with a nod. “Have a good night, and be careful on your way home.”

“Thanks, you too,” she replied, her gratitude genuine as she untied her apron, letting it fall to the floor. She stepped outside into the cold night air, the chill biting at her skin. Spring was supposed to be here, but the evening still bore the remnants of winter’s chill. She shivered slightly, quickening her pace to the bus stop. Fortunately, the bus arrived just as she reached the curb.

Once aboard, Talya plugged in her headphones and leaned back against the seat, savoring the brief moment of tranquility before returning home. She noticed a few messages from Brandon lighting up her phone but chose to ignore them for now. She would respond once she settled in.

Upon arriving home, she slipped through the door quietly, locking it behind her with a soft click. She was careful not to disturb her grandparents, who she knew needed their rest. As she passed their room, she peeked in and saw them both peacefully asleep. It was a comforting sight; her grandmother had been struggling with health issues lately, and Talya often worried about her.

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