Love Times Four My Stepbrothers Are My Mates (Alayah) novel Chapter 28

**Chapter 28: Her Bloodline**

Alpha Randell leaned back in his chair, a hint of concern etched across his brow. “She departed for Autumn Pack,” he stated, his voice steady but laced with a touch of uncertainty. “She didn’t divulge everything, but she mentioned needing their bookkeeping to gain a comprehensive overview. There was also something about wanting to visit her mother.”

Grandfather, his expression serious, turned to Marc, urging him to recount the events that had transpired with Alayah. As Marc narrated the afternoon’s events, I noticed a small, almost imperceptible smile creeping onto Grandfather’s face. “Alright, listen closely,” he began, his tone shifting to one of gravity. “I’m about to impart a history lesson that’s rarely spoken of in schools. It’s a tale our family has kept under wraps for generations, and I assure you, once I finish, the reasons for this secrecy will become clear.” His gaze flickered to Grandma, who seemed poised to react.

“If you examine our bloodline closely, you’ll notice a peculiar pattern: predominantly males have emerged from our lineage. In fact, throughout our entire history, only four females have been born, and Alayah is one of them. This marks the fourth occasion in our lineage where we must unveil a closely guarded secret, and I implore each of you to treat this revelation with utmost discretion. Each female in our bloodline is endowed with unique gifts, which manifest randomly once they reach the age of eighteen.”

He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle in. “Alayah has been aware of this for two months prior to her eighteenth birthday. She specifically requested that we keep this knowledge to ourselves unless absolutely necessary. It appears that today’s circumstances warrant a full explanation.” Grandfather’s voice was firm, yet I could sense the tension in the room spiraling.

Grandma’s eyes narrowed, a fierce glint within them. “So, you’re telling me I’ve been raising a pup with a massive target on her back, and none of you thought it prudent to inform me?” Her voice was low and dangerous as she glared between Alpha Randell and Grandfather.

The atmosphere grew thick with unspoken words, and I could see both men swallow hard, a clear indication that Alayah had inherited her grandmother’s fierce spirit. “The Blood Stone Pack has visited us countless times since Alayah’s birth. Just one glance at her would have revealed her heritage to anyone from that pack. HAVE THE TWO OF YOU LOST YOUR MINDS?” Grandma’s voice echoed, sharp and accusatory.

“What exactly are you implying, Grandma?” I interjected, sensing the rising tension and the need for clarity amid the chaos. The silence hung heavy, and no one seemed willing to address her outburst. “Robert is correct; this information isn’t widely known. The only reason I possess this knowledge stems from my work as a historian. The Blood Stone Pack is notorious for its ruthlessness, fiercely protective of their own,” I added, trying to bridge the gap of understanding.

Grandma’s gaze was unwavering. “I, like many others, believed the original Alpha bloodline had perished long ago. Over a century back, the second son of the Alpha departed the pack in search of his mate. Tragically, a month later, disaster struck, resulting in the Alpha and his heir being brutally slain. His brother assumed the Alpha title in the absence of the rightful heir, but that heir never returned. I’ve harbored a nagging suspicion for over twenty-three years, and it appears I was right.”

Then, it struck me—Grandfather had mentioned Alayah was born with gifts. “I believe Alayah may have activated her camouflage ability,” he explained, his voice steady yet tinged with concern. “There are several gifts she could potentially possess, but regrettably, my father never completed documenting everything he knew.”

“Camouflage was the first ability he described, and it fascinated him immensely. When I clarify this for you, I believe it will all make sense. Alayah was indeed in the gardens, just as she told you. The reason you couldn’t see her is that she blended seamlessly with her surroundings. Only her mate would be able to sense her presence.” Grandfather’s explanation resonated, and I noticed Yuma’s eyes widen, realization dawning upon him.

“Oh, damn it. I accused her of lying! No wonder she was so furious. Why didn’t you tell me?” Anton’s voice rose, filled with frustration as he turned toward his father and grandfather. “I accused my cousin of deceit, and all of this could have been avoided if you had just been honest with us.”

“Anton, losing your temper won’t rectify the situation,” Nikolay interjected calmly, attempting to diffuse the tension. “Your grandfather mentioned that Alayah wished to keep this knowledge secret, and that included you, unfortunately. If you had been aware, perhaps today would have unfolded differently. Once Alayah comprehends what truly happened, she will also grasp that we were being truthful. She hasn’t vanished for good; she still has your paperwork to complete, Asshat.” Nikolay’s words hung in the air, an attempt to lighten the mood, but the gravity of the situation remained.