Love Times Four My Stepbrothers Are My Mates (Alayah) novel Chapter 72

**When Broken Stars Drift Across Empty Midnight Skies**
**by Troy Mason Venn**
**Chapter 72: Surface**

**Nero’s p.o.v.**

9810

+10 Free Coins

Ever since Noah had pointed out the unsettling silence of Alpha Randell in response to the female’s remarks, Miku had been restless. It was as if a storm brewed beneath the surface, and I could sense his agitation. Miku suspected a silent exchange between Marc and Alpha Randell, a conversation that appeared to be anything but amicable. My focus had been solely on Alayah, her presence consuming my thoughts, but in hindsight, I realized I had registered the tension in the air, the way Marc had locked eyes with the Alpha, both of them communicating without words.

As we gathered for lunch, the conversation revolved around Alayah’s future. Would she accept the Beta position Crystal had offered? This would mean living the life she had meticulously planned, choosing the path of least resistance, as she often described it. Or would she venture to the Blood Stone Pack to uncover the truth about her lineage? What would her family think of her being mated to her stepbrothers? Each decision she faced could potentially alter the trajectory of all our lives. We assured her of our unwavering support, emphasizing that ultimately, the choice was hers to make.

Once the Omegas cleared the table, I stood up, determination fueling my steps. “I need to find Marc and get some answers,” I declared, pulling our Princess close for a brief, passionate kiss. My lips melded with hers, a fleeting moment of connection before I reluctantly released her. I needed clarity—not just for Alayah’s sake, but for my own peace of mind. I hoped Marc could shed light on why his father had remained silent during that conversation, especially since Alayah was his friend.

Navigating the hallways, I pondered where Marc might be hiding. As I descended the stairs, the sound of footsteps above caught my attention. Turning, I saw Crystal approaching our door. My instincts told me Marc was on the Alpha floor, and as Nikolay allowed Crystal entry, I retraced my steps, climbing back up the staircase with purpose. I reached the Alpha floor without encountering anyone else, and as I raised my hand to knock, I noticed the door was ajar, inviting me to listen in.

“Marc, you need to hear me out. Alayah is your friend. She has never done anything to harm you. Paul has always respected my position, and he has known for years about his Alpha lineage. Even Anton comes from Alpha blood.” Alpha Randell’s voice was firm yet laced with concern. I remained silent, my curiosity piqued, eager to uncover the details of their discussion.

I resolved to speak with Anton as well; after all, he was part of this family too, and it would be prudent to inform them simultaneously. I made my way back down the stairs to find my Mate. Just as I was about to step through the door, I heard someone approaching. Quickly, I retreated a few steps to feign that I had just returned.

“Hello, Crystal,” I greeted her as she exited. I inquired about the progress of the Alpha and Luna Ceremony planning.

“Slow, but I’m getting there,” she replied, her determination shining through as she ascended the stairs. Once inside, I not only closed the door behind me but also locked it securely.

Sitting beside Alayah, I noticed a peculiar expression on her face. “What did Crystal want?” I asked, sensing a connection between her visit and the look in Alayah’s eyes. I doubted that Crystal’s message was negative; after all, Topaz was not lurking close to the surface.