Ran Away Pregnant Came Back Alpha Heiress (Amelia and Damien) novel Chapter 298

Chapter 298

Damien’s POV

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The moment the girls suggested that Annette accompany me as my date to Claire’s ceremony, both Annette and I were left utterly speechless.

A wave of confusion washed over me. I understood their intentions were noble; they likely believed that by inviting Annette, they could ease the palpable tension that had developed between us. Yet, they were completely oblivious to the deeper context of our situation.

This was not merely a casual gathering or a festive occasion like the Alpha Ball. The very existence of Claire’s ceremony was the root of the discord simmering beneath the surface.

Having Annette attend such an event as my date would only exacerbate the complications for both of us.

Moreover, I had already made a firm resolution to keep Claire away from Annette at all costs, which naturally meant shielding Annette from Claire as well.

“The girls mean well,” I interjected, trying to maintain a calm demeanor. “But they are mistaken in this instance.”

“But Dad,” Stacy began, her voice tinged with concern.

“Please, let me handle this,” I urged, cutting her off gently. The disappointment etched on her and Amy’s faces was evident as they lowered their gazes, the way they always did whenever they felt reprimanded. I turned to Annette, my heart heavy with regret. “I’m truly sorry. The reality is, I have no intention of attending this so-called ceremony.” I spat the last word, my disdain for the entire situation bubbling to the surface.

“You don’t have to pretend,” Annette replied, her voice steady, as she seemed to regain her composure. “You can just say you don’t want to invite me. I can’t hold it against you, really. You probably don’t want Claire and me in the same space.”

I desperately hoped that the other Alphas would see through Claire’s manipulative game. I envisioned her receiving a slew of negative RSVPs, and the thought brought me a small sense of satisfaction. I would hate for any of my peers in other packs to fall for this ruse. I imagined that, like Jake’s invitations, many had been torn to shreds and discarded without a second thought.

“Claire is only thinking about herself,” I stated firmly, my voice low but resolute. “She doesn’t care about what I want.”

Annette’s expression shifted slightly, her brow knitting together in thought. I couldn’t discern whether she believed my words or not, and that uncertainty gnawed at me.

“To demonstrate my disinterest in this event, why don’t we meet up and do something else instead?” I suggested, trying to conjure an idea that wouldn’t draw unnecessary attention to us. The last thing I wanted was to put Annette in a position where she felt scrutinized or uncomfortable.

As I pondered our options, I could feel the weight of the situation pressing down on me, the stakes higher than ever.