The atmosphere grew colder. My brother's response surprised me. When a head Alpha expressed a desire to stay at the pack house, it was unprecedented. I bet no one had ever rejected an Alpha so bluntly before. In fact, I'd never seen my brother show such disdain toward any Alpha.

However, this man was not only an Alpha from another pack, but also the man who had mistreated this pack's Alpha's sister.

It's difficult to understand how Adrian could forget the past and act as if nothing had happened. What made him think Jason would overlook everything and grant him an alliance? Was he even being serious?

"How can you talk to the Alpha like that—"

Adrian raised his hand, silencing his enraged Gamma. His Gamma seemed furious, unable to tolerate the Alpha's disrespect.

Adrian composed himself, looking at Jason. Clearly, he hadn't expected Jason's refusal.

Beta Patric shook his head and said politely, "Alpha Jason, we respect you. But you can't treat our Alpha so disrespectfully. If, at some point—"

I sensed defensiveness in Patric's tone; he was ready to defend his Alpha.

"It's okay. Alpha Jason can make his own choice. I can't do anything about it," Adrian said.

"I'm pleased Alpha Adrian understands. I can arrange tours to show my hospitality," Jason replied.

"No, I didn't come here for that."

"Then what's the reason?"

Adrian's behavior bewildered and confused me. For a moment, I stared at him, trying to read his eyes.

It was impossible. Though cold, his tone remained steady. How could he conceal his anger?

It wasn't that I wanted him to argue with my brother. But what did he want? Why did he need our alliance? Weren't we rival packs?

His eyes met mine, and he addressed my brother without looking at me.

"I have my own reasons for being here."

I maintained eye contact, showing my hostility.

"What do you mean?" my brother asked coldly, noticing Adrian's gaze on me.

"Nothing. I heard you're planning a marriage for your sister," Adrian said, turning to Jason.

"Marriage?" I narrowed my eyes.

Adrian nodded. "Yeah, that's what Beta Eric said. I thought, why not ask your brother directly?"

"With whom?"

"With Beta Eric, of course."

I turned to Eric, who lowered his head. Hadn't I refused my brother's proposal? Why would he tell others otherwise?

Eric looked at Adrian, who raised an eyebrow with a smirk.

"Your Beta lies a lot, Alpha Jason. I thought I'd inform you."

"Eric was right. But I don't think you need to know; it's none of your business," Jason retorted, causing me to tilt my head.

"So you mean you're marrying her off without her consent?" Adrian asked, sounding furious.

"Who said without her consent? Didn't you hear their conversation earlier? They're very close and happy."

Adrian looked at me expectantly. Did he want me to refuse?

Though my brother was lying, I didn't want to contradict him in front of Adrian. I remained silent.

"Great," Adrian muttered.

"Yeah, great news," Jason retorted.

Maids arrived, announcing lunch.

Jason stood, saying to Adrian, "You wanted hospitality? Let's have lunch together. It's part of hospitality."

Jason headed to the dining room, followed by his officials, including Eric.

Adrian stood and replied, "I don't want to. I'm done here. See you at the meeting tomorrow, Alpha Jason."

Jason didn't look back, as if expecting Adrian's refusal.

"As you wish, Alpha Adrian."

I noticed Eric glance at me, but I was angry, so I didn't join them for lunch, though I knew Jason would notice my absence. My brother, however, was quicker.

"Natalia, follow me. You didn't eat breakfast," Jason said, heading to the dining room.

"Y-Yes, brother."

After watching them leave, I stood. My gaze fell on Adrian, who was watching me. I tried to ignore him and go to the dining room, but he blocked my path.

"What was your brother saying? You're with Beta Eric?"

I rolled my eyes. "How many times must I tell you, yes? Why even ask? It's not a secret."

He glared. "But I thought you were lying."

"Why would I?"

"You—"

"Adrian, let's go. We need to work on some papers," Beta Patric interrupted, patting his shoulder.

Adrian's expression hardened as he turned to Patric.

"Wait for me outside."

The others looked stunned. Patric glanced at me, then nodded at Adrian. "Okay, Alpha."

I assumed Adrian's tone had hurt Patric. The officials left.

"Why did you talk to him like that? He's your Beta, not your slave," I scolded Adrian.

I stepped back as he moved closer.

"Cancel the marriage."

"What?"

"Cancel it and reject that man," he muttered, glaring fiercely.

Before I could respond, a soft voice called from behind.

"Uncle! You're here!"

Aria and Noah appeared. Noah glared at Adrian.

"Mommy, why is he here?"