While returning to the party, I searched for my parents. I wanted to go back to the pack house; I'd lost my appetite.

If he wondered how I knew his parents liked Lynda, it was because his mother called me a few months ago, after his father recovered, to tell me they had grown fond of her. This call was her way of expressing gratitude.

I understood their feelings. They had only one child, and they didn't want to lose him. That's why they were trying so hard to…

My eyes fell on my parents, talking with someone. I approached them and saw Lynda.

"Your pack is very beautiful, and your pack members are kind too," I overheard Lynda say.

"Yes, thank you for the compliment. But I wish the Crystal Blood Pack members were as kind," I replied, standing beside my mother.

My parents looked bewildered. I realized Lynda hadn't introduced herself.

"Mom, Dad, this is Lynda from the Crystal Blood Pack. You know about her, right?" I reminded them.

Their expressions darkened as they recognized her. They turned to Lynda.

"So you're Alpha Adrian's girlfriend?" my father asked.

Lynda glanced at me, then back at my father. "Yes, Uncle. It's nice to meet you. Thank you for inviting us."

"But we didn't invite you," my mother said bluntly.

Lynda's eyes widened in humiliation. I smirked inwardly. Did she think my parents were unaware of her actions?

"A-Adrian asked me to accompany him," she mumbled, feigning innocence.

I rolled my eyes at her act. "Of course. He asked you."

"It was her wish to come here," we heard Adrian say. Turning, we saw him approaching.

I ignored him. My mother squeezed my hand, worried his presence would affect me. I patted her hand and smiled.

"It's okay, Mom. Your daughter is stronger now."

She nodded, serenity returning to her face.

The moment Adrian stood beside Lynda, my father glared at him. Beta Patric arrived, greeting my father.

"Alpha Martin, it's been a long time."

They shook hands. I remembered Patric had been Beta for many years.

"How is Alpha Lucas?" my father asked.

"He's fine now, thanks to your daughter," Patric said, glancing at me. I nodded; I held no grudge against him.

"It's nice to meet you, Alpha Martin," Adrian said, extending his hand.

My father ignored it. The atmosphere grew tense. Adrian withdrew his hand, looking at me.

"I used to think Alpha Lucas had a powerful son who would rule many packs. But I never imagined you'd turn out to be a fool…"

Lynda's eyes widened. Adrian frowned, and I feared he'd insult my father. This man didn't even insult his own father; would he care about mine?

"Dad, let's—"

"You neglected a gem and chased a stone. Don't you know, all that glitters isn't gold?" My father interrupted, his words stunning me. I lowered my head, wanting to avoid further discussion. But they were my parents; they were bitter about the man who hurt me.

Lynda coughed, seemingly choking. She went to a corner, got water from a waiter, and didn't return. She wanted to escape.

Meanwhile, Adrian watched my father silently. I wondered what he was thinking.

"I know what you mean, but it's all in the past," Patric said, trying to defuse the tension.

My father nodded. "You're right. It's the past. I'm still here to secure my daughter's future."

Adrian spoke, his tone cold. "Don't worry. I'm not after your daughter. You can secure her future without concern."

He left, tucking his hands in his pockets. Patric, looking stunned, followed him. Lynda quickly followed Adrian. Everyone in the hall witnessed Alpha Adrian's departure after dinner with the head Alpha, clearly offended.

My father hugged me. "I wanted to make sure he never crossed your path again. He'll leave our pack tonight, and your lives will be separate forever."

My mother smiled, rubbing my shoulder. "My darling, life is like a book. There are many chapters, and when one ends, another begins."

The extraneous promotional text has been removed.