CHAPTER 12

“Hawthorne?”

Ryan’s voice snapped me out of my thoughts. Glancing beside me, I could see the questioning look on his face. I turned to survey the scene: everyone was engrossed in conversations or dancing, while others were engaged in gambling.”

“Yes?”

“What are you going to do?' he asked. Staring ahead, I noticed the young lad sitting at the table with his friends. I closed my eyes, attempting to quell the impulse to approach and carry out what I had imagined.

I spotted the lad's father engaged in a game of chess with some affluent individuals. After glancing at Ryan and then returning my gaze to the young boy, I approached him with purpose. Though I wouldn’t mind Killing anyone that would stand in my way, attacking the lad would only make the situation more difficult than it is.

“Alpha,' the lad and his friends chimed in unison as they rose to their feet, yet my gaze remained locked onto the red-haired figure.

“What’s your name?” I inquired softly, my hands discreetly concealed behin