Bad To Worse

"Why the bloody hell are you here, you little rascal?" Jake bellowed as he yanked the sheep toys out of the swimming pool, clearly annoyed.

Alpha Matthew clenched his fists, feeling the anger rise within him, but he bit his tongue, unable to respond.

I mumbled to myself, searching for Kylo. "Where in the world is that darn kid?"

"Mummy! What are you doing over there? Do you fancy a swim on this freezing morning?" Violet shouted as she shuffled over, clutching her milk bottle. "Ouch! Sheep! I want to take a bite!"

"Violet, have you finished your toast?" I attempted to change the subject, hoping to steer the conversation away from the chaotic scene.

"I'm all done with my toast, Mum," Violet replied, her tiny voice filled with determination.

"Then go and put on your school uniform, love. You'll be late if you keep lingering here," I said, gently urging her to move along.

As Violet hurried off to get ready for school, I couldn't help but feel a sense of exhaustion. These unexpected encoun