Primal Bonds 2 (Tales of Beastkin)

15. Adam

15

Adam

I n his luxurious office, Adam sat ensconced in the plush leather chair, the vast garden sprawling out before him down below. Papers and files were spread out across the expansive mahogany desk, each one demanding his attention and commanding decisive action. As the leader of the Sullivan Clan, the weight of responsibility lay heavy on his shoulders, yet he bore it with the grace and precision of a seasoned alpha.

His eyes scanned the documents before him, absorbing the details with a sharp intellect. He was in the midst of drafting a complex treaty amendment to be proposed at the next council meeting when his gaze drifted toward the office window. The sight of Shiro strolling through the garden below with Madi and Lan, along with Aka, brought an involuntary smile to his face. Seeing the boy so full of life and energy, a stark contrast to the beaten and terrified youth he had found in that dark alley, brought a sense of satisfaction that no amount of power or wealth could match.

Since the revelation of Shiro’s pregnancy, a new rhythm had been established in their lives—one that involved a daily ritual of passionate lovemaking. This was no hardship for Adam; he reveled in the act of joining with Shiro, their bodies and essences merging in a passionate dance. It was a beautiful, tangible expression of their love, and it seemed to be nurturing the essence orb that now resided in Shiro’s belly, according to Einar’s observations who had confirmed that their child was thriving, drawing strength from their combined life forces.

His focus returned to the pile of documents sprawled across his desk—contracts to negotiate, alliances to strengthen, territories to oversee. A knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts. “Come in,” he called.

Nolan entered the room with his usual easygoing smile. He placed a sealed envelope on Adam’s desk. “For you,” he said with a knowing look.

Adam’s lips curled into a wry smile as he recognized the emblem. Breaking the seal, he unfolded the letter within. It read:

THE NEW YORK BEASTKIN COUNCIL cordially invites ADAM SULLIVAN, Alpha of the Sullivan Clan, to attend the NEW YORK BEASTKIN SUMMIT, a five-day gathering at The Oakwood Estate, New York.

Your presence is requested at this year’s assembly of the most influential beastkin clans in New York. As a leader of one of our city’s major clans, your participation is crucial in shaping the future of our community.

The summit will include: Opening Ceremony, Council Sessions, Public Forums, Trade Negotiations, Conflict Resolution Meetings, and The Ascendant Alpha Tournament.

We strongly encourage the Sullivan Clan to enter the Ascendant Alpha Tournament this year. Your clan’s absence from this event in recent years has been noted, and we believe your participation would greatly enhance the prestige and competitiveness of the tournament.

We remind you that absence from this summit may result in the loss of voting rights on NY beastkin matters and could be perceived as an invitation for rival clans to challenge your authority.

Please RSVP to confirm your attendance and indicate your intention regarding the Ascendant Alpha Tournament.

We look forward to your valuable contribution to this year’s summit and hope to see the Sullivan Clan represented in all aspects of our gathering.

Yours in unity,

Elara Blackwood

Chairperson, New York Beastkin Administration Council

T he Ascendant Alpha Tournament. Adam sighed; it had been years since they last entered any young alpha into that particular fray. They had no protégé groomed for such events—not since his own ascension as leader.

As Adam pondered the invitation, a figure darkened the doorway. Magnus lumbered into the room, his imposing form a stark contrast to Nolan’s lean frame. Behind him, Elias slipped in silently, his arrival as unobtrusive as a shadow slipping across the sun.

Elias’ appearance was striking, as always. His glossy black hair was slicked back, and his dark eyes held the same cunning intelligence that Adam had come to respect as a pantherkin alpha.

“Adam,” Elias greeted.

“Elias, it’s good to see you,” Adam said, leaning back in his chair. “What intelligence have you brought back from the shadows?”

Elias’ voice was low and measured as he delivered his report. “The Institute has suffered a significant setback. Your recent… operation that targeted their financial backers, it caused quite a considerable disruption to their operations.” A ghost of a smile crossed his lips as he added, “They’re currently scrambling to recover, and it seems they’re leaning heavily on the BCO to take retaliatory action.”

Adam nodded, unsurprised by the news. He had anticipated such a response following his daring attack. The Institute wouldn’t take kindly to the disruption of their operations, and they’d need the Beastkin Control Organization and its soldiers to retaliate, to set an example.

“We must prepare for the reprisals,” he said, turning his gaze to Magnus. “Are the soldiers ready?”

Magnus, with his characteristic no-nonsense demeanor, replied, “Always. The soldiers stand prepared to defend our clan and our interests at a moment’s notice.”

Nolan chimed in, adding, “I’ll notify our various hideouts. We need to ensure that all our beastkins, especially those in the heart of New York City, are on high alert. The BCO soldiers have never dared to strike at the city’s core, but there’s a first time for everything.”

Adam met each of their gazes, his own eyes burning with determination. “Keep up the vigilant work,” he instructed. “We must ensure the safety of our clan and those we’ve taken under our protection. The BCO will not find us unprepared.”

The three men nodded in acknowledgment. Elias broke the solemnity of the moment, his voice cutting through the room with an undercurrent of urgency. “There is another matter. One of my sub-units has discovered Kuro’s location.”

Adam’s brow arched in surprise. “Where?” he asked, the single word heavy with the weight of anticipation.

Elias hesitated, a rare falter in his usually unflappable demeanor. “He’s in the Red Department,” he revealed, the weight of the words hanging heavy in the air.

A growl rumbled low in Adam’s throat, a sound of visceral revulsion. The Red Department was a vile part of The Institute, infamous for pimping beautiful young beastkin to wealthy, powerful individuals. It was a place where beauty was a commodity, traded like currency, and young beastkin were reduced to mere objects of pleasure, catering to the perverse desires of the elite. The thought of Kuro ensnared in such a place again made Adam’s stomach churn. He knew the news would devastate Shiro, and the idea of Kuro trapped in such a sickening environment only intensified his disgust.

“We need to get him out,” Adam said, his voice steady despite the fury simmering beneath the surface. “Assemble a team, Elias. I want Kuro rescued safely and swiftly.”

“Understood,” Elias nodded, his dark eyes reflecting a shared determination. “I’ll handle it personally.”

The gravity of the situation hung in the air, a silent promise of prompt and decisive action. But before they could delve deeper into the logistics of the rescue operation, a howling roar echoed through the corridor, shattering the momentary calm.

Adam recognized the voice instantly—Vanessa. Her agitated state was as familiar as the moon’s phases. Moments later, the woman burst into the room with a frenzied energy that seemed to crackle around her like a storm. Her red hair was a wild mane around her face, and her golden-brown eyes blazed with a desperate intensity. She was panting heavily, her breaths coming out in ragged gasps as she stumbled to a halt in front of Adam’s desk.

Nolan couldn’t help but chuckle at the sight, clearly amused by the spectacle, while Adam sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. They both knew the cause of Vanessa’s unraveling.

Forcing herself to regain some semblance of composure, Vanessa dropped to her knees with a dramatic flair that only she could muster. She kowtowed before Adam, her forehead touching the floor as she begged, her voice a mix of desperation, madness, and fervent yearning, “Please, Master Adam, let me play with Shiro, Lan, Aka! Just for today! If not, I swear I’ll lose my mind!” She looked up at Adam with wide eyes brimming with manic energy. “You know I can’t last like this! I promise I’ll be good after—just one day—and I’ll behave at the summit next month!”

Nolan’s chuckle erupted into full-blown laughter, causing Vanessa to glare at him momentarily before returning her pleading gaze to Adam. Elias rolled his eyes, having witnessed Vanessa’s antics more times than he cared to count.

Magnus, however, wore a look of impatience, his bullish features hardening. “Might as well let her have her fun,” he interjected with a hint of mischief glinting in his eyes. “I’m curious what adorable outfits she has in mind for them.”

Adam exhaled heavily before nodding in reluctant agreement. “Very well, Vanessa,” he conceded, his tone carrying a note of caution. “But be very gentle with Shiro. He’s pregnant with our child.”

Vanessa’s eyes lit up with glee, leaping up from her prostration. “Thank you! Thank you! I’ll be as gentle as a lamb, I swear!” she gushed before darting out the door with surprising grace for someone in such a state of agitation.

Elias turned to Nolan, his expression one of confusion. “Who’s Shiro? And how can he be pregnant?”

Nolan opened his mouth to explain, but any hope of a coherent response was drowned out by the commotion erupting from outside. Adam, Nolan, Magnus, and Elias moved out onto the balcony just in time to witness the unfolding chaos in the garden below.

Vanessa, in her alpha form—a majestic humanoid with fiery wolf ears and tail—charged toward Shiro, Madi, Lan, and Aka with alarming speed in a blur of motion. Shiro’s expression was one of stunned surprise as Vanessa bore down on him, but before the woman could reach her target, Madi stepped in, placing herself between Shiro and the overzealous alpha. Madi stood firm, her arms spread wide as she shouted at Vanessa, “Be gentle with him, you big oaf! Shiro’s pregnant!”

Vanessa, seemingly understanding Madi’s protective stance, veered off at the last moment, redirecting her pursuit toward Lan, who took off like a shot, bolting with a speed that did his lineage proud. Aka, too, attempted to flee, but it quickly became apparent that he was no match for Vanessa’s speed and agility in her alpha form. Within moments, Vanessa had both Lan and Aka secured under her arms like prized trophies from a carnival game booth, their legs kicking futilely.

“Bring Shiro inside if you don’t want me getting handsy!” Vanessa hollered over her shoulder to Madi as she retreated toward the mansion with her spoils in tow.

Madi, left behind with Shiro, cast a worried glance at the retreating figures before turning to a bewildered Shiro with a reassuring smile. She gently took his hand and led him back toward the mansion, undoubtedly to join in the impromptu dress-up session orchestrated by Vanessa.

“Looks like it’ll be an interesting evening,” Nolan remarked beside him, shaking his head in disbelief but still grinning from ear to ear at the spectacle below.

“Well,” Elias said, “I suppose that’s one way to ensure Vanessa’s good behavior for the summit.” He turned to Nolan, a questioning look in his eyes. “Again, who’s this Shiro? And how can he be pregnant?”

Adam returned to his office, letting out a long breath as Nolan took up the tale. He listened with half an ear, his mind already churning with plans for Kuro’s rescue, as Nolan filled Elias in on everything that had transpired. He explained Shiro’s omega status, the unique bond he shared with Adam, and the unexpected twist of Shiro carrying their essence child.

Elias nodded, absorbing the information. “I see. That explains the heightened interest in his well-being.” His gaze flickered to Adam before adding, “And Kuro is related to him?”

“Correct,” Nolan confirmed. “Shiro’s brother.”

The conversation turned to the logistics of rescuing Kuro from the Red Department then, and Adam said, “Elias, I want you to gather intelligence on the Red Department. We need to identify all the beastkin being held there. There could be more omegas in need of rescue.”

Elias nodded, his expression hardening. “I’ll get on it right away.”

As they discussed strategy, the sounds of chaos filtered in from down below. Lan’s howls of protest echoed through the halls, punctuated by his colorful threats directed at Nolan.

“Betray my trust, will you?” Lan’s voice carried, full of indignation. “Just wait until I get my hands on you, you damn Master Nolan!”

Nolan merely chuckled, clearly enjoying the spectacle. “I can’t wait to see what Vanessa has in store for him.”

Adam shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips despite the seriousness of their earlier conversation. He knew better than to interfere in Vanessa’s games; they would only escalate if he did.

Sometime later, Adam and the others made their way downstairs to the living room, where they found Lyria and Chase already seated, sipping on the tea Madi had prepared. The room was filled with the aroma of jasmine and chamomile, a soothing counterpoint to the mayhem that had preceded their arrival.

Madi greeted them with a warm smile. “Good timing. Take a seat and I’ll pour everyone tea.”

Adam made himself comfortable on the armchair near the hearth while Nolan and Elias took the sofa and Magnus the other armchair.

Lyria, her amber eyes gleaming with amusement, held up her digital camera. “There’s a photo shoot, apparently,” she said with a smirk. “Vanessa wants to immortalize the moment, just in case she can’t convince the boys to dress up again anytime soon.”

Chase chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “I wouldn’t mind getting a few photos of Aka for myself.”

Nolan nodded in agreement. “Make sure to send all of Lan’s photos to me as well,” he said, his grin widening.

Adam couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. He was curious to see what Vanessa had done with the boys—especially Shiro. He took a sip of the tea Madi handed him, savoring the warmth as it spread through his body.

Moments later, Vanessa burst into the room, her face flushed with exertion and excitement, her appearance disheveled yet triumphant. “Come on, my gorgeous darlings,” she called out, her voice filled with glee. “Time to take some photos!”

Lan, however, was having none of it. “Hell no, I’m not going in looking like this!” he protested, his face a mask of mortification. Despite his resistance, Vanessa managed to haul him into the room, his embarrassment evident as he covered his face with his hands.

Adam had to suppress a chuckle at the sight. Lan’s ruffled button-up shirt was paired with tailored shorts and suspenders, and his feet were adorned with stylish platform sneakers. The outfit was completed by a bow tie that seemed to mock him with its cheerfulness. The young wolfkin looked like a caricature of a fashion model, and his distress was palpable.

“I look ridiculous,” Lan muttered dramatically. “I want to die.”

Nolan laughed heartily at the sight, clearly delighted by Lan’s discomfort. “You look adorable, Lan,” he teased, earning a glare from the younger wolfkin.

“I hope you choke on your laughter,” Lan growled, his ears flattening against his head in annoyance.

Vanessa rolled her eyes at Lan’s theatrics before turning her attention to Aka. “Your turn, Aka,” she said, beckoning him into the room.

Aka, who had been eyeing the exits with a wary expression, made a break for it, dashing away. Vanessa sighed in exasperation before taking off after him, her movements swift and predatory. Within moments, she returned, Aka securely in her grasp, dragging him into the room to join Lan.

Aka’s outfit was no less flamboyant than Lan’s—a fitted blouse, complemented by high-waisted cuffed shorts. His feet were clad in colorful slip-on shoes that matched the playful vibe of his ensemble. His face was a picture of resigned dread, and Adam couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sympathy for the young foxkin.

Chase let out a low whistle, his eyes roaming over Aka’s appearance. “I didn’t know my cute little furball could look so pretty,” he said, a teasing note in his voice.

Aka shot him a withering look, his ears turning pink. “Go swallow a cactus,” he muttered, his embarrassment evident.

Adam’s attention, however, was focused solely on the doorway, waiting for Shiro to appear. When Vanessa cooed for Shiro to come in, his heart rate kicked up a notch. He felt an almost primal urge to see the boy, to reassure himself that Shiro was fine despite the day’s earlier events.

Shiro stepped into the room hesitantly, his face flushing a delicate shade of pink as all eyes turned to him. His outfit was a perfect blend of innocence and allure—a fitted crop top adorned with delicate lace trim and whimsical floral patterns that showcased his slender frame. The skort he wore emphasized his legs, the soft pastel hue contrasting beautifully with the light, airy fabric of his top. His thigh-length socks were adorned with playful patterns, and the stylish ankle boots he wore completed the ensemble, lending him a polished air.

The sight of Shiro in the carefully chosen outfit sent a jolt of raw desire through Adam. The boy was ethereal, his beauty magnified by the ensemble Vanessa had picked out for him. It was all Adam could do to keep from crossing the room and sweeping the boy into his arms, consequences be damned.

Vanessa, basking in the spectacle of her handiwork, ushered the trio of reluctant models toward a corner of the living room bathed in soft, natural light. The scene was set with an ornate backdrop and plush cushions artfully arranged to serve as makeshift props.

“Come on, my darlings,” Vanessa crooned, gesturing grandly toward the impromptu photo studio. “Gather ’round and give me your best smiles. We’re capturing your adorable outfits for posterity!”

Lan balked at the suggestion, his indignation palpable. “Isn’t it enough that we’re parading around in these getups?” he grumbled. “Now you want to immortalize our humiliation too? I refuse!”

Aka, his fiery red hair standing out starkly against his ensemble, nodded in solidarity with Lan. “Yeah, we’re on strike. No photos!”

Vanessa’s eyes narrowed, an impish grin spreading across her face as she issued her threat. “Oh, you’ll take the photos, or I’ll have you dressed up in even more outfits every Friday. I’ve already gotten Master Adam’s and Master Nolan’s permission,” she said, the gleam in her eye belying the fabrication. “But if you behave now, this could very well be a one-time affair.”

Adam couldn’t help but smirk at Vanessa’s bluff. He had given no such permission, and he was certain Nolan hadn’t either.

The boys exchanged wary glances, their resolve wavering under the weight of Vanessa’s dubious promise. Lan heaved a dramatic sigh, his grudging acceptance clear. “Fine, but only one photo. That’s it!”

Aka chimed in with a resigned nod, his reluctance evident in his slumped posture. Shiro, his gaze drifting toward Adam, blushed deeply at the intensity of his stare.

As the photo shoot commenced, Adam watched with amusement. Lyria, with her keen eye for detail, directed the boys with ease, her camera capturing every awkward grimace and reluctant smile. The room echoed with a din of sounds—the click and whir of the camera, Lan’s melodious protests, and the rumbling laughter of Magnus as he lumbered over to join the fray.

“Are we done yet?” Lan’s tone was half-hearted, his eyes betraying a hint of mirth despite his best efforts to maintain an air of indignation. “I can feel my dignity withering away with each click of that cursed device.”

Vanessa, in her element as the self-appointed stylist and director, merely rolled her eyes. “Oh, hush, Lan. You look absolutely divine. Besides, it’s not every day I get to play dress-up with such delightful subjects.”

Magnus, his massive form casting a shadow over the proceedings, moved even closer. His large hands guided the boys into more flattering poses, much to Lan’s chagrin. “Lan, try not to scowl so much,” he said, his voice a deep bass that resonated in the large room. “You’re supposed to look charming, not like you’re about to commit murder.”

The sight of the hulking bullkin alpha playing stylist was incongruous, yet his participation only added to the mirth of the moment. Adam couldn’t help but chuckle at the scene unfolding before him. It was a rare moment of levity amid the gravity of their lives, and he found himself savoring every second of it.

Just as the photo shoot was in full swing, the door to the living room swung open, and Selvana, the serpentkin alpha, stumbled in. Her long dark hair was pulled back into a messy bun, and her eyes, though still gleaming with intelligence, were rimmed with dark circles. It had been months since she had emerged from her lab, where she had been holed up concocting various poisons and potions, and despite her obvious fatigue, she retained an air of breathtaking beauty.

“Selvana, join us!” Nolan called out, gesturing for her to come over.

Selvana made her way to the sofa, collapsing onto it with a sigh of relief, her body seeming to melt into the plush cushions. Madi quickly handed her a cup of tea, which she accepted gratefully.

After taking a moment to savor the soothing brew, Selvana turned her attention to the spectacle unfolding before her. Her gaze swept over the boys, each one dressed in an outfit that was as whimsical as it was endearing. A delicate eyebrow arched as she took in the sight, a hint of amusement tugging at the corners of her mouth.

“Who are the pretty boys, and where did Vanessa kidnap them from?” she asked, her voice carrying a note of playful censure. She shifted her gaze to Adam, her expression one of mild reprimand. “You really must keep Vanessa in check, Master Adam. You shouldn’t let her get away with her antics again.”

Elias, who had been quietly observing the proceedings from his spot on the sofa, nodded in agreement with Selvana’s assessment.

Nolan let out a hearty laugh, shaking his head in amusement. “Selvana, Vanessa didn’t kidnap any boys. That’s just Lan, Shiro, and Aka hamming it up for the camera.”

Selvana’s tired eyes widened in surprise as she took a closer look at the boys. Her gaze lingered on Shiro, who was blushing furiously under the scrutiny. The white foxkin’s outfit, a delightful blend of innocence and allure, seemed to glow in the soft light of the room.

“Wow,” Selvana finally said, her voice filled with genuine admiration. “A rare white foxkin. And so very beautiful, at that. Did I accidentally concoct another hallucinogenic toxin? Or is this truly happening? So we finally got ourselves a clan mascot? And why does he look like he stepped out of a fairy tale? Did I miss the memo about adopting adorable fox boys while I was brewing up my latest potions?”

Vanessa beamed, her earlier frustration with Lan forgotten. “This is what happens when you sequester yourself in that lab of yours for months on end. You miss out on all the exciting developments within our clan. But you’re absolutely right about one thing—Shiro is indeed a rare gem. A white foxkin of unparalleled beauty. I hereby declare him our official clan mascot.” Her eyes sparkled with pride as she added, “He’s absolutely perfect for the role.”

Adam, his gaze never straying far from Shiro, felt a surge of pride. The boy was a vision, his beauty amplified by the care and attention Vanessa had lavished upon him. He knew he should be focusing on the upcoming summit, The Institute’s impending retaliation, and Kuro’s rescue, but in that moment, all he could think about was Shiro.

Lyria, having captured more than enough images to satisfy Vanessa’s whims, lowered her camera and flashed a triumphant grin. “I think we’ve got some great shots. Well done, everyone!”

The boys, looking both relieved and embarrassed, quickly dispersed, eager to return to their normal attire. Vanessa, however, had other plans.

“Not so fast,” she called out, her voice carrying an unmistakable authoritative edge. “You’re wearing those outfits for dinner.”

Lan opened his mouth to protest, but Vanessa’s cunning smile stopped him in his tracks. “Next Friday,” she said, her eyes gleaming with mischief, “I’m thinking about a skirt for you, Lan.”

Lan’s mouth opened and closed in silent protest, his cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and indignation. The prospect of donning a skirt seemed to hit him particularly hard, and his retort was swift and heated.

“A skirt?” his voice was a high-pitched squeak of disbelief. He pointed a shaky finger at Vanessa, his eyes wide with horror. “You better stop while you’re ahead, Vanessa, or so help me, I’ll—”

Vanessa cut him off with a dismissive wave of her hand. “Yes, yes, you’ll what, Lan? Hide in your room until the month’s end?” Her laughter filled the room, a melodious sound that belied the pointed barb in her words.

Lan deflated slightly, his arms crossing over his chest in a sulky gesture that only served to emphasize the ridiculousness of his current attire. “You’re impossible,” he muttered.

Later, as they took their seats around the dining table, an array of delectable dishes laid out before them, Adam’s eyes kept straying to Shiro sitting next to him. The scent of the boy’s omega pheromones wafted through the air, a sweet, intoxicating aroma that seemed to wrap around Adam’s senses, pulling him in deeper with each passing moment.

It was becoming increasingly difficult for Adam to concentrate on anything else. The sound of laughter and the clinking of cutlery against fine china faded into the background as he found himself captivated by Shiro’s every movement. The way the boy’s fingers delicately picked up a piece of roasted carrot, the soft sigh of contentment that escaped his lips as he savored the flavor—it was all Adam could do to keep from reaching over and pulling the boy into his lap.

The heated desire that had been simmering within him all day was now a raging inferno, threatening to consume him whole. He wanted Shiro with an intensity that bordered on madness, a need that went beyond the physical. It was a craving for connection, for the unique bond they shared, a fusion of their very beings.

Nolan’s voice cut through the fog of lust that had enveloped Adam, drawing him back to reality. “So, what’s the plan for the Young Alpha Challenge this year?”

Selvana looked up from her plate. “Is it that time of the year again?” she asked, a note of hopefulness creeping into her voice. “I don’t suppose I’m expected to attend this year, am I?”

Adam shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips. “No, Selvana, you’re off the hook this year. I know how much you despise those gatherings.”

Selvana let out a sigh of relief, her shoulders visibly relaxing. “Thank you, Master Adam,” she said, her voice filled with genuine gratitude. “I’m on the verge of a breakthrough with a new poison. I just need some test subjects and—”

Adam raised a hand, cutting her off mid-sentence. His expression hardened as he recalled the recent complaints he’d received. “Selvana,” he said, his tone stern, “I hope you remember the incident from last time. We had three beastkins in the medical wing for a week after your volunteer recruitment drive.”

Selvana had the grace to look slightly abashed. “That was an unfortunate misunderstanding,” she protested. “I merely suggested that participating in my experiments could lead to certain… benefits within the clan.”

“Threatening to poison their families unless they volunteered is not a suggestion , Selvana,” Nolan said, chuckling.

Adam nodded in agreement. “I’ve had complaints from all corners of the clan. The last thing we need is our own members living in fear of being your next guinea pig.” He fixed Selvana with a stern gaze. “As long as you have the antidote ready and you don’t go overboard, you may enlist volunteers,” he said, his tone firm yet understanding. “And I mean it, Selvana. Stick to willing volunteers only.”

Selvana’s face lit up with unabashed glee, seemingly unfazed by the reprimand. “Oh, I have the antidote ready,” she assured him, her voice dripping with anticipation. “And I assure you, Master Adam, I’ll stick to willing volunteers only. No threats, no manipulation. Scout’s honor.”

The others at the table exchanged skeptical glances, all too familiar with Selvana’s loose interpretation of willing .

The conversation shifted back to the Young Alpha Challenge, and Magnus voiced his concerns. “We have some very talented young alphas,” he said, his brow furrowed in thought. “But they’re all underage, barely ten years old. We can’t send them to represent us in the challenge.”

A murmur of agreement rippled through the room. The challenge was a prestigious event, one that showcased the strength and potential of each clan’s next generation. To send such young representatives would be seen as a sign of weakness, an admission that the Sullivan Clan lacked capable young alphas.

Adam sighed, his gaze once again drifting to Shiro. The boy was quietly observing the conversation, his eyes wide with curiosity. “It can’t be helped,” he said, his voice carrying a note of resignation. “We have no alpha between the ages of fifteen and twenty-five. We’ll just have to sit this one out again.”

Einar, who had been silently sipping his wine, suddenly set his glass down with a decisive clink. “Adam, you cannot possibly attend the summit without taking Shiro with you. Your essence child needs both your life forces daily to thrive.”

Adam met Einar’s gaze. “I am aware, Einar,” he said, his tone gentle. “Shiro will be accompanying me to the summit.”

Shiro’s eyes widened in surprise, a delighted blush spreading across his cheeks. The thought of accompanying Adam to the summit clearly pleased him, and Adam felt a warm sense of satisfaction at the knowledge that he could bring such joy to the boy’s face.

Lan raised his hand, drawing attention to himself. “If Shiro’s going, then I’m going too,” he declared, his voice firm. “I’ll need to look after him when you’re busy with all the important stuff, like meetings with the councils and other clan leaders.”

Aka chimed in with his own request. “I want to come too,” he said, his gaze locked on Adam’s. “I can’t not be with my brother.”

Chase, who had been quietly enjoying his meal, looked up with a grin. “Sounds like it could be fun,” he said, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “I haven’t attended a summit in a while. I think it’s high time I made an appearance.”

Nolan chuckled. “I see through your ruse, Lan,” he teased. “You just want to go so you can stir up some trouble with the Montgomerys and the Valentinos again.”

Lan shot Nolan an indignant look. “That is so not true!” he protested, but his words lacked conviction, and the room erupted into laughter once more.

Adam shook his head, his eyes crinkling with amusement. “It seems we’ll have quite the entourage this year,” he said, his gaze shifting back to Shiro. The boy’s smile was a beacon of light amid the chaos, and Adam found himself looking forward to the summit with an eagerness that surprised him.

Selvana, who had been engrossed in sketching chemical formulas on her napkin, suddenly looked up with a start. Her eyes darted between Adam and Shiro, a comical mix of confusion and concern etched on her face. “Wait, hold on,” she blurted out. “Did I miss something while I was planning my next diabolical concoction? Are we talking about the same Shiro? Our adopted adorable clan mascot?” She squinted at Shiro, then at Adam. “Don’t tell me my latest airborne experiment caused some bizarre male pregnancy situation! What in the name of all that’s toxic is an essence child ? And more importantly, can I study it?”

The room fell silent for a moment before erupting into laughter at Selvana’s wild assumptions, leaving her looking even more bewildered and slightly miffed that she seemed to be the butt of a joke she didn’t understand.