Getting away with the Alpha's Pup

Chapter 146

Fern's Perspective

"I'm not sure if this is a good idea," I muttered under my breath.

Another dinner... I didn't know why, but the thought of tonight's banquet was vaguely unsettling.

Vivian.

Lately, the pack has been abuzz with discussions and stories about her. Somehow, I've had this lingering feeling that her return would change things.

It even led me to make excuses yesterday to avoid greeting her when she arrived.

Once again, the maid had outdone herself in dressing me. My long hair was elegantly curled and pinned up. My makeup was flawless, with just a hint of blush accentuating my cheeks, giving me an innocent look.

Even the formal gown she selected was stunning, its dark blue contrasting beautifully with Giovanni's light-colored eyes—eyes that I fixated on every night before sleep. With him by my side, I felt safe and protected.

But tonight was different. Something about this dinner felt unsettling, though I couldn't pinpoint why. All I knew was that I was determined to find out.

Upon reaching the Great Hall's door, Tobias was already there, greeting us with a smile. I couldn't help but notice how dashing he looked in his attire.

"Tobias, you look great," I said, smiling politely.

A chuckle escaped his lips as he returned the smile. "I could say the same about you. Radiant as always. Shall we go inside?"

I nodded, slipping my arm through his.

Inside, the banquet hall was brightly lit, filled with the laughter of pack members. Long tables were laden with wine and food, the air heavy with the tantalizing scents of roasted meats and spices. Tonight was meant for celebration—not only had we welcomed Vivian back in triumph, but we also celebrated our recent victory over a rival pack in a fierce battle.

As I navigated through the crowd, smiling and exchanging greetings with pack members, a vague unease persisted within me. Since Vivian's return, the pack's atmosphere had subtly shifted. Her bravery in battle had earned her the respect and admiration of everyone.

As conversations flowed around me, I realized I was mostly overlooked, which suited me just fine. I had no desire to be the center of attention.

I noticed Giovanni's gaze swept over me as we approached the front of the hall. His eyes held a dark, lustful intensity.

The men stopped and turned to us. Tobias and I both bowed in honor of the Alphas, one by one.

As we drew nearer, Giovanni's eyes turned towards me again, filled with a dark, lustful desire.

It was then that I caught sight of Vivian standing in a corner of the hall, clad in a sleek black gown that accentuated her cool demeanor. Our gazes met, her sharp eyes locking onto mine as if she could peer into my soul.

"Little Tree..." Giovanni's low voice pulled my attention back to him. Facing him, I nodded, "Let's sit down."

I followed Giovanni to the large table and settled into a plush golden chair.

My attention was drawn to one thing alone, and I hoped it wouldn't come up—Vivian.

Throughout the meal, she maintained a subtle smirk that perplexed me. Every time I glanced up, her eyes were fixed on me, a smile of pure amusement playing on her lips.

"So, Giovanni, I must say, you're quite fortunate to have such a beautiful companion," Vivian blurted out.

My eyes darted towards Vivian in shock.

I knew I shouldn't have joined them for dinner.

"The ceremony starts in fifteen minutes. I need to use the restroom first. I hope you don't mind if I excuse myself now," I said, rising from my seat.

Giovanni stood up as well, gazing at me tenderly. "I'll wait for you in the front row. Don't take too long."

"Okay," I replied, returning his smile before turning to the others. "It's been a pleasure chatting with all of you. Please excuse me."

Before anyone could respond, I left swiftly.

I wasn't surprised to find Vivian waiting for me outside the restroom.

"Hello, Vivian," I greeted her, trying to maintain a smile.

"Hello," she replied, a faint smile crossing her lips, though a hint of sarcasm lingered in it.

"Congratulations on your triumphant return. Your bravery is admirable," I said.

"Thank you, and you were excellent too," she said politely, her tone carrying an unspeakable coldness.

The atmosphere grew tense as we stood together. I pondered how to continue the conversation when Vivian suddenly spoke.

"You know, Giovanni and I are very close," she said calmly, each word feeling like a needle piercing my heart.

"Oh? Yeah?" I forced a smile.

"Yes, he adopted me, and I'm his sister." Her gaze sharpened, as if she were scrutinizing my every reaction.

At her words, my heart sank. So, Giovanni already had another 'sister', and I had long been forgotten by him. A sour feeling overwhelmed me, making it hard to breathe.

It seemed Vivian could read my mind; a mysterious smile curled the corner of her mouth.

"I've heard all about what you did from Tobias." She whispered, her tone teasing imperceptibly.

"Tobias?" I froze, not understanding.

"Yes, Tobias. He knows a lot of things." She gave me a meaningful look, then turned to leave, offering only a back and a soft "Goodbye, Aurora."

Her tone dripped with sarcasm as she mentioned Aurora.

I stood there, frustrated and unsettled.

Vivian's presence complicated my mood, her every word laden with implications. I didn't know what she might do next, but I knew the battle had just begun.

As her laughter faded, a chill crept from my feet to my heart.

Vivian's appearance had shattered the peace between Giovanni and me, and forced me to realize the need for caution.

Taking a deep breath, I decided not to dwell on it for now.