Bonded to My Ex's Alpha Brother Chapter 54

Erin's POV

I stood ramrod straight, greeting the imposing men in the private room as professionally as possible. Though my new heels were already beginning to make my ankles ache, I maintained my composure, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear as I nodded respectfully.

My heart beat rapidly in my chest—I was determined to prove I belonged here, in this world of powerful Alphas and high-stakes business. Derek's presence beside me made me both anxious and strangely confident.

One of the visiting Alphas—tall, broad-shouldered, with an undeniable aura of power—extended his hand to me, his deep voice commanding attention.

"Hello, Miss Secretary. I've heard Derek had an Omega secretary, and now I finally see you."

I took his hand, maintaining a professional smile despite feeling his wolf energy pressing against mine—a subtle display of dominance common among Alphas. My palm was slightly damp with nervousness as I replied, "Hello, I'm Erin Blackwood."

From the corner of my eye, I noticed Derek observing our interaction. His jaw tightened almost imperceptibly, his fingers lightly tapping against the table. My skin tingled under his attention.

I wasn't sure if he was annoyed by the Alpha's interest in me or simply eager to begin the meeting, but my wolf responded uneasily to his tension.

The Alpha's gaze shifted to Derek, curiosity evident. "Stone Group's recent expansion plans have been quite successful. I hear you're still single? The future of the Darkwood Pack needs stable leadership. Don't you think it's time—"

Derek's eyes flashed dangerously, gold momentarily replacing the usual gray. "I don't need to explain my personal affairs to anyone," he interrupted, his tone carrying a clear warning. "I suggest you focus on your own life rather than being overly concerned with others'."

The tension in the room immediately escalated. The visiting Alpha's Beta nervously glanced at his leader, subtly shaking his head to prevent further confrontation.

Tom, sensing the dangerous shift in atmosphere, quickly intervened. "Let's begin today's meeting, gentlemen."

---

As the meeting progressed, I stood beside Derek, diligently taking notes and providing documents when needed. I shifted my weight slightly from one foot to the other, trying to alleviate the discomfort of the heels.

Each time I leaned forward to place documents in front of Derek, I caught his familiar scent, making my pulse quicken slightly. I maintained my professionalism, keeping my expression neutral with appropriate smiles at the right moments, though I was acutely aware of his presence beside me.

The meeting primarily focused on the other packs' proposal—they were seeking Stone Group's support in resource development in exchange for mining rights within their territories.

I stole several glances at Derek's profile, noting the slight downward turn of his mouth. His fingers occasionally tapped the table when certain points were mentioned. From these small gestures, I could tell he wasn't pleased with the proposal. My wolf seemed to sense his dissatisfaction, causing me to instinctively straighten my posture when he grew tense.

During the hour-long discussion, I observed the complex dynamics between the Alphas. Though the words exchanged were polite, undercurrents of competition and wariness were always present.

It reminded me that despite growing up in the Darkwood Pack, my understanding of wolf politics was still so limited. As an Omega, I had always been sheltered from these high-level negotiations.

When the visiting Alpha tried to appeal to Derek's ego, suggesting that the partnership would "solidify his position as the most influential Alpha in the region," Derek's expression remained unmoved. Unlike leaders who might be swayed by flattery, Derek focused solely on the practical benefits to his pack and company.

After the meeting concluded, the other Alphas and their entourage prepared to leave, disappointment clearly written on their faces. The Alpha adjusted his tie, his jaw tight with the failure of the negotiations.

"Perhaps we could have dinner next time to discuss the details further?" Tom politely suggested, but his offer was declined by the departing group.

After they left the room, Tom turned to Derek. "He thought you would give in because of his flattery. That's why he tried to charm you from the beginning."

Derek snorted. "I'm not here to do charity. I'm here to do business. If they can't offer terms beneficial to the Darkwood Pack, Stone Group won't support them. It's that simple."

I silently observed the interaction between Derek and Tom. Despite their serious and direct conversation, I could sense the trust and understanding between them. Clearly, Tom was not just the pack Beta but a friend Derek valued and trusted. Mark, as the Delta, also seemed to have a good relationship with Derek.

This made me think of my brother Aaron—currently a Darkwood Pack Enforcer undergoing intensive training. My emotions became complicated as I silently hoped everything would go smoothly before Aaron returned.

---

As we left the private room and crossed the spacious lobby, I suddenly spotted a familiar couple across the hall. My eyes immediately brightened, and I couldn't help waving to them.

Derek and Tom paused, curious about my sudden gesture.

The couple quickly noticed me and ran over, their faces lighting up with recognition.

"Amy! Jack! What are you doing here?" I exclaimed excitedly, my voice rising with enthusiasm.

Amy embraced me warmly. "Erin, baby! What a coincidence!"

Tom and Derek exchanged a meaningful glance, Derek's expression remaining impassive, though for a moment, something unreadable flashed in his eyes.

Jack noticed Derek's presence and immediately bowed his head. "Alpha."

Amy quickly followed suit, showing respect to the Pack Alpha.

Derek acknowledged them with a slight nod. "Rise."

"What are you doing here?" Jack asked me curiously.

"I'm attending a business meeting with Alpha Stone," I explained, then turned the question back to them. "What about you two?"

Amy's face suddenly reddened, and I realized I'd asked a silly question—my friends were obviously here for a date. I felt a twinge of embarrassment for interrupting their private time.

"Oh, this is Tom, Beta of the Darkwood Pack," I quickly added, introducing my friends to the second-highest-ranking member of our pack.

Derek stood nearby, his expression unchanging, but I could feel his gaze resting on me, observing my interaction with my friends with an intensity that made my skin prickle.

Jack suddenly proposed excitedly, "We're heading to the 'Moonlight' club. Would you like to join us?"

I glanced hesitantly at Derek. "No, I still have some work to—"

Tom unexpectedly interrupted me: "Yes, she can go. In fact, I think we should all go relax together."

Everyone looked at Tom in surprise, and Derek raised an eyebrow at his Beta.

Tom shrugged, explaining casually, "Come on. I know my position can be intimidating, but that doesn't mean you always have to be tense around me. Sometimes I like to live like a normal werewolf too."

Amy immediately agreed, linking her arm through mine: "Yes, yes! Beta Tom is right. Let's go together, it'll be fun!"

Jack and Amy exchanged a glance, both understanding they had no choice after the Darkwood Pack's high-ranking member extended the invitation.

Noticing Derek's slightly displeased expression, I offered him an out. "Alpha, if you have work to attend to, you can leave first. It's fine."

Derek looked around at everyone, his gaze finally resting on me. After a moment of consideration, he nodded: "Work is finished. I can join you."

Amy couldn't help letting out a cheer, but quickly contained her excitement due to Tom's presence.

Tom, sensing Jack's nervousness, said lightly, "Don't worry, young man. I won't eat you or your girlfriend."

Jack asked in surprise, "How did you know she's my girlfriend?"

Tom smiled and answered, "Just a bit of observational skill."

I glanced furtively at Derek, noting his expression remained cold. I suspected the only reason he agreed to go to the club might be because of Tom's suggestion. In the Darkwood Pack, the Beta's position was second only to the Alpha, and even Derek would respect Tom's suggestions to some degree.

---

The five of us entered the flashing lights of "Moonlight" club, with Amy and Jack excitedly walking in front, Tom following behind, while Derek and I walked last.

Inside, the club was buzzing with noise and ear-splitting music. As we made our way through the crowded space toward the lounge area, our group gradually dispersed among the crowd.

The club's interior was a sensory overload—pulsating lights in blue and purple hues, music bass vibrating through the floor, and the mixed scents of perfume, alcohol, and moving bodies. It had been months since I'd been to a club, and I'd forgotten how intense these places could be for werewolves' heightened senses.

I noticed several male patrons eyeing me in ways that made me uncomfortable. My new outfit—that elegant blue dress Derek had purchased for me—was clearly attracting more attention than I was used to.

A young man approached me, his predatory smile clearly indicating his intentions. Before he could speak, Derek intervened, placing his palm firmly on my shoulder. "She's with me," he said, his voice low and dangerous. "Back off."