Chapter 24 Nor a knelt beside him , her hands resting gently on his arms . Alez , listen to me , she said softly . Youre my son . No one could ever take your place in my heart . But you have to understand , being kind to others doesnt mean I love you any less . Alex sniffled , avoiding her gaze . It feels like you do , he muttered . Nors pulled him into a hug , holding him tightly . Im sorry if Ive made you feel that way , Ill do better , Alex . But you have to meet me halfway , okay ? No more pushing people away or picking fights . Can we agree on that ? Alex hesitated , then gave a small nod . Okay , he murmured . Nora smiled , brushing a stray tear from his cheek . Thats my boy . Now , lets go talk to your coach . Im sure hes eager to see what youve got today . The schoolyard was a swirl of activity , filled with the laughter and shouts of children enjoying their morning . Nora stood to the side , taking in the vibrant scene with a calm demeanor . The sunshine filtered through the trees , casting dappled patterns on the pavement as children darted between their parents and friends . Just as she turned to check on Alex and Brian , a familiar tug on her sleeve drew her attention . Alex stood before her , his expression a mix of irritation and expectation You forgot something . he said firmly , his small arms crossed over his chest . Nora tilted her head , amused but playing along . Did I now ? What did I forget ? A hug , Alex said , his lips pressed into a pout . And a kiss , he added , glancing pointedly at Brian , who stood quietly by her side . Nora chuckled softly . Of course , how could I forget ? She crouched down , pulling Alex into a warm bug before pressing a light kiss to his cheek . His tension seemed to melt away almost immediately , though his gaze flicked provocatively toward Brian . The gesture quelled half of Alexs simunering irritation , but not entirely . You cant hug Brian anymore , Alex declared , his voice serioas despite its childish pitch . And if Brian and I fight , you can only help me . Nora blinked , surprised at the abrupt demand , before realization dawned . Ah , she said with a slight smile , I think I understand now . Alex frowned . What ? Youre jealous , Nora said , her tone light but teasing . You dont want anyone else taking your place in my heart , do you? Alex looked momentarily caught off guard , then crossed his arms again . Theres no such thing . I know Im your favorite child . Nora bit back a laugh , finding the situation both exasperating and endearing She decided it was time to diffuse the tension between the boys . Alright , enough of this . Lets get both of you out of the crowd before you start a wrestling match here . * As they moved to a quieter corner of the schoolyard , Alex took the opportunity to push Erian aside , stepping closer to Nora with a triumphant look . After I left , Alpha father and son went crazy 21.7 Chapter 24 Brian stumbled slightly but caught himself , brushing off the shove without a word . Alex ! Noras voice carried a note of firm reprimand . Thats not how we treat our classmates . You could have hurt Brian . She knelt to look him in the eyes . Especially if youre going to be a future Alpha , you need to learn kindness and respect . Alex scuffed the toe of his shoe against the pavement , his face a mix of guilt and stubbornness . I know , he muttered , not meeting her gaze . But I just dont like it when youre nice to other kids . Nora softened her tone . It doesnt take anything away from you when I care about others , Alex . Youre still very important to me . After a pause , Alex gave a reluctant nod . Nora gently urged him . Now , lets make things right . Apologize to Brian . Alex hesitated , then turned to Brian . Sorry , he said grudgingly . But Im still going to beat you in training . Brian , unfazed , smirked . Not a chance . Ill leave you in the dust . The two boys exchanged a glare , their rivalry reignited but redirected to a more playful tone . Nora smiled . Alright , boys , its almost time for class . Lets get you both back to the classroom . As they approached the door , Alex suddenly wrapped his arms tightly around Nora , holding on as if he didnt want to let go . Whats wrong , Alex ? Nora asked gently , brushing a hand over his messy hair . He hesitated , glancing down at his shoes . I havent seen you much lately , he admitted in a quiet voice . I miss when youd say good morning every day , and … your food , and how everything smells nice when youre home . Noras heart ached at his confession , but before she could respond , Alex seemed to catch himself . 40 ら 22.2 % Chapter 24 Brian stumbled slightly but caught himself , brushing off the shove without a word . Alex ! Noras voice carried a note of firm reprimand . Thats not how we treat our classmates . You could have hurt Brian . She knelt to look kam in the eyes . Especially if youre going to be a future Alpha , you need to learn kindness and respect . Alex scuffed the toe of his shoe against the pavement , his face a mix of guilt and stubbornness , I know , he muttered , not meeting her gaze . But I just dont like it when youre nice to other kids , Nora softened her tone . It doesnt take anything away from you when I care about others , Alex . Youre still very important to me . After a pause , Alex gave a reluctant nod . Nora gently urged him . Now , lets make things right . Apologize to Brian . Alex hesitated , then turned to Brian . Sorry , he said grudgingly . But Im still going to beat you in training . Brian , unfazed , smirked . Not a chance . Ill leave you in the dust . The two boys exchanged a glare , their rivalry reignited but redirected to a more playful tone . Nora smiled . Alright , boys , its almost time for class . Lets get you both back to the classroom . As they approached the door , Alex suddenly wrapped his arms tightly around Nora , holding on as if he didnt want to let go . Whats wrong , Alex ? Nora asked gently , brushing a hand over his messy hair . He hesitated , glancing down at his shoes . I … I havent seen you much lately , he admitted in a quiet voice . I miss when youd say good morning every day , and … your food , and how everything smells nice when youre home . Noras heart ached at his confession , but before she could respond , Alex seemed to catch himself . Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!