Chapter 33 But tonights family gathering made me hesitate . I eventually declined since I and Lork were pretending to be a happy couple so not attending the dinner would not be reasonable . Ttyped I am extremely sorry as I have some family commitments tonight but I am sure Ill make it some other day and sent the message … His reply came quickly , his usually cold demeanor softened with a cute , little cat emoji making an okay gesture . I couldnt help but smile . put my phone away and noticed Daria and Lorik watching me intently . Whats got you smiling ? Darla asked , her eyes gleaming with curiosity . Loriks gaze was more calculating , trying to decipher my mood . He seemed to be struggling with a hint of jealousy , I shrugged , giving a vague answer . Just I read some funny message . Daria exchanged a look with Lorik , who seemed to sulk a bit . Its from a friend . He was thanking me for something that I did for him .. Loriks expressions changed to extreme jealous mode but he tried to change the topic immediately .. I noticed and chuckled inside Evening fell swiftly , and the servants bustled around , preparing for the family gathering with an air of seriousness . The scent of rich food wafted through the mansion . As I descended the stairs , I saw Loriks father seated at the head of the table . To my shock , Lorcia was seated in the place of honor , closest to him . Lorcia stood across the room , adorned in an elegant gown that flowed gracefully as she p gestured animatedly while speaking with Andrew . Her bright smile lit up the conversation , but the moment her gaze fell on me , that pleasant expression shifted into something sharp and mocking , a smirk . designed to provoke . s of I didnt give her the satisfaction of a reaction . Instead , I maintained my composure , the corners iny mouth lifting slightly in a response that was barely a smile . Just then , I felt a gentle but firm grip . on my arm . Turning my head slightly , I saw Lorik , dressed impeccably in a sleek , well tailored suit that fit him perfectly . His presence was commanding , effortlessly exuding control and authority . Without a word , he guided me toward the grand staircase that led down to the dining hall , his hand . never leaving my arm . He leaned in close , his voice low and smooth as he whispered in my ear , Theres a good show coming tonight . Curiosity piqued , I tilted my head slightly toward him and whispered back , What kind of show ? Loriks lips curled into a smile , barely visible but unmistakable in its meaning . Youll see soon enough . Just dont rush it , he said , his voice filled with quiet amusement . As we descended the stairs together , the soft murmurs of conversation filled the air . The grand chandelier hanging above the room cast a warm glow over the ornate dining table , which was already set for dinner . Plates gleamed in the candlelight , and the scent of freshly prepared food lingered in the air , though tension hovered like an uninvited guest . Daria , sitting at one end of the table , was visibly irritated . She had been deep in conversation with Andrew , her sharp words biting as they debated something I hadnt caught . Her annoyance was clear , but when her gaze fell upon Lorik and me our heads close together , whispering in what appeared to be a private conversation her expression changed . A mischievous smile spread across her face , and she called out in an exaggerated , playful tone , Wow , look at my brother and Shirley ! Dont they look perfect together ? Makes you envious , doesnt it ? I couldnt help but chuckle softly . Daria was being sarcastic , but there was warmth in her words , as if she were on my side in this strange game we were all playing . Envious ? Really ? I replied lightly , letting my voice carry just enough for everyone at the table to hear . I met Darias eyes , and she gave me a knowing smile in return . Lorik pulled out a chair for me , and I took my seat , glancing across the table where Lorcia sat , her every move laced with intention . She leaned forward slightly , her eyes flashing as she caught Loriks attention . With a seductive smile , she addressed him in a voice dripping with false sweetness . Lorik , its been so long since you visited me . You must be incredibly busy with work these days , J remember how , when I hurt my hand , you stayed by my side all night , taking care of me . Youve always been so considerate . But you really should look after your health too , she said , her words , carefully chosen , designed to stir something in him . Loriks expression didnt waver . He looked at her with a calm indifference , the faintest hint of amusement playing at the corners of his mouth . Youve been out of the Werewolf Councils custody for some time now , havent you ? Lorcias smile faltered , just for a second , but she quickly regained her composure . You know that was all a misunderstanding , she said , her tone soft , almost pleading . gh , was it ? Loriks voice was deceptively calm , his gaze unwavering . Because Ive heard some Let Go My Alpha . He knelt in Regret ther interesting things recently . For instance , theres talk that someones injury wasnt real at all , and that a certain someone mightve bribed a doctor to forge a medical report The room fell silent . The sharp clatter of metal hitting porcelain echoed as Lorcias spoon slipped from her hand , landing awkwardly on her plate . Her face drained of color , and she looked almost sickly under the glow of the chandelier . Her carefully crafted facade was beginning to crumble . Though , Lorik . Andrews voice cut through the tension , deep and commanding . His eyes narrowed as he glared at his son . Watch your tone when you speak to Lorcia . Shes the future Luna of Silvermoon , after all . And there it was the jab , the bait hed been waiting to cast . Andrew was attempting to provoke me . to get under my skin and watch me unravel . He wanted to see anger , frustration , anything that ould show I wasnt fit for the position they were all too eager to deny me . I But I refused to rise to his challenge . Instead , I smiled . A small , calculated smile that revealed none of the emotions swirling beneath the surface . I casually reached across the table and intertwined my fingers with Loriks , feeling the warmth and strength of his hand as I locked our fingers together . It was all part of the act , but the moment felt strangely real , his touch grounding me in the midst of the chaos . Turning my gaze to Andrew , I let my voice drip with feigned sweetness , matching Lorcias earlier tone . Lorik , why dont you tell your father ? And while youre at it , tell me too . Will you divorce me ? In the ongoing romance novel "CEO's Twins Want Mommy Back" by CrushReel, Cassandra finds herself in a seemingly perfect marriage with a loving husband and adorable stepchildren. However, her troubled past looms large, raising questions about the true stability of her newfound family. As she navigates the complexities of blending her past and present, Cassandra must confront the shadows that threaten to disrupt her blissful facade. What secrets lie beneath the surface, and how will she protect her newfound happiness from the ghosts of her past? This modern tale delves into themes of redemption, family dynamics, and the intricate balance between love and secrets. The unique blend of billionaire romance and office drama adds layers of intrigue to Cassandra's journey as she strives to keep her personal life from unraveling. With a compelling narrative that intertwines sweet romance with contemporary challenges, "CEO's Twins Want Mommy Back" stands out as a must-read for fans of heartfelt stories set against the backdrop of corporate intrigue. Experience the emotional rollercoaster of Cassandra's quest for love and acceptance in this captivating novel. Available to read online at CrushReel, immerse yourself in a world where past mistakes collide with present desires, promising a gripping narrative that will leave readers yearning for more.