---- Chapter 7 A month later, life in Seattle had settled into a comfortable rhythm. My design project received rave reviews from the client, and Charlie had become a good friend. He would often bring me coffee when I worked late and sometimes we'd go to art exhibits or music festivals on the weekends. There was no Alpha possessiveness, no prejudice about bloodlines. Just simple friendship. Tonight was the design team's monthly dinner. Everyone had chosen a fantastic Italian restaurant. Red wine, pasta, and a relaxed, cheerful atmosphere. Ihadn't been this happy in a long time. "To Sophie's successful project! Cheers!" my colleagues said, raising their glasses. I was a bit of a lightweight, and a warm flush spread across my cheeks. ---- It was late by the time dinner ended, and Charlie offered to take me home. "You've had a bit too much to drink," he said, steadying my arm. "I'll call an Uber." We were waiting outside the restaurant when I pulled out my phone and snapped a picture of us together. "Had a great time tonight," I posted on Instagram, and posted it to my private story. The caption: "New life, new friends. Grateful." In the photo, Charlie and I were smiling brightly, his hand resting lightly on my shoulder. After posting it, I put my phone away, not noticing a familiar figure approaching from across the street. "Sophie." The deep voice was like a splash of ice water over my head. Ijerked my head up and saw Lucas standing a short distance away. ---- He was wearing a dark suit, his expression terrifyingly grim. His Alpha scent rolled towards us in waves, thick with anger and possessiveness. "What are you doing?" His voice was quiet, but murderous. Sensing the threat, Charlie instinctively stepped in front of me. "Sir, please keep your distance." Lucas's eyes flashed a dangerous gold-the color of an Alpha on the edge. "Move," he growled. "She's my Omega." A powerful Alpha aura erupted, and the other pedestrians on the sidewalk shied away. Even though Charlie was a Beta, he didn't back down. "She's not anyone's property," Charlie said calmly. Lucas's gaze fell on Charlie's hand, which had been on my shoulder in the photo, and the red in his eyes burned brighter. ---- "Did you mark her?" he demanded of Charlie, unleashing an even stronger wave of pressure. " Answer me!" "Lucas, that's enough." I pushed past Charlie's protection and stepped forward. "Why are you here?" "The pack summit," he said, his eyes never leaving me. "But it looks like I got here just in time." He moved closer, his Alpha aura swirling like a storm. "Sophia, did he mark you?" "No," "Then why do you have a Beta's scent on you?" Lucas stopped in front of me, his eyes full of jealousy. "Did he touch you?" "He's my friend." "Friend?" Lucas sneered. "Is that how friends touch you?" He was referring to our pose in the photo. In "CEO, Those Twins Look Just Like You" by CrushReel, a single mother's life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with a charming playboy who unknowingly holds a billionaire secret. As their worlds collide, secrets unravel and hearts intertwine in this captivating romance novel set in a modern office backdrop. Amidst the challenges of raising twins solo, our protagonist finds herself drawn to the enigmatic playboy, unaware of the wealth and complexity hidden beneath his charismatic facade. The juxtaposition of their contrasting lives sets the stage for a tale of unexpected love, where opposites truly attract in ways neither could have imagined. This sweet romance novel delves into themes of family, identity, and the power of love to transcend social boundaries. With its blend of heartwarming moments and intriguing twists, "CEO, Those Twins Look Just Like You" stands out as a refreshing take on the billionaire CEO trope, offering readers a glimpse into a world where love knows no bounds. Experience the magic of this ongoing story at CrushReel and dive into a narrative that promises to captivate your heart and leave you eagerly awaiting what unfolds next. Read online at CrushReel for a journey that will keep you hooked till the very end.