---- thankless housework, was not the life I wanted. With them gone, I finally had my own time to prepare for the new product launch at the beginning of next month. Although I had been preparing for a long time, it had been a while since I'd been in a situation like this, and I couldn't help but feel nervous. I took several deep breaths, feeling the strength from my wolf. Finally, I put on a professional smile and walked confidently toward the center of the spotlight. For two full hours, I spoke with ease and confidence under the gaze of the crowd. Hearing the applause from below, my wolf let out a satisfied hum in my chest. As I stepped off the stage, I caught a familiar scent. I followed it with my eyes-not far away were Eric and River. ---- Eric's eyes were full of approval. He gave mea nod, which I pointedly ignored. River, however, walked toward me, his eyes shining. "Mom, you were amazing!" He said happily. "You were wasted stuck at home!" I didn't respond and turned to leave. Eric approached with an elegant box in his hands, and I couldn't help but frown. "Lyra, that presentation was brilliant! Congratulations!" He tried to press the expensive-looking gift into my hands. I took a step back, dodging the gesture, and waved my hand dismissively. I was about to walk past them, but Eric sidestepped to block my way. He lowered his voice, making it intentionally gentle. " ---- Can we... have dinner tonight? Our company is also... very interested in this new product line." "Our company has professionals to handle that. Alpha Eric, you don't need to discuss these matters with me. If you'll excuse me." My all-business attitude made him clutch the gift box tighter. "Lyra, you know I'm not here for a business deal..." His voice grew urgent, with an almost imperceptible plea. "I just want... for our family to have a simple meal together." I looked him straight in the eye, my voice laced with ice. "Eric, my patience is limited. Don't make me repeat myself-we severed the bond. And who, exactly, are you calling 'family'?" Without giving him a chance to reply, I walked straight past him without a backward glance.