Chapter 22
“1 fuckin will you buch“”
Even after Poppy stormed off, I could feel a mix of happiness and calm wash over me, I had faced her down and had come out on top. I turned my attention back to the party and saw several Alphas chatting amongst themselves. They seemed much more relaxed, and I felt grateful for their
support
Thank you all for stepping in back there,” I said, moving closer to the group. “It meant a lot to me
“You stood your ground, Joanne Alpha Jeremy said, smiling. “We’re proud to back you. Poppy has crossed the line, I can’t believe she’d do that twice in one night. She will need some serious reprimanding later”
Absolutely,” another Alpha chimed in. “You can’t let disrespect slide, especially in our circle. The reports will go on later and Alpha Dillian must learn to discipline his daughter.
“I’ll be sure to mention your support to my father.” I promised, feeling more connected to the leaders of the community. “He would appreciate knowing that you all have my back.”
As I talked with them. I caught a glimpse of Collins in my peripheral vision. He was standing with Poppy, who looked like she had been crying. I expected him to comfort her, but the moment seemed to last too long. It was clear he was distracted, eyes focused on me instead. What in the ever Joving world did he think he was doing? His eyes on me was going to cause a scandal.
“Hey, I think Collins is back in the dance floor,” Lila whispered to me, nudging my side gently,
“What do you mean?” I asked, not taking my
reyes
of Collins
“Just look at him! He can’t take his eyes off you” she said, giggling. “I think he’s still hung up on you
I shrugged but couldn’t deny that the attention felt good, especially after everything. I turned my focus back to the Alphas, but a quick glance at Collins revealed something deeper. I could see a storm brewing behind his eyes, a mix of confusion and.. jealousy!
“Collins should get over it,” I murmured, shaking off the thought. “He made his choice.”
As I laughed and chaned with the other Alphas, I heard Collins approach. “Joanne,” he said, a bit stiffly as he cleared his throat. “Can we uh, can 1 ask you to dance!”
“What?” I said, caught off guard. “You want to dance?”
“Yeah,” he replied, his voice edged with hesitation. “I thought maybe it would be nice.”
The sounds of the party faded slightly as I took a moment to assess the situation. The truth was, I was feeling bold after everything that had happened, and dancing with him felt like a step back into my past.
for now.
I politely shook my head. “Thanks, Collins, but I think I’ll pass on that for n
His expression shifted, and I could see disappointment wash over him. “Oh, right. Of course,” he muttered, trying to play it cool
“Sorry, but I have other things to do,” I added with a small smile, feeling empowered. I glanced at a nearby table where another Alpha was leaning against the wall, watching our exchange with interest.
I turned to walk toward him, keeping my head held high. “Hey there! What’s your name?” I said flirtatiously, giving him a dazzling smile.
“Cassian” he replied, his eyes lighting up. I’ve been watching you dance. You’re quite talented!”
wout Are yo
“Thank you!” I laughed, feeling buoyed by
by the compliment. “How about your
you competing in the tournamentTM
“I am. I’d love to have a little fun before then,” Cassian flirted back, leaning closer. “Maybe you’d like to show me some of those dance mov
“Sounds like a plan!” I grinned, enjoying the attention. “Let’s have a little fun!“
I could feel Collins watching from behind, his gaze heavy and intense. I didn’t turn back to look at him, but I could sense his irritation. “What’s
Collins? Jealous?” I wanted: ask, but instead, I focused on Cassian.
The music picked up, and I found myself swaying to the beat with Cassian, laughing and flirting as the energy of the party surged. “You’re a great dancer,” he complimented as we twirled around
spiti. “But it’s more fun with someone who knows how to keep up.”
“I try!” I said, playfully sticking out my tongue as I spain. “But
“Trust me, I’m more than capable,” he replied with a cheeky grins, leaning in close as we danced.
1/2
Chapter 22
“Look at you, Joanne Silver shouted, watching from the sidelines. “You’re killing in
“Thanks” 1 yelled back, feeling more confident than ever. I could still sense Collins standing nearby, clutching his glass with a tight grip, a storm in his eyes. I pretended not to notice him.
“Looks like you’re making quite an impression!” Cassian said, drawing me back to him. “You seem like someone who knows how to have a good
“Oh, I do!” I said, laughing. “After everything that just happened, I definitely need to enjoy myself?”
“Good, because I think this party should be about fun!” Cassian said, spinning me again. “And you’re a breath of fresh air in here.”
ow behind me, and the night belonged to
With every spin. I felt more liberated. I didn’t want to think about Collins or Poppy. Their drama was now me. Every laugh, every dance step felt like a statement
“Who knew you could steal the spotlight like this?” Silver called again, her smile wide. “You’re making news. Everyone has been talking about you. Do you know, 1
“Sheesh Silver, just how much have you had to drink? Plus, I’m just getting started!” I laughed gleefully, feeling lighter as the music pulsed around
As I glanced towards Collins again, he seemed more frustrated than ever. It was almost amusing. “Guess he’s regretting his decisions now.” I thought Jo myself, a smirk creeping onto my face.
“Are you okay!” Cassian asked, noticing my brief distraction
“Yeah, just thinking about how things have changed,” I replied, focusing back on him. “But let’s keep dancing!”
