7. "Don't Run Away"

Amelia’s Point of View

I saw my son in his room, his eyes empty, gazing into the distance. I walked over with a smile, like a mother hen checking on her chick.

"What's on your mind, son?" I asked.

Ethan turned to me, looking unhappy. "I'm thinking about the party tomorrow."

I raised my eyebrows, staying calm. "And what's bothering you specifically?"

Ethan ran his hand through his hair, loosening his tie. "It's my sister's engagement."

I couldn't help but smirk to myself. It was about my stepdaughter, just as I had expected.

"Is Dad really gonna announce my sister's engagement to Alpha Alex in front of all the guests?" Ethan asked, clearly ticked off.

I placed my hand on his shoulder, giving him a gentle tap like I was singing him a lullaby. "Ethan."

Ethan glanced upwards. A sudden flash of lightning illuminated his face, with ominous clouds looming overhead.

"Alpha Alex holds the key to our financial security. Your father is just struggling to get by. And Harriet is our way out," I re