CHAPTER 2 Stay Away From Her

　　Ralph's POV

　　"Hayden," I muttered through gritted teeth, holding Wren firmly in my arms and clenching the hand Hayden had touched, my voice laced with a warning tone. My grip was so tight it felt like I could shatter his wrist. 

　　He remained unfazed, standing nonchalantly with a provocative smile. "Yes?"

　　"Stay away from Wren," I warned, my anger still burning within me, my teeth grinding together. "And keep your filthy hands off her."

　　"Wow, Ralph, you're truly terrifying," he sneered. "Apart from making your innocent servants uncomfortable, what else does your useless oppression achieve?"

　　I glanced at the servants by the door, their pained expressions barely concealing their discomfort, their struggle to remain upright evident. I closed my eyes, eased my grip slightly, and spoke icily, "Don't worry; you'll soon experience the other benefits."

　　He remained casual, forcefully removing my hand, and looked at his reddened wrist. "I'm genuinely looking forward to it, dear brother. I hope that day arrives soon to witness who will ultimately submit."

　　"I'm looking forward to it too, but don't misunderstand, Hayden. Whether what the outcome is, it will not change your bastard bloodline," I smiled. 

　　Hayden's eyes flickered, and his expression abruptly grew serious. He locked his gaze onto mine, devoid of emotion. 

　　However, his seriousness didn't last long, and he smiled again. "Well, Ralph, the gentleman who treats everyone with respect, now mentions uncontrollable bloodlines. It seems you're not as gentlemanly as you appear to be. It seems that you're a hypocrite."

　　"Not entirely," I chuckled. "This privilege is reserved for you alone."

　　As we spoke, Wren raised her hand and clasped it onto mine, resting on her shoulder, her eyes filled with concern. I looked at her and offered a reassuring smile. 

　　Hayden's smile faded slightly as he observed us. However, this time, his interest seemed to wane. He placed his hands in his pockets, shrugged, and headed toward the door. "Alright then, Ralph, the legitimate Alpha heir with a pure bloodline. You're right, at least for now. Enjoy your confidence while it lasts. And..."

　　He paused at the door and turned to look at Wren. "I'm looking forward to getting better acquainted, Wren," he raised his left hand and shook it deliberately. "It feels good, and I hope we have the chance to experience it again."

　　My wolf growled in instant anger deep within my mind. I clenched my teeth, veins bulging slightly on my forehead. Unconsciously, I tightened my hold on Wren's hand. "You'll pay for what you said and did, Hayden."

　　He laughed and said no more before turning around and leaving the living room. 

　　I couldn't help but pull Wren closer, burying my face in her neck. Her scent had a calming effect, yet my inner turmoil persisted. 

　　Hayden's unpredictable behavior and interests made it difficult to avoid him. I needed to ensure that he had as little contact with Wren as possible. 

　　"Ralph... !"

　　Wren's voice brought me back to reality, and I realized my hand was resting on her waist in the very spot where Hayden had touched her. She frowned at me, her expression serious. 

　　Quickly, I released my grip and withdrew my hand. "I'm sorry, Wren. Did I make you uncomfortable? I'm sorry, baby, I..."

　　She interrupted me, motioning for me to lean down. I met her gaze, and before I could react, she kissed my cheek. "It's alright, Ralph. I like it when you touch me like this."

　　My heart skipped a beat, and most of my inner turmoil suddenly dissipated. "Alright," I said, taking her hand and kissing her ring finger, then placing the small box from my pocket into her hand. "And here's the gift I promised you."

　　Her eyes revealed genuine surprise as she slowly opened the box and saw the necklace designed especially for her, shimmering under the light. 

　　"Do you like it?"

　　"I love it, Ralph. It's so beautiful."

　　"I'm glad you like it, Wren," I smiled. "I hope to see you wearing it at the birthday banquet."

　　She carefully closed the box and held it close. "I will."

　　I looked at her seriously, my impulse getting the better of me. I cradled her face in my hands and leaned in slowly. 

　　She was startled initially but soon closed her eyes. 

　　I kissed her. 

　　She hugged my neck tightly, and I pulled her in closer, deepening the kiss. 

　　Her warm and soft tongue entwined with mine, and I smelled the pleasant fragrance on her body. 

　　After a long time, I gasped and let go of her. Before we separated, I gently bit her lower lip. 

　　She looked at me dazedly, her eyes bright, and her cheeks flushed due to lack of oxygen. Suddenly, I felt a little dry in my mouth and aroused in my body. I kissed her deeply again. 

　　She breathed heavily and responded passionately. 

　　I held the back of her head with one hand and involuntarily moved the other hand down to touch her waist. She smiled and grabbed my wrist, moving my hand to her really soft buttocks. 

　　I turned to kiss her neck, and my hand slid deeper under her dress to touch her thigh. She breathed louder, and her fair fingers touched my abs and slid down. 

　　Suddenly, urgent footsteps echoed outside the room, and two maids rushed in anxiously. 

　　One of them said, "Mr. Ralph, the Alpha requires your immediate presence!"