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He even brought flowers for my mother and Harmony like the gentlemen he is. Mom beams with joy when he hands her the beautiful bouquet, and Harmony looks a bit flustered. She isn’t used to receiving flowers.

“And what about me?” my dad grins. “I love white lilies.”

“You like to receive flowers?” Liam asks in interest.

“Oh goodness gracious, Dad,” Harmony groans.

Steve rolls his eyes. “Dad, try not to embarrass her within the first five minutes!”

“It’s only been two minutes,” Harmony agrees.

My father just shrugs and grins brightly. “Welcome to the family, son,” he exclaims loudly, smacking Liam’s back like he wasn’t one of the most powerful Lycans in the country. Behind them I notice how Dante can barely contain his amusement.

Liam raises his eyebrows before he turns to look at me. “I’m starting to understand,” he states evenly.

My mother chuckles and puts an arm around my shoulder, leading me inside.

Dad is barbecuing for us. It’s his pride to always do it himself. It’s a very manly hobby.

“I hope you like spareribs and cutlet, Alpha Liam,” Dad laughs loudly and elbows Liam like a close friend.

“You are putting too much effort into this, Mr Preston. I’m not a special guest. Also, call me Liam.”

“Call me Brian then.”

“Brian,” Liam nods.

“That’s the least I could do,” Dad mutters, his eyes filling with tears. “After all, I have to make sure you look after my baby well. I can’t protect her anymore when she isn’t here.”

“What do you mean she will leave?” Steve asks, horrified. “She can’t leave. No, Annie!”

“They're not going to have a long-distance relationship Steve,” mom says evenly from the side. “Here, Liam.” She hands him a glass with punch and chuckles softly. “You might need it.”

He nods his head. “Thank you.” He turns to look at my father. “I will treat her with all the respect and love she deserves, Brian.” His words make me blush slightly, my heart leaping with happiness.

“I’m counting on you to do that,” Dad says, sounding more serious suddenly before his gaze catches me. His eyes soften instantly. “My princess, what am I going to do without you?”

“Goddess, are you dramatic,” Harmony complains. “She is not leaving the continent! Silverlake is only an hour away.”

“That’s pretty far,” Steve mutters.

“Okay,” mom chuckles. “Come Annie, Harmony. Let’s leave the guys to wallow in their drama. I have prepared some salads. Let’s bring them outside. Alpha Cedric and Celine are dropping by any minute.” When we hurry inside, she takes my hand into hers. “Annie,” she looks at me softly. “I always prayed to the Moon Goddess that my children will be gifted with good mates. That they will always be treated well. He does treat you well, doesn’t he?”

I nod. I can’t help a smile from spreading across my lips. “Please tell me you like him, Mom.”

“Looks like a keeper to me,” she says contently. “And he is absolutely smitten by you.”

My mother has prepared so much food as if we invited the whole pack. The three of us take everything outside just in time for Alpha Cedric, Celine, and a few officials and friends to come. There are a few pack warriors, too, some of my parents’ close friends. My father is well-liked and respected within the pack.

“Are you cooking for an army, Brian?” Alpha Cedric asks in amusement.

“It’s all Rosy’s fault,” Dad complains.

Mom snorts and nudges him with her elbow. He reacts swiftly by capturing her with his free arm and pulling her close. “Guess who was scared we wouldn't have enough food for our guests and set out again to buy more?” she teases.

“I just wanted to be prepared,” he protests. “Liam is a Lycan and an Alpha. I know how much you Alphas can eat.”

Celine nods slightly. “I can definitely verify that statement,” she looks at her father and shows him a small smile.