Chapter 9

Osborne I dressed sharply in a tailored suit, the crest of my family displayed proudly on my chest. Alex walked in looking just as dignified, ready to accompany me to the party. “I still don’t get why you wouldn’t let me bring Miranda along,” he said from behind me. “I just don’t want too big of a crowd,” I replied casually. “So… are you finally going to tell me where you rushed off yesterday—and again today?” he pressed. I didn’t feel like answering. For some reason, I didn’t want to talk about the girl he’d rejected, not to him. But knowing Alex, he’d keep pushing until I gave him something. So I turned to him with a faint smile. “Well, it turns out your friend has found his mate.” His face lit up, and he patted my arm. “Oh? Well, congratulations! Who’s the lucky beauty? And why didn’t you tell me sooner, you psycho?” I chuckled. “You’ll see.” “Oh, so we’re playing that game, huh?” he said with a smirk. “Anyway, just so you know—Miranda and I will be holding our mating ceremony this