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Alpha Xavier stepped out of his sleek black vehicle with a commanding presence, his every movement exuding confidence and authority. He walked into the pharmacy with his sharp senses fully alert, scanning the room naturally as if it was second nature to him. 

His keen eyes immediately landed on Riya and Clem, who were standing near the medicine counter. However, his attention was quickly drawn to Clem’s restless demeanor. Clem seemed distracted, his movements uneasy, as if he was hiding something. As Alpha Xavier made his way to the elevator, Clem noticed him and, instead of staying near Riya, edged away from her. He took the opportunity to step forward and greet Xavier first. "Xavier," Clem said, his voice carrying a hint of nervousness as he forced a polite smile.  

The sound of Clem’s voice immediately caught Riya’s attention. She turned around quickly, her eyes widening in surprise when she saw Alpha Xavier. For a brief moment, her composure faltered, and she looked as though she’d been caught off guard. Thankfully, Clem’s interruption gave her just enough time to recover her expression. Using the opportunity to collect herself, Riya walked toward Alpha Xavier with an air of nonchalance, as though nothing unusual had happened. "Xavier, when did you come back?" she asked, her tone light and casual, masking the nerves that threatened to surface.  

"I just got back today," Alpha Xavier replied, his deep voice calm and steady. He studied Riya for a moment before asking the question that had been on his mind. "How’s my mother doing?"  

Riya’s features softened as she answered, "She’s recovering well, but her temper is just as fiery as ever. You know how she is. She doesn’t like to sit still for long." Her voice carried a hint of humor as she tried to lighten the mood, though the underlying tension between them remained.  

Alpha Xavier quickly realized that their conversation was becoming too personal, especially with Clem still standing nearby. Deciding it was time to end the interaction, he turned to Clem and bid him goodbye with a curt nod. As Clem began to leave, Alpha Xavier couldn’t help but notice that the man seemed slightly flustered. Was it just his imagination, or was Clem acting strange? His sharp gaze followed Clem as he walked away, a sense of curiosity stirring within him. Riya, noticing Xavier’s lingering stare, felt a faint thump in her chest. Forcing herself to remain calm, she plastered a smile on her face and asked casually, "Who was that just now?"  

Alpha Xavier’s brows furrowed slightly. Did Riya truly not know Clem? Had he misread the situation entirely? Deciding to probe further, he replied simply, "Craig’s driver."  

"Oh," Riya said, her tone sounding a bit indifferent. "The secretary’s driver," she added, as though she had no personal interest in the matter. Changing the subject, she explained, "I’ve been something of a local celebrity recently. People keep noticing me when I go out, so I came here to pick up some Honeysuckle soup for Madam."  

"You’ve worked hard," Alpha Xavier said sincerely, his tone softening. He knew how challenging it could be to take care of his mother, especially since her temper was infamous. Without him around to help, Riya had undoubtedly borne the brunt of Madam Elinor’s mood swings. "I’ll find two more nurses to help lighten your workload so you can rest for a bit," he offered thoughtfully.  

Riya’s reaction was swift and firm. "I don’t need to rest. I can take care of Madam," she said, her voice filled with determination. She knew Alpha Xavier was generous and paid her well—a salary far higher than she’d earn working elsewhere. Even though she had to endure Elinor’s sharp insults and unpredictable moods, it was worth it for the money. But more importantly, her position was part of Pamela’s larger scheme, and it was critical that she maintained her status. Allowing new nurses to take over would jeopardize everything.  

Fearing that Alpha Xavier might insist on hiring additional help, Riya quickly added, "I’ve been by Madam’s side for a long time. I know her preferences better than anyone else. If you bring someone new in, I’m sure she’ll be dissatisfied with their care." Her words were carefully chosen, designed to appeal to Xavier’s concern for his mother.  

Alpha Xavier considered her argument and nodded. "Alright, but if you ever feel like you can’t manage any longer, just tell me. I’ll make arrangements."  

After leaving Riya, Alpha Xavier returned to his car, where Bella was waiting patiently. As he settled into the driver’s seat, Bella turned to him with a concerned expression. "Is your mother alright?" she asked.  

"Riya said she’s fine. She’s recovering well," Alpha Xavier replied, his tone neutral as he started the car.  

"You should go and see her," Bella suggested gently.  

"I’ll find some time to visit her," he said, his voice thoughtful. With that, he drove away, accompanied by Mark. During their ride, Alpha Xavier shared his observations with Mark. "Those two acted like they didn’t know each other," he said, referring to Riya and Clem. "But something about their behavior felt off. Find out who Clem really is and report back to me."  

Mark nodded, his expression serious. "Understood," he said, ready to carry out the task.  

Meanwhile, back at Beta Craig’s house, Samantha was struggling with her father’s strict orders not to leave the house. Despite his prohibition, she couldn’t resist the urge to visit Elinor in the hospital. She decided to defy him, buying Elinor’s favorite foods and heading to the hospital. When Samantha arrived, Elinor’s face lit up with joy. She welcomed Samantha warmly, her happiness evident in the way she peppered her with questions. Samantha answered each one patiently, her gentle demeanor pleasing Elinor even more.  

"You’re such a sweet girl, Samantha," Elinor said, her tone affectionate. "You’re much more amiable than Bella ever was." After a pause, she leaned closer and asked, "Have you received any news yet?"  

Samantha hesitated, a shy smile crossing her face. "Not yet," she replied softly.  

"That one didn’t come, did it?" Elinor pressed, her excitement growing.  

"Not yet," Samantha repeated, shaking her head.  

"Make sure to check soon," Elinor urged, her eyes gleaming with hope. "If it’s good news..." She trailed off, her thoughts drifting to the possibilities. If Samantha were to bring positive news, it would mean everything to her. Perhaps even the start of a new chapter for Bella and Alpha Xavier.  

Later, Samantha informed Pamela about her visit to Elinor and the older woman’s reaction. The two discussed the situation in hushed tones, their expressions serious. When Beta Craig returned home, he issued a direct order to Pamela. "Prepare a child’s room," he said without preamble.  

Pamela didn’t need any explanation to understand what Beta Craig meant, though the notion irritated her. She loathed Bella’s son, but she kept her face neutral. "Does Bella plan to move in with her child?" she asked evenly.  

"Yes," Beta Craig confirmed, his tone curt. "The room should be beautifully decorated. Make sure it’s perfect."  

Aunt Maleah, overhearing the conversation, was thrilled by the news. "Leave it to me, Secretary," she said enthusiastically. "I’ll make sure the room is absolutely exquisite!"