CHAPTER 41

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It wasn't surprising that alphas were gradually returning to their routines, swarming through the workplace as if the world hadn't paused for them.

The building was alive with movement—the third floor fully occupied, and the ground-floor lobby bustling with talents and visitors alike. Amid the lively chaos, two figures occupied the metaphorical hot seat, their exchange drawing quiet attention despite their effort to blend in.


"You've been bonded, haven't you?" Aiki remarked, her sharp eyes studying the younger alpha seated across from her.

Harin chuckled, leaning back in her chair with an air of unbothered confidence. "I mean, I'm not exactly trying to hide it."

Aiki grinned mischievously and slung an arm around Harin's shoulders. "Young lady, you're in for a ride. So, who's the lucky person to have secured the queen?"

Harin smirked. "A king."

Aiki gasped theatrically, nearly toppling from her chair in mock shock. "Oh, spare me! A king? Really?"

Harin shrugged, laughing. "From some perspectives, yeah."

"Let me guess—this is either about social status or... gender dynamics?" Aiki leaned in, eyes twinkling with curiosity.

"The latter."

"No way. You!" Aiki's exclamation turned heads, but she ignored the attention, moving closer to Harin like she was about to uncover the juiciest gossip. "You're with a pureblood alpha, aren't you?"


Harin's cheeks flushed, her silence giving her away.


"Oh my god," Aiki squealed, half in excitement and half in disbelief. "You two must be explosive together! No wonder you smell... stronger now."

"Is it overwhelming?" Harin asked, a hint of worry creeping into her tone.

"No, no. But, to be honest, it's a bit... intimidating. That scent carries serious ownership vibes."

Harin frowned. "I'm not scaring the students, am I?"

Aiki shook her head. "Nah, it's normal. It's not scary—it just screams, 'Back off; this one's taken.' You're fine."


The truth was undeniable. The pureblood alpha's scent clung to Harin like an invisible shield. Even without actively scenting her, Jeno's presence was etched into her aura, a palpable warning to anyone who dared come close.

And Jeno had his own unmistakable mark as well. It wasn't just the bite on his neck, peeking boldly from his collar. His entire being radiated a fierce, unapproachable energy—a territorial declaration in the form of raw pheromones.

That aura didn't go unnoticed.


On the far side of the building, another pureblood stepped into Jeno's path, blocking his way. Jaehyun's expression was unreadable, his stance casual but firm, signaling he wasn't there for pleasantries.


"Feeling bitter?" Jeno asked, his lips curling into a lopsided grin. "Regretting your choices now?"


Jaehyun's face remained neutral, but his silence spoke volumes.


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