ALPHA UNIVERSE #5: DESIROUS

CHAPTER 45

Mornings at the estate were always bustling but still managed to retain a sense of calm. The long dining table accommodated everyone comfortably, and the array of freshly prepared dishes was as lavish as the familial bonds that flourished around it. Despite the informal closeness among the family members, proper manners and etiquette were upheld—an unspoken rule dictated by the elders.

Conversations during breakfast typically revolved around work and business. To outsiders, the steady stream of discussions about strategies, investments, and ventures might seem tedious, but for the families present, these talks were second nature. Each family had its own domain of influence, and the breakfast table often served as an informal boardroom.

This morning was no different. The hum of conversations filled the air until Sooyong, Harin's father and head of their branch of the family, cleared his throat.

"We'll be opening internships next year," he announced, his tone businesslike. "The goal is to absorb a few exceptionally talented individuals into our operations."

"Oh, great idea," Jiyong, the ever-charismatic uncle, chimed in with a teasing glint in his eye. "You could at least consider Jeno."

Jeno, who had been mid-bite, froze. His eyes widened as the unexpected attention landed squarely on him. He choked slightly on his food, prompting Harin to quickly pass him a glass of water. He gulped it down with a sheepish expression and glanced nervously around the table.

"Umm... may I ask what it was?" he managed to stammer out.

Jiyong leaned back in his chair, his smile widening. "Your father-in-law by bond is opening an internship program next year. Since you're starting university this year, you'd be eligible to apply. With good enough grades, you might even gain credit for it."

Before Jeno could respond, Sooyong interjected, his tone sharp but not unkind. "If he can achieve high records," he said, raising a brow, "then maybe I'll consider."

Jeno blinked, his mind racing to process the sudden challenge. He managed to keep his expression neutral, though the momentary widening of his eyes betrayed his surprise. Harin stifled a laugh beside him, while Jiyong winked playfully, clearly enjoying the tension.

Jeno felt Harin's reassuring hand squeeze his under the table. When he glanced at her, she gave him a small, encouraging smile.

As the conversation moved on, Harin leaned closer to him and whispered, "I wonder what Mom and the rest of the elders have been saying about us."

Jeno raised a brow, intrigued. "What do you mean?"

"Soonyoung said he overheard them talking late last night," Harin replied, her voice low. "They mentioned us. Specifically, you."

Jeno's stomach twisted slightly. "I hope whatever they said earns me some points."

Harin chuckled softly, her confidence a balm to his nerves. "Just be honest and stay true to yourself. You'll never do anything bad for us, right?"

"Of course not. Never," he said firmly, meeting her gaze.

"Then that's enough," she assured him, her eyes shining with warmth. "And I'll help you study if you need it. We'll get through this together."

Jeno's lips curved into a grateful smile. "Thank you, Harin. I promise I'll be an ideal alpha for you."

"You already are," she murmured, resting her head briefly against his shoulder before pulling away to finish her meal.