ALPHA UNIVERSE #6: CRAVING YOU

EPILOGUE

"Good morning, everyone. I'm Mark Lee," the alpha introduced himself with a polite bow, his deep voice carrying effortlessly across the room. Applause erupted as the new recruits acknowledged his presence, excitement buzzing through the air.

Mark waited a moment for the claps to subside before continuing, his expression calm and professional.

"Congratulations on passing the interview. I hope you'll enjoy your time here, and I look forward to seeing many of you grow in the years to come. My office is on the last floor, left side. If you ever have personal concerns that require my attention, you're welcome to visit," he added, his tone even yet welcoming.

As soon as he stepped back, whispers began to ripple through the group.

"I swear, I'll work here until I die. I can't believe the Vice President is that hot."
"I don't think he's single, though. Did you see the ring on his finger?"
"His scent is so sexy. Do you think he has kids?"
"I'm curious if he's really mated or if that ring is just for show."
"Shhh, don't you have any sense of respect?"
"Hold your blood, girl. You're acting like Mr. Lee's your mate."
"Me? I'm just curious about who his mate is."
"Why? Hoping you can challenge his mate?"
"You guys are ridiculous. We came here to work."
"Shut up. Oh my God, he's looking this way!"
"No way—he's looking at me!"

Mark, who was already stepping aside to let the head of HR speak, simply flashed a small, knowing smile at the chatter.

He had heard it all before.

The HR department head stepped forward to address the recruits.

"You've all been assigned to your respective departments. Please report to your office heads for your desk spaces and initial tasks. It was a pleasure meeting you all. Make us proud."

Another round of applause followed as the orientation concluded. Mark exhaled subtly before making his way to his seat, taking the empty spot beside Giselle, who immediately leaned toward him with an amused grin.

"They like you," she teased.

Mark raised a brow. "Who?"

Giselle scoffed, shaking her head. "The recruits, dummy. I can smell their seductive scents from here."

Mark chuckled, leaning back in his seat. "It'll pass."

"You say that, but it never really does," she mused. "Anyway, is the lunch plan still on?"

"Hmm... I guess? I need to check if my girls can come over during lunch."

"Right, Kielle has a recital today. What if we just reschedule for tomorrow or whenever? You should at least show up for her."

"I really want to, but she said she understood," Mark admitted, a fond smile curling his lips. "I can't believe how fast they're growing... They even sound more mature now."

Giselle sighed dramatically, nudging him playfully. "Please. You and Elle are the best parents to them. Even with your packed schedules, you always make time for them. I'm proud of you, Mark."

Mark huffed a laugh, shaking his head. "Thanks. But enough about me. How's Shotaro doing in Japan?"

Giselle rolled her eyes. "Oh, please. That kid won't even leave his papa's tail. They're the perfect definition of partners in crime."