Dark Moon Alpha Twins

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Chapter 7

Aric POV

Five years later,

We were now 20 years old, with our 21st birthday just a couple of months away. The years had passed quickly, filled with training, challenges, and growth. Aiden and I had graduated from school, and our paths had taken slightly different turns since then.

Aiden and Emily had stayed together, their bond growing stronger over the years. While Aiden still trained, he didn't dedicate every waking moment to it like I did. He balanced his time between training, spending time with Emily, and other pack responsibilities.

For me, it was different. All I did was train. I poured every ounce of my energy into becoming the best warrior I could be, honing my skills and pushing my limits. The drive to be the strongest and to protect our pack consumed me, leaving little room for anything else.

One late afternoon, as I finished an intense training session in the forest, I took a moment to catch my breath. The familiar burn of exhaustion and satisfaction coursed through my muscles. The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the trees, and I could hear the distant sounds of pack life echoing through the woods.

Aiden approached, his expression a mix of concern and admiration. "You're pushing yourself hard, Aric," he said, his tone gentle but firm.

"I have to," I replied, wiping sweat from my brow. "We're getting closer to taking on more responsibilities. I need to be ready."

Aiden nodded, understanding. "I get it. But don't forget to live a little, too. There's more to life than just training."

I looked at him, seeing the balance he had found in his life. "I know, Aiden. But this is what I'm good at. This is what I need to do."

He sighed, placing a hand on my shoulder. "Just don't lose yourself in it, okay? We need you. The pack needs you. And I need my brother."

I nodded, appreciating his concern. "I won't. I promise."

As we headed back to our parents' house for dinner, Aiden joined Emily in the kitchen, giving her a kiss on the cheek as he helped with dinner. I excused myself, running upstairs to my old bedroom to take a quick shower.

As I passed by Aura's room, she wrinkled her nose and held it theatrically. "Eww, you stink," she teased, grinning.

I laughed, shaking my head. "Thanks for the reminder, Aura. I'll be quick."

I stepped into the bathroom, the hot water a welcome relief after the intense training session. The shower washed away the grime and sweat, leaving me feeling refreshed and ready to join the family downstairs.

Once I was clean and dressed, I headed back down, the familiar sounds and smells of home filling the air. The kitchen was bustling with activity, Emily and Aiden working together seamlessly while Mom supervised, her face glowing with pride.

I took a seat at the table, greeting everyone with a smile. Dad came in from his office, joining us with a look of satisfaction. The table was soon filled with a delicious spread, the result of our combined efforts.

As we all sat down, the conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter and stories. The years might have changed us, but the core of our family remained the same—strong, supportive, and united.

During dinner, Mom looked at me with a knowing smile. "How was training, Aric?"

"Intense, as always," I replied, taking a bite of the delicious food. "But it was good. I'm feeling ready for whatever comes next."

Dad nodded, his eyes filled with pride. "You've worked hard, both of you. Your dedication shows."

Everyone went quiet for a minute, the air heavy with the unspoken understanding that Aiden and I would eventually fight each other to claim the Alpha title.