Dark Moon Alpha Twins

Cliff

Chapter 18

Aiden POV

The sounds pounding in my head made me think it was just a hangover from last night's drinking, but slowly I realized it was actually coming from our front door.

The pounding on the door continued, echoing through my throbbing head. I pushed Aric slightly. "Someone's here," I said, trying to wake him. "For you," I lied, hoping it would motivate him. But with his hangover, it was almost impossible to get him up.

More pounding followed, accompanied by someone knocking on our window. That finally got Aric up. He groaned, sitting up slowly and rubbing his temples.

"Alright, alright, I'm up," he muttered, stumbling out of bed.

We made our way to door, both of us still bleary-eyed and sluggish from the previous night's events. I opened the front door, expecting some urgent matter but instead, I was met with the sight of our parents and siblings, all yelling, "Happy birthday!" Balloons and breakfast trays filled their hands.

"Surprise!" our little brother Alex shouted, bouncing up and down with excitement.

Our mom, beamed at us. "We wanted to be the first to wish you a happy birthday."

Dad grinning, holding a tray loaded with pancakes, bacon, and eggs. "We thought we'd start your special day with a proper breakfast."

Aric and I exchanged a look, our hangovers momentarily forgotten. "Thanks, everyone," I said, stepping aside to let them in.

As they filed into the living room, setting the breakfast spread on the coffee table, Aura handed us each a balloon. "Happy birthday, big brothers!"

I ruffled her hair, feeling a wave of affection for our family. "Thanks, Aura."

Aric plopped down on the couch, a tired smile on his face. "This is awesome. Thanks, everyone."

We all settled in, digging into the delicious breakfast. The smell of freshly cooked food did wonders to help clear the fog from my mind. As we ate, the mood was light and festive, filled with laughter and well-wishes.

Dad looked at us both, his expression warm. "Today's a big day for you two. Your 21st birthday marks an important milestone, not just for you personally, but for the pack as well."

Mom nodded, her eyes shining with pride. "We're so proud of the men you've become."

Aric and I exchanged another glance, the weight of their words sinking in. Today wasn't just about celebrating our birthday; it was also a reminder of the Alpha Dad will choose to succeed him.

"Thanks, Mom, Dad," I said, feeling a surge of determination. "We won't let you down."

Everyone finally left our house, leaving me and Aric alone in the quiet aftermath of the birthday celebration.

Aric sighed heavily, running his hands through his hair. "I have to see Sophia before one of us is officially named Alpha."

I patted his back, understanding the weight of his words. "You know that one of us would overshadow Dad for a while until he actually steps down," I said.

"Yes, I know," Aric replied, his voice muffled as he buried his face in his hands. "But I won't be able to fully focus on that until my mind is put to rest."

He stood up, starting to pick up the leftover food from the table. I watched him for a moment, feeling a mix of empathy and frustration.

"You know you both have to be 21 in order to see if you're actually mates?" I said, standing up to help him clean.