The air in the Mendes family's living room was thick with unspoken tension, the distinctive scents of new residents mixing with the formidable presence of Alpha Marco. He sat, an imposing figure of raw power and unyielding authority, listening with an intensity that brooked no interruption. His deep baritone, a sound that could tremor a listener's chest, was yet to be heard, but his presence alone commanded absolute silence.

Mrs. Mendes, with a nervous tremor in her hands, called her children to join them. Jasmine, the youngest, glanced at the Alpha, her breath catching. He was immense—tall, broad, every muscle beneath his plain black shirt a testament to his strength. His shoulders were wide, his neck thick, and even his jaw seemed carved for danger. A chill ran down her spine, a prickle of fear at the thought of such power, so casually contained.

Her brother, Jason, oblivious, continued to munch on his fries, while Manny, ever the coquette, primped her hair, adjusting her floral Sabrina dress to reveal more cleavage. A subtle wink to Jasmine, a silent declaration of her intentions. Jasmine, however, just lowered her head, a familiar wave of unease washing over her. This new life, under this terrifying Alpha, already felt overwhelming.