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Chapter 1 Unexpected Pregnancy "Doctor, I don't want this baby." Autumn Rowan glanced down at the test results on the desk, her brow furrowing. "You need to think this through very carefully. Your uterine wall is unusually thin. If you terminate, there's a strong chance you'll never be able to conceive again. "And," the doctor said, studying Autumn's pale face with a steady, patient look as she explained the situation. She pointed at the ultrasound printout. "It shows two embryos." "Well..." A flicker of fear crossed Autumn's face. She stood up in a fluster, kept her head low, and added, "I'll think it over some more." "Yes, talk it through with your boyfriend. It's best not to make a decision like this all on your own." The doctor got a general sense of the situation just from watching the young woman's reaction. She rose from her chair, walked over to Autumn, and patted her gently on the shoulder. 'Boyfriend?' Autumn's expression darkened the second she heard that word. She gripped the lab report tightly in her hand, a sharp pain stabbing through her chest. 'If she hadn't come back, this would've been the most wonderful news imaginable, but the way things are now...' "Thank you, Doctor. I'll take my leave then." Autumn offered the doctor a polite, slight bow of gratitude, then turned and walked briskly toward the stairwell. The cleaning lady sweeping the floor happened to spot Autumn walking out of the obstetrics department looking utterly lost. The woman pursed her lips and turned toward another woman wiping down chairs nearby, muttering under her breath, "Looks like another unplanned one. What number is that just today? College kids these days, honestly..." Autumn had just stepped out of the hospital when the phone in her bag started to vibrate. She fished out her phone and saw the name she least wanted to deal with at this moment flashing on the screen: Charles Goodman. She pressed her lips together and answered anyway. "Where are you? I need to talk to you about something." Charles's voice came through as cold and detached as it always was. "I'm out shopping." Autumn glanced at the test report and told a lie. "Come home right now." After delivering that one line, Charles ended the call directly. Autumn let out a bitter laugh. She stared at the now-dark screen she was still holding in midair, then slipped the phone quietly into her coat pocket. She folded the lab report carefully and tucked it into the inner compartment of her handbag. She had just reached the front door of the villa when Ben Coleman, the butler, stepped forward to greet her. "Mrs. Goodman." Autumn returned a smile and nodded at him, but when she noticed his expression seemed a little strained, she asked, "Ben, what's the matter?" "Please go on inside, ma'am. Mr. Charles is waiting for you." Ben sidestepped the question. As he usually did, he reached out to take her handbag. Autumn quickly pulled the bag behind her back for safety. "It's fine, I'll hold onto it myself." With that, she headed inside. She had only taken a few steps when the sound of familiar laughter drifted over from the living room. Autumn's stride hitched. 'She's here already?' She had just gotten word that very morning that Vivian Sheffield was back in the country. "Hey, Autumn. I was just telling Charles you'd be coming. Wait a moment, I'll go get him." Vivian rose gracefully to her feet and greeted Autumn with a beaming smile, then turned and headed toward the kitchen. Autumn followed Vivian's path with her eyes and looked toward the kitchen, where Charles stood washing grapes, his head bent low over the sink. He was still in his work clothes, a white shirt and suit trousers, a sight that starkly contrasted with the domestic task he was performing. Autumn's face turned even more pale. In three years of marriage, Charles had never once washed any fruit for her, and he had not even poured her so much as a glass of water. She had always thought he was just a pampered rich heir who'd been waited on since birth, that he was just used to being taken care of and had never learned how to take care of anyone else. It turned out he simply had never cared to take care of her. "Charles, Autumn's here. Let's go sit." Vivian's voice was soft and tender. Autumn stood motionless near the doorway, her body stiff. The words Vivian had used were "Autumn's here," not "Autumn's back," which sounded as if she was the outsider in the house. Autumn let out a self-mocking laugh and walked toward the sofa. Charles had already taken a seat and set the fruit down on the glass coffee table at the same time. Vivian smoothed out the skirt of her white dress and sat down beside him, a move that looked perfectly natural and expected. Autumn's eyes dimmed for a second. She sat down on the sofa opposite them and placed her handbag at her side. "Autumn, have some grapes. They're really sweet." Vivian held one out toward Autumn. "Thank you, but I don't really care for grapes." Autumn politely declined. Charles, in response to that, finally lifted his head and cast a casual glance her way. Feeling that scrutinizing look land on her, Autumn met Charles's eyes with a calm and open expression, her face completely free of any reaction. "Charles, here, it's for you." As she spoke, Vivian leaned forward slightly and lifted a single grape right up to Charles's lips. He bit down on the grape without a moment's hesitation. "Autumn, both Charles and I love grapes. It's a shame you don't like them." Vivian settled back into her seat with a smile. The doctor's words were still swirling around in Autumn's mind, so she barely registered Vivian's little performance. In a daze, she caught the last part of the sentence and asked, sounding confused, "What did you just say about how it's a shame I don't like them?" Charles frowned a little. He seemed clearly dissatisfied that Autumn had zoned out a moment ago, and his tone carried a hint of impatience. "That doesn't matter. I asked you to come home because I need to tell you something. "Vivian just got back to the country. Her family is overseas, her apartment is still being renovated, and she needs a place to stay for the time being. She'll live with us for one month." Autumn swept her gaze across Vivian and Charles. The two of them sitting together right now made her feel like an outsider in her own home. She paused for a second, then spoke with visible reluctance. "Actually, Miss Sheffield could stay at a hotel. I worry that having her stay here with us might be a little... inconvenient..." "There's nothing inconvenient about it. It's decided. Vivian, let me show you your room." Charles cut Autumn off mid-sentence. He stood up, smoothed out the wrinkles on his shirt, and turned toward the staircase. "Sorry about this, Autumn. I'm only borrowing a room for a month. I'll move out the moment the renovations are finished." Vivian got up with practiced elegance. The corner of her mouth lifted into a faint, almost imperceptible smile of triumph. She looked down at Autumn, who was sitting there a little stunned, and followed Charles upstairs. "Mrs. Goodman." Wanda Jenkins, the housekeeper, stood there wringing her hands a little as she looked at Autumn's face, not knowing quite what to say. "Wanda, have you ever seen Charles wash fruit for anyone before?" Autumn forced the corners of her mouth into a truly awful, pained attempt at a smile and asked the question in a tone dripping with self-mockery. "Oh, Mrs. Goodman, please don't take it to heart. Mr. Charles is..." Wanda took in the sight of Autumn's pale face and let out a sigh. She had seen this very scene three years ago, back when Charles used to wash fruit for Vivian too. But she was afraid that if she said that out loud, Autumn would look even worse. In the early days of the marriage, Autumn had been so incredibly devoted to Charles, a fact all the household staff had seen with their own eyes, even if he had remained cold and indifferent the entire time. 'And now... well, things are only going to get harder,' Wanda feared. "It's okay, Wanda, you don't need to explain. I'm going to my room." Autumn drew a deep breath. There was not a single trace of color left in her face now. She got to her feet and started toward the stairs that led to the bedrooms. When she passed the second floor, she heard Charles's voice drifting out from somewhere. "Vivian, you're finally back." Autumn's body swayed unsteadily. She quickened her pace and headed directly up toward the third floor, afraid she might overhear any other words that would cut her to the bone. Chapter 2 Conflict When Autumn finally emerged from the bathroom after a long, lingering shower and blow-dried her hair, the bedroom was still empty, only herself in it. She felt a bit surprised and tapped her phone to check the time. The screen read 00:30. She pressed her lips together and called Charles. The call connected almost immediately. "Yes?" Charles's voice sounded different from usual, less detached. Autumn could tell right away he had been drinking. A voice shouted over the line from his end, "Charles, stop with the phone already. Vivian's finally back. Come on, let's drink..." Autumn heard those words and hung up without another thought. She set her phone aside, thinking that there was no need to ask anything further since the answer was already laid out plain in front of her. Vivian had only moved in a single day ago, and already she had so effortlessly pulled Charles right out of Autumn's grasp. Autumn let out a sigh and gently touched her lower belly. "Oh, my babies, I was planning to tell your daddy this happy news, but looking at how things are now, that seems impossible. "If your daddy and I end up going separate ways, would you be willing to stay and live with me?" She walked over to the wardrobe and was just about to pull open the door when she accidentally caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. Under the warm yellow light, her lips were still completely colorless, and her face looked even paler than it did on an ordinary day. Autumn steadied her emotions, then placed her handbag into the corner of the wardrobe, deciding that pregnancy test report would just have to remain a secret forever. After putting the bag away, Autumn lay still on the bed, her long hair spreading out freely across the pillow. The dim light made her silhouette look even thinner. She stared up at the ceiling, and as she thought back on the past few years of their marriage, she suddenly felt like a complete joke. In three years of marriage, Charles had never been particularly warm toward her, but he had also never once spent a whole night away from home. They might not have been as affectionate as a typical married couple, but they had at least treated each other with courtesy and respect. She had always thought they would just keep going like that for the rest of their lives, especially now that they were going to have children. The more she thought, the redder her eyes became. She hurriedly shook her head and rubbed her stomach. She could not afford to get emotional right now. A thought suddenly darted into her mind. 'Maybe I should just ask for a divorce.' Once that idea took hold, she started planning. If she were to get a divorce, she absolutely had to keep the pregnancy a secret from Charles. After all, if Charles ever decided to fight for custody of the children, she would stand absolutely no chance. So she needed to think very carefully about how to hide it from him. Due to the pregnancy drowsiness, she soon drifted off into a deep sleep while still mulling things over. At some point in her daze, the bedroom door was violently forced open. Autumn jolted awake, so startled that she thought a burglar had broken into the house. She grabbed the phone by her pillow to call the police, but the man lunged straight at her. The natural physical strength difference between a man and a woman left her unable to move. She was so terrified that she accidentally pressed something on the phone, and the sudden glow of the screen light revealed that the figure before her was Charles. "Why did you hang up on me?" Charles was still wearing the black suit from earlier in the day, the sapphire bow tie at his collar still perfectly unwrinkled. But the drunkenness was clearly visible on his face. Normally he always wore a cold and aloof expression, but right now his brows were tightly furrowed and his tone carried an unmistakable note of reproach. Autumn suddenly felt a flare of irritation. She had no desire to exchange many words with a drunk. The scene from their wedding night three years ago was still vivid in her mind, and it left her feeling agitated and restless. She tried to push Charles away, but the drunken man remained stubborn and steady, with an air that suggested he absolutely would not let it go unless she answered him. Awakened so abruptly and now talking about this, Autumn felt a brief pang of grievance, but she quickly pushed the emotion back down. "I know you took Vivian out to meet up with your friends. "What was I supposed to do, stay on the line and wait? Wait for you to invite me along to drink with them?" Charles looked at her with a very earnest expression and said, "You could've asked. If you'd asked, I would've taken you with me." Staring into his eyes, which looked so utterly sincere, Autumn could not tell for a moment if he was only pretending to be drunk. But then she thought about how he normally kept her at a thousand miles' distance, and a chill ran through her heart. Her inner resolve to divorce grew a bit stronger. She gave him an impatient shove and said, "You're drunk. Get off me. The smell of alcohol on you is suffocating. Vivian probably doesn't mind it, so go to her instead." Upon those words, Charles abruptly stood up, pulled open the wardrobe, grabbed a bathrobe, and headed straight toward the bathroom, though his steps were a little unsteady. Autumn turned over, buried her head in the pillow, and went back to sleep. She told herself she was a pregnant woman now and had to take good care of herself. Early the next morning, Autumn woke up to find the spot beside her already empty. She stretched her arms and got up to go downstairs for breakfast. Wanda had already prepared breakfast according to her preferences and laid it out on the table. Autumn had just taken a sip of her soup when she saw Vivian coming down the stairs. Unlike Autumn, who was still in her nightgown, Vivian was wearing a flawlessly tailored dress, her makeup artfully alluring, even every strand of her hair looking perfectly polished. In a soft, sweet voice, she called out, "Wanda, is my breakfast ready?" Wanda heard her voice and hurried out from the kitchen, carrying her breakfast and placing it on the table. Autumn could not help but see it, because it was set down directly across from her own breakfast: the exact same soup, a hot latte, and the butter croissant that Autumn loved most. "Autumn, you don't mind if I sit down and have breakfast with you, do you?" Without waiting for Autumn to answer, Vivian took her seat with deliberate grace, smoothed out her skirt, and elegantly lifted her coffee cup. "That's fine." Autumn answered without really thinking. She had sorted out her thoughts the night before. Right now, the most important thing to her was her babies. She had never been an indecisive person, and once she decided on something, she needed to see it through as quickly as possible. So she paid no attention to Vivian's behavior. Vivian smiled and asked, "Don't you want to know where Charles and I went last night? I heard from Jason that Charles has never once taken you to meet any of them." Autumn's brow twitched slightly. 'She's clearly here to pick a fight.' Not to mention Jason Ford, she had not met a single one of Charles's friends. 'Yet the moment Vivian got back, Charles couldn't wait to take her to see them,' she mused. 'She truly is the one he holds closest to his heart.' "Oh, I'm just not a person who enjoys noisy crowds by nature." Autumn was bristling inside, but she refused to look bad. "Is that so?" Vivian let out a little laugh. "I suspect it's more likely Charles simply didn't want to take you." Autumn lifted her eyes and met her head-on. She took a sip of her coffee and spoke in a cool, even tone. "Miss Sheffield, what exactly are you implying? "You're merely staying here as a guest in my home. I suggest you conduct yourself with some dignity." Vivian leaned back in her chair, letting her body stretch out more comfortably, a provocative look settling on her face. "I'm staying at Charles's house." A short, humorless laugh escaped Autumn. "Miss Sheffield, allow me to remind you that Charles and I are still legally married at this moment. If you fail to grasp that, I can show you our marriage certificate. "And if your time abroad has left you confused, I would be happy to educate you on the marriage laws of this country along the way. "This villa is our home. Grandpa bought it for the two of us when we got married, and my name is on the property deed as well." Autumn was never a pushover. She had kept up a gentle and dignified image solely for the sake of being a proper Mrs. Goodman, but now that Vivian was back, she probably would not hold that position for much longer. There was no need to indulge someone who was wrecking her marriage, especially now that the bullying was directed straight at her head. She absolutely would not tolerate it. Chapter 3 Let's Get a Divorce Vivian was a bit taken aback. Watching the composed way Autumn carried herself, she had assumed Autumn was a meek little lamb she could push around as she pleased, but now things were turning out quite differently. Just as Vivian's face flushed crimson then drained pale in quick succession and she was racking her brain for a comeback, the living room door was pushed open from outside. A man with a tall, straight posture walked in. Autumn lifted her eyes and immediately caught sight of Charles's sharp, well-defined jawline. He swept a piercing gaze across the people in the living room, a pair of slim gold-rimmed glasses resting on his high-bridged nose. The crisp, impeccably tailored black suit he wore gave his entire presence an air of cold detachment. "Charles." Vivian's voice took on a faint tearful quiver. With an affected delicacy, she braced herself against the edge of the table and rose to her feet, her steps slightly unsteady. The corners of her mouth pressed downward, and her eyes reddened at the rims, as if tears might spill over the very next second. Hearing her call out like that, Charles immediately spotted the rather pale look on Vivian's face. His brow tightened, and he snapped out a reprimand. "Autumn, what's wrong with you?" Autumn watched the scene unfold with cold detachment. Seeing how Charles had jumped to Vivian's defense without a moment's thought, half her heart went cold. A spark of anger flared up in her as well, and she shot back in an irritated tone, "What do you mean, what's wrong with me?" "Apologize to Vivian," Charles said, his face stern. "Not a chance," Autumn replied, every bit as stubborn. 'Why on earth should I have to apologize? No way I'll do it.' She had already made up her mind about the divorce, so she was not going to relent in any way right now. "Charles." Vivian's long, delicate lashes fluttered. "Maybe I accidentally upset Autumn and caused her to misunderstand. Please don't be angry. It's all my fault. I should be the one apologizing to her." Autumn cursed inwardly, 'Damn, what a sweet little schemer. That instant face-changing act is truly something else.' Charles gently soothed Vivian, completely ignoring Autumn. "It's not your fault. It's only natural you would have some things to get used to just after moving in. Autumn is older than you. She should be the bigger person and let things slide." Watching Charles shield Vivian so fiercely, a wave of bitterness surged up inside Autumn. Three years of marriage, and even if there had been no deep love, that didn't mean she had never invested her genuine feelings. Yet Charles's actions disappointed her so deeply. He hadn't even given her the most basic respect. With that thought, she set her coffee cup down on the table with a weighty clunk, stood up, and walked toward the stairs. Charles's expression darkened further. He fixed his eyes on Autumn's retreating figure, a pensive look settling on his face. Vivian observed the shift in Charles's expression. She lowered her head, and as her eyes turned downward, a cold, fleeting glint passed through them. "I'm going upstairs for a moment, Vivian. Wait here for me," Charles said. Without even waiting for Vivian to respond, he strode straight toward the staircase. Charles shoved the door open with considerable force. Autumn frowned and complained, "Could you at least be a little more mindful about how loud you open the door? It's incredibly rude." She had fully anticipated that he would follow her up. "And you were so polite to Vivian just now?" he retorted. "What now? Have you come to back Miss Sheffield up, Mr. Goodman?" Autumn was genuinely provoked now. She had originally thought that when she walked off in a huff, he would, at least to some degree, try to soothe her mood. As it turned out, she had wildly overestimated her own importance in his eyes. 'Mr. Goodman?' Charles froze for a solid second. Flames seemed to ignite at the back of his eyes, and he spoke through what sounded like gritted teeth. "Autumn, what kind of talk is this? I'm your husband, and you're calling me Mr. Goodman?" Autumn laughed out of sheer fury. "What else am I supposed to call you? Mr. Goodman, do you even remember that you're my husband? Have you ever once stood up for me? "If I hadn't just seen how fiercely you defend Vivian, I would've thought you were nothing but a cold, heartless block of ice by nature." Charles's face clouded over, and his tone turned even more severe. "Is that seriously what you think of me? If you hadn't been rude to Vivian first, would I be asking you to apologize to her?" "Mr. Goodman, do yourself a favor and go get your eyes examined. How did you see me being rude to her? Do you have x-ray vision or something? "You already knew I was bullying her before you even walked through the door?" Autumn grabbed the throw pillow in her hands and flung it straight at him. The pillow struck Charles square in the chest. He looked down at the floral cushion that tumbled to the floor and found himself momentarily stunned. In three years of marriage, he had never once seen Autumn so thoroughly unglued and aggressive. The image he had always carried of her was that of a smiling, gentle, and courteous woman. Even though he knew her true nature was actually quite stubborn, whenever disagreements arose after they married, Autumn had always been mindful of his feelings and would soften each time to placate him. But ever since Vivian moved into their home, it seemed as though she had changed somehow. And in the past, on the occasions when he came home a little late, Autumn would always leave a single soft lamp glowing by the bedside, waiting for his return. It had never been like the night before, when the bedroom had been completely dark and she had long gone to sleep, no longer waiting up for him. Autumn drew a deep breath, as if she had just summoned up an enormous reserve of resolve. "Charles, let's get a divorce." Charles stood there, completely stunned. Autumn pressed on, "You don't have any feelings for me anyway. Now that Vivian's back, I can see perfectly well how you feel about her. So I'll just step aside for the two of you." After saying these words, Autumn felt a sense of release wash through her whole body. So much of the time, she had felt she could never truly hold onto him and that she was bound to lose him sooner or later anyway. Rather than living in a constant state of worry, she thought it was far better to make a clean, complete break, letting him go and setting herself free in the process. "How very generous of you." The look on Charles's face plummeted to a freezing point. Autumn watched as he showed not the slightest hint of refusal, and despite feeling a sharp pang in her heart, she believed this was better for everyone involved. "Then let's hurry up and get the paperwork done. "You don't have many belongings here. Pack your things and move out together with Vivian." Charles raised an eyebrow. "What kind of nonsense are you talking? Me move out? This house was bought by Grandpa. And did I say I agreed to a divorce?" Autumn tilted her head and fixed him with a look that was a wry half-smile, her voice carrying a note of gentle mockery. "You can't be serious, Charles. "I'm making this huge sacrifice to step aside for the two of you, and you won't even leave me a roof over my head?" "I'm not getting a divorce. Don't bring it up again in the future," Charles said, his irritation plain. He gave his tie a rough, impatient yank, then turned and walked away. 'He won't divorce me?' She raised an eyebrow. That answer caught her completely off guard. She'd assumed he'd be in a frantic rush to divorce her and marry Vivian as soon as possible. Autumn picked the pillow up off the floor, crossed her legs, and settled onto the sofa in the bedroom. She couldn't figure out what was going through Charles's mind. 'He clearly doesn't love me, so why would he refuse a divorce? Could it be that he wants to keep one at home and have another one on the side?' The instant that thought landed, a look of sudden dawning comprehension spread across her face. 'That's got to be it. And he's not even trying to hide it. He's boldly gone and brought the other woman straight into our home to live with us.' She let out a sneer inwardly. 'It seems Charles truly doesn't know me at all.' Three years ago, both of them had been unattached. They had been schoolmates in neighboring classes back in the day, so they at least knew of each other to some degree. Under their families' arrangement, the two had gotten married. Before the wedding, she'd even heard that Charles once had someone he loved with all his heart, but his confession had been rejected and the love had gone unrequited, which was why he'd agreed to the marriage out of sheer hopeless resignation. Charles was always rather distant toward her, but Autumn didn't mind at the time. She believed feelings could be cultivated over time. Besides, the Goodman family wielded immense power and influence in Riverside City, and on top of that, Charles was exceptionally good-looking. Plenty of young women were lining up for the chance to marry him. All things considered, she wasn't losing out in the slightest. So this marriage was one she had entered into willingly. As she recalled the past, Autumn gave the corner of her mouth a self-mocking tug. She had a deeply ingrained streak of emotional fastidiousness. She was absolutely not going to be like those other wealthy wives who cared only that their husband provided the money and came home once in a while, completely turning a blind eye to however many women he kept on the outside. Besides, Vivian was uniquely special to Charles. Just as Autumn was lost in these brooding thoughts, her phone rang. She pulled it out and glanced at the screen. The word "Grandpa" was flashing on it. She hurriedly pressed the answer button. "Hey, Grandpa." "Autumn." Robert Goodman's tone was distinctly laced with concern. "I've heard that Vivian is staying at your place?" "Yes, she's just staying temporarily for a little while. She'll move out soon," Autumn replied. Afraid of making Robert worry, she chose not to elaborate on anything. Robert's voice, though carrying the slight wear of age, remained firm and left no room for argument. "You and Charles are to come back here together tonight, girl. I'll take charge of this matter." "Grandpa..." Autumn hesitated. She had a feeling Charles would most likely not be willing to accompany her, but she didn't know how to explain that to Robert. "Say no more, girl. I'll arrange everything. I'll send a car to pick you up this afternoon," he said. Then, without another word, he hung up the phone. Realizing she simply couldn't refuse, Autumn got up and began changing her clothes, starting her preparations early. She stepped into the walk-in closet. An entire wall of luxury handbags lined the space, all gifts Charles had given her over the past few years. He never bothered to care about what she actually liked and simply bought whatever new releases came out. At the very beginning, Autumn still tried to decline, but Charles had shut her down with a single line. "As Mrs. Goodman, these items are to match your status. Don't embarrass me out there." Chapter 4 Grandpa Stands Up for Her Autumn casually picked out a limited edition bag from this spring's collection, then carefully selected a strand of lustrous pearls to pair with her black dress. She let her long hair down, letting it fall loosely over her shoulders, and touched up her makeup in the mirror with a powder puff. A knock sounded at the door. Autumn asked with a note of confusion, "What is it?" Wanda said respectfully, "Mrs. Goodman, the family driver is already waiting for you at the door. Please come down once you're ready." "Alright, got it, Wanda." Autumn grabbed her bag and opened the door. The moment she walked downstairs, she spotted that irritating figure sitting on the living room sofa. Watching Autumn descend, Vivian's eyes couldn't hide their envy. Autumn didn't spare her a single glance and headed straight toward the foyer. She had initially wanted to wear high heels, but after thinking about the babies in her belly, Autumn chose a pair of elegant flats instead. Pushing open the door, Autumn froze for a second. Charles was standing right there at the entrance. Hearing the sound, Charles turned his head and glanced back at her. Just one glance, and he couldn't tear his eyes away. What met his gaze was a delicate face, her skin smooth and lustrous, her brows soft and gentle. Her eyes sparkled like a sky full of stars, clean and crystal clear, and her cherry lips were slightly parted. The strands of hair by her cheeks fluttered lightly in the breeze, adding an extra touch of allure. She had put on a black dress today on purpose, revealing the beautiful lines of her shoulders and neck. Her fair skin looked even more translucent and luminous against the black fabric. The white pearls and the tiny diamonds adorning the hem of her dress made her entire aura seem all the more noble and elegant. Charles had never said it out loud, but he'd always loved the way Autumn looked with light, natural makeup. She only needed the faintest touch of cosmetics to completely captivate a man's soul. Autumn caught the fleeting flash of stunned admiration in Charles's eyes with perfect precision. In the past, this would've made her shy, and she would've secretly rejoiced in her heart. But now, things were different. Her voice came out a little cold as she spoke. "What are you doing here?" Charles was irritated by her coldness. "Autumn, your nonsense has got to have a limit. You're only this way because I've been too lenient with you all this time." Autumn hooked the corner of her lip upward. "Oh, really? You've been very lenient with me, Mr. Goodman? I wasn't aware of it." Charles tugged at his tie with a hint of impatience, his brows knitted as he spoke. "Autumn, take a good look at your entire outfit. "Your handbag is a limited edition I picked up for you on my business trip abroad. It cost hundreds of thousands. And that string of pearls? It's also worth a fortune..." Autumn let out a short laugh, her tone mocking. "So this is what you mean by being lenient with me, just buying me luxury goods? You're really quite shallow." Charles had never been called shallow before in his life. A wave of displeasure washed over him, and with a cold expression, he pulled the car door open and climbed straight in. "Sorry to have kept you waiting, David." Autumn smiled warmly at the driver, the expression on her face immediately softening. "Please get in, Mrs. Goodman." David Craig bowed slightly and opened the car door for her. Autumn climbed in and deliberately kept a certain social distance between herself and Charles. "Don't go spouting nonsense in front of Grandpa," Charles said, his demeanor already restored to that of a cold, aristocratic rich heir, as if the person who'd shown emotion earlier hadn't been him at all. "Why? You dare to do it but not to own up to it? As the CEO of Goodman Group, you have so little sense of responsibility?" Autumn let out a light laugh. "What's gotten into you? Is it your time of the month? You've got such a temper," Charles said, fixing her with a probing look. Autumn shot him an annoyed glare. From the way he said that, it was obvious he had absolutely no clue when her time of the month even was. Charles leaned in a little closer and whispered close to her ear, "Enough, stop all this nonsense in front of outsiders. Enough's enough." He didn't want the driver running to Robert to tattle. "Then agree to what I proposed last night. It's better for everyone involved," Autumn murmured in a low voice. "Don't even think about it. You'd best snuff out that thought right now." Charles's gaze darkened, his reply icy and curt. Autumn looked up and caught David, the driver, watching the two of them through the rearview mirror. Worried Robert might grow concerned, Autumn dropped the subject altogether and turned her head toward the window. The car soon arrived at Robert's residence. The moment the car came to a complete stop, Charles pushed the door open and got out without a second's pause. Autumn let out a sigh. 'Sure enough, he can't stand being in the same space as me.' "Please step out, Mrs. Goodman." While she was still lost in thought, David had already opened the car door for her. Autumn carefully stepped out sideways and walked toward the villa's living room. From a distance, she could see Charles sitting on the sofa, his long legs casually crossed. His tailored, high-end suit outlined the strong lines of his frame. He was gazing out the window, his face turned to the side, the arc of his jawline deep and perfectly sculpted. Autumn's mind wandered a bit. She pictured in her head what their babies might look like. 'If it's a boy and takes after his father, he'd be quite handsome. If it's a girl, she'd probably be exquisitely beautiful too.' "Autumn." Robert's hearty, cheerful laugh rang out from behind her. Autumn turned around and saw an old man with graying hair striding down the stairs with vigorous steps. His back was ramrod straight, his voice strong and resonant, filled with vigor. Between his brows sat an air of calm and commanding authority. He walked up to her with a smile and waved Autumn over to sit beside him. "Autumn, you got here so fast. Tell me whatever you'd like to eat, and I'll arrange it all." The old man smoothed down the copper-colored beard along his jaw, the corners of his eyes nearly crinkling into flight with mirth. "Anything would be wonderful, Grandpa," Autumn answered obediently. Robert swept a glance over Charles, and the smile on his face drained away completely. Suppressing a surge of anger, he barked at him, "Come outside with me, Charles." He turned back around and immediately resumed his warm and kindly expression. "Rest here for a bit, Autumn. Coming all the way here must've worn you out. I need to discuss something with Charles." Seeing the two completely different faces Robert put on, Charles's expression turned sour. 'Worn out from traveling here? What nonsense is that?' But he didn't dare say a word. He stood up and followed the old man outside. Robert walked with his hands clasped behind his back, striding in large steps toward the garden. He walked all the way to the far end of the garden, making absolutely sure Autumn wouldn't overhear, before finally coming to a stop. He spun around and jabbed his finger at Charles in fury. "Have you lost your mind? Call right now and throw Vivian out of your house. She'd better be gone before Autumn gets home." "Grandpa, what exactly did Autumn say to you?" Charles's brow creased, and his tone wasn't particularly pleasant. Robert bristled, his beard seeming to puff out. "If Autumn had told me sooner, Vivian wouldn't have been allowed to stay even a single day. "What are you thinking? Putting that woman in your home? Are you trying to anger me straight into my grave?" Hearing that Autumn hadn't been the one to tattle, the look on Charles's face softened a little. "Grandpa, Vivian's place is being renovated. She's only staying with us temporarily for a month." "What? Are there no hotels in Riverside City? If you're worried about her staying somewhere else, are all the hotels under our company fully booked? "Charles, what exactly is going on in that head of yours? You are a married man. Don't you understand the need to keep your distance from other women?" Robert was truly about to blow a fuse. His whole face was scrunched up. Charles explained in a calm and measured tone, "There's no need to keep my distance. We grew up together. It's completely normal for her to stay at our place for a bit. "She just got back to the country, and living in a hotel would be far too inconvenient with no one around to look after her. Besides, Autumn's not the petty type, not to mention there are plenty of empty rooms in the house." "You..." Robert didn't want to exchange another single word with him. Tossing out a final remark, "There'll come a day when you'll cry your eyes out with regret," he turned and marched right back. He couldn't believe how blind Charles was. =========== 👉 (When you open the App, it will automatically jump to the book.)
😭💔 Sold by my parents. Betrayed by my fiancé. I married his greatest enemy — the world’s most powerful man. On our wedding day, I sent them all a “gift” that would ruin their lives. I can’t wait to see their faces when they realize what they’ve lost. __________________________ Chapter 1 “I'll marry him. Serena doesn't have to go.” I dropped the contract onto my father's desk. “My price is one billion, and a legal letter severing all ties between me and the Harvey family.” My father's glass shattered against the floor. “A billion? You want to ruin us?” A shard cut my ankle. I didn't flinch. I just smiled at my parents. “Isn't Serena worth it?” He stared, suspicious. “Why agree now? I thought you loved Aaron.” A laugh hurt my still-healing ribs. Two weeks ago, on my birthday, my ‘sister' Serena had me kidnapped. Her men broke three of my ribs, whipped my back, and locked me in a dark closet for a full day because they knew I was claustrophobic. Aaron found me. His eyes were wet. “Stay with me, Louisa. We're almost there.” I clung to his scent until the hospital. I woke in agony. Outside my door, I heard his assistant: “The kidnappers confessed. It was Miss Harvey who hired them.” Then Aaron's voice, cold and mocking. “So Serena was telling the truth.” “But sir, why did you pay to have her locked up another day? Her injuries were severe.” “She loves playing victim. I gave her a real performance. I just told them to rough her up. She's fragile.” Lying there, a chill swept through me. That was the truth. Serena had framed me, and Aaron believed her. When I was eighteen and brought home, Aaron chose me over everyone's expectation that he'd pick Serena. He defended me fiercely then. That man was gone. That love was a lie. I pushed the memory away. “Well? Have you decided?” My parents exchanged a glance, thought of the monstrous Elliott heir, and finally nodded. They signed. “You'll get the money in seven days,” my father said flatly. “The wedding happens. You tell no one.” I took the paper and left. A tearing ache filled my chest. The final proof: they never loved me. Only Serena. Fine. Outside, I called a friend. “Find all security footage proving Serena set up my kidnapping. Then spread the rumor about the new tech project. Make Aaron invest heavily, then cut off the core technology for both the Cooke and Harvey companies.” In seven days, I'd give them a wedding gift they'd never forget. In my room, I gathered every photo of Aaron and me and set them on fire. Watching the flames, I whispered, “This time, it's over for good.” Chapter 2 As I carried my last suitcase out, Serena leaned against the railing, my engagement ring on her finger. “Was the kidnapping fun, Louisa?” she smirked. “No one believes you. They only believe me.” Her smile widened. “Oh, Aaron paid the men to beat you. A punishment for making me sick with your drama.” She laughed, then let the ring slip from her fingers. It clattered down the stairs. “What did you do?!” I shouted, lunging forward. As I passed her, she grabbed my hand, slammed it against her own shoulder, and with a piercing scream, threw herself down the stairs. She lay at the bottom, sobbing. “It hurts!” Footsteps thundered. Aaron and my parents rushed in. He saw me at the top, her at the bottom. He stormed up and grabbed my arm. “Louisa! How could you push her?” “I didn't! She jumped!” My father's face turned red. “You're lying! You know how delicate she is!” My mother shoved me. My back hit the railing, pain shooting through me. On the floor, Serena clutched Aaron's pants. “Don't blame her… maybe I bumped her… just say I fell…” Aaron's face darkened. He snatched the ring from my hand and hurled it to the floor. It shattered. He turned on me, eyes blazing. “You hurt her again. Assault can land you in prison for years.” I looked from the shards to his face, my heart twisting. He was choosing her side. Again. A bitter smile touched my lips. “Call the police. Let them check the security footage.” I shoved past him, walked down, and slapped Serena hard across the face. The crack echoed. “See? That's me hitting her. At least accuse me of the right crime.” Serena froze, hand to her cheek. Aaron snapped. His palm struck my face. “You're barely out of the hospital and you're at it again? Cool off in a cell.” He nodded to his guards. “Take her.” They dragged me away. He didn't look back, already comforting a sobbing Serena. At the station, he threw a confession form at me. “Sign it.” I picked up the pen and tore the paper to shreds. I looked up with a hollow laugh. “Why sign a lie? If you want me jailed, do it yourself. Let's see how far you'll go for her.” He looked struck. His expression shifted before hardening. “Hold her until tonight. Then release her.” He walked out without looking back. I watched him go, my heart shredding. His choice was never in doubt. Chapter 3 After Aaron left, my parents arrived, their faces full of disappointment. “Just apologize, Louisa,” my mother said coldly. “Then Aaron might let this go.” I almost laughed. My life had been one long apology. “Apologize for what?” I asked bitterly. “For not pushing her hard enough?” My father slapped me. The sting was hot. I lifted my chin. “I get kidnapped, and you worry about her stress. She stages a fall, and you demand my confession. Am I just garbage you brought in?” They looked at me like I was a rabid animal. “You are ungrateful. Stay here and rot,” my father hissed. They left. Guards shoved me into a holding cell. The door clanged shut, plunging me into near-darkness. My breath hitched. The walls pressed in. My claustrophobia choked me. I whispered Aaron's name. No answer. Just the dark. I don't know how long I sat there before the door opened. Three hard-faced women walked in. “This the one? The Harvey girl said to teach her a lesson.” One cracked her knuckles. My heart dropped. I scrambled back, but another yanked my hair and threw me to the floor. Blows rained down—fists, kicks. My old injuries screamed. I was too weak to fight, so I curled tight, silent. It only stopped when a guard barked, “That's enough!” They left me on the cold floor, bleeding. I must have passed out. A day and a night later, they dumped me outside. Sunlight blinded me. I staggered up and limped toward the hospital. After a nurse bandaged me, I turned to leave and almost walked into Aaron and Serena, arm in arm. He froze, eyes widening at the sight of me. “Louisa… what happened to you?” he asked, a flicker of pain in his eyes. He reached for me. I stepped back. Serena clung to his arm, her face a mask of fake worry. “Louisa! Aaron had you released yesterday! Where have you been? Don't be angry with her, Aaron. She probably just… needed attention.” Just like that, the pain in his eyes vanished, replaced by cold suspicion. He glared at me. “You're hurting yourself for attention again? Your lies are pathetic.” I didn't argue. I just stared, memorizing the face I'd once loved. He turned to Serena, his voice gentle. “If you're well enough to mutilate yourself, you're well enough to walk home.” He glanced at a guard. “Make sure she walks the whole way. No shortcuts.” They left. Step by agonizing step, I walked. Each one seared a new truth into my soul. Chapter 4 I pushed the front door open to the sound of Serena's hysterical sobs. She was curled on the sofa, shaking in Aaron's arms. “I can't marry him, Aaron! He's a monster! The other women died! Why can't it be Louisa?” Aaron stroked her hair. “Shhh. I'm here. It won't be you.” My parents chimed in. “We'd never let him touch you, darling.” No one looked at me. I walked silently to my room and shut the door. Memories flooded me. Aaron chartering a jet to watch a sunrise. Skiing in the Alps. Chasing the aurora. He documented every moment like a treasure. I'd believed him. Now I knew: I was just a novelty. A distraction. I wiped my eyes. From my pocket, I pulled a small voice recorder's memory card. I slid it, along with a copy of the prison's CCTV footage, into an envelope for a trusted friend. I'd only meant to record Serena's performances. I hadn't planned on catching her ordering the beating. The files finished sending as footsteps approached my door. My heart clenched. The door opened. Aaron stood there. He crossed the room and pulled me into his arms. He still smelled of cedar. It made me sick. He sighed. “Louisa… I'm sorry.” I went rigid. He mistook my silence for acceptance. “Go easier on Serena. She's not like you. You have everything. I'll marry you. But Serena… she has nothing. Be the bigger person.” “‘I have everything,'” I repeated, the words like ash. So this was his apology. Not for the jail, the beating, the doubt. An apology for Serena, and a demand I keep tolerating her. He thought a hug could erase it all. That he could slap me ninety-nine times and win me back with the hundredth touch. I looked up at his face. The ache was so sharp I thought it might kill me. He was wrong. Every time he hurt me, a little more of my love for him was worn away. Now he has used up every last bit of it—I don’t love him anymore. After he said that, he left me behind as usual. I silently watched his retreating figure. Even though I no longer loved him, my heart still grew colder, little by little… until it pulled me into the dark. A commotion downstairs woke me.“Miss?“ ...... 📚👇👇👇There are limited chapters to put here, click “learn more” to open the app and continue reading the rest of the story .👇👇👇 (lt will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)
😭💔 Sold by my parents. Betrayed by my fiancé. I married his greatest enemy — the world’s most powerful man. On our wedding day, I sent them all a “gift” that would ruin their lives. I can’t wait to see their faces when they realize what they’ve lost. __________________________ Chapter 1 “I'll marry him. Serena doesn't have to go.” I dropped the contract onto my father's desk. “My price is one billion, and a legal letter severing all ties between me and the Harvey family.” My father's glass shattered against the floor. “A billion? You want to ruin us?” A shard cut my ankle. I didn't flinch. I just smiled at my parents. “Isn't Serena worth it?” He stared, suspicious. “Why agree now? I thought you loved Aaron.” A laugh hurt my still-healing ribs. Two weeks ago, on my birthday, my ‘sister' Serena had me kidnapped. Her men broke three of my ribs, whipped my back, and locked me in a dark closet for a full day because they knew I was claustrophobic. Aaron found me. His eyes were wet. “Stay with me, Louisa. We're almost there.” I clung to his scent until the hospital. I woke in agony. Outside my door, I heard his assistant: “The kidnappers confessed. It was Miss Harvey who hired them.” Then Aaron's voice, cold and mocking. “So Serena was telling the truth.” “But sir, why did you pay to have her locked up another day? Her injuries were severe.” “She loves playing victim. I gave her a real performance. I just told them to rough her up. She's fragile.” Lying there, a chill swept through me. That was the truth. Serena had framed me, and Aaron believed her. When I was eighteen and brought home, Aaron chose me over everyone's expectation that he'd pick Serena. He defended me fiercely then. That man was gone. That love was a lie. I pushed the memory away. “Well? Have you decided?” My parents exchanged a glance, thought of the monstrous Elliott heir, and finally nodded. They signed. “You'll get the money in seven days,” my father said flatly. “The wedding happens. You tell no one.” I took the paper and left. A tearing ache filled my chest. The final proof: they never loved me. Only Serena. Fine. Outside, I called a friend. “Find all security footage proving Serena set up my kidnapping. Then spread the rumor about the new tech project. Make Aaron invest heavily, then cut off the core technology for both the Cooke and Harvey companies.” In seven days, I'd give them a wedding gift they'd never forget. In my room, I gathered every photo of Aaron and me and set them on fire. Watching the flames, I whispered, “This time, it's over for good.” Chapter 2 As I carried my last suitcase out, Serena leaned against the railing, my engagement ring on her finger. “Was the kidnapping fun, Louisa?” she smirked. “No one believes you. They only believe me.” Her smile widened. “Oh, Aaron paid the men to beat you. A punishment for making me sick with your drama.” She laughed, then let the ring slip from her fingers. It clattered down the stairs. “What did you do?!” I shouted, lunging forward. As I passed her, she grabbed my hand, slammed it against her own shoulder, and with a piercing scream, threw herself down the stairs. She lay at the bottom, sobbing. “It hurts!” Footsteps thundered. Aaron and my parents rushed in. He saw me at the top, her at the bottom. He stormed up and grabbed my arm. “Louisa! How could you push her?” “I didn't! She jumped!” My father's face turned red. “You're lying! You know how delicate she is!” My mother shoved me. My back hit the railing, pain shooting through me. On the floor, Serena clutched Aaron's pants. “Don't blame her… maybe I bumped her… just say I fell…” Aaron's face darkened. He snatched the ring from my hand and hurled it to the floor. It shattered. He turned on me, eyes blazing. “You hurt her again. Assault can land you in prison for years.” I looked from the shards to his face, my heart twisting. He was choosing her side. Again. A bitter smile touched my lips. “Call the police. Let them check the security footage.” I shoved past him, walked down, and slapped Serena hard across the face. The crack echoed. “See? That's me hitting her. At least accuse me of the right crime.” Serena froze, hand to her cheek. Aaron snapped. His palm struck my face. “You're barely out of the hospital and you're at it again? Cool off in a cell.” He nodded to his guards. “Take her.” They dragged me away. He didn't look back, already comforting a sobbing Serena. At the station, he threw a confession form at me. “Sign it.” I picked up the pen and tore the paper to shreds. I looked up with a hollow laugh. “Why sign a lie? If you want me jailed, do it yourself. Let's see how far you'll go for her.” He looked struck. His expression shifted before hardening. “Hold her until tonight. Then release her.” He walked out without looking back. I watched him go, my heart shredding. His choice was never in doubt. Chapter 3 After Aaron left, my parents arrived, their faces full of disappointment. “Just apologize, Louisa,” my mother said coldly. “Then Aaron might let this go.” I almost laughed. My life had been one long apology. “Apologize for what?” I asked bitterly. “For not pushing her hard enough?” My father slapped me. The sting was hot. I lifted my chin. “I get kidnapped, and you worry about her stress. She stages a fall, and you demand my confession. Am I just garbage you brought in?” They looked at me like I was a rabid animal. “You are ungrateful. Stay here and rot,” my father hissed. They left. Guards shoved me into a holding cell. The door clanged shut, plunging me into near-darkness. My breath hitched. The walls pressed in. My claustrophobia choked me. I whispered Aaron's name. No answer. Just the dark. I don't know how long I sat there before the door opened. Three hard-faced women walked in. “This the one? The Harvey girl said to teach her a lesson.” One cracked her knuckles. My heart dropped. I scrambled back, but another yanked my hair and threw me to the floor. Blows rained down—fists, kicks. My old injuries screamed. I was too weak to fight, so I curled tight, silent. It only stopped when a guard barked, “That's enough!” They left me on the cold floor, bleeding. I must have passed out. A day and a night later, they dumped me outside. Sunlight blinded me. I staggered up and limped toward the hospital. After a nurse bandaged me, I turned to leave and almost walked into Aaron and Serena, arm in arm. He froze, eyes widening at the sight of me. “Louisa… what happened to you?” he asked, a flicker of pain in his eyes. He reached for me. I stepped back. Serena clung to his arm, her face a mask of fake worry. “Louisa! Aaron had you released yesterday! Where have you been? Don't be angry with her, Aaron. She probably just… needed attention.” Just like that, the pain in his eyes vanished, replaced by cold suspicion. He glared at me. “You're hurting yourself for attention again? Your lies are pathetic.” I didn't argue. I just stared, memorizing the face I'd once loved. He turned to Serena, his voice gentle. “If you're well enough to mutilate yourself, you're well enough to walk home.” He glanced at a guard. “Make sure she walks the whole way. No shortcuts.” They left. Step by agonizing step, I walked. Each one seared a new truth into my soul. Chapter 4 I pushed the front door open to the sound of Serena's hysterical sobs. She was curled on the sofa, shaking in Aaron's arms. “I can't marry him, Aaron! He's a monster! The other women died! Why can't it be Louisa?” Aaron stroked her hair. “Shhh. I'm here. It won't be you.” My parents chimed in. “We'd never let him touch you, darling.” No one looked at me. I walked silently to my room and shut the door. Memories flooded me. Aaron chartering a jet to watch a sunrise. Skiing in the Alps. Chasing the aurora. He documented every moment like a treasure. I'd believed him. Now I knew: I was just a novelty. A distraction. I wiped my eyes. From my pocket, I pulled a small voice recorder's memory card. I slid it, along with a copy of the prison's CCTV footage, into an envelope for a trusted friend. I'd only meant to record Serena's performances. I hadn't planned on catching her ordering the beating. The files finished sending as footsteps approached my door. My heart clenched. The door opened. Aaron stood there. He crossed the room and pulled me into his arms. He still smelled of cedar. It made me sick. He sighed. “Louisa… I'm sorry.” I went rigid. He mistook my silence for acceptance. “Go easier on Serena. She's not like you. You have everything. I'll marry you. But Serena… she has nothing. Be the bigger person.” “‘I have everything,'” I repeated, the words like ash. So this was his apology. Not for the jail, the beating, the doubt. An apology for Serena, and a demand I keep tolerating her. He thought a hug could erase it all. That he could slap me ninety-nine times and win me back with the hundredth touch. I looked up at his face. The ache was so sharp I thought it might kill me. He was wrong. Every time he hurt me, a little more of my love for him was worn away. Now he has used up every last bit of it—I don’t love him anymore. After he said that, he left me behind as usual. I silently watched his retreating figure. Even though I no longer loved him, my heart still grew colder, little by little… until it pulled me into the dark. A commotion downstairs woke me.“Miss?“ ...... 📚👇👇👇There are limited chapters to put here, click “learn more” to open the app and continue reading the rest of the story .👇👇👇 (lt will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)
My husband proposed to my sister on my son's sixth birthday. My entire family watched. And clapped. I just stood there, seeing everyone smile with happiness… except me. I should have known something was wrong when my mother insisted on turning Leo's birthday into a “family day.” The Morettis never did anything without a reason. I just never imagined the reason was my husband. The morning started like any other. I woke up thinking it would be a perfect day. I had planned everything—a private VIP tour of Marina World, lunch by the dolphin exhibit, a custom-made cake waiting for Leo. My son deserved one perfect day. As the wife of Dominic De Luca, the Don of the De Luca Empire, money had never been an issue. But love? Loyalty? That was another story. The hospital visits had drained more than just my energy. Stage four brain cancer was a slow, cruel thief, stealing my time, my future. I had kept it a secret from Dominic. He had made it clear he didn't have time for meaningless worries. “Don't waste my money on hospitals, Aurora,” he'd said, barely looking up from his phone. “You always overthink things.” I wasn't overthinking. I was dying. By noon, Marina World was filled with excited children, the scent of saltwater and fried food lingering in the air. Leo pulled me toward the giant shark tank, his small fingers warm in mine. “Mommy, look! It's so big!” I laughed, pressing a kiss to his curly hair. “Bigger than you?” He nodded eagerly, his excitement making my exhaustion worth it. Then, out of nowhere, his voice lit up. “Mommy! Look! Daddy's here too!” I frowned. Dominic? That wasn't possible. He was handling business. Too busy to even call Leo for his birthday. I followed my son's gaze. And the world beneath me crumbled. There, in the middle of the plaza, Dominic was on one knee. Holding a ring. For Chloe. My younger sister. The one who had cried to me about her failed relationships. The one I had comforted after every heartbreak. The one who had sworn Dominic was like a brother to her. She stood there with wide, teary eyes, hands covering her mouth. “Marry me,” Dominic said, his voice clear, steady. Like this was the most natural thing in the world. Chloe let out a shaky sob, nodding furiously. “Yes! Oh my God, Dominic, yes!” My mother had arranged the whole thing—a grand family outing, she'd called it. I should have known. My entire family—my mother, father, aunts, uncles—stood around them, clapping. As if this was something to celebrate. As if I wasn't standing right there. The ring slid onto Chloe's finger. Something inside me snapped. Leo tugged at my sleeve, confused but excited. “Mommy! Is Daddy giving Auntie Chloe a present? Can I go too?” I couldn't breathe. Then, as if she had just noticed me, my mother's smile faltered. The applause faded. One by one, their gazes turned to me. Dominic slowly rose to his feet, locking eyes with me. There was no guilt. No shame. Just the same mild irritation he always had when I inconvenienced him. Chloe, on the other hand, had the audacity to look annoyed. Dominic crossed his arms, exhaling like I was exhausting him. “Aurora, let's not do this here.” “Do what, Dominic?” My voice shook with barely contained rage. “Make a scene.” He rolled his eyes. “God, you're always so dramatic—” Slap. The sound echoed through the plaza. For a moment, everything froze. The sting on my palm was nothing compared to the burning rage in my chest. Dominic's head snapped to the side. He touched his cheek, then turned back. No shame. No remorse. Just irritation. “Really, Aurora?” he scoffed. “Was that necessary?” The sheer audacity left me breathless. Then my father's voice cut through the silence. “Aurora! Don't ruin your sister's happiness.” My stomach dropped. Victor Moretti—capo of the Bianchi syndicate, a man feared in all of Boston—had just dismissed me like I was a nuisance. “Happiness?” I let out a hollow laugh. “Is this a joke? You all knew?” My mother smoothed out her designer dress. “Aurora... you and Dominic have been distant for a while. We thought it was for the best.” “For the best?” My voice cracked. “You mean betraying me behind my back?” She sighed. “Chloe is younger than you. She deserves happiness too.” “And what about me?” My voice was barely above a whisper. “Don't I deserve it?” My father's voice again. “Don't be selfish, Aurora. Think about Leo. Dominic is going to be Chloe's husband now. It's best if you cooperate.” Something inside me snapped. Chloe's victorious smirk. Dominic's blank indifference. My parents' silent complicity. And my son—my baby—smiling up at me, completely unaware of the betrayal tearing me apart. Before I lost control, I turned on my heel, gripping Leo's small hand like a lifeline. “Aurora,” Dominic called, sounding bored. “Where are you going?” I didn't answer. I walked away, my legs trembling beneath me, my son's warm fingers clutching mine. I didn't stop. Not even when Leo kept looking back. Not even when I heard Chloe's voice, dripping with false pity. “She'll get over it.” I wouldn't. I would never forgive them. Chapter 2 The De Luca estate was eerily silent when we got home. Leo fell asleep almost instantly, exhausted from his birthday—his birthday, the one his father had chosen to celebrate with someone else. I tucked him in, brushing his curls from his forehead. His peaceful face made my chest ache. He didn't understand. He still believed his father was some kind of hero. I wished I could protect him from the truth. Once his breathing evened out, I left his room and collapsed onto my bed, sobbing until my body felt empty. Dominic De Luca. Mafia boss. My husband. The father of my child. And Chloe? She was my baby sister. The one I never imagined would be the cause of my ruin. I squeezed my eyes shut, but the memories came anyway—uninvited, relentless, cruel. Dominic had pursued me relentlessly, the way only a man used to getting what he wanted could. When the Bianchi Empire sent me to Paris for business, Dominic booked a last-minute flight just to be with me. “I can't live without you for a whole week,” he had said, standing in the hotel lobby with a bouquet of tulips. I had called him crazy. He had just kissed me and said, “Crazy in love.” That was Dominic. Affectionate. Possessive. Mine. Then we got married. On our honeymoon, he whisked me away to Melbourne, where we spent a month indulging in luxury, walking along the harbor, and making love under city lights. He had promised me forever. When Leo was born, he became even more protective, refusing to let me lift a finger. Every night, he held me close and whispered, “I love you more than anything in this world.” I had believed him. Then Chloe came back. She had been studying fashion design abroad for years, and when she returned, she was more beautiful than ever—elegant, stylish, the kind of woman people admired. Dominic noticed. I saw it—the way her eyes lingered on him, the way she laughed just a little too much at his jokes, the way Dominic suddenly had so much to say to her. But I told myself it was nothing. Chloe was my sister. Dominic was my husband. Then one night, I walked into our master bedroom and saw them curled up in bed together. My heart stopped. “Dominic?” My voice barely came out. Chloe sat up immediately, pulling the blanket around her. Dominic, on the other hand, didn't even look guilty. “Relax, Aurora,” he had said, rubbing his temples like I was the one being unreasonable. “Chloe fainted. I was just helping her.” And I, like a fool, had let it slide. Because Leo was in the room. Because I didn't want to believe it. Because I was a goddamn idiot. But now? Now I knew the truth. They had been screwing behind my back for who knows how long. I let out a sharp breath, shaking my head. The worst part? I still loved him. Even after all this, my stupid heart still ached for him. I wanted to scream. To throw something. To hurt the way I was hurting. And as if the universe wasn't done tormenting me, my phone rang. Mom. I should have ignored it, but the pathetic, desperate part of me still wanted to believe she'd be on my side. I pressed answer. “H...hello.” Her voice was calm, like she wasn't the mother of the woman whose life had just been shattered. “What now, you're still crying? Come on, Aurora, stop being dramatic!” I choked on my own breath. “What?” “Chloe is the one who can make him happy,” she continued. “You need to let go.” My grip tightened around the phone. “And what about me?” My voice was barely above a whisper. “Don't I deserve it?” A sigh. Then my father's voice. “You're embarrassing yourself, Aurora. The marriage is over. Sign the papers and let them be happy.” Something primal clawed at my chest, a raw, animalistic rage I didn't know I was capable of. I wanted to rip the walls down. I wanted to scream until my lungs gave out. I threw the phone across the room. It hit the wall with a crack before falling to the floor. And then I buried my face in my pillow and let out a guttural, broken sound—not quite a scream, not quite a sob—until my throat felt raw and my voice was nothing but a hollow rasp. This wasn't just Dominic's betrayal. It was everyone's. My mother. My father. My sister. My husband. Every single person I had ever loved had thrown me away like I was nothing. But if they thought I would just accept this? If they thought I would just cooperate? They were dead wrong. Chapter 3 I woke up to an eerie silence. I hadn't noticed when exhaustion pulled me under—whether I had cried myself to sleep or simply passed out. My body ached. My head throbbed like I'd been hit by a truck. But none of that mattered. Because the moment I sat up, I realized—Leo wasn't in his bed. My heart dropped. I bolted out of the room, calling his name. “Leo?” I ran down the hall, checking the bathroom, the living room—everywhere. “Leo!” Silence. My hands shook as I grabbed my phone and dialed my mother. She picked up after the third ring, her voice calm, almost bored. “Oh, Aurora. Finally awake?” I could barely breathe. “Where's Leo?” “With us, of course. We're celebrating his birthday.” I nearly dropped the phone. “What? Without me?” “Well, you were asleep,” she sighed. “They planned a little party for him. He's having so much fun.” I clenched my jaw, my nails digging into my palm. “You took my son while I was sleeping? Without telling me?” She laughed. “You were exhausted. We didn't want to wake you.” My pulse pounded in my ears. “Give him the phone. Now.” A pause. Then a dismissive chuckle. “Aurora, don't ruin this for him. Let him be happy for once.” “Happy?” My voice cracked. “He's my son!” “Then stop making his life miserable just because your husband chose your sister.” A raw, guttural sound clawed its way up my throat, something between a snarl and a sob. My whole body shook with the effort of not screaming into the phone. “Excuse me?” “Aurora,” she said slowly, like I was a child. “Chloe will love Leo more than you ever could. You're always so busy with work, with your endless hospital visits. Maybe this is for the best.” I gripped the phone so tightly I thought it would shatter. “I swear to God, if you don't bring my son back—” “Enough, Aurora.” My mother's voice turned cold. “Stop being selfish.” Click. The line went dead. I stared at my phone, my body shaking with rage, with helplessness. A low growl rumbled in my chest, pure animal fury that had nowhere to go. I wanted to scream, to throw something, to hurt the way I was hurting. Instead, my fingers moved on their own. I opened Instagram. And then— My breath caught in my throat. The first post on my feed was Chloe's. A photo of her and Dominic, hands intertwined, her engagement ring front and center. Fate brought us together. Love kept us strong. Can't wait to be Mrs. De Luca! Thousands of likes. Hundreds of comments. – Omg! Congratulations! Didn't see this coming, but you two look perfect together! – I always thought Dominic married the wrong sister, tbh. – Crazy how life works! Weren't we just at his wedding a few years ago? People I knew. People who had attended my wedding. They were congratulating them like this was some kind of fairytale. I wanted to smash my phone. But then— Another photo. My vision blurred. It was Leo. Sitting on Dominic's lap, laughing, arms wrapped around Chloe's neck. They looked like a happy, perfect family. Like I never existed. A sharp, stabbing pain tore through my skull. My vision spun, the pounding inside my head unbearable. With shaking hands, I reached for the nightstand, fumbling for the bottle of pain relievers. My fingers barely managed to twist the cap off before I popped two pills into my mouth, swallowing dry. But the pain didn't stop. A metallic taste filled my throat. My lip trembled as something warm trickled down my upper lip. I wiped at it absentmindedly. Red. Blood. Panic gripped my chest. My breaths came out shallow, uneven. I grabbed my phone and dialed my mother's number. No answer. I tried my father. Nothing. My heart pounded as I scrolled down and pressed Dominic's contact. The call rang. Once. Twice. Then straight to voicemail. I let out a weak, bitter laugh. Of course. Tears blurred my vision as I desperately pressed 911. “H...hello?” My voice shook. “911, what's your emergency?” My body swayed. My fingers trembled as I tried to steady myself against the wall. “I need help. Please... I—” The phone slipped from my grasp. The last thing I heard before darkness swallowed me whole was the faint voice of the operator, calling my name. Bright lights. The steady beeping of a monitor. The sharp scent of antiseptic. I woke up in a hospital bed. Alone. A nurse walked in, startled to see me awake. “Ms. De Luca, you're conscious! How are you feeling?” My throat was dry. “How long was I out?” “You were admitted last night,” she said gently. “The paramedics found you unconscious at home. Do you have any family we should contact?” Family. The word twisted like a knife inside me. I let out a weak, hollow laugh. “No. There's no one.” The nurse gave me a sad look but said nothing. The next morning, after I was discharged, I went home. The moment I stepped inside, I felt it. He's here. And then I saw Dominic. Sitting on the couch like he still owned the place. Legs crossed, fingers tapping impatiently against the armrest. My chest tightened. “What... what are you doing here?” He stood up, pulling a stack of papers from his briefcase. A pen clipped to the top. He held it out to me. “Sign it.” I blinked. My fingers twitched. “What?” His eyes were empty—void of anything remotely resembling guilt. “The divorce papers. Sign them now.” Chapter 4 I stared at the divorce papers in Dominic's hand, my whole body trembling. “Sign it,” he repeated, his tone void of emotion, as if the past years we spent together meant nothing. I took the papers and tore them apart. Dominic's eyes darkened slightly, but instead of anger, he smirked. With calculated ease, he pulled out an ATM card and tossed it onto the coffee table. “There's a million dollars on that,” he said. “Your severance pay.” My breath hitched. Severance pay? Like I was just some employee who had outlived her usefulness. Like I had been nothing more than a burden he finally got rid of. Fury boiled inside me, hot and acidic in my veins. I slapped him. Hard. The sharp crack of my palm against his cheek echoed through the room. Dominic barely flinched. He slowly turned his head back, touching his cheek with mild amusement. “Feel better now?” he murmured. A low growl rumbled in my throat, my hands curling into fists at my sides. I wanted to hit him again. I wanted to hurt him the way he'd hurt me. I picked up the ATM card and flung it back at him. “Go to hell, Dominic.” His smirk deepened. “Already there, sweetheart.” Then he leaned closer, his breath cold against my skin. “You know,” he said, his voice smooth but taunting, “Leo has already chosen Chloe as his new mother.” My blood ran cold. The kitchen door creaked open, and Chloe stepped out, holding Leo's tiny hand. They were both smiling. My stomach twisted as I took in the sight before me. Leo—my baby—was cradling a giant robot toy in his arms, one I knew cost more than what I could ever afford. His eyes sparkled as he looked up at Chloe, pure admiration shining in them. “Thank you, Chloe!” he beamed. Mommy... Chloe? My throat tightened. “Leo... baby... I'm...” I whispered, my voice barely audible. He turned to me, but there was no excitement in his eyes when he saw me. Just mild curiosity. “Mommy, why are you mad?” he asked innocently. “Chloe bought me this! She's the best!” Chloe laughed, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Oh, Leo, sweetie, I just want you to be happy.” Chloe then looked at me. “Aurora, don't look so hurt. Leo's just being honest. I'm the one who's been taking care of him lately, after all.” Leo nodded eagerly. “Chloe is nice to me, Mommy. She plays with me, she makes Daddy happy. You should sign the papers so we can be a happy family.” I felt the air leave my lungs. Then before I could react, she turned to Dominic. And kissed him. Right in front of me. A deep, slow kiss, as if they had all the time in the world. Leo giggled. “Chloe and Daddy love each other!” Something inside me snapped—a fracture that split all the way down to my core. My vision tunneled. My hands trembled. But I couldn't move. I just stood there. Frozen. Like a fool. Like an idiot. Watching my husband—my first love—kiss my sister while my son cheered them on. This wasn't real. This couldn't be real. But it was. It was all real. Dominic pulled away from Chloe with a satisfied smirk. Then he turned to me, his eyes gleaming with cruel amusement. “Now, be a good girl and sign the papers, Aurora,” he said, his tone mocking as he gave me another copy. Leo, still holding his toy, turned to me with pleading eyes. “Yeah, Mommy. Sign it. Sign it now, please!” Happy? They already looked happy. Like a perfect family. Double betrayal. A knife straight through my heart. I stumbled backward, my vision swimming with unshed tears. “I... need to be alone,” I choked out. Without waiting for a response, I turned and rushed to my room, slamming the door behind me. And then I broke. I collapsed onto the floor, my body wracked with silent, gut-wrenching sobs. A raw, animal sound clawed its way out of my chest—something between a scream and a howl—but I swallowed it down, pressing my fist against my mouth until I tasted blood. I had lost everything. My husband. My son. My family. Why? Why wasn't I enough? Why was I the one suffering while they got to be happy? I curled into myself, the pain in my head throbbing violently, mixing with the unbearable ache in my heart. I didn't know how long I lay there, drowning in despair, before I fumbled for my phone. There was only one person left I could call. With shaking hands, I dialed. The line rang twice before a familiar, steady voice answered. “Aurora?” A choked sob escaped me. “Liam... please help me.” There was a sharp intake of breath on the other end. “Aurora, what happened?” His voice was tight with concern, a raw edge cutting through his usual calm. “Dominic... Leo... they—” My throat tightened. “They don't need me anymore. I have nothing left, Liam. Nothing.” “Aurora, listen to me,” Liam said firmly, his voice dropping to something fierce and unwavering. “You have me. And I'm not going to let you go through this alone.” Tears spilled down my face. “Come to me,” he urged. “I'll help you disappear. I'll get you out of there.” A pause. Then his voice softened, but the intensity didn't fade. “And there's something else. I didn't want to tell you over the phone, but you need to know.” I wiped my tears, trying to focus. “What is it?” “Our hospital is running a clinical trial,” Liam said. “A new experimental treatment for brain cancer. It's risky, but it's your best chance.” I froze. “You knew?” I whispered. “I had a suspicion,” he admitted. “I saw your medical records, Aurora. I know you've been trying to fight this alone.” My chest ached. “Come to me,” Liam pleaded, his voice rougher now, almost desperate. “Let me help you, Aurora. Not just with the trial, but with everything. Let me take you away from all of this.” I clutched the phone tightly, my heart pounding. This was it. My chance to leave. To escape this nightmare. To fight for myself. I took a deep breath, my decision made. “I'm coming, Liam.” Chapter 5 The house was silent. Too silent. Dominic, Chloe, and Leo were gone. They had packed up and moved into their newly bought mansion—a home filled with luxury, laughter, and a future that didn't include me. They had left me behind without a second thought. It should have broken me. Maybe a part of me had broken. But as I sat in the empty living room, staring at the divorce papers I had rewritten myself, something inside me hardened. Something cold and sharp, forged in the fire of everything they'd taken from me. I wasn't going to fight for a marriage that was already dead. I wasn't going to beg for a son who had already chosen another mother. I wasn't going to cry for a family that had never truly loved me. No. I was going to disappear. And one day, I would return as someone they would all fear. With Liam's help, I moved in silence, made sure the new divorce papers were finalized, taking nothing from Dominic. Not a single cent. I wouldn't owe him a damn thing. Then, I did something even more drastic. I reached out to an underground contact—Liam's colleagues had helped me find someone who could provide me with what I needed. An unclaimed corpse. It had belonged to a woman of similar build and age—another forgotten soul discarded by the world. I dressed the body in one of my favorite dresses. Then, with shaking hands, I placed my wedding ring on its finger. And finally, I unclasped the delicate gold necklace Dominic had given me when he still loved me. The one I had cherished even after everything. The one Leo used to tug on as a baby while giggling, his small fingers tracing the pendant. “Mommy, I like this! Is this magic?” “No, sweetheart,” I had laughed. “But Daddy gave it to me, so it's special.” “Then it's magic!” Leo had grinned, curling up in my lap. A lump formed in my throat. That was years ago. Now, Leo clung to Chloe instead. I draped the necklace around the corpse's neck, swallowing the pain. My chest heaved, a guttural sound caught somewhere between a sob and a snarl, but I forced it down. No more tears. No more weakness. It was done. The woman on the bed was no longer a stranger. She was Aurora De Luca. That night, before I set the house ablaze, I picked up my phone with trembling fingers, hesitating only for a second before dialing Dominic's number. Ring. Once. Twice. Three times. No answer. Of course. I already knew why. My mother had told me everything when she called me earlier. “Oh, Aurora. I didn't know how to tell you, but Dominic, Chloe, and Leo... they left for Paris this morning.” Paris. A honeymoon for Dominic and Chloe. A family vacation for my son without me. A sharp, hollow ache spread through my chest, but I crushed it down. I let the rage build instead, let it fill the spaces where grief used to live. I called again. And again. Still, no answer. Finally, I opened my messages and began to type. To Dominic De Luca: Thank you for teaching me the most painful lesson of my life. Thank you for showing me how little I meant to you. Thank you for making it so easy to let go. Congratulations on your new family. I hope Chloe makes you happier than I ever could. I hesitated, then added one final line. Goodbye, Dominic. Then, with a steady breath, I pressed send. That was the last message he would ever receive from me. I made sure the flames consumed everything. The memories. The pain. The Aurora De Luca that had been discarded like trash. As the fire spread, I stood outside in the shadows, watching the flames engulf the place I had once called home. The laughter that once filled these walls was gone. Leo used to run through those hallways, calling my name in excitement. “Mommy! Mommy, look at me!” He used to crawl into my lap, his small arms wrapping around my neck as he whispered, “I love you, Mommy.” But now... now he was in Chloe's arms. Now he called her “Mommy.” Now he loved her more. A sharp, hollow ache spread through my chest, but I crushed it down. A low, wolfish growl rumbled in my chest, primal and raw. Let them think I was dead. Let them celebrate. Emotions had no place in my new life. By the time the fire department arrived, it was too late. The body inside was burned beyond recognition. And just like that— I was dead. The next morning, the news spread like wildfire. DOMINIC'S POV The private jet touched down smoothly, and I rolled my shoulders, cracking my neck as I stepped off. The trip had been... good. No bullshit. No drama. Just business and pleasure. Chloe was glowing, still high off our honeymoon. Paris had suited her—designer clothes, fancy dinners, the whole fucking dream she'd always wanted. She clung to my arm like the perfect little trophy wife, soaking up every second. Leo had been happy too. Kid didn't hesitate to call her “Mommy.” Didn't even fucking look back. And for the first time in years, I felt something close to peace. Aurora was gone. Not dead, of course—just out of my life. The past. A fucking ghost. She'd served her purpose, and now she was just another chapter I had no reason to reopen. As my car pulled up to the estate, I exhaled slowly, rubbing my temples. My phone buzzed in my pocket. I ignored it. Business could wait. It buzzed again. And again. I sighed, pulling it out, ready to snap at whoever the fuck was blowing up my line. Dozens of missed calls. A shit ton of unread messages. I frowned, scrolling. Most were from unknown numbers. Some from business associates. But one message caught my eye. Aurora De Luca. My grip tightened around the phone as I opened it. Thank you for teaching me the most painful lesson of my life. Thank you for showing me how little I meant to you. Thank you for making it so easy to let go. Congratulations on your new family. I hope Chloe makes you happier than I ever could. Goodbye, Dominic. A strange fucking feeling settled in my gut, something sharp and off. A flicker of something I didn't want to name. But before I could process it, Chloe grabbed the remote and turned on the TV. The news anchor's voice filled the room. “Aurora De Luca, Former Wife of CEO Dominic De Luca, Found Dead in Fire.” ------------------------------ 📚👇👇👇There are limited chapters to put here, click “learn more” to open the app and continue reading the rest of the story .👇👇👇 (lt will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)
Chapter 1 Zephyrine "That's the... bracelet I pleaded with you to get at the Moonlight Trade last week, Nyroth. You're giving it to her?" When I pushed open the carved ironwood doors of Hue Pack's council chamber without knocking the door, what I found is nothing but my mate slipping a bracelet onto Kaela's wrist. My sudden appearance brought the room to a halt. Inside the chamber sat the elders of Hue Pack and two of elders Blackbridge pack. Among them was a female, one I recognized too well. Kaela！Hailed From Blackbridge Pack. My Mate's childhood crush. His obsession. My gaze dropped from Kaela's face to the bracelet in her wrist. That was my Bracelet, before I lost it. My mother had gifted it to me a day before they went off to war and never returned. On the inner band of the bracelet was engraved my name which my mother had lovingly written for me. Zephyr. But now my mate wanted to give it to his crush? My heart began to fill with anger, and I stared straight at him. "Nyroth, I have something must to tell you now." "If it's about the bracelet, then forget it. Kaela is getting it, Zeph," he snapped, his grey eyes flashing with irritation. Then he shrugged, like he hadn't just chosen her, again. “Kaela like this bracelet too. It’s the first gift she asked for since her came back from the the Five years serving as envoy. Zeph, she deserves the bracelet, don’t you think so?” Another chill ran down my spine. I clenched my fists as suppressed thoughts surged through my mind. Ever since Kaela has returned from her mission as envoy, Nyroth obsession for her had grown and he didn't bother to hide it anymore. "But I asked for it first, and you promised me, Nyroth," I declared firmly. To this, Kai, the Beta of Hue Pack and Nyroth's best friend who had stood quietly rolled his eyes. "We won't be hearing a rogue's nagging now, will we? You heard him. It's just a gift. And it's a bracelet anyway. Why do you care?" Rogue？ That one word tightened my chest and my wolf stirred within me, but I forced her back. I never told Nyroth that I was from the Ash Pack. Soldiers from our Ash Pack were called Ashmere, warriors by heritage, loyal to death, and respected across the Empire for our unmatched discipline. When an Ashmere walked onto the battlefield, even king and Alphas held their breath and stood aside. I am the only daughter of the last Warlord, Vale and War General, Seraphine. Younger sister to the best war strategist, Varyn. The last battle that sealed the Demon Portal? I led it. I was given a medal, praised as a hero. Earn the title Goddess of war. But five years ago, I met Nyroth. He was my fated mate, and I had fallen deeply in love with him. To be with him, and also to keep him away from danger, I abandoned my name, my title, my home, and kept it secret. Then I disguised myself as a gentle, non-aggressive she-wolf, to get his love. I believed that I can seek peace in his arms. Yes, I did get everything I wanted, before Kaela came back to him. Now, I fear I'm losing him. I stepped forward, seized Kaela's wrist, and coldly snatched the bracelet away. "This is mine." My voice trembled, yet it carried an unyielding firmness. "What are you doing?!" she gasped, a flicker of panic flashing in her eyes. The next second, Nyroth stormed over and shoved me aside, his face dark with anger. "Are you crazy? You'd really make a scene over something so trivial?" he roared, his accusing gaze cutting into me like a blade. I clutched the bracelet tightly against my chest, my fingers turning white from the force. I turned my gaze to my mate, who was still staring at me, his jaw clenched tight with impatience. "What belongs to me, no one will ever take away. But I didn't come here for the bracelet, Nyroth. That's not what I wanted to talk about, I came here for my parents." "I just received a letter," I said, trying to steady my voice. "It says their wolves have been cremated, and the Moonstone Vessel holding their ashes is ready to be brought home. Nyroth, I want to take you to meet them tomorrow, just at the border of the empire. Then I want to tell you something about them, and about me." Silence fell. Heavy. Crushing. My Mate looked at me for a long while before he said something. “Zeph, sorry about the bad news. I did not know it. But your parents already died. You should forget them. Kaela’s mother invited us to a dinner tomorrow. It’s an important dinner to gather Blackbridge Pack to us. We should... But never mind. If you don’t want to attend, I can attend alone, and I'll ask my Beta to accompany you to the border of the empire and take your parent’s ashes back. Don't worry, you'll be safe.” My heart sank. This was cruelty. Pure, sharp, deliberate cruelty. I stared at him, stunned. Confused. "You're... You mean you'd choose a meal over...” I can’t believe what I heard from Nyroth. I slowed down. Waited. Expected, hoped, that Nyroth would say something. Anything but what followed was silence. The same cold silence he gave when his family bullied me. When his pack members spat at me. When they called me rogue. I no longer offered any explanations and went alone to the border. "I, Zephyrine Ashmere, the only daughter of the last warlord, am here for the Moonstone Vessel." Before the impenetrable walls of Moonveil Fortress, I stood and said those words, allowing the goosebumps to overwhelm my skin and permitting my wolf to awaken inside me. Chapter 2 Zephyrine I waited with bated breath, and then the massive gates parted. I stood still in the middle of it all. A place I had left behind for five years. An identity I had shed to fulfill my parents’ greatest wish. I took a step forward, and as though the fallen warrior heroes themselves were welcoming me, a cold wind swirled around me, blowing my hair backward. “Zephyr.” That voice from Moonveil Fortress came and My breath caught. I would know it anywhere. Commander Thorn. I turned slowly to see him emerging from the tent ahead, the Moonstone Vessel in his hands. The one that carried my parents’ ashes. Their remains. I never expected to feel this emotional. But being here, on the combat ground where I was raised and trained by my parents and others like them… it broke me. Tears welled in my eyes, but I forced them down. As an Ashmere, we sacrifice many things. Emotion is one of them. We let it go. “Commander Thorn,” I greeted, bowing my head as he approached. He stared at me in silence for a long moment, then gave a firm nod, his jaw set. “It’s good to see you again, Zephyr,” he said at last, blinking. Then he extended the Vessel to me which I received it with a heavy heart. “I apologize for the delay. The final battle to close the Demon Portal was brutal. By the time we found their wolves, it was already too late. We couldn’t retrieve anything personal. No possessions remained when we arrived. If not for you, who led that charge… we would have all perished.” I heaved a deep sigh and nodded. “Thank you, Commander. You did your best.” He looked relieved at my grace, then his face fell slightly. “Zephyr… about your brother…” My heart stopped. My hands tightened on the Vessel. He paused. Then, carefully, “We couldn’t find his body. Or his wolf. He wasn’t among the dead. So… maybe your instincts are right. Maybe he is still out there.” “He is,” I said quietly but with conviction. Commander Thorn nodded solemnly. After a few seconds in silence, He shifted his gaze around, scanning the area. “Alpha Nyroth didn’t come with you?” His question struck something sharp inside me, but I smiled through it. “He’s preparing for the Blackbridge Festival this weekend. There’s been a lot to plan.” “That he couldn’t accompany you on such an important occasion?” Before I could respond, He sighed. “You’re an adult now, Zephyr. I trust your judgment. But remember this. If you ever wish to return to Moonveil Fortress… this gate will always remain open.” Return? To this life? To war? To honor? I looked into his eyes and felt the burn of truth press against my ribs. My days of battle were behind me. I had a new duty now or so I thought. I stepped back and stood at attention. The soldiers, now gathered under the moonlit sky, and Commander Thorn did the same. In unison, they bowed, not to me, but to my fallen parents, who bled for the empire. Tears blurred my vision as I turned to leave, clutching the Moonstone Vessel to my chest. I held them again. Even if only in ashes. It rained that night as I returned from Moonveil Fortress. I had refused the Beta of Hue Pack’s protector. Since my mate wouldn’t come, I went alone. Riding into the pack grounds, I stepped out of my carriage, the Moonstone Vessel still clutched tight. Normally, maids was supposed to cover me with umbrellas. But no one moved. No one cared for a woman who is an orphan. A “rogue.” I passed the guards and servants in silence and pushed through the door into the living room just in time to overhear Pamela, Nyroth’s mother’s voice. “That’s the best advice, my son. Don’t you see? If you marry Kaela, not only do you gain her pack’s favor, but also a beautiful, influential woman at your side. She’s a successful hostess. The first female envoy who brought peace into the empire. She could talk her way out of anything. But this barren woman you married has nothing to offer you, Nyroth.” My feet froze in place. They hadn’t even noticed me. I watched Nyroth remain silent, not defending me. “My friend from Blackbridge Pack told me,” Olivia, Nyroth’s younger sister, added, “Kaela’s family is already arranging a marriage for her to another Alpha. If you’re not fast enough, she’ll be gone.” Jealousy crossed Nyroth’s face instantly. Raw and bitter. He never hid his feelings for her. Not even from me. Each time he looked at Kaela like that, something inside me withered. Then came the gasp. Pamela had finally noticed me. Her face twisted in horror, her eyes fixed on the Moonstone Vessel in my arms. “And what is that?” she snapped, just as cold as always. I stepped forward, soaked from the rain, too tired to fight. “My parents’ remains. I’ve just brought them home from…” “Bad luck!” Pamela shrieked, and I flinched. It took everything in me not to react. Pamela had always been a thorn in my side, never hesitating to call me barren, not knowing her precious son had never once touched me since our private mating ceremony. “Nyroth,” she said firmly, turning to him, “this is a bad omen. Moon Goddess knows one rogue is bad enough, but now she brings the ashes of two more? She has to leave them outside the pack. Or pour them in the streets.” My eyes widened. What the… I turned to Nyroth, waiting, hoping for him to say something, anything. But then… he hesitated. “Zeph…” he began softly, avoiding my gaze, “I think you should… keep them outside. Just for tonight.” That was it. The final crack. “My parents? You think they’re a curse? Bad luck?” He said nothing. He wouldn’t look into my eyes. And yet again, he wouldn’t defend me. “Don’t pull that guilt-tripping crap!” Olivia suddenly burst. “Yeah, you’re bad luck, Zeph. You never should’ve been my brother’s mate. You only wormed into my brother’s life because of that mate bond!” She shoved me. Then Pamela did too and Nyroth stood there. Watching. Silent. As always. The guards and maids stared. No one moved. Just then Olivia shoved me again, harder this time, and the Moonstone Vessel slipped from my grasp. Gasps rippled through the chamber, everyone knew a single crack could destroy the relic forever..... ———————————————————————— 📚Due to the word limit, it can only be updated here.Click below to view details and get more exciting content now. 👇
“You look perfect, Princess Katerina.” My fists clenched tightly in my lap. I had to make a conscious effort to breathe and calm myself. Perfect. I looked like a doll. The kind meant for display, pristine and never touched. The useless kind. Pale porcelain skin with the finest makeup applied so expertly that it looked seamless. Big blue eyes with lashes that didn’t need extensions. Plump red lips with the usual polite smile. “Thank you,” I answered, nodding at the makeup artist. “They’re waiting for you downstairs. Should I call your brother to accompany you?” My fists balled again. Lordswood Castle was more secure than any fortress. Bugs couldn’t get in without stringent vetting and permission, but even that wouldn’t be enough to get them into the inner keep. Yet they still accompanied me everywhere like a child. Still, all of this was for a good reason. Every sacrifice would be worth it in the end. “That won’t be necessary. Thank you, Alanna,” I said as I stood. “But the Alpha said—” “I’m sure I’ll be fine,” I interrupted, maintaining the smile so deeply ingrained in me it felt fused to my face. I straightened the long skirt of my dress and adjusted my posture, although this was easy to do thanks to the corset. It was as stiff as a board; I couldn’t slouch even if I wanted to. Only sparing a glance in the mirror, I nodded at the team of women who’d dressed me and headed out of my dressing room. I did look perfect, I had to give them that. Not a single strand of blonde hair out of place, shoulders straight, head held high. And every piece of clothing on my body was worth more than most people made in a year. I was the prize. The one raised to be envied. To complete my true mate’s life. To be a trophy. A prisoner. My smile slipped, and my steps faltered at the door to my bedroom. I was being unfair. My life was a privilege; I had to be grateful. My parents loved me and gave me everything, and my dear brother, Kostas, would burn the world down for me if I asked. “Why do they even bother? She’ll be eighteen soon; I doubt a true mate will fall in her lap anytime soon. They’ve set their expectations too high; she’s just an omega.” My shoulders stiffened. They must have thought I left already. Omega. Weak. Doomed to submit to every wolf, a burden to the one I’d mate, yet the most treasured in my pack. The irony wasn’t lost on me. “Quiet! If you want to survive here, keep such thoughts to yourself.” “But everyone says—” “You’ll be out of the castle before lunchtime if you finish that sentence. Prince Kostas will make sure you never step foot through the complex gates again.” There was silence after that, but I wanted that woman to finish what she was about to say. Everyone said what? I was stuck in the inner castle most of the time, and no one dared say a word out of place. Gossip hardly ever reached my ears, but when it did, it was the boring type. I bit back a huff. It was unladylike. Mother would have a fit if she heard me. Squaring my shoulders again, I stepped out into the wide hallway alone. There was still a chill in the air outside as we welcomed the spring, but all the rooms in my wing were nice and toasty. My father hated it if I so much as sniffled. He hardly let me out in the winter. But spring was here. The flowers were starting to bloom. And that meant long walks in the gardens, and the Spring Ball. Some excitement after a long winter. Anything was better than sitting alone with my thoughts. My steps were steady as I approached the two guards in all black combat uniforms at the end of the hallway, and I almost laughed when they turned to me and stiffened. The panic on their faces was priceless. “Your Royal Highness, please wait here to be accompanied,” one of them said with a small bow. I knew they would mindlink my brother the second they saw me, but I was prepared. I quickened my steps past them and turned into the next hallway, where several other guards waited. It was overkill, but what was a girl to do? I was assigned more guards than the king and queen. How far could I go this time? The entry hall, perhaps? I half jogged past the guards, and was almost at the staircase when my brother's head appeared as he jogged to the top. Damn. I’d almost made it. Sighing, I slowed my steps and met my brother’s scowling face. “You didn’t wait for me, Katerina,” he said. “I walked down two hallways by myself, Kostas. If I can’t even do that, how will I ever take care of my mate?” Predictably, the scowl deepened, and I almost giggled. My brother was a handsome man. He was the complete opposite of me. Towering height, brown-eyes, curly brunette hair, and there was nothing delicate about him. He was a warrior, the Lordswood Pack beta, second only to my father with his intimidating aura. I’d been told that was true even if he stood in a room full of alphas. “He will have to take care of you,” Kostas said firmly. “And don’t forget, this castle will be your home.” Of course. How could I forget that even after the mating ceremony, I would live within the same walls? Maybe a new face would change things. Shake me out of the monotony. There were only so many languages and musical instruments I could learn, and I was growing tired of all the law, financial, and economics books. Perhaps once I was mated, they would allow me to apply my studies in practice. Or even learn something else, like training with the rest of the pack. Now that was a dream worth holding onto. Kostas linked our arms and started walking. “Remember what I told you about today,” he said. “There are others on the list, but this one is a good candidate.” They’d said that about all of them. I’d been meeting ‘candidates’ since I was five, first under the guise of playdates, and then openly as my potential future mates. Over the past few weeks, I had a date every day, sometimes twice a day. Mother was in panic mode. My parents were ready to seal my fate. Resisting the urge to sigh again, I smiled up at my big brother. “If you say he’s right for me, then he must be,” I said. “Of course he is. He has a bright future ahead of him. Currently top of his class and excels in his training. Only someone like that could be your true mate,” Kostas said, his scowl vanishing. He beamed down at me, and I felt the warmth of his love and protection. Every misgiving I had about these dates deflated as I squeezed his arm. “I bet he will make an excellent addition to our pack.” Maybe mating wouldn’t be so bad, after all. I knew my parents wouldn’t pressure me to have children too soon. They just wanted to make sure I was settled in any eventuality. The whole pack would respect someone they approved of, and a true mate would never hurt me. We descended the grand staircase slowly, into the entrance hall. It was almost noon, so the servants should have been busy preparing lunch or cleaning the hundreds of rooms within the great stone structure. But there was silence. Too quiet. A ‘mood’, no doubt orchestrated by my mother. This new date must have been very important to bring things to a halt like that. Or mum was just desperate. “The sun’s out today. We’ll meet him in the courtyard,” Kostas said. I gasped and stopped walking, gripping my brother’s arm. “Really?” I asked, holding my breath. “It’s a beautiful day,” Kostas said gently with an indulgent smile. “You should see the first blooms with your future mate. I already told them to prepare your cloak.” I ignored the optimism in his words and half-dragged him through the halls on the lower floor. The courtyard. How I’d missed that. Even if the date didn’t go as planned, sitting in the open with the sun on my face would make up for it. “Mum and Dad have official business, so they will meet him later for tea. Your chaperones are already waiting,” Kostas said, then added with a chuckle, “Slow your steps. Don’t be so eager.” Right. I had to be proper. I was Her Royal Highness Princess Katerina Lordswood of Kingsland. There should be nothing to criticise about me. “Sorry, brother.” I lowered my head as my chaperones approached, and one of them draped my warm cloak over my shoulders. “I’ll be close, so don’t be afraid,” Kostas whispered, kissing my forehead before he stepped back. His words sent a chill down my back, but I brushed them off. I was going outside! My first genuine smile since I woke stretched across my face as the doors were opened, and I finally felt the sun directly for the first time in months. I didn’t mind the slight bite on my cheeks as we stepped out into the cold. I was eager to meet the next man on my parents’ dating list, just to walk around the gardens. My step remained surprisingly steady, and I kept my hands together in front of me and my head lowered. A lady walked with grace. An Omega with humility. We walked along the paved path by the pond towards the main seating area until we reached my favourite cherry blossom tree right in the middle of the yard. My smile widened. The tree was blooming. Soon, the whole courtyard would be filled with the lovely scent of the flowers. A little boy stood beside it, admiring the tree, hands in his pockets. He was dressed in a suit, as most visitors did. I wondered who his parents were. Perhaps they were the ones the King and Queen were entertaining. I stopped beside him and breathed deeply. “Your Highness,” the boy said, stepping back from me and bowing. “No need to be so formal,” I said, smiling at him. He was curly-haired and pimply, his face suggesting he was no older than twelve or thirteen. He probably hadn’t shifted yet, but his alpha blood was undeniable. In a few years, my wolf would submit to his, despite my royal bloodline. I looked away from him and suppressed that thought. Happy thoughts only. Today was a good day. “What’s your name, little boy? Are you here with your parents?” I asked. Did my tone change to that annoying one adults used on babies? I cringed slightly when I saw the tick in his jaw and the way his fists balled up. Even his grey eyes grew colder. His anger was almost like a slap on my cold cheeks. Weird. He must have been too young to start learning how to control himself. It was more important for alphas, considering how much damage even their auras could do to weaker wolves. “I’m not a little boy, Your Highness. I’m fifteen. My name is Justin.” He looked at me expectantly. Was I supposed to know him? Were his family members of the court? My father’s business allies? I’d been memorising names and faces for so long that sometimes they just blurred together. Still, I couldn’t be rude. “Nice to meet you, Justin. Perhaps we will see each other again soon. I’m here to meet someone. My brother won’t be pleased if he finds you here.” I almost giggled at the thought of Kostas’ reaction once he found out someone had slipped past him. The inner courtyard was sacred. My gaze darted across the manicured space, eager to meet my millionth date and take him for a tour. Despite Kostas allowing me outside so soon, my time would be limited. I’d make the most of it. “I’m who you’re meeting, Your Highness. I’m your date.” My smile dropped. My face twisted before I could stop it, my eyes widening as I looked at the boy who probably still had his nose wiped by his mother. What. The. Actual. Fuck? Chapter 2 KAT No. No, no, no. This couldn’t be real. This had to be a prank. A test. I’d gone through so many dates that the pool must have shrunk to almost nothing, but there was no way my parents thought this snotty little boy was suitable for me. Goddess forbid if there was actually a spark of a bond with him. What the hell were they thinking? I’d be eighteen in a few days. This wasn’t just a bad match; it was illegal! “Princess Katerina?” His babyish voice cut through the horror spiralling in my head, and I quickly smoothed my expression, forcing it back into something polite. Something practised. “M—my apologies, Justin,” I said, looking back at the two chaperones nearby. One of them looked away, her mouth twitching. They knew. They knew I’d been buffed and fluffed for a mere little boy. Was I a joke? “Please,” I said, remembering my manners. “Let’s sit.” One of Mother’s best tea sets was already laid out on the table, and a servant waited at a respectable distance, ready to serve. As if the day wasn’t cursed enough, the sun slipped behind a cloud, taking its warmth with it. Justin smirked as he dropped into a chair across from me, his eyes drifting lazily around the courtyard. His earlier tantrum seemed forgotten as he slouched in his seat and chuckled to himself. Obviously, he knew nothing about etiquette. Nothing about him stood out besides his alpha aura. There was no way this kid excelled at anything. “This place is really cool,” Justin said, lifting the delicate teacup like it was a soda can. “I thought you’d be mated before my turn came around.” My cheek burned as embarrassment rolled through me. His turn? Anyone who made it on my parents’ list was privileged. Saying they were taking turns sounded too vulgar. It was as if I were some box to tick off. Like he was doing me a favour. I looked away and sipped my tea, too. There was a whole meal coming after that, but I’d lost my appetite, and I suddenly didn’t feel like walking with this boy. “You’re only a child. It was obviously a mistake,” I said calmly, keeping my voice even. I wanted to storm back into the castle and demand answers, but Mother had drilled it into me—poise, no matter what. I had a guest, so I had to entertain him, even if he was fresh out of nappies. I almost snorted, but swallowed it back. I had to endure this. So much for going for a walk. It would be like babysitting, and I really wasn’t in the mood for that. Still, this was better than the dates I’d endured the past week. A shiver rippled down my spine, and my hand trembled. The teacup clattered softly as I set it down, the uneven sound echoing across the courtyard. No. Not now. There was no point in dwelling on the past. “I’m not a child,” Justin said through his teeth, the earlier temper peeking through. Something about the flash in his eyes tugged at my memory. Why did that look so familiar? That thought brought me out of my head as I studied the kid again. Had I seen him at a ball? In the background, at a pack gathering I’d spied on from one of my windows? “But at least I’m getting this out of the way quickly,” Justin continued. “Gives me better odds of finding my mate when I shift.” Frowning, I met the brat’s gaze head-on, breaking another of my parents’ rules. “What do you mean by that?” “You know,” the boy shrugged. I didn’t. Wasn’t he there to see if he was a match? Then why was he still thinking of finding a mate when he shifted? Not that I would even entertain that thought, but what the hell? “Which pack are you from?” I asked, fingers curling in my lap. He was clearly uncultured to act like I wasn’t good enough for him. I was a princess! What could he possibly object to? “Ironbridge,” Justin answered, glancing around again before reaching into his pocket and pulling his cell phone out. He pointed the camera towards the cherry blossom tree as if it were a sightseeing tour. Unbelievable. The scenery was more fascinating to him than I was! At least he didn’t try to take a picture of me. How he’d snuck that thing into the castle was beyond me. Kostas banned recording devices because, in his words, “not everyone deserves to gaze upon your beauty.” I used to roll my eyes at that, but now I was grateful. I’d studied enough cases to know exactly how wrong it could get when someone captured the wrong kind of image. A guard materialised from some hidden place behind me and snapped the phone out of the kid’s hand. “Aw, come on,” Justin whined. “It’s just a tree.” The guard thumbed through something on the phone, frowning, and then slipped it into his own pocket. Guess the brat was shit out of luck. “Tell him to give me back my phone. I don’t know why they treat you like you hung the sun in the sky. I’m just like you, I’m a prince, too. My dad won’t let it slide if I say you stole from me.” “You’re an alpha’s son?” I asked, even though comparing any other alpha in the kingdom to Father was treasonous. But Mother branched into the farther territories years ago. This brat could very well have been a real prince, a son of one of the neighbouring three kings. Justin leaned back, folding his arms as if he owned the world. “Yeah. Alpha Carter. You don’t want to piss him off.” A sharp noise cracked the air. I blinked. The handle of my cup had snapped in my hand. I loosened my grip and let the pieces fall onto the table while my eyes widened at the boy before me. My pulse pounded in my ears. I couldn’t breathe past the lump forming in my throat. A memory flared. A different date. Hair pulling. Greasy hand on my thigh. Rising further. That laugh when he told me what he would do to me. Twisting my hands together, I looked back at the guard. Of course this kid was a Carter. Not a real prince, not even close. Alpha Carter would never be an alpha king in any lifetime. No wonder this kid looked familiar. “You should have followed the rules,” I said. I was surprised that my voice remained steady. “They’ll check it and give it back to you at the end of our... meeting.” No way was I calling this a date. Especially now that I knew who he was. Anyone from that vile cesspit of a pack wasn’t worthy of setting foot through our complex gates, never mind sitting across from me. Didn’t Kostas think so? Had I really been reduced to this? Having him there felt like a betrayal. “My brother Aaron said you’re insane. I see it now,” Justin sneered. “Said you smiled like a robot no matter what he said to you.” My hands twitched. Aaron had said a lot. “And Samuel said there’s not much between your ears,” he continued. Pot. Kettle. Black. Samuel had the body of an alpha and the brain of a potato. He didn’t look or talk like he’d ever read a book in his life. Perfect gentleman when he wasn’t leering, but I struggled to keep my eyes open. “And Jake...” The smile dropped off my face completely. My skin crawled like a hundred baby spiders had just hatched on me. Justin saw it and laughed, glancing behind me, obviously calculating how much he could get away with. “Jake said you’d only be good for one thing.” My gaze snapped back to his. Blood rushed in my ears, and my vision sharpened. Only a few weeks until my first shift, and already the beast within me was stirring. If I lost control now and shifted, I could tear this degenerate pup apart. Because he was unshifted, he’d be defenceless. It would be like toying with a human. “If your brothers said all that, why are you here?” I asked. Behind me, I sensed my chaperones edging closer. Did they hear him? “You really don’t know?” Justin laughed, clapping his hands as if this was entertaining. “There’s a saying. Life isn’t complete until you’ve dated the princess. If you want to find your true mate, you have to dump her first.” Behind me, one of my chaperones—the one who’d struggled not to laugh when I met Justin—giggled. She knew! My cheeks flamed again. Humiliation rose in my chest. I dated these boys for a reason, for the good of the kingdom, but this was what they thought of me? My chest compressed, and I felt my heart shatter. Did my parents know? Did Kostas? The fury I’d been swallowing all morning while my maids wrapped me up for this boy returned a hundredfold, forcing me to my feet. “Mr Carter, we’re done here.” Justin stood, still laughing, and gave a mocking bow. Every part of me called out to slap that smug look off his face, but my hands remained clasped in front of me. Proper. Still perfect. Even as an inferno burned within me. “I wasn’t staying here long anyway. We’re obviously, thankfully, not true mates,” he said. “Hand me my phone back and wish me luck for my future, Princess.” “Good luck, Mr Carter,” I said, a smile still on my face. “You’ll need it to find anyone who’ll put up with that stench of manure coming from your mouth. You talk a lot for a child who’s mediocre at best. Unsurprising considering who your father is. I’ll remember your name fondly the next time Alpha Carter bows at my feet. Goodbye, little boy.” Chapter 3 KAT “Katerina, open this door.” I glanced up from my textbook, waiting. Was today the day Kostas finally lost his patience and broke it down? I’d avoided him for a week, hiding behind Mother’s endless matchmaking. She’d ramped it up again, so much so that it felt like that was all I did. Wake up. Dress. Date. Get humiliated. Start again. My fury still simmered inside me. My skin itched, ready to burst from the unfamiliar emotions I’d been struggling with, yet I knew what they meant. It was almost time. I wanted answers, a reason for this humiliation, but I couldn’t bring myself to ask. My omega wolf was already cowering. Hiding. Submitting to my family’s will, like I’d been taught my whole life. Kostas knew what the Carter boys had said and done. I was under no illusion that those guards who appeared out of thin air to save me during my date with Jake hadn’t reported everything. But he’d still set me up with another boy who had Carter blood running through his veins. My head was a jumbled mess. I'd never once doubted my family's love for me until my date with Justin; those questions kept circling my mind. All week, I’d caught the glances from the servants. Saw them whisper. I couldn’t hear them, my wolf hadn’t surfaced yet, but I felt their words. My humiliation was constant. I felt naked. “Katerina!” Kostas growled, louder now. Swallowing, I stood slowly, smoothed down my dress, and pasted my smile back on my face. “I’m sorry, Kostas. I had my music on,” I lied, pulling my earbuds out for show. My brother frowned, silent for a while, before he stepped into my room. He didn’t buy it. I'm sure he already knew I was avoiding him. “It’s the Spring Ball tonight. Mother prepared your dress and mask.” He sounded anxious. Uneasy. Why? I’d been attending for years, secretly at first, when I hid behind the curtains in the grand hall. When I turned fifteen, I was officially presented—fully masked—and finally allowed to accompany my parents and brother. Behind the anonymity of the masks, I gained a little freedom. “I know,” I said. “I'll be ready on time, you don't need to worry.” “Your birthday is in a few days. Are you feeling... anything?” “No,” I lied again. Did he see through that? His gaze didn’t linger on my face. Kostas sighed and walked over to my pile of textbooks. Even on such a day, my work had to be completed. “Everything I do is to protect you, Katerina,” he said, running his hands through his hair. “I know.” I just wasn’t sure anymore what they were protecting me from. “You didn't meet anyone you liked this week?” No. No stirrings of a true mate bond. They had all dumped me, the same as the ones who’d come before them. The same as the Carter boys. “No, but I’ll tell you the moment I like someone,” I said, smiling as I reached for his hand. “I'm sure I'll find my mate soon. Don't worry, Kostas.” “I would prefer it if we found him now. Before your wolf presents herself,” Kostas said. So that was the reason for the overkill with the dates? My birthday? Had I run out of time? Would they choose any wolf, rather than my true mate? Anyone would be forgiven to think some great calamity was going to fall on me if I didn’t get marked and mated before then. But what greater calamity was there than mating a wolf who would not respect my boundaries or look past the limitations of my wolf? “I’ll try,” I smiled, “but could we forget about that for tonight? Can we just have fun?” His smile returned, faint and wistful. “Sometimes I forget how young you are. Of course, Princess. Let your hair down tonight,” he said. “But be careful. Things outside our walls aren’t as settled as I’d want.” Kostas never talked about anything outside our walls. Could this be what had my family anxious? Lordswood was, after all, the largest pack in father’s kingdom, and our kingdom was the largest of the four. Our complex was like a city; we were self-sufficient. It wouldn’t be the first time another kingdom thought they could help themselves to what we had. Was I too arrogant to assume they were all anxious because of me? “Finish your homework. They’ll come to help you soon.” After he kissed my forehead, he left, and my burning questions remained unasked. I was almost afraid to hear the answers. An hour later, several maids came into my room, my new dress and accessories in tow. Usually, I loved this part, but this time, lead settled on the centre of my chest. I was too anxious. I didn’t care about the layers of sapphire silk, the delicate silver-threaded mask, or the jewels for my hair. My chest still hurt. But I didn’t dare ask the stupid questions. Did everyone attending the ball know about this saying? Did they all secretly laugh at me? I had no idea how I got from my dressing room to meet my parents at the top of the main staircase. “You look beautiful, Katerina,” Queen Maria said, taking my hands in hers. I couldn’t see her face behind her mask, only her red curls piled on top of her head, but tears shimmered in her green eyes just as they had all week. My head switched from my simmering fury to concern for her. But it switched back just as quickly when I remembered the Carters and all the other recent dates. They’d all been carefully selected by my mother’s own hand. “Thank you, Mother,” I smiled. “So do you.” Both my parents did. Father was a typical alpha, towering over all us, even Kostas. He looked more dignified with his blue royal mantle draped over his shoulders. “Don’t forget yourself tonight, darling. There are too many eyes watching.” Her words fed the dread that had been brewing in the pit of my stomach. All those eyes would indeed be on me, just as they had since I was presented. But would they be laughing behind their masks? “Yes, Mother.” “If you get into any trouble, return to your room. Kostas will take care of it,” Father said, his voice low but commanding. King Christos didn’t need to raise his tone to make people obey his command. His aura could silence armies; which was how he’d earned the right to rule all the packs in the north. I’d yet to meet anyone who was as strong as he was. Or as gentle. As if he’d known that he scared me, he gently patted my shoulder. This was why my parents wanted a true mate for me. So he could soothe me when I was in distress. So he could protect me. So he could keep me caged within these walls with the servants whispering behind my back. “Let’s go,” Father said softly. “Our guests are all here.” We descended together, my father leading, Kostas behind us. Perfect. Regal. I was sandwiched like the fragile princess I was. This was my life. Privileged. Beautiful. Like a colourful bird in a cage. My chest welled, almost unable to push this thought back down. Behind the mask, the smile was gone. I was a prisoner. I had to leave. The music swelled in the great hall, and couples twirled in the middle. But the colours blurred around me. I forgot all the things I loved about the Spring Ball as that decision echoed in my mind. Was I really doing this? I knew nothing beyond these walls. How would I survive? I left my mother’s side, picked a drink, and slipped away. I didn’t stop walking until I was in the main courtyard. Sighing, I drained the drink in one go and looked up at the sky. For years, I’d imagined what it would be like to walk out of the castle. To find myself so I could be my own person. I’d even planned every step of it. I already knew how to get the suppressants from the hospital and which clothes I’d pack. But I was not capable of anything else beyond that. I was not my own person. “If you sigh any louder, people might think I’m doing something inappropriate to you.” I froze. My breath hitched as I turned to the voice. He sat on one of the chairs along the wall, legs crossed, hidden in the shadows. A stranger, yet that voice sent a jolt down my spine. It was deep and velvety, the gentle chords almost pulling me in like a rope. Everything else faded into the background as I stepped closer to him. Who was he? There was something different about him. Something dangerous. I didn’t feel an alpha aura around him, yet I sensed his power. “There she is. I wonder if that’s her next date.” The familiar voices behind me pulled me back. Carter voices. The laughter that followed sent the fury crashing back into me. My hands clenched as I turned back inside. That was it. I was done. I was leaving. Chapter 4 HUNTER That scent. Molten amber, smoked vanilla, and something unexpected. Chocolate peppermint? It drifted closer, teasing my senses. Faint, missing the earthiness of a wolf, yet no less intoxicating. I dragged in a lungful before I could stop myself. But the woman turned from me in a swirl of silk, her chin high and back stiff as she stormed back towards the pretentious castle that the king of the north called home. Golden hair coiled like a crown caught the light, almost matching its brilliance to the jewels adorning it. I almost growled, the beast within me urging me to go after her. My grip tightened on the chair’s arms hard enough to hear the creak. This wasn’t why I was here. I had to focus. The laughter of some teenagers drifting back inside after the girl trickled past me. “I can’t believe they think anyone will want her,” a boy snorted. “Even with her dowry, she’s going to weaken any pack she bonds with.” Was that her? The elusive princess of Lordswood? The one paraded like livestock by that irreverent king? That kid was disrespectful, but he had a point. Her reputation was in ruins. No self-respecting man would sign up for this, whether he was a true mate or chosen. Sighing, I leaned back. With a flick of my fingers, Elijah stepped from the shadows, silent as ever, and handed me a file. The useless Lordswood shadow guards likely wouldn’t even know he’d been there. “You were right. He’s here,” my beta said. I didn’t need to open it. Of course I was right. Only a psychopath would dance beneath the king’s nose with a target on his back. But was he acting alone? That part wasn’t clear yet. The bastard was getting under my skin. I stood and passed him the file. “Should I follow you? They are watching you. It seems they’re expecting you.” “He won’t make a move tonight. He’s taunting me,” I growled, adjusting my suit. “And I don’t care if they’re watching me.” Who would dare move against me? “Will you take your turn with the princess?” My head snapped to Elijah as he vanished back into the shadows with a chuckle. My turn? The fact that King Christos even dared to put my name on that list was insulting. My mask was a gold skull, and possibly the most ridiculous thing I’d ever worn. Christos Lordswood had made such things mandatory since he presented his ‘precious’ daughter, and it was another kick in the balls. I’d ignored the invite for years for that reason. But this time, lives were at stake. But no one would believe that when they walked through to the grand hall. It was pure decadence. Gold, silver, and royal blues everywhere. Priceless ornaments and jewels displayed like trinkets. A live orchestra played trending renditions, while servers floated by with glasses of wine that most packs couldn’t afford in a lifetime. I’d bet the feast laid out was just as ostentatious. Christos had no respect for the suffering of others, and it seemed neither did the other alphas. They stood apart, surrounded by their own, the facade of unity glaringly obvious. The Spring Ball meant nothing when their egos filled the entire hall. Christos was the king of no one. They all liked to pretend I didn’t exist. Alpha Carter’s gaze flicked to me, and his pasty face turned paler. Smirking, I raised a flute to him, and the spineless alpha looked away. Sighing, I got back to work. Weaving through the guests, eyes and ears open, I caught nothing but useless conversations. No one would whisper about bloodshed within Christos’s polished walls. A flash of blue caught my eye, and I stopped moving. It was the princess no one wanted. She glided through the room, accepting the way the crowd parted for her as if it was her right, and stopped beside her brother, another unbearable prick. The Lordswood pack was full of them. “Are you alright?” Prince Kostas whispered. I caught his words even above the music and chatter. The princess nodded but didn’t speak. Still no voice. Her sighs had been soft and breathy, like the start of a moan. I shook that thought loose, but the curiosity didn’t let go of me. What did she sound like? Whiny? Arrogant? “Tell me when you have enough. We’ll head back, I can have dinner sent to your room,” Kostas said, resting his hand on the top of hers. My gaze narrowed at the protective way he touched her hand. They were siblings, right? Kostas had beaten the living shit out of anyone who breathed wrong around the fragile princess. Overkill, for sure, but what did I know? I didn’t have any siblings. “Did you meet anyone... special?” Kostas whispered. Oh. Was the ball another meat market? Another chance to find this elusive true mate? Shaking my head, I set down my drink and prepared to leave. There was nothing for me there. I was better off watching my suspects as they went. Masks concealed everything, and I had no scents to track. Then she spoke. “No. But I’d like to dance before I go back to my room.” Fuck me. The whispered words snapped my head back to the princess. I’d expected her voice to be soft and shy, but it was low and firm. Measured. Like honey dripping off a silver spoon. A contradiction. My beast reared up, focusing on the princess again. “There’s no one here worthy of a dance with you,” Kostas said. “Shall I have this honour?” No one worthy? Oh? Grinning, I stepped forward, ignoring the alphas and lunas who hadn’t bothered to greet me, until I stood in front of the siblings. “Your Highness,” I said with a bow, “may I have this dance?” The princess looked at her brother like she was waiting for his permission. Would the great Prince Kostas Lordswood let his baby sister dance with the devil? My aura was buried, but I had no doubt Kostas knew who I was. He knew everyone within a mile of his sister. Sure enough, when I met the prince’s gaze, there was enough ice in it to burn. And fear? His temple throbbed above the phantom mask covering half his face. Would he defy me? “Kostas?” the princess asked, pulling his focus. “It’s up to you, Katerina. I won’t make you do anything you don’t want to do.” She hesitated, and then the princess released her brother’s arm and held out her lace-covered hand. Kostas’s mouth twitched, and the air around him cracked with unrestrained power. Until Katerina whimpered and flinched. Of course. The fragile little omega. She couldn’t take any discomfort. Kostas smiled and masked his aura as he rubbed her back. “Go on,” he said gently. “Dance. I have some people to talk to.” Katerina half turned, as if she would follow her brother, but I caught her hand in mine. With her full mask, I couldn’t see her expression, but her body stiffened. The tempo of her heartbeat jumped. Blue eyes clashed with mine. Fire flared in her eyes briefly. Maybe it was a flash of light, because she lowered her head submissively and allowed me to lead. Like a good little omega. I almost snorted at my thoughts as I brought her to the centre of the room and turned to face her. And then that scent hit me again. Fuck. Why the hell had I allowed Kostas’ words to provoke me? I didn’t give a shit if the prince thought me unworthy. But there I was, drawing the princess closer, inhaling her scent like I would die without it. I didn’t miss the eyes on us. The orchestra played on, but the room went quiet. The dancefloor cleared, and just like that, it was just the two of us in the room. She was small. Fragile. Barely up to my chest, I could see the top of her head. My hand circled her waist, settling on her lower back, pulling her close. The beast almost purred. Why did she smell so good? Feel so good? Beneath the layers of her dress, the warmth of her body seeped into mine. The princess gasped and stepped back, head bowed. The music drifted to my ears again, reminding me of where I was. I was being inappropriate. Sullying the precious jewel of Lordswood. “Pardon me, Your Highness," I said, reclaiming her hand. This time, I kept a respectable distance. We moved through the steps, flowing seamlessly. Goddess, she fit perfectly in my arms. If I just leaned in, if I pressed my mouth to her neck and— No. My grip tightened on her lower back even as I tried to ease away from her. What the hell was this? She was unshifted. Too young. Inexperienced. Even though I was at least eight years older than her, I’d shifted way before my time. Besides, she was that fucker Lordswood’s spawn. The music changed, snapping my attention back to the room and the omega who still refused to meet my gaze. I didn’t want such a spineless woman in my bed. The packaging was beautiful; no one would doubt that. But the blood in her veins was rotten. “I suppose I can consider this my turn,” I said, my voice flat. The princess’s head snapped up. Blue fire spat at me, this time unmistakable. Her shoulders squared, and she clasped her hands in front of her. “Yes, please do. My brother was right, you are not worthy. Enjoy the ball, sir.” She turned and walked away like she ruled the realm. And fuck if that didn’t make my beast howl. Chapter 5 KAT I calmed my breathing before stepping into the family dining room. Mother and Father sat together, holding hands and laughing softly. Kostas stood at the window, wine glass in hand, eyes distant. He didn’t look like he belonged in the same scene. He was too still. Too serious. The moment Mother saw me, she rose with practised grace and opened her arms. “Darling, come here,” she said brightly. Kostas turned, the frown gone like it never existed. The three of them smiled as if they hadn’t seen the way the guests had avoided me at the ball. As if I hadn’t been the only royal they all pretended not to see. I returned Mother’s embrace, letting her subtle scent smother me. She wore an evening gown, dripping in crystals, despite it being a rest day. I’d gone simpler. No corset and no full face of make-up. Mother’s subtle frown at my dress didn’t need words. But I didn’t offer an explanation. It’s not like they’d ever given me one. “You were the belle of the ball last night,” Mother said, guiding me to a seat beside her. “I have a good feeling about your upcoming appointments.” My fingers twitched in my lap, but I kept the smile on my face. “Oh? Did you notice anything?” Father asked her before quickly turning his gaze to me. “Has your wolf shown herself, Katerina?” “Not yet,” I said, too quickly. “She doesn’t need her wolf now,” Mother said, brushing it off. “She’s so close to shifting, her true mate would have sensed her already. I wouldn’t be surprised if someone comes calling very soon.” My heart twisted. A true mate. The dream I was raised to chase. Yet... “You can’t be sure, Mother,” I said, sipping my wine. I was surprised my hand didn’t tremble. “We had the best of the best from all the territories under one roof. Of course I’m sure,” Mother said, placing her hand in mine. “Trust me on this.” For the first time in a long time, Mother wasn’t twitchy or close to tears. Could she really have sensed something? But no. She said the same thing about a dozen times a year. My happiness had depended on the queen’s fluctuating moods for as long as I could remember. We were always either ecstatic or disappointed. I was tired. “I trust you,” I lied with a soft smile, just as the servants arrived with dinner. Across the table, I met Kostas’ gaze. He hadn’t said a word since I came in. He hadn’t said anything since the man on the dancefloor had humiliated me in front of everyone. In front of all the ‘best of the best’ in the wolf territories. His turn, he’d said. That bastard was no different from Justin and his brothers. Kostas looked away from me and picked up his cutlery to start eating. “When your mate reveals himself, we’ll throw the grandest wedding,” Father beamed. “I’ll walk you down the aisle, just like I always dreamed. Kostas, have you finished overseeing the housing project? Every unit must be furnished.” My father spoke like it was a done deal. My true mate would live in the castle with me, and his pack would join ours. But what if he chose not to? What if he didn’t want my brother as their beta? My gaze drifted back to Kostas. He didn’t look at Father as he said, “Yes, everything is under control.” But Kostas was the smartest person I knew. Hadn’t this thought crossed his mind? Hadn’t it crossed any of their minds that no one would want to live with the joke of the kingdom? “Perfect,” Mother said, clasping her hands. “Our little butterfly will have everything.” I tuned them out after that. Mother’s endless plans for the wedding. Father’s constant tweaking of the security plans and living arrangements. I’d participated in the conversations enough times to know them by heart. By the time dessert plates were cleared and we moved to the lounge, I could barely keep my mask in place. My stomach twitched with nerves, and my pulse echoed in my ears. This was it. The last supper. Would I ever see my family again? Would they understand why I had to do this? Would they forgive me? How disappointed would they be when they learned that I didn’t want the life they had so carefully crafted for me? “Are you alright, Katerina?” I smiled at my brother over my book. “I am. But you seem tired, though.” Was he burning himself out again? When I left, who would remind him to take care of himself? “Things have just been a little hectic, but I’m fine.” Was he lying? “If it’s about my birthday, we don’t have to make a big deal of it. The Spring Ball was grand enough.” “Nonsense,” Father said. “It’s not every day a wolf turns eighteen.” As if triggered by my anxiety, my body started to betray me. My skin itched, nerves flaring under the surface like a thousand sparks. The lights pierced my eyes, and every sound stabbed into my skull. The world sharpened until I could make out the silver strands in my father’s blond hair. I could smell the blood in the steak we’d just eaten, still clinging to the air. And then it was gone. Cut off. Silent. “What will you do if this doesn’t work out?” I blurted. The room stilled. I watched that panic return in my mother’s gaze before she forced a smile. “You will find one, Katerina,” Father said, voice firm. “Even if I have to knock on every door on the planet.” I clenched my wine glass until my knuckles ached. I wanted to scream. To ask why this mattered more than how they let those boys treat me. How they let people whisper about me and turn me into a joke. Instead, I smiled, as if I were grateful, and sat in silence as the conversation returned to my birthday. When my parents decided to retire to their wing, I held on a little tighter than usual. Kissed their cheeks a little longer. Memorised their warmth. By the time Kostas walked me to the door, my cheeks were numb, and my tears were seconds from bursting out. “Rest well. Tomorrow will be busy,” Kostas said. “I will.” “That man you danced with last night,” Kostas started. My fists balled before I could stop myself. That grey-eyed bastard. I shoved my memories back quickly and composed myself. Now was not the time to remember how he held me. Or the way his scent messed with my head. “Did you feel anything? Did your wolf stir?” “Thankfully not,” I lied. “He was insufferable.” I couldn’t quite forget the way his scent tangled with something inside me. My brother exhaled, and I saw the tension drain from his body. Was that the reason he’d been so quiet all night? He never worried without a good reason, so my assessment of that man must have been right. He was just a scoundrel. Someone not good enough for me. Such a man would never be my mate. “If you ever meet him again, walk away,” Kostas said. Well, that was easy. I didn’t even know what he looked like. “I’ll never be in the same room as him,” I promised. Kostas paused, and I thought he might say more, but instead, he hugged me tight and pressed a kiss to my temple. “It will get better. I swear it,” he whispered before he released me. He didn’t linger after that, and my chest ached when I watched him walk away. My dear brother. Would he be okay? Dragging my feet, I walked into my room without bothering with the light and sank into my couch. The tears came, falling silently as they had done many times before. I sat for hours, unable to stop them, unable to stop the stabbing pain in my chest. When the castle finally fell asleep and the guards started their change of shift, I rose and crossed to the back of my dressing room. My bag was packed full of suppressants, and I’d swiped a change of clothes from the laundry room. There was nothing else left for me to do. There was nothing for me in this castle. In this kingdom. My only chance at freedom lay beyond the border, in the human world. With my steps light, I hid in the shadows until I slipped through the cracks of the life they built for me. I wasn’t their butterfly anymore. Chapter 6 KAT The mirror was cracked and too small to show much, but the green-eyed redhead woman staring back at me didn’t need a full reflection to know she looked damn good. Green eyes sparkled beneath the uneven bangs of my pixie cut and my smile was wide. I turned back to the mess behind me. Clothes piled on one side of the bed, textbooks and files on the other, and somewhere behind all that was my defunct kitchen. It didn’t matter. I was finally moving out of this shithole. Squealing, I plopped onto the clear patch of my single mattress and picked up my envelope for the hundredth time. My bonus. My big, fat, life-changing bonus. Eighty hours a week, blood, sweat, and tears for almost two years, and those higher-ups at the Bureau of Non-Human Affairs had finally noticed me. My name wasn’t on the case file, but I cracked their case. I was their fucking hero. I deserved this. Besides, I hadn’t worked so hard just to write my name down on some file. I’d done the impossible. Permanent hire before graduation? Done. Youngest recruit? Also done. All that homeschooling had come in handy after all. The smile faltered. My chest tightened. Tears threatened, but I shoved the thoughts away. Today was a good day. I was done surviving, I was ready to live. Grabbing my keys, bag, and helmet, I kicked dirty clothes out of the way and headed out. I guess I’d have to deal with the mess before I officially started work on Monday. I was down to my last office outfit. Or fuck it, I’d just buy new clothes. My laughter rang out in the hallway as I walked to the stairs. I was still laughing when I reached the basement parking lot. I’d buy enough clothes that I didn’t have to repeat the same outfits every week. An apartment with enough room to swing a cat. A double bed without a thin, lumpy mattress! Kat Munroe was moving up. “Looking good, Kitty Kat.” Rolling my eyes, I didn’t turn back as I secured my crossbody bag across and put my helmet on. Leather booty shorts, matching jacket, thigh-high boots, and a top that could pass for a bra. Not a corset in sight. “Where are we going tonight?” The voice sounded closer, so I had to look. I hadn’t made it this far by being stupid. Two guys, the usual suspects, walked out from behind two pillars like they were villains in a D-list movie. Long-haired jock types. The type of human trash the Bureau usually handed down to the local agencies. It was a pity they couldn’t handle humans themselves or I’d have turned them in for being assholes. “Todd. Sam,” I greeted with a nod. “Just going for some groceries. Why are you lurking in a dark basement?” The two delinquents grinned and came closer. “You promised we’d hang out, Kat,” Todd drawled. “You’re not going back on your word, are you?” “Forget your groceries,” Sam added. “We’ll feed you something better.” Creepy. Did that shit ever work on anyone? “Maybe tomorrow night,” I said, turning back to my bike and swinging my leg over it. The two were on either side of me before I could grip the throttle. “You keep brushing us off, Kitty Kat,” Todd said, grabbing the handlebars. “You think that will work forever?” My motorbike was my pride and joy. Gleaming red and black with polished chrome, and an engine that purred like a beast. I’d skipped meals and rent for her. How dare this bastard put his hand on her? “We promise you’ll enjoy it,” Sam added, grabbing the other handle. I’d had enough. Removing my helmet, I ran my fingers through my hair and then smiled at one and then the other. Television was a great thing. More educational than the mountains of books in my father’s library. In three years, I’d learned that using brute strength wasn’t the only way to win. But it sure did help. I swung my helmet and cracked it hard against Todd’s head. Then a punch to Sam’s ribs made him swear and stagger back. The engine roared to life beneath me, and I peeled out before the losers could react. My laughter echoed in the parking lot, rising with the growl of the engine. Three years ago, someone would have come out of the shadows to handle those two. But I wasn’t that girl anymore. I couldn’t be. I sliced through the Friday night traffic with that ache in my chest. As always, guilt tore at me. Had they stopped looking for me? Were they okay? Did they hate me? If I went back now, would they accept the new me? The bright lights of the city flashed around me as I parked my bike and took my helmet off. I couldn’t dwell on that. I was finally about to get the life I’d designed for myself. Now wasn’t the time to falter. Pulse stood like a beacon in downtown Greenville, with a line already forming at the wide doors. A crowd spilt onto the sidewalk, and I could already feel the thumping of the bass from outside. When it was my turn, I proudly took out my ID before they could ask me and grinned at the bouncers. Twenty-one. My birthday. In the human world, I was now old enough to drink. The bouncer looked between my ID and my face before he gave a low whistle. “Happy birthday, Kathrine Munroe.” “Damn right it is,” I said with a wink. The velvet rope lifted, and just like that, they let me into the heart of the beast. Bass, bodies, and neon lights hit me all at once. The air was electric, and energy pulsed through the air. It was chaos, and I loved every second of it. I threaded my way through the crowds towards the bar, my body swaying to the music. This was freedom. The opposite of every ball I’d ever attended. Except in one way. So many people, so much laughter, yet I was still very much alone. Finally leaning against the bar, I waited for the busy bartender to notice me before I slid a twenty across the counter. “Whiskey. Neat,” I shouted above the music before I leaned back on it to scan the club. As much as I loved the freedom to drink without restrictions, that wasn’t why I was there. I’d been too busy juggling my degree and my internship, and now I was about to get busier. This weekend was the only time I could let my hair down. The only time I could feel... something. Kostas would lose his shit if he knew. Instead of making me panic, a thrill shot down my spine. I was my own person. I could make my own choices. I scanned the room, my eyes skimming past the boys trying to be hard on the dancefloor, the men leering at the women from the walls, the ones being too loud, attention-seeking. Until my gaze stopped at him. He leaned against the far wall, half in the shadow, half under the flickering lights. Dark shirt unbuttoned just enough to hint at the muscles underneath, and pants tight enough to make my heart flutter. No loud colours like most of the men around him. No attention seeking. He didn’t blink often as he watched the crowd. He just stood still. Like he was waiting for something. Like he was hunting. My body lit up like I’d finally found the piece I’d been looking for. I picked up my whiskey and headed straight for him without hesitating. The closer I got, the more my body reacted to him. It had been so long since I’d felt anything remotely similar that I almost panicked. But I shoved those thoughts back. This had nothing to do with my beast. Those suppressants had worked for three years, and they would continue to do so. The man’s head snapped towards me, and fuck. I couldn’t stop the gasp. He was beautiful. Hair cropped short, stormy grey eyes smouldering, and a five o’clock shadow. Older than me, for sure. More experienced. I could tell by the way his gaze dipped slowly, dragging over me, before he met my eyes again. It felt like a caress. The heat that pooled in my stomach was instant. How did a man do that with just his eyes? I stopped in front of him and tossed back the rest of my drink. Liquid courage. “Seen something you like?” I purred. His mouth curved, just barely. “Maybe.” His voice was deep and smooth, and it struck something inside me. Had I heard it before? At work? Or in my lectures? I tilted my head to look up at him. I would have remembered if I’d ever met someone like him. Despite the chaos of the club around him, he remained composed. Restrained. If this weren’t a human club, I would have suspected he was something else. Was he hunting for a little something for the weekend, then? I was more than ready to be his prey. Stepping closer, letting my gaze eat him up like he’d done to me. Yes. Yes, he’d do. “Then what are you going to do about it?” I asked. “You tell me,” the man said. This was my cue. I’d studied all those smutty television shows just for this moment. “I’d like to buy you for the night.” His brow lifted slightly, and his mouth curved again. “You’re very blunt.” I shrugged. “It’s my birthday. I’m celebrating. If you’re not available, I can find someone else.” The little smirk fell off his face, and the air shifted. He stepped away from the wall slowly. Deliberately. I felt very much like his prey. My heart slammed against my chest when he stepped into the light. Goddess. He was even hotter up close. Sharp jawline, tall, broad shoulders. I felt his presence all around me. “And what exactly do you expect from me, birthday girl?” he drawled. My breath caught. Electric shocks zapped down my spine, and I almost stepped back. But this was what I wanted. “Surprise me,” I whispered. The man licked his lips. Then he reached for my empty glass and set it on a table next to us. “Come with me.” And I did. I followed the stranger through the crowd like I hadn’t watched hundreds of true-life documentaries about what could happen to me. Not because I was drunk. This wasn’t about rebellion. This was because, for the first time since I left home, I was going to do something I could never undo. I was going to give myself to someone other than my true mate.