#Chapter 1
I'm frozen, utterly stunned, as I gaze at my phone. Tears well up in Mariah's eyes, her trembling lip revealing a deep emotional pain. She tugs at the collar of her shirt, granting me a glimpse of her shoulder before shifting to expose her stomach. Bruises. Vivid splotches of blue and purple adorn both areas, still fresh and raw. My veins turn to ice as Mariah adjusts her shirt once more. "Mariah..." I manage to utter, my voice barely a whisper. I wait for her response, hoping she'll say it's not what I fear. But the hesitation in her eyes tells me otherwise. So I wait, breathing slowly, the silence between us heavy with unspoken words. Mariah gathers the strength to voice her next confession. "He hurt me, Shir..." Her voice trembles, and a chill runs down my spine. "And this isn't the first time. He's been hurting me...," Mariah reveals. "And it's only getting worse." Worse. I can hardly fathom it. Gary, Mariah's supposed true mate, the one who should protect her and keep her safe, has been using my best friend, my sister in all but blood, as his personal punching bag. My grip on the phone tightens, the fear of shattering it gripping me. A fairy tale. That's what it was supposed to be. Ever since we were children, Mariah dreamed of finding her mate and embarking on a beautiful life together. It was a stark contrast to my own views on love, which I found lackluster and disappointing, an inconvenience at best. But I never discouraged Mariah; instead, I listened and validated her dreams. And eventually, Mariah found her happily ever after. Years ago, she called me, bubbling with joy, to announce that she had found her mate, Gary, during a recent trip. It seemed like fate had intervened, bringing their paths together despite being from different packs.But the consequences of rejecting a mate go far beyond money. It's about the social stigma, the judgment, the isolation that follows. Mariah knows this all too well, and it breaks my heart to see her trapped in such a toxic situation. I reach out and take Mariah's trembling hands in mine, trying to offer some semblance of comfort. "Mariah, we'll find a way. We'll figure this out together. You don't have to face this nightmare alone." She looks at me with tear-filled eyes, a mix of fear and gratitude etched across her face. "I don't know what I'd do without you, Pandora. You're the only one I can trust." A surge of determination courses through me. I will protect Mariah, no matter the cost. "I promise you, Mariah. I will keep Drew safe. And we will find a way to free you from this nightmare. You deserve so much better." Mariah nods, her grip on my hands tightening. "Thank you, Pandora. Thank you for believing in me." As we sit there, huddled together, I can't help but feel a simmering anger rise within me. How dare Gary think he can control Mariah's life like this? How dare he inflict such pain and fear upon someone who deserves nothing but love and happiness? But I know that blind rage won't solve anything. We need a plan, a strategy to navigate through the treacherous waters that lie ahead. And as I hold Mariah close, I silently vow to be her anchor, her guiding light in the darkness. From this moment on, our journey begins. A journey filled with uncertainty, danger, and perhaps even sacrifice. But I refuse to let fear dictate our actions. Together, Mariah and I will reclaim her fairy tale, transforming it into a story of strength, resilience, and triumph over adversity. No matter what lies ahead, I will be there for Mariah. And together, we will rewrite her destiny, creating a future where she is free to live the life she truly deserves.There's something else, a secret that has been weighing heavily on Mariah's heart. It's been a couple of weeks since she had a miscarriage, and she finally musters up the courage to share her pain with me. "What!?" I exclaim, shocked by the unexpected revelation. "I was going to tell you the news once we knew there were no complications. But well..." Mariah's voice falters, her words caught in her throat. "Gary caused some complications." My blood boils at the mention of his name. The betrayal, the damage he has caused. I feel an overwhelming urge to seek vengeance. To kill him. But Mariah interrupts my thoughts, her voice trembling. "I'm too weak. Between that and the other injuries, I'm tired and I don't know how much more I can handle." The consequences of rejecting a mate become painfully clear to me. The physical toll it takes on the initiator. And looking at Mariah, bruised and battered, I can see she can't endure it any longer. I take a moment to steady myself, to gather my thoughts. "Of course, I'll take care of Drew, Mariah. But..." There has to be another way. We can't let Gary get away with this. We need to protect Mariah, just as she protected me from my own abusive parents all those years ago. We have to find a way out of this. "What if," I propose, my mind racing with possibilities. "What if you got Gary to reject you?" Mariah's immediate response is a shake of her head. "He won't. It's impossible. You know it wouldn't be good for his reputation." Another dead end. A feeling of frustration washes over me. But then, a glimmer of hope emerges. "No," I confidently declare, a smile creeping onto my face. My mind is already several steps ahead, and Phoenix, my inner wolf, is right there with me, her eyes gleaming with mischief. We're ready for a challenge. "It's not impossible," I continue, adjusting my glasses. "I know what we can do." Mariah's lips part, her eyes widening in anticipation. "Use your ability..." Our ability. Mine and Phoenix's. To make any man fall in love with us and bend to our will. The plan takes shape in my mind, and the thrill of it is intoxicating. "No, Shir. It's too dangerous—" Mariah starts to protest. "I'll see you in a few days," I interject, cutting her off. Before she can say anything else, I abruptly end the call, ignoring her attempts to reach out through text messages. There's no time to waste. I book my plane ticket and then make the necessary arrangements with my boss. We're about to embark on a journey that will test our limits. A journey where love becomes our weapon, and revenge becomes our motivation. And I can't help but savor the taste of it all."Elena," I say, my voice filled with urgency as she answers the phone. "I need your help." "Oh?" Elena's voice is laced with curiosity. "What do you need?" "I need you to grant me annual leave," I confess, already gathering my belongings and preparing for my departure. "Annual leave?" Elena sounds surprised. "My little workaholic taking a vacation? This must be important." "You could say that," I reply, a mischievous smile playing on my lips as I pull out a familiar short dress from my closet. Holding it up, I admire the fabric that has the power to turn any man's head. But I only need to capture one man's attention. "There's something important I must attend to," I explain. ~ I despise airplanes, especially as I curse the vast distance we traverse from one side of the country to the other. I should have never allowed Mariah to move so far away. And now, my disdain for planes grows even stronger as I disembark, looking like an absolute mess. I'm supposed to be heading towards the Fleetfoot Cafe to meet Mariah for lunch, but my attention is elsewhere. My steps slow down as I watch someone across the street, wishing my brown hair wasn't tied up in this ridiculous ponytail and I wasn't clad in an oversized sweatshirt. Perhaps then I would catch his gaze, just as he has captured mine. I can't tear my eyes away from him. His towering figure exudes strength. Hidden beneath his jacket, I can sense the presence of well-defined muscles. His dark hair matches the perfect stubble adorning his sharp jawline. His large hands grip the phone pressed to his ear. And those eyes...golden and piercing, I yearn for them to caress my skin. He is the most captivating man I have ever laid eyes on. But as quickly as he appeared, he disappears down the street, leaving me in awe. I regain my composure as I arrive at the cafe, spotting Mariah already waiting for me. "You made it," she says, a hint of relief in her voice."You're actually here," Mariah exclaims, her eyes welling up with tears as she rushes towards me, enveloping me in a tight embrace. The warmth and familiarity of her hug is overwhelming. Goddess, how I've missed her. "Yes, Mariah," I reassure her, reluctantly pulling away to take our seats. "Thank you for coming," Mariah sighs, her voice heavy with the weight of the circumstances. "I wish things were different, but..." "I do too, Mariah," I interject, cutting off her words. "But regardless, I'm here." As we settle down, a somber atmosphere descends upon us. Like Mariah mentioned, there's a reason why I'm here, and now it's time for us to lay everything out on the table. "What exactly do you have planned?" Mariah whispers, finally breaking the silence. "Nothing major," I respond nonchalantly, shrugging my shoulders. "Just catch Gary's eye at the bar. Flirt a little." "But what if he becomes suspicious?" Mariah questions, concern etching her face. "How could he possibly catch on?" I reply, a hint of amusement in my voice. "Come on, Mariah. You have to give Phoenix and me more credit than that." "I know. Just... please be careful, okay? If there's even a hint of trouble, you leave," Mariah insists, her voice filled with worry. All I can do is nod, silently wishing that I had uttered those exact words to Mariah years ago. Maybe if I had, we wouldn't find ourselves in this predicament. We'll get her out. That's the plan. Trying to push away the heavy thoughts weighing on my mind, I search for a lighter topic, something to ease the tension between us. "I saw someone today," I finally say, a playful twinkle in my eyes as I recall the man's image. The mere thought makes Mariah raise an eyebrow. "He was... oh goddess, words can't even begin to describe how attractive he was," I gush, unable to contain my excitement. "Where did you see him?" Mariah asks cautiously, her curiosity piqued. "Just now, in town," I reply with a hint of regret. "I wish I could've gotten a better look at him, but from what I saw, he was quite the catch." "Oh, Pandora," Mariah starts, concern lacing her voice. "Don't 'oh, Pandora' me," I interject, unable to wipe the smile off my face. "I'm just saying – he was really good looking." "I know," Mariah says, chuckling softly. "But please, don't go sticking your nose where it doesn't belong. No unnecessary trouble." I take in Mariah's words, a mischievous grin spreading across my face. Trouble. We both know how much I thrive on it.
#Chapter 2
Mariah manages a half-hearted chuckle. "But that's quite drastic," she argues, "and yet you make it sound so effortless." "That's because it is," I assert, holding up a dress against my frame as I scrutinize myself in the mirror. Dissatisfied, I discard the option and reach for another. "Furthermore, you're not truly persuading him," she continues. "It's temptation. Essentially, you're going to compel him to surrender." I can't help but detect a hint of sorrow in her voice, as if she mourns the idea of her husband being swayed. "Marry," I begin, growing somewhat exasperated. "Are you genuinely still enamored with him? The man who brutalized you and caused the loss of your unborn child?" "No," Mariah replies softly, avoiding eye contact. "No... I'll never forgive him for the miscarriage or the pain he inflicted on me. I mean -" Mariah pauses, visibly struggling to hold back tears as she averts her gaze. Feeling a pang in my chest, I abandon the dresses and settle beside her, clasping her hand in mine. "Goddess, Shir," she finally murmurs. "I never comprehended why you were so adamant about avoiding a mating bond, but now I do. You were wise." "Oh, Mariah," I whisper, almost overwhelmed by a sense of guilt as I embrace her. "I'm deeply sorry. I never wished this upon you - for you to have this revelation." Discovering that mating bonds were far from idyllic was an experience I never wanted anyone to endure. It was far from a joyous revelation, at least for Mariah and myself. "I'm just terrified," Mariah confesses, her words muffled against my shoulder. "He's not an easy person to handle.""I understand," I whisper, gently pulling away from her embrace. "But fear not, for I am ready. You know the extent of my capabilities. No one will have the power to sway me." Mariah nods, her eyes welling up with tears. "Thank you," she manages to say amidst sniffles. "I am eternally grateful for your willingness to do this for me." "Always," I assure her, attempting a smile that quickly fades as my gaze shifts towards the dresses laid out before us. "Now, tell me, where does this formidable adversary usually spend his evenings? I must know where I will make my grand entrance tonight." "The Oak Bar," she replies, wiping away her tears. "He has been frequenting that place quite often lately, only returning home once he's had too much to drink..." My stomach lurches, but I nod in understanding, the unspoken words between us hanging heavily in the air. And then, she simply sighs. "Wear the light blue dress...he has a penchant for blue." ~ I find myself donning the very dress Mariah suggested - not solely because Gary favors blue, but because its babydoll shape and delicate fabric create an image of innocence. Mariah mentioned that is what Gary prefers in his women, likely because it makes them appear submissive. To complete the look, I opt for modest heels and gentle curls in my hair, enhancing my youthful appearance. And, of course, I wear my cherished glasses, adjusting them on my face as I catch sight of him. I recognize Gary from the photographs - his sandy blonde hair and strong nose. He sits alone at the bar, nursing a dark liquid in a small glass. Smiling to myself, I approach. Paying him no mind, I settle onto the stool beside him, making it seem like a mere coincidence. He remains engrossed in some app on his phone, oblivious to my presence. Taking advantage of the moment, I raise my hand to signal the bartender, capturing her attention and Gary's simultaneously. "Excuse me," I say sweetly. "May I have a Hawaiian Sunrise, please?" My voice not only grabs the bartender's focus, but also draws Gary's curiosity.I feel his gaze burning into the side of my face, prompting me to remove my glasses. I turn to meet Gary's eyes, and in that instant, I witness a mixture of fascination and awe. His pupils dilate, as if he's beholding a living goddess. He is captivated, unable to tear his gaze away - exactly where I want him. "H-hello," he stammers, clearly taken aback. It's almost easy to forget that this man is a despicable creature who derives pleasure from harming women. "Hi," I reply, mustering a shy smile and tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. "Are you...are you alone?" he asks, still trying to regain his composure. I nod, pretending to be flattered by his forwardness, my cheeks flushing with a forced blush. In reality, I long to rip him apart, limb by limb. But I push those thoughts aside as he acknowledges the drink the bartender places in front of me. "This one's on me," he declares. "I'm Gary, by the way." Once again, I offer a smile. Jackpot. ~ Boredom engulfs me as I endure Gary's incessant rambling. I feign interest, laughing when expected and providing concise replies when necessary. It becomes apparent that Gary has an insatiable appetite for talking about himself, and it's all painfully mundane. Conversations with men always seem to follow this dreary pattern, without exception. That's why Phoenix, my wolf companion, and I made a pact at a young age to give up on finding our mate. We realized that all men were cut from the same cloth, and we mutually agreed that they were not worth our time or tears. We even managed to suppress our attraction to the scent of any werewolf. However, Phoenix eventually developed an ability that acted as the complete opposite.By some twist of fate, Phoenix possesses a unique ability that allows us to replicate the preferred scent of individual werewolves. It's as simple as making eye contact with someone, sans my glasses, and then Phoenix takes charge. She sniffs them out, delving into their essence until I can emit the perfect fragrance to make them utterly infatuated with me. They believe it to be love, and they become willing to comply with any request I make. However, our success rate is not always guaranteed. It hinges on the duration of the gaze, the underlying emotions, the level of trust, and the complexity of the favor asked. The briefer the eye contact, the lower the chances of fostering goodwill and trust. And the more challenging the task, the less likely the charm will take hold. But tonight, there is another factor at play. I have never attempted to charm someone who already has a mate. It's one thing to coax someone into buying you a drink or engaging in conversation, as Gary did. But convincing him to forsake his mate... That is an entirely different story. ~ Nearly an hour elapses, and I find myself still engrossed in laughter and banter with Gary at the bar, laying the charm on thick as I pretend to be captivated by his anecdotes and remarks. However, both of us fall silent as I notice an arm suddenly encircling his shoulder. "Brennan," Gary says, his tone and expression turning frosty. "Is something amiss?" I glance over at our unexpected companion and nearly topple off my stool as my eyes land on the man. Dark hair...that irresistible stubble. He's the same man I encountered yesterday, the one I spotted on the street. And now, seeing him up close, I can confirm that he is even more striking. I can't fathom how that's possible. His scent, a blend of pine and mint, is positively tantalizing. Quickly, I reach for my glasses, grateful that Brennan wasn't staring at me, and perch them on my nose. Once they settle into place, I finally dare to look back at him. "Am I interrupting something?" Brennan inquires.I can't help but be drawn to Brennan's magnetic voice, though he doesn't even glance in my direction. There's something about him, something intriguing yet unsettling. As I observe his composed expression, a realization dawns on me - I don't want him to misinterpret the connection between Gary and me, even if there is undeniably something there. My head spins with this revelation, urging me to stand. "I should probably go," I manage to say calmly, grabbing my purse. "Enjoy the rest of your night." Without waiting for their response, I turn away, feeling the weight of their heated gazes on my back as I hastily leave the bar, already texting Mariah on my way. ~ Back in my hotel room, Mariah paces while I sit on the bed, recounting the events of the night. I make sure to mention the handsome stranger who appeared towards the end. "Brennan?" she exclaims, still pacing. "Oh my goddess. That's our Alpha. And you're right...he is handsome." "Alpha?" I repeat, my eyes widening. "Yes," Mariah confirms, finally stopping to stare at me. "Brennan is the Alpha of Lock Heart." I can hardly believe it. A smile tugs at my lips, and Mariah mirrors my expression, giving me a sly look. "What?" I ask, curious. "Does someone have a little crush?" she teases, raising an eyebrow. "You know, he's single. He hasn't found his mate yet." "Oh, please," I dismiss her remark with a wave of my hand. "He may be attractive, but that doesn't mean anything. Attractiveness fades over time." Yet, as Mariah resumes her pacing and I begin to remove my shoes, I can't help but dwell on Brennan's scent and his striking features. Embarrassment flushes my cheeks. Hormones, I remind myself. It's just hormones...
#Chapter 3
The woman, whom I had first laid eyes on just yesterday, appeared once again before me. I recall our initial encounter vividly; I was preoccupied with a phone call, en route to a meeting. Yet, amidst the chaos of that moment, she caught my attention. She stood there, her gaze fixed elsewhere, seemingly captivated by the majestic trees and quaint shops adorning the street. Her focus wasn't on me, which allowed me to observe her from a distance as we occupied opposite ends of the bustling thoroughfare. Despite her loose-fitting attire, an inexplicable stirring arose within me. And now, here she sits, perched upon a barstool, draped in an exquisite baby blue dress that accentuates her chest and shoulders with grace. Amidst the sea of monotonous blacks and grays, she radiates like a beacon. However, what truly sets her apart is the fact that she's seated beside Gary—my childhood companion, my closest confidant. Her laughter fills the air, her smile directed at him, brimming with delight. I find it impossible to divert my gaze from her, even from across the room. Why this inexplicable irritation grips me as I watch her alongside Gary, I cannot fathom. During our encounter yesterday, she sported thick-rimmed glasses. In fact, she wore them when she first entered the bar nearly an hour ago. Yet, at some point, she removed them, unveiling an even more captivating visage. Glasses or not, there's no denying her beauty. There's an ethereal quality to her features and her slender frame. Moreover, I can discern that her eyes possess a splendor that Gary finds utterly irresistible. I am consumed by curiosity...about her, about who she might be. After enduring another five minutes of observing Gary and the woman, their laughter intertwining, I decide I can bear it no longer. Downing the remainder of my drink, I rise from my seat, gliding through the crowd effortlessly as people instinctively part before me. As I approach them, I casually drape an arm around Gary's shoulder. My best friend utters my name, posing a question, but my focus is divided. Half of my attention remains on him, while the other half fixates on her.I try my best to maintain my composure, refusing to glance over at Gary and the woman he's shamelessly flirting with. But my frustration only intensifies, urging me to scold him for his blatant behavior, regardless of how captivating she may be. "Isn't she beautiful?" I silently inquire of Chaos, my inner wolf, seeking a second opinion. Chaos, however, remains disinterested, unable to even muster the energy to open his eyes due to sheer boredom. "I can't determine whether a human is beautiful or not," he grumbles. "All I know is that my mate is the most beautiful." I almost roll my eyes at his response. "You haven't even met her," I scoff in reply. "Yes," Chaos growls back. "But I am a wolf. My sense of smell is never wrong." Once again, I'm tempted to respond with an annoyed grunt, but I restrain myself as I pose a question to Gary. Internally, I'm torn between my desire to steal a glance at this mysterious woman and the need to remain composed. However, when she finally rises from her seat and offers an excuse to leave, I allow myself the pleasure. As soon as she turns to walk away, my gaze remains fixated on her. Chaos, too, becomes fully attentive, lifting his head and shedding his previous boredom. He appears alert, almost alarmed. "Something's wrong!" he declares, prompting him to stand and pace around my mind like a paranoid beast. His reaction piques my curiosity, as I've never witnessed Chaos respond in such a manner before. It's peculiar...strange. I can't quite put my finger on it, but something feels off. ~ Once the woman is out of earshot, I finally muster the courage to ask Gary, "Who was that woman you were talking to?" I make sure to infuse my words with a bored and nonchalant tone, masking my deep curiosity. "Just some chick," Gary replies with a casual shrug, suddenly transforming into a different person compared to the one who was practically falling over himself moments ago. "She's pretty, isn't she? Seemed interested in me too - even let me buy her a drink." He takes a sip from his cocktail, wearing an unsettling sense of pride on his face. It makes me want to grind my teeth in frustration. "Are you trying to show off or something?" I inquire, raising an eyebrow as I struggle to contain my annoyance.Gary's sheepish look meets my gaze, and I can't help but feel a mix of curiosity and concern. "Prove that you can still attract females even if you’re a mated man?" I inquire, raising an eyebrow. He stammers, attempting to defend himself. "No," he finally manages to say. "I was just having some fun. Besides, all the other single female werewolves usually flock to you. I just wanted to buy her a drink." I internally snort at his feeble excuse. Gary's claim may appear harmless, but I saw the way he looked at her. There was nothing innocent about it. But Gary abruptly shifts gears, diverting the conversation back to me. "Enough about me," he says, his tone changing. "What about you? Still on the hunt for your mate? Or are you still not willing to compromise?" "Never," I reply simply, my voice firm. "Not all of us are as lucky as you - meeting your mate at eighteen." Finding my true mate has always been my deepest desire, one that remains unfulfilled despite the passing years. "Really?" Gary scoffs, a tinge of bitterness in his tone. "It's not all it's cracked up to be. Maybe you'll get tired of looking in a few years." "Never," I repeat, my frustration rising. I've always resented Gary's lack of appreciation for finding his mate, a sentiment that has only grown over time. I would give anything to be as fortunate as him. "But enough about that," I interject, sensing the conversation heading down an unpleasant path. "How's Mariah? The last time I saw you, you mentioned she was pregnant with your second child." Gary's feet shift on his barstool, and a blush creeps up his neck. He mumbles a vague response, avoiding eye contact. I expect him to elaborate, but he remains silent, opting instead to take another sip of his drink. Concern gnaws at me, urging me to dig deeper. "Is the baby okay?" I press, determined to uncover the truth. After all, Gary is my best friend - if something is amiss, I should be in the know. Gary fidgets once more, his discomfort palpable. Finally, after clearing his throat, he admits, "Not really..." His drink disappears in a long swig, signaling the weight of his words. Startled by this revelation, I swiftly slide into the seat beside him, fully focused on the gravity of the situation. Clearly, this is no ordinary matter.As the Alpha of Lock Heart, I understand the significance of a werewolf pup to our pack. Their safety is paramount, and I will go to great lengths to ensure it, especially for someone like Gary. "Do you need anything?" I inquire, my voice laced with concern, though Gary doesn't meet my gaze. "Food, money, medical resources? If necessary, I can even help you find a reliable nanny." Gary dismisses my offer with a shake of his head. "No, we're fine. Trust me - I can handle it." His words cause me to relax slightly, but I can't help but study him intently, searching for any hint of what he might be thinking. There was a time when I could effortlessly read him, our bond unbreakable. We had grown up together, been best friends for as long as I could remember. Yet, over the years, our connection seems to have weakened. Since I ascended to Alpha and he found his true mate, our friendship has become strained, and now there are moments when I feel like a stranger to him. "Well," I begin, attempting to lighten the mood with a pat on his shoulder. "Maybe it would help if you spent less time at the bar and stopped flirting with young girls." It's meant as a jest, but the truth behind my words hangs in the air. "Go home," I continue, my voice filled with genuine concern. "Spend time with your mate and son. They need you." I can't discern if those were the right words to say, as Gary's expression remains reserved and distant. Right now, it feels as though we are miles apart, despite sitting side by side in this bar. It's disheartening to realize that I may not truly know him anymore. "Yeah," he finally responds, rising from his chair. "You're probably right. I'll see you later." I nod, keeping my eyes on him as he turns away. However, my gaze is drawn to something else before he disappears completely. Gary's phone is in his hands, and I notice him opening an unfamiliar app, his fingers swiftly typing a response to a message. What is he up to? Before I can inquire, Gary starts walking, still engrossed in his phone as he heads towards the exit. Then, in an instant, he vanishes. It's only then that I realize my hand is clenched into a tight fist, my jaw painfully tense. Who was he talking to?
#Chapter 4
It suddenly hits me - I completely forgot to exchange contact information with Gary last night. I had every intention of doing so, or at least getting his digits. But once Brennan joined us, my attention veered off course. I can't explain why exactly, but I can only assume that Brennan's handsome face blindsided me. Asking Mariah for Gary's phone number and sending him a text is out of the question. If I claim that I got his information "from a friend," he'll surely sense something fishy. My ulterior motives would be exposed, jeopardizing the charm I've carefully cultivated. I need a different plan, a fresh approach. But what? Driving along, I find myself entering another part of town, where the forest begins to dominate the landscape. The streets here are tranquil, devoid of the hustle and bustle of the busier areas. I chose this route to clear my mind and further explore the town. But amidst the autumn foliage, a burst of color catches my eye. There's a billboard up ahead, and there's something about the logo that feels oddly familiar. I take my time reading the words, and it dawns on me - it's an advertisement for some werewolf social networking app. It's strange... I've definitely seen it before. And then it hits me - I saw it last night. In the bar, I glimpsed that very same logo... on Gary's phone. He was using the app when I slid into the seat next to him, though he swiftly abandoned it once I caught his attention. That jerk! I resist the urge to pound the steering wheel of my rental car. Not only is that app meant for networking, it specifically caters to single wolves looking for love. Jerk, I mutter again. I have no clue how long this has been going on, but clearly, he's been actively seeking someone to cheat with, someone new to pursue. Oh, how I'd love to tear his head off. But then again... Gary's infidelity does make my mission a little easier. Taking the next turn, I speed back to the hotel.Entering my room, I collapse onto the bed, ready to embark on my mission. The previous night's failure in obtaining Gary's number is now a thing of the past. With practiced finesse, I download the app and swiftly create a fake profile under the guise of Nora. Carefully selecting a few alluring photos of myself, I ensure they have been expertly retouched. Altering my age to portray the image of a carefree and flirtatious college girl, I am now ready to explore the other profiles at my leisure. It doesn't take long for me to locate Gary's profile, a fact that elicits a chuckle at his lack of discretion. Opening his page, I peruse his details, shaking my head in disbelief as I notice his relationship status set to "single." Single, my foot. However, I also notice the green dot beside his name, indicating his online presence. Seizing the opportunity, I decide to send him a message. Nora: What a peculiar coincidence! Weren't you the generous soul who bought me a drink last night at the Oak Bar? To add an extra touch, I conclude my text with a heart emoji, inwardly cringing at the cloying action. Yet, it appears to yield the desired effect as Gary responds within seconds. Men are truly predictable. Gary: Yes! How serendipitous. It seems the stars have aligned. -winky face- Suppressing my revulsion, I respond to him with equal enthusiasm. Nora: It certainly appears so. I was contemplating going to Bounce tonight, but find myself lacking a companion. -frowny face- I refrain from explicitly inviting him to join me, instead leaving the ball in his court. After all, Gary prefers a submissive woman, someone who relies on a man to take charge. And he willingly rises to the occasion. Gary: Well, now you have someone. -smiley face- Shall we meet there? Too easy. Far too easy. ~ Bounce is your typical nightclub, with dimmed lights and pulsating music filling the air. The stage is adorned with alluring dancers, their movements captivating the crowd that either glides across the dance floor or occupies tables scattered along the periphery. Gary and I find ourselves among those who have retreated to a quieter corner, seated together.We've barely been here for a few minutes, yet he's already positioned himself uncomfortably close to me, his hand hovering dangerously close to my leg. Perhaps it's because I made the ill-advised decision to wear a short, red dress - perfect for a college girl's night out. But his gaze, locked onto me, feels like he wants to devour me whole. His eyes wander aimlessly, torn between staring into my unadorned eyes or fixating on my exposed thighs. On the table, his fingers tap restlessly next to his phone, as if awaiting an important call or text. I can't help but inquire, gesturing toward the device, "Expecting someone to interrupt our evening?" Could he be messaging other girls, plotting future escapades? Gary shakes his head, dismissing the notion, and slips the phone back into his pocket. "No," he responds, his voice surprisingly sincere. "I turned it off. I want nothing to disturb our time together." I scoff inwardly, rolling my eyes at his attempt at chivalry. Phoenix, my inner voice, would surely have a field day with this. "What a gentleman," I murmur aloud, but this time there's a hint of affection in my tone. "I'm genuinely surprised a guy like you is still unattached. Aren't you old enough to have found your soulmate?" I'm testing him, waiting for any sign of discomfort or evasion. Yet, Gary remains unfazed, offering a casual shrug. "I'm definitely single," he replies nonchalantly. "Soulmates tend to bring more trouble than joy." His response raises an eyebrow, but before I can probe further, Gary quickly tries to backtrack, sensing my disappointment. "Oh, but I don't mean you," he hastily clarifies. "If you were my soulmate, it would be an entirely different story. We'd have a blast together." Suppressing a cringe, I force a smile and give him an innocent shrug. "I feel the same way," I reply, smoothing out the awkwardness. Exuding confidence once more, Gary leans in closer, his leg almost grazing mine. "So, your profile says you're twenty-two," he remarks, his tone curious. "And that you're in college. Where do you go?" Taking a sip from my drink, I buy myself a moment to gather my thoughts. I anticipated this question, after all.I took the time to meticulously research nearby educational institutions, ensuring that my fabricated background story would hold up under scrutiny. "Kirkland University," I reply casually, placing my glass down on the table. Gary's interest is piqued by my response, evident in the way his gaze lingers on me before he gestures towards the dance floor. "Care to dance?" he asks, a hint of anticipation in his voice. Despite my aversion to the idea of dancing with him, it is a necessary part of executing my plan flawlessly. So, I accept his invitation, knowing that I must play my role to perfection. Within moments, we find ourselves on the dance floor, effortlessly synchronizing our movements with the pulsating rhythm of the music. Gary maintains close proximity, and I resist the urge to pull away, instead closing the gap between us with each beat of the song. To distract myself from the discomfort, I immerse myself in the music and the dazzling lights surrounding us. As our bodies become almost inseparable, I seize the opportunity to make my move. "You are truly striking," I whisper seductively into his ear, skillfully uttering words that cater to his desires. I can discern the effect of my words from the deepening color of his eyes and the subtle reach of his hands towards my waist. Exploiting this moment, I step back even further, swaying my hips as if I am merely following the rhythm of the music. Surprisingly, Gary does not display any annoyance at my actions, which fills me with a sense of triumph. My charm is working its magic, but I am well aware that I need to push the boundaries further to ensure the success of my mission. So, I allow a mischievous smirk to grace my lips. "I wouldn't mind having a lineup of male strippers dancing right in front of me," I boldly declare, my request dripping with audacity and wickedness. It has to be this way. The demand I make to my target must be utterly absurd and unreasonable. Gary is stunned, his eyes widening and his mouth slightly agape in disbelief. The notion of such an extravagant display and the exorbitant cost it would entail seem to have sent his mind into a whirlwind. His gaze shifts towards the dancers on the stage, contemplating his response. Meanwhile, I continue dancing, eagerly awaiting his answer, aware that my carefully crafted plan is hanging in the balance.His response will determine the success of my seductive tactics. If he acquiesces to my request, his infatuation will deepen, and he will obediently follow my every command. This has always been my tried and true method. "So," I begin, a sly smile on my face. "What do you say?" Gary turns his attention back to me, and the way he looks at me tells me everything I need to know. I'm going to win this. ~ "Gary!" The sudden interruption startles both Gary and me. We turn in unison, searching for the source of the voice. To my disbelief, Brennan emerges from the crowd, making his way towards us. How did he manage to find us again? "Brennan-" Gary starts. "Kevin called and asked me about the progress of the project you're in charge of," Brennan interjects, his gaze fixed solely on Gary. "But it seems you're a little preoccupied." I can't help but roll my eyes at his reference to me. My focus remains on Gary, who looks down and retrieves his phone from his pocket. With an awkward apology muttered under his breath, he steps away and disappears into the crowd. Incredible. Brennan has once again managed to ruin everything. Just as I was about to gauge the success of my charm! Frustration bubbles within me, and I finally turn to face Brennan, no longer mesmerized by his handsome features. I shoot him a firm scowl, unbothered by his intense stare. I am beyond infuriated. "Why do you keep interrupting us?" I demand. "Why are you here?" Our questions hang in the air, thrown at each other with disdain as we lock eyes. Brennan's disapproval deepens, and he shakes his head in disappointment. "You were the one I saw him with at the bar the other night, weren't you?" he asks, his tone implying that he already knows the answer. We both know it.
#Chapter 5
"What's the matter, little wolf?" Brennan asks, taking a step closer to me. I hold my ground, refusing to back away, despite the blush that threatens to rise to my cheeks. I silently pray that he doesn't notice. My glasses have always been my shield, protecting me from the charms of others. But his presence still manages to prick at me, stirring an odd sense of fear in my stomach. I can't quite understand why. Yet, I stand firm, taking a slow breath as he stands only a foot away from me. I meet his serious gaze, refusing to look away. "What's your name?" he asks, still sizing me up. "Nora," I reply, repeating the same lie I had used with Gary. But I can tell that Brennan remains skeptical as he scrutinizes me once again. "Nora," he says my name, as if savoring it on his tongue. I'm not sure he likes the taste. "We should talk." "Oh," I respond, my voice laced with curiosity. "And why would we have anything to talk about?" "Because," he asserts, a bite behind his words. "I believe my friend failed to give you the full story." He pauses, holding out his phone. "Take a look."For some inexplicable reason, a sense of foreknowledge washes over me as I reluctantly direct my gaze downwards. My stomach plummets as expected, the sight before me confirming my apprehensions. There, captured in a single photograph, are Mariah, Gary, and Drew, their countenances radiating happiness. They appear to be the epitome of a picture-perfect family, but I am acutely aware that appearances can be deceiving. Hidden beneath the surface lies a labyrinth of secrets and turmoil, and I wonder if Brennan comprehends the true nature of the man depicted in the image. Drawing upon the depths of my grief, I feign astonishment at Brennan's revelation, allowing my lips to part in a facade of surprise. "Are they his family?" I inquire, infusing my voice with an air of incredulity. "Yes," Brennan responds icily, his tone devoid of warmth. With a deliberate motion, he withdraws the phone, affording me a momentary respite as the photograph vanishes from view. It is during this brief interlude that I silently gather my thoughts, for Brennan's unexpected intrusion has forced me to recalibrate my plans for the evening. "He claimed to be single," I finally confess, emphasizing my innocence. I am desperate for Brennan not to perceive me as a malevolent individual who knowingly pursued a married man—despite the fact that I have indeed done so. However, my motivations are just, or so I tell myself. "He has deceived you," Brennan asserts, his golden eyes smoldering with intensity. "Years ago, he discovered his destined mate, with whom he is now expecting their second child." He knows about the baby? Initially, this revelation catches me off guard, but I swiftly regain my composure. Of course, Brennan possesses this knowledge. As the Alpha, he is privy to all pack affairs long before anyone else. Whether it is the weight of this realization or the intensity of Brennan's unyielding gaze, a sudden surge of nervousness courses through me. A slow, deliberate swallow traverses my throat, and my feet betray me as they shuffle uneasily. And Brennan, ever vigilant, takes notice of my discomposure."Listen," he starts, his tone softening. "I don't want to lay blame on you, but I think it's important for you to know the truth. I can see you and him having a good time, but you don't strike me as the type to wreck a home." "What makes you say that?" I find myself asking, curiosity mingling with my nerves. Why does he think he has me all figured out? The question pushes me to lift my chin, challenging his assumptions. I can't help but notice a glimmer of amusement dancing in his eyes. "My instincts," he confesses. "They tell me you're a good person." His words resonate within me, and I feel a warmth spreading through me. It's as if someone is gently stroking Phoenix, soothing her. It unsettles me, this strange connection we seem to share. Suddenly, I long to confirm his perception, to meet his expectations. I want to assure him that he's right—that I am indeed a good person with a strong moral compass. I despise doing anything against my will or seducing those who are already committed. The words are on the tip of my tongue, ready to spill forth. I'm so close to saying what he wants to hear, teetering on the edge. But, for some reason... I hold back. Silence hangs in the air, and I suppress the urge to speak, still feeling his comforting presence enveloping me. I don't understand why he has this effect on me, why he can calm the storm within. Reluctantly, I lower my gaze, avoiding his eyes and instead fixating on the floor. Thankful for my glasses, I hide behind their shield, shielding myself from his penetrating gaze.As I come to the realization, I resist the temptation to use my charm powers on him. I know it would effortlessly draw him in, instantly making him like me. But I want him to like me for who I am, not because of some supernatural ability. If he's going to be drawn to me, I want it to be for something genuine, something beyond my control. It's absurd how much I care about whether or not he likes me! I don't even know him, and yet he has managed to completely derail my plans! I want to scold myself, to chastise myself for entertaining such foolish thoughts. But before I can do so, I feel a sudden weight against my back. Out of nowhere, a body collides with mine. I hear the expletives behind me, indicating that a burly bouncer has inadvertently pushed a waiter in my direction, causing me to stumble. And in the chaos, my glasses fall from my face. Cursing under my breath, I quickly lower myself to the floor, frantically searching for my glasses. Finally, my eyes catch sight of them about a foot away, and I reach out to grab them. But before I can, a pair of large, beautifully sculpted hands beats me to it. "Stand up, little wolf," Brennan's voice reaches my ears, but I don't dare look up at him. "I'll help you put them back on." My heart pounds in my chest as I instinctively close my eyes, refusing to meet his gaze. Rising to my feet, I keep my eyes shut, feeling the warmth radiating from Brennan's presence. Anxiously, I wait for him to place my glasses back on my face. Only, he doesn't. Seconds stretch into what feels like an eternity. Time slows down, leaving me suspended in anticipation. Still, I don't feel the familiar touch of the frames sliding behind my ears.My eyes snap open, irritation coursing through my veins as I try to comprehend the delay. But as my gaze locks with Brennan's, I am immediately aware of my misjudgment. Drawing in a sharp breath, I find myself staring into the depths of his mesmerizing golden eyes, waiting for the transformation, the dilation of his pupils that would signify his captivation. Yet, to my dismay, nothing changes. His eyes remain unaffected as time itself seems to freeze, elongating our silent connection. Why? Why is there no reaction? Brennan is peering directly into my soul, and yet he remains unruffled. Confusion engulfs me, leaving me utterly disoriented. He should be teetering on the edge of falling for me, ready to fulfill my every desire like all the other men before him. But perhaps, just maybe, the absence of physical manifestations does not imply a lack of impact. It is imperative that I delve deeper into this enigma. Taking matters into my own hands, I resolve to test him with my customary abilities, presenting him with a bold request. This time, I choose a more cautious approach, but the audacity lingers. "I demand that you cease your interference in my relationship with Gary," I assert with unwavering determination, my countenance betraying the gravity of my words. And then, once again, I wait, observing if he acquiesces. Only now do I detect a glimmer in his eyes, a subtle tilt of his head. I have him. I can sense it, the imminent fulfillment of my command. Yet, his demeanor shifts once more, his lips curling into a wicked smirk, revealing his readiness for a challenge. "Dangerous territory, little girl," he taunts, his words dripping with mockery and amusement. "You believe you can command me?" A mask of composure descends upon my face, my stomach plummeting to the depths of my being. And for the first time in what feels like an eternity, I realize that I am defeated. I have been utterly and irrevocably defeated.
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