Chapter One
As night fell, the cold moon hung high in the sky. The bright moonlight fell on the ancient castle on the edge of the city, casting a mysterious silver veil around it. Emily stood on the balcony, looking at the forest in the distance, and felt a chill rising from the bottom of her heart. Since moving to this castle, her life has become bizarre and mysterious. The cold wind in October swept across her bare shoulders, bringing a shudder. Emily subconsciously wrapped her woolen shawl tightly around her, but she couldn't feel any warmth. This castle seems to be always cold, just like its mysterious owner Lucas Black, exuding an inaccessible atmosphere. "Miss Emily," suddenly, a low voice sounded behind her, "You'll catch a cold if you're still outside so late." She turned around and saw Lucas standing at the balcony door. The moonlight outlined his tall figure. He was wearing a dark silk shirt, and the collar vaguely revealed his strong chest. The amber eyes flickered strangely in the darkness, as if they could see through her soul. "Mr. Black," Emily whispered, trying to hide the trembling in her voice, "I'm just admiring the moonlight." Lucas took a step forward, but suddenly stopped. Emily noticed that his body stiffened instantly, and his nostrils fluttered slightly, as if he was sniffing something. His expression became solemn, and a glimmer of wildness flashed in his eyes, but was quickly suppressed. "Please go in," his voice was hoarser than usual, "It's not safe here." Just then, a cold night breeze swept across the balcony, bringing a faint smell of rust. Emily saw that Lucas's fingers were almost pinched into the stone railing, and his knuckles were white. She couldn't help but take a step back, her heartbeat accelerated. "I thought this castle was the safest place," she whispered, "after all, you are here." Lucas let out an almost inaudible growl, "Some danger, Miss Emily, is much closer than you think." His eyes looked unusually sharp in the moonlight, "especially on a full moon night." Suddenly, a wolf howl came from the distant forest, shrill and long. Emily was surprised to find that Lucas' pupils shrank in an instant and turned into vertical pupils like a beast, but the fleeting change made her wonder if it was just an illusion caused by the moonlight. Just then, a cold breath passed by her from behind, accompanied by a chuckle. Emily turned around and saw only a dark shadow flashing in the corner of the balcony. When she looked back again, Lucas had come to her side, with a hand gently on her shoulder. "I'll take you back to your room," he said, with an unquestionable commanding tone in his voice. Emily noticed that his palms were surprisingly hot, in sharp contrast to the chill of the castle. Walking in the dark corridor of the castle, Emily could feel Lucas' presence, he walked behind her like a silent guardian. Moonlight poured in through the Gothic stained glass windows, casting mottled shadows on the floor. "Good night, Miss Emily," Lucas whispered in front of her door, "Remember, no matter what sound you hear, don't leave the room tonight." "Why?" Emily asked subconsciously. Lucas was silent for a moment, his eyes looked deep and dangerous in the moonlight, "Because the moonlight tonight is too beautiful, it will always wake up something that shouldn't wake up." When the door closed behind her, Emily leaned against the door, her heartbeat still alarmingly fast. She could hear Lucas's footsteps gradually fading away, but she seemed to hear the sound of wings flapping outside the window. She walked to the window and looked out through the glass. In the moonlit courtyard, she saw a figure standing by the fountain. The man looked up at her window, and the moonlight illuminated his pale marble face - it was Draco, with a mysterious smile on his lips and a dangerous light in his eyes. When Emily blinked, his figure had disappeared, as if he had never appeared. Emily lay trembling on the bed, listening to the wolf howling outside the window. She knew that she had fallen into a world full of dangers, and this was just the beginning. On this moonlit night, her fate was closely linked to two mysterious and dangerous beings, and there was no turning back.
Chapter Two
In the dead of night, Emily lay in bed, the faces of Lucas and Draco appeared in her mind. She could not resist the deep attraction, but she also knew that she was caught in a dangerous vortex. She knew that the confrontation between the two men was a life-and-death hostility, and she was just a pawn in their war. A corner of her heart reminded her to escape, but the deeper desire pulled her to stay in this mysterious castle, looking forward to the unknown encounter.
Just as she was about to fall asleep, a slight knock on the window interrupted the silence. Emily opened her eyes, and the moonlight poured into the room through the curtains, making the corners of the room particularly dark. She sat up subconsciously, trembling slightly and walked to the window. When she opened the curtains, a figure was standing in front of her, cold and elegant.
It was Draco.
"Sorry, I scared you, Emily." His low voice was frivolous and indifferent, as if every word revealed his unfathomable darkness. His eyes were like two flames in the abyss, locking onto her with an irresistible force.
"How... are you here?" Emily's heartbeat quickened, and her hands unconsciously clenched a corner of the curtain. She knew she should be scared at this moment, but Draco's unique charm made it hard for her to resist.
Draco did not answer her question, but slowly approached, lowered his head and whispered in her ear: "You know why I'm here, Emily. You've never really been afraid of me, right?"
The moment he approached, she smelled the cold breath on him, as if it came from the night a thousand years ago. Her breathing gradually became rapid, but she did not retreat, but was locked by his eyes, as if her soul was also attracted to him.
"Draco... we can't do this." Her voice was weak, but she did not retreat at all, as if even she herself was struggling with contradictions.
"You don't belong here at all, Emily. Staying here will only put you in deeper danger." Draco gently lifted her chin, with a smile on the corner of his cold mouth, that smile was both gentle and dangerous, "But if you want to know the real darkness, then come. I will take you to see everything."
At this moment, the door was pushed open, and Lucas' figure appeared at the door like a shadow. His face was gloomy, and his eyes were burning with anger. It was his possessiveness and anger that he could not hide. He walked towards Draco step by step, his hands clenched, his muscles tensed, as if he was going to pounce on and tear the enemy in front of him in the next second.
"Draco, let her go." Lucas' voice was low and threatening, like an enraged beast. It was the first time Emily saw him so out of control, his eyes were like a ball of unextinguishable fire, revealing uncontrollable anger and possessiveness.
Draco smiled slightly, released Emily's chin, and looked at Lucas provocatively. "Don't you understand yet? She doesn't belong to you. The savagery of the wolf tribe is nothing but a bondage to her, and I can give her true freedom."
"The 'freedom' you mentioned will only make her fall into darkness. You don't understand what true protection is." Lucas sneered, his eyes as sharp as an eagle. He slowly stepped forward, blocked Emily, and protected her behind him. That was his attitude as the wolf king, firm and unshakable.
Emily was sandwiched between the two, feeling her heartbeat speed up, as if breathing became difficult. These two completely different forces intertwined and collided in front of her, making it impossible for her to decide which side to choose.
Draco raised the corners of his mouth and slowly took a step back, his eyes still on Emily. "Emily, one day you will find that he can't satisfy the desire in your heart. And I am your true home."
As soon as the voice fell, Draco's figure disappeared into the night, as if he had never appeared.
Lucas looked at the empty room, his fists gradually loosened, but the anger and worry in his eyes remained. He turned around and looked at Emily softly, but his eyes still flashed with contradictions and forbearance.
"Are you okay?" He asked in a low voice, with a trace of undisguised concern in his voice.
Emily nodded, but her heart was in turmoil and it was difficult to calm down. She knew that she had fallen too deep. She could not let go of these two men easily, nor could she easily resist them. A complex emotion surged in her heart, which was a dangerous and fatal attraction.
"Lucas, I..." She wanted to say something, but lost her words when she met his eyes.
"Don't get close to him." Lucas' voice was low, with a hint of pleading and warning, "I know you feel confused, but Draco is not what you think. He will only drag you into the darkness, and I won't let him hurt you."
Emily just looked at him silently, and a touch of uncertainty gradually rose in her heart. She knew that this was not just a war, but a contest of feelings and desires. In this dangerous triangle relationship, she has gone too far and can never turn back.
Chapter Three
Emily stayed awake all night. The wind outside the window blew through the woods, making a low moan, as if the whole castle was whispering in her ear. She curled up in bed, recalling Draco's cold smile and Lucas's deep eyes. Two completely different attractions stirred in her heart, making her lost on the edge of danger and desire.
When the sky was slightly bright, she made a decision. She had to figure out what she wanted, the wildness and protection of the wolf tribe, or the mystery and temptation of the vampire. She got up and walked out of the room, walked through the deserted corridor, and came to the door of Lucas's study.
The door of the study was slightly open, and a whisper came from inside. Emily stood outside the door and pricked up her ears to listen.
"She is innocent, Lucas." A low and gentle female voice came from Lucas's sister, Leila. Emily had heard rumors about her. Leila was the wisest prophet in the wolf tribe and could always see fragments of the future.
"I know, Leila." Lucas' voice was hoarse, as if he had struggled all night, "but I can't control myself, I can't suppress my desire for her. I'm afraid that if she stays with me, she will only be swallowed by my darkness."
Emily's heart trembled, and she raised her hand to push open the door.
"Lucas." Her voice was abrupt and firm in the silent room.
The two turned around and saw her standing at the door with a hint of determination in her eyes. She walked slowly towards Lucas, looked up at him, with a hint of determination and inquiry in her eyes.
"I know you protect me, but I'm not a fragile child." Her voice was calm and firm, "I need to know the truth. Why are you always so hesitant? And why is Draco so persistent in approaching me?"
Lucas' expression froze for a moment, his eyes wandering on her face, as if he was weighing whether to tell her everything. Finally, he took a deep breath, as if he had made up his mind.
"Emily, the fate of our werewolves is usually determined at birth. The wolf tribe has a unique ability to perceive its partner. When we find that person, we will feel an attraction that cannot be ignored... and you are my destined partner." Lucas spoke in a low voice, with pain and desire flashing in his eyes.
Emily's heartbeat accelerated, and thousands of emotions surged in her mind, both shocked and confused. She never thought that she would become his destined partner, and his possessiveness and protectiveness of her turned out to come from this ancient bond.
She asked softly: "What about Draco? Why is he so obsessed with me?"
Lucas's eyes became more gloomy, and there was a hint of anger in his eyes. "Draco's tribe never believed in fate. They prefer to dominate their own future. And he believes that as long as he possesses you, he can destroy me and the traditional beliefs of the wolf tribe. So, he is not sincere to you, but to weaken my power."
Emily's heart suddenly tightened, and a hint of anger and loss surged in her eyes. However, she also felt a little unwilling, as if she was just a tool in this struggle, being fought over and torn by the two, and she had no right to control herself.
"So, Lucas, are you sincere? Is it just fate for me?" There was a hint of disappointment in her voice, and her eyes became cold.
Lucas was stunned, as if he was hurt by her question. He was silent for a moment before speaking: "Emily, I can't deny the existence of fate, but I can't ignore my feelings for you." He gently held her hand, his eyes full of affection and desire, "Whether it is fate or something else, I am willing to give up everything for you."
Just then, a slight sound came from outside the window. Emily turned back suddenly and saw a pair of dark red eyes flashing outside the window, like a flame in the dark, and the familiar cold breath startled her heart.
It was Draco.
He stood outside the window, sneering at them, as if everything was under his control. He knocked on the window lightly, his voice cold and full of provocation: "I don't think it's possible to talk about 'betraying' everything here, Lucas. You can't protect her because she will eventually come to me."
Lucas' eyes immediately became cold and dangerous. He stood in front of Emily, glared at Draco outside the window, and growled in a low voice: "Stay away from her, Draco. You can't force her to choose darkness."
Draco smiled slightly, his eyes full of evil confidence. He raised his eyebrows at Emily, as if everything was under his control. "Dear Emily, you will find that the bright world cannot satisfy your desire. And darkness - is your destination." After he finished speaking, his figure instantly disappeared into the night.
The room returned to silence, but the air was filled with tension and uneasiness. Emily looked at the empty darkness outside the window, feeling both fear and desire in her heart. She could no longer deny Draco's attraction to her, and the danger and mystery made her heart beat faster.
Lucas noticed her hesitation, and a trace of pain and uneasiness flashed in his eyes. He gently held her hand and whispered, "Emily, don't get close to him. His darkness will devour you and make you lost in the endless night."
She didn't respond, but just looked at him silently, her heart full of complicated emotions. She knew that she could no longer simply withdraw from the two of them. Her fate had been drawn into an uncontrollable vortex, and the only thing she could do was to follow her heart and touch the unknown darkness.
Chapter Four
As autumn deepened, the forest surrounding the castle donned a cloak of gold and crimson. Yet Emily felt none of the season's warmth. Since that night's revelation, her mind had been in constant turmoil, with Lucas's truth and Draco's temptation intertwining like two serpents in her thoughts, leaving her breathless.
That evening, Emily found herself alone in the castle's library, searching through ancient tomes for any mention of werewolves and vampires. As she focused on a yellowed manuscript, the air suddenly turned cold. Looking up, she found Draco standing across from her, his appearance as silent as shadow.
"Seeking truth, my dear Emily?" Draco leaned elegantly against the bookshelf, wearing a deep purple silk shirt that made his skin appear even paler. "But you know, written accounts are often one-sided."
Emily instinctively stepped back. "Why do you always appear like this? It's unsettling."
Draco chuckled softly, moving toward her with fluid grace. "Because I enjoy seeing you startled. It makes you even more enticing." His fingers traced her cheek, the cold touch making her shiver. "Lucas told you I'm merely using you, but did he mention that his fate is actually a chain binding him?"
Emily froze. "What do you mean?"
"The werewolves' so-called destined mates are nothing but constraints in their bloodline," Draco's voice carried a hypnotic power. "They're forced to love someone, forced to protect them. Isn't that tragic? While I..." his gaze deepened, "I choose you because I'm truly drawn to you."
A low growl suddenly echoed from the doorway. Lucas stood there, his eyes now golden, filled with rage. "Step away from her, Draco!" His voice carried an unmistakable threat.
Instead of retreating, Draco pulled Emily closer. "Why so angry, Lucas? Is it because I spoke the truth, or because you fear she might choose me?"
The tension in the air grew thick enough to cut. Emily could feel the energy between the two men threatening to tear the room apart. Lucas's body trembled as he fought to control the beast within.
"Enough!" Emily suddenly shouted, "What am I to both of you? Some trophy to be won?" Her voice carried both anger and hurt.
Both men froze. Pain flashed across Lucas's eyes, while Draco's expression turned contemplative.
Emily pushed away from Draco and walked toward the door, but paused beside Lucas. "You say I'm your destiny, but have you considered my feelings?" Her voice was soft but accusatory. "And you, Draco, if you truly cared for me, you wouldn't use me as a weapon against him."
She hurried from the library, and only when she reached the corridor did her tears finally fall. She didn't know whom to trust - Lucas, chosen by fate, or Draco, who chose her himself? More importantly, she began to question whether she truly understood her own heart.
As night fell, Emily stood on her balcony. Wolves howled in the distant forest, while somewhere in the castle, she thought she heard the flutter of bat wings. Everything reminded her that she stood at the crossroads between two worlds, and she had to make a choice.
Then she noticed items on the balcony railing: a rose as black as night with a blood-red sheen - Draco's mark. Beside it lay a wolf fang necklace, a werewolf protection charm, obviously left by Lucas.
Emily gently touched both items, her internal conflict growing stronger. She knew that choosing either would alter her destiny forever. But more importantly, she needed to understand what her heart truly desired.
As moonlight bathed the castle grounds, Emily realized that her decision wouldn't just be about choosing between two men - it was about choosing what kind of life she wanted, and more importantly, who she wanted to become.
Chapter Five
The following days in the castle were filled with an unbearable tension. Emily found herself constantly caught between shadows and silence, between warmth and cold. Every corner seemed to hold either Lucas's protective presence or Draco's seductive whispers. The weight of their attention was becoming increasingly suffocating.
One particularly cold morning, Emily discovered a mysterious leather-bound book in the library's restricted section. Its pages contained ancient prophecies about the eternal conflict between werewolves and vampires. As she read, her hands trembling, she found something that made her blood run cold.
'When the moon bleeds red and the night grows teeth, a choice will be made that breaks the ancient cycle. A mortal's heart shall tip the balance, bringing either eternal darkness or salvation to both races.'
"Interesting reading material," Leila's voice suddenly came from behind. Lucas's sister moved like a ghost, her silver eyes holding centuries of wisdom. "I've been waiting for you to find this."
Emily closed the book carefully. "Is this... about me?"
Leila's expression remained enigmatic. "The prophecy speaks of a mortal who stands between our worlds. But prophecies, dear Emily, are like rivers - they show the destination, but the path taken is always your choice."
"What happens if I choose wrong?" Emily's voice wavered.
"There is no wrong choice, only consequences," Leila replied, her voice gentle but firm. "But I must warn you - the blood moon approaches, and with it, a moment of truth that will change everything."
Before Emily could ask more questions, a commotion erupted from the castle grounds. They rushed to the window to see Lucas and Draco facing each other in the courtyard, their postures tense with barely contained violence.
"You've crossed the line, Draco," Lucas's voice carried up to them, filled with fury. "You dare to mark our territory?"
Draco's laugh was cold and mocking. "Territory? This stopped being about territory the moment she arrived. Or are you afraid she's already choosing me?"
Emily watched in horror as Lucas's form began to shift, his muscles rippling beneath his clothes. The morning sun caught his golden eyes, now burning with primal rage. Draco's own transformation was more subtle - his pale skin taking on an otherworldly sheen, his movements becoming impossibly fluid.
"Stop!" Emily's voice rang out across the courtyard. Both men froze, their attention snapping to her window. "This has to end!"
She turned to rush downstairs, but Leila caught her arm. "Be careful, Emily. The blood moon is three days away. Under its light, both races lose control of their darker natures. And you..." she paused meaningfully, "you will be at your most vulnerable."
When Emily reached the courtyard, the tension was thick enough to choke on. Lucas immediately moved to her side, his protective instinct evident in every motion. But it was Draco who spoke first.
"My apologies for the disturbance, dear Emily," his voice was silk over steel. "But perhaps it's time you understood the full scope of what you're involved in." He pulled an ancient medallion from his coat. "This belongs to your grandmother. She wasn't just any woman - she was a guardian, keeper of the balance between our races."
Emily's world tilted. "My grandmother? But she died when I was young..."
"She was murdered," Lucas cut in, his voice heavy with old pain. "By those who wanted to destroy the peace between our kinds. And now, as her descendant, you inherit her role - and her enemies."
The revelation hit Emily like a physical blow. Suddenly, everything made more sense - the mysterious circumstances that led her to the castle, both men's intense interest in her, the prophecy. She wasn't just caught between two supernatural beings; she was part of an ancient legacy.
"The blood moon comes," Draco said softly, his eyes locked on Emily. "And with it, powers long dormant will awaken. You'll need to choose not just between us, Emily, but between two paths for both our races."
As if in response to his words, clouds gathered overhead, casting strange shadows across the courtyard. Emily felt something stir within her, something old and powerful, like a sleeping giant finally beginning to wake.
Lucas moved closer, his warmth a stark contrast to the chill air. "Whatever you choose, Emily, know that my protection isn't just about fate or duty anymore. It's about-"
But before he could finish, a piercing scream cut through the air. All three turned to see Leila collapsed at the castle entrance, her silver eyes wide with terror as she pointed at the sky.
"It's coming," she gasped. "The blood moon... it's coming early. And with it, they're returning - the ones who killed your grandmother. They're coming for Emily."
In that moment, as Emily looked between Lucas and Draco, she realized that her choice might not be about love at all - it might be about survival.
ONE (1)
ONE
"Grace, please put the top on," my manager's voice sounded weary. I couldn't blame him; I was tired of this conversation too.
As I swept my rag over the bar, the overhead lights illuminated the sparkle of the expensive ebony stone. Even though it was noon, the interior of the club was dimly lit. Jack Johnson's voice floated through the air, bouncing off the textured black and white walls.
"$I ,stiJll jdqo(nX't Vfelels cuomfFoirtlabslóen vwéiHtSh, btvheS cw)a(yb Vibtp iezmFphasizehsb zm(yq ncHlQeSava&ge'," Iu lriyeud^ *efNfVorNtlwessdlyq,Y Yco,ntinuainóg ^tMo wilpek d*ojwón éthve $b_ar.)
"You agreed to wear the uniform when you got the job. The owner is coming in and he'll fire both of us if you don't comply," Callum, my manager, walked around to the other side of the bar, folding his skinny arms across his chest. Standing at about 5'7" and weighing less than 120 pounds, with his artfully-spiked blue hair, he was about as intimidating as a toothpick. "You know you're my favorite bartender. If you wear the top when our boss is here, I won't bring up the uniform again."
It was tempting.
Very tempting.
Calnlsu^m shi*fte)d his Gweighqt tmoZ Fhis Iotóh*ewr hfoBo't^,W ansd bIk ,cóaufgh(tT ang iu(ndexpeFctNedy sxcen_t. FeJar.N CXa!llCumS ^wÉas QgenyuWinTely aaf)raid *ocfC DokuKr. bhoÉss. mIfG ahiGsy óbrlue ha'i!rI dand MouUr asix (mkonOtBhzs wfo&rkinÉg tfogÉeAtMhLeér StTaWug*ht $me (a$n$ytÉhinJgu,c it (was CtRh.atj CiaGllJuNmó wtasnz't de'ascily sAcaCresdj.& Sqo,b tNhel hfÉacJtp tmhat^ hueZ wIasU afXrai.dW.p.s.
Not a good sign.
I crossed over to the side of the bar I hadn't cleaned yet before responding.
"Fine."
RMelieNf Kwahs_heCd covuer Call!um, LsoV pBalTpacbl.e tWhat (it fi_lled tFhzev éaZi!r. cI Bcoéusldn't( alAwgays Qdet)ect eVmqovti,onÉsa jthroufg$h$ sceUnKt,; theyz hiad vtno bOeS iCndcredibl*y sntrUoWng dfmorv $mXeP to pqicfk uépj on qthemw. cBAuMt CaólMlTum )wahs p^raa,chticalCly emiqtrtiAnYg semotionMs.
Was our boss some kind of mobster?
"Great." Callum tried to maintain his sense of authority, but we both knew who was in control. My beastly side always kept me asserting dominance in subtle ways, and Callum noticed.
I finished cleaning the bar before striding through the doors that led to the kitchen. Tossing my rag into the sink, I headed for the break room and opened my locker. The day before, I had finally taped a photo of my mom and me to the inside of the metal box, marking it as mine after six months.
MRy éfijnOgerZtUi$pQs b.r_uMshedc jogver Um&y mHoRmv'fs PfFaKcXe izn QtheQ la*mhiRnatHeHd pxic&tuGrel. Sqhe_ ahaTdd crivnxnamlon YhSasiqr f(rÉaminbg cpjaxle wuh&ite slkzi_n RaQnd Ohazseól aeVyesr ithant_ leqanJed mvore QtCoWwJardFs ÉgRr(eenk Otéhqa)n Dblro.wn.N *SheF Rw'ahs ZbeÉafutirful, but pitD wQasB AhaeNr infbe$ct!icous sAmAiile. thkatw élifnZgXeqreXdX irn AmJy memZofruihePs.. Mjyc _thSrUoató ctigTh,tuePn)edR, aMndI I tocre kmjyg gaze awaHy xftrpotmd tThre pRhZotvo. GkraDb)bzinpgt rtLhWeX ksLlneek ZbOlRapcYkq tsank mtopj Ctxhaét óh!adH beenG sivtt_i*nxg oQn itnhe* fbloWorB o,f mUyB lÉoYc*kzer silncie miy_ ufitrPsKt dyayy zof .wRoKrkO, LIA SmadTe! mLy w)ayq &to zthie baqtzh'rovomó.
I locked the door behind me and then tugged on it to make sure it was securely locked. Like Callum, there wasn't much that frightened me. Being caught off guard while changing didn't make the list. But if I were cornered, there would be no controlling my reaction. Transforming from human to massive wolf just to tear someone's head off for startling me in the bathroom wasn't exactly on my to-do list, so it was best to ensure that door was firmly locked.
My eyes scanned my reflection in the mirror. So much of me resembled my mother. I had her hazel eyes, although mine never appeared as green, and her facial structure and body shape. As far as smiles went, I wasn't sure how closely mine mirrored hers. It had been a long time since I genuinely smiled.
The only noticeable difference between our appearances was my hair. A vibrant reddish hue that I refused to admit bordered on pink, it must have come from my father.
WhIoneve&r JaCnd' wherezveJr &he waXs^.,
The back of my thin, long-sleeved black top formed a deep V with a single thin strap holding it together at the shoulder blades, revealing most of my back. The front of the shirt rested at the base of my neck, covering my chest but, more importantly, my collarbone.
With a sigh, I pulled the top over my head and tossed it onto the counter beside the sink. The black glitter in the stone matched that of the bar, contrasting against the faded black fabric of my shirt. Cream-colored walls made the bathroom feel larger and cleaner than the dark interior of the nightclub.
My gaze fell upon the marking on my collarbone that I had spent the past thirteen years trying to ignore. It was always there, a brand that exposed me and marked me as different. A three-inch, faded, and stretched black ink tattoo of a single word:
WhODLFnShB!ANE.Y
The title I had been given at eight years old by the numerous werewolf Alphas who fought over me, passing me back and forth between packs as they tore each other apart. They had marked me with this word so that no matter where I ran, any other wolf who saw me would know exactly who and what I was.
I had been terrified of them at the time, and that fear had transformed into a burning hatred.
The air felt heavy in my lungs as I pulled on the skin-tight tank top. Though it modestly covered my average-sized chest, my tattoo was on full display. The chances of encountering another werewolf in a nightclub in the heart of New York City were incredibly slim, but there was still a possibility.
Sho*uldn'dt have fgivleQn, in Uto ÉCGalPluymm.X
I released my hair from its high ponytail, shaking it out. The strands cascaded almost to my waist, luckily without any creases from being tied up. After arranging my hair to cover the tattoo as much as possible, I left my own top in the locker and returned to the bar.
Callum whistled when he saw me.
"I see why you don't like the uniform. Every straight man who walks in here will hit on you."
I ro.lKlCeZd ImBy ey&eNs andm at$uMrMnieqdy amyó hasttDecntiuoIn ktgo LaÉ Qpxaibr Gosf qcust'ome!rs, ótwPoc .well-dres$swedh )mye*nG. Thieyj eLx)uVdedC amnB air onf ssoQpChhi!stCi!caDtQifoQnX,h tlióke _mostl p,eoOpQleX w.iPllingd AtIo$ pga$y, Ht(h$e' exdorsbBitFanBtx UpBricesO a!t ouvr ManwhabtJtaxnT Jchlqub.
"Hello, beautiful. I haven't seen you here before," the first man's gaze fixed on my hair before lingering on my chest. "Why wolfsbane?"
Just as I had expected.
The hair captured their attention, the tattoo held it, and then the cleavage took over.
ONE (2)
“I usually work nights, and that’s personal. What can I get you?”
"I typically work nights, and that's personal. What can I get you?" I took their orders and swiftly made my way to the bar to prepare their drinks before they could pry any further. Callum, my coworker, flashed a knowing smile as he assisted me in mixing the beverages. Once they were ready, I returned to the men.
The one who hadn't engaged in any flirtatious behavior thanked me and headed towards one of our booths. However, the persistent flirtatious man seemed oblivious to my disinterest. He slid a folded $100 bill across the bar, his practiced smile revealing his true intentions.
LiItJtsle hdid heC knowB,' I, wgapsf jLustb aas s*kfiDllefdi at' óm!aniPpPulat,iFon.y
"Tell me the story behind the tattoo," he insisted, his eyes once again wandering towards my chest. Annoyed by his gaze, I glanced at the cash, feigning indifference, before meeting his gaze.
"My personal life is worth more than a hundred bucks," I retorted, hoping to dissuade him from pursuing this line of conversation.
To my surprise, the wealthy man took it as a challenge and slid another hundred dollar bill my way. Without missing a beat, I discreetly tucked both bills into my bra and turned to walk away.
"cYouz $owhe ÉmÉe ^a msttoórGym,) Yb_ro.wSnG-exyDesj," he ^calltexd aKftFerr me.
"Don't remember promising one," I shot back, confident in my ability to manipulate the situation. The man hesitated, and I knew I had him hooked. With an extra sway in my step, I sauntered back to his seat, determined to extract as much money from him as possible.
He took a leisurely sip of his old-fashioned, then slid two more bills across the counter. His fingers remained firmly on the money, challenging me.
But I never backed down from a challenge.
WeÉlYlz, ^unClPenss éiWt( Gin.volv,edI ru'nnitngX foVr Pmy qlAiNfey.
"My mom was murdered a couple of months ago. The tattoo serves as a reminder to fight against the predators who would do something like that," I lied, my voice filled with a concoction of pain and determination.
The man's eyebrows shot up as he finally lifted his fingers from the money. I swiftly pocketed it alongside my other tips, planning to settle the bar's cut at the end of the day.
"I'm so sorry," he murmured, his flirty mood extinguished by my fabricated story.
"Enjóoy( éy!ourf ndzrinSk,"G éIó rGepnlijed$, XwalkinBgQ awaVyk sonce( gmFo)rfe.é cT&hiLs ftime, heQ d^idKn'ht sktoOp mVew.
Returning to Bohdi, my coworker, I assisted him in making drinks for the rest of our customers. He discreetly extended his hand below the bar, and I high-fived him, acknowledging his appreciation for my skill in handling wealthy patrons.
"This is why you're my favorite bartender; you know how to handle rich guys," Bohdi remarked.
"I've had my fair share of experience with men who believe the world revolves around them," I replied dryly.
"xCplSearl*y,n"S BhIeH hchuckled.
As I served more customers, I settled into my routine. Each time someone inquired about my tattoo, my story evolved slightly. The truth remained hidden, as it wasn't theirs to know.
Suddenly, a tall, dark-haired man entered the establishment in the early afternoon, immediately capturing my attention. His scent permeated the air, triggering my primal instincts. I fought to suppress the urge to shift into my wolf form and flee. Before I could make my escape, Callum grabbed my arm, preventing fur from breaking through my skin.
I despised being touched.
"GI feevl$ dsi_cHk,V éI nUeeJd tod ,go,u"_ óIq pl^eadSed, attedmHptingg toU xfrefe mmyi arm from hi)ss grasp. ButÉ CalmlumA's Dgrip wÉaZs YstRrMonQgedr NthaknZ .Ic antnicKipatqe'dV..
The other werewolf approached us, and I exerted every ounce of willpower to remain in my human form. Escaping was futile, and staying human felt equally impossible.
"Mr. Howard," Callum greeted the werewolf as he settled onto a stool in front of us.
Shit, he was the owner of the nightclub.
WtiwtRh hFis tso.wWeArJi(ngr q6M'3!" mf.raamneD,T blNued )dleisAiYgner$ sui&t,a Xaynd mketricu'loWuvsDl(y sKtyYleQdV (h(air*,g thwe !mFan ekxDuidce*d JwLeaFlqth anidG cOonfivdNeRnc_e. Calwlumf, gon )the )ot(h.erD ,h$anRdh, urUaOdiatefd fKekaZr. ^I zdidBn.'t bélajmPeY lhiwm. Mhyi _ohwOn we_n&co,uPn*terqsg Nwit*h Udhomi^nantÉ meÉn lenft! xmhe gyNe.arVning toh esxcpapBe ajAuVst ja&sA dejsKperat!ePlVy, iófZ ónotB morDeO scon.U
"Callum," Mr. Howard responded, devoid of any nod or smile. His gaze locked onto me. "And who are you?"
I could sense that I had surpassed Callum on Mr. Howard's scale of importance solely through my scent. Folding my arms, I narrowed my eyes at the werewolf before me. While I couldn't determine if he was an Alpha or not, I could discern his strength. Stronger than me, at least. Male werewolves possessed different strengths than females, and if this man pursued me, he would catch me.
But it didn't hurt to attempt intimidation.
"Tuhwiósu wis GraAciev GaJrcima, our cshtawr b)aNrtWeMnkdecr.! tI mgeYntkiwoned Oherm sto you govverr tbhPe CphLo(nieZ,É" óCallu.m sktaLm&mteredC, buncóertain ldue tfoT KMrH. ZHo$wRard's l!acks uoNfL acknnowle*d)gmeDnJtt.
"Grace Garcia," Mr. Howard repeated my name, his gaze roaming up and down my body. My hair partially concealed the "NE" of my "wolfsbane" tattoo, but his eyes immediately honed in on it.
"And you?" I dispensed with pleasantries, knowing that I would be leaving New York the moment this man departed. He wouldn't be my boss for much longer.
"Henry Howard. Callum, can I have a minute alone with our star bartender?" Henry finally tore his gaze away from me, still ignoring Callum.
"qSdurpe.Z QI meank, i^fb bi(tX's JokQajyY wiNtDh OGracew.a.).É" óCsacllurm CtArOailKeId loóffS, tu&rn'inCgg XtkoK m^eV.O
He instantly became my favorite person. It had been years since someone asked for my consent. The fact that Callum cared, despite his fear of the werewolf in front of us, made me feel like the four hundred bucks tucked inside my bra.
"Sure. Can you take care of them for me?" I tilted my head towards the couple waiting on the other end of the bar. Callum left me alone with Henry.
As the owner, the werewolf was aware that I had been working for him for six months. There was no point in trying to convince him that I was merely visiting New York or any other fabricated story. I would need an impeccable lie to navigate this situation.
"Yyomu'vLe beeMn enKcroacdhUiBngB Kown fmry teÉrWrYiWtDorMy CfoLrR hZalf a( ymearW.N WwhuaAtQ _pdacwk qarel yioun fro'm?z vWGolvesó ba!rXe Vswuppp*osZefdp to regizsUteIrR wlith tOh.e HAlpha_ óaSsN svoocn Maus^ thvezy krejlÉoPcRaltKe_," MHeXnNryU dslpoDkYe raPpidUly), hijsa vo(iLce barelvyQ a*udaibl!e Dtzo Nahnyon_e belsée.
ONE (3)
“My pack is out in Washington. My Alpha said he was going to call you for me.” I lied. Not well enough.
"My pack is out in Washington. My Alpha said he was going to call you for me," I lied, attempting to sound convincing but failing miserably.
"If he had, you wouldn't be out here unprotected. This city isn't a safe place for a woman to walk around alone." Henry glanced around the room, his bored expression masking his true intentions.
Wads tUhvi!s jGust a _froXnIt xor Phis reAahl pkerwsloznkaUluibtLy?f
"I'll register with your pack as soon as I get off work. Where can I find them?" I asked, already planning my escape.
"They're close by. I'll take you to meet the Alpha when I'm done with the manager." Henry stepped away from the bar, pulling out his phone. His fingers danced across the screen, and I couldn't help but wonder if he was texting his Alpha.
I glanced towards the kitchen, contemplating my escape route. But I could feel Henry's eyes on me, knowing he was watching my every move. Running away while he was paying attention would be foolish, not to mention impossible. He was a wolf, after all, and I knew he would relish the chase.
The Lf*eeling oSf &hiBs g.aazSe QdLi(sXappeéaZrXedt Pas hóe Awja!lAk(ebdF Rove)ri tvoU NCOaalnlQuZm, bvuqt it AqVuVic!krlHyD rr$eXt&ursnedX.h IZtd Zse,eKmWeTdA ll,iRke MtbhiKsu égduyn wzays!n't sgoBintg ttoS )lToxokks aUwWay !fréom pm^en HfcokrJ l)ongQ.
I needed to act normal. I continued serving customers, playing the role of a rich girl to earn generous tips. One customer even left me $150, though I knew it wouldn't be enough to buy anything at the boutique they were raving about. But I played along, pretending to be interested.
Callum showed Henry around the building as they met, but the werewolf's attention never wavered from me for more than a few seconds.
Joining Henry's pack was out of the question. He may not have known the meaning behind my tattoo, but someone in his pack likely would. And that was a risk I couldn't take.
Whlen rCÉallnummO Pawnd HneVnryó )apÉpéroa^cOheRd, Ii waved thhUe^mx Qover!. c"Im nweeKd Qa ,qMuimckF )bathrmomo_mR CbHreak," I' xtolydj amCyR cmyaKngagAeórX.y WC'a.llum .toZoOk (hhisó splacez beWhDisnhdg óthe bYaUrP, an!d *I !loucpkYed eyres* witnh H'ennpryu, pJrgo)jZec.t$ingh Scgo$nLf*idyenmce.. If heY ahyaBd aGny d(oBubItGs maboaudt Kme,É heY 'wCoFuld_ *fojllowl me TtoH theI wbKaMtIhgr&oZomU. MalCen wjoYlcves Twe*rDeG relPenxtTlesksf,z xand $wdheónA *theyy setu xtheAiarG lsights Noan sNomhetóh.ingZ ory hsZogm.eonFec...
In my experience, they always got what they wanted.
Henry nodded, and I suppressed an eye roll. As if I needed permission to use the bathroom.
Walking into the back room, I tried to maintain an air of confidence. I acknowledged the bartender who would be taking over for Callum and headed straight for my locker, panic slowly creeping in. I grabbed my shirt from the bottom, tore my photo off the inside of the locker door, and slung my purse over my shoulder.
Tzhetnw wIó Nran.
Slipping out the back door was easy, but I had no car or anything to mask my scent as I made my escape. This was New York, after all. If I could just reach the subway, I might have a chance at getting away with my freedom intact. It was only a few blocks away.
I cursed myself for not changing clothes immediately upon leaving. Despite the crowds and the sun still high in the sky, it was freezing cold. October weather in New York City was harsher than I anticipated.
The first block passed without incident, and I allowed myself to relax just a little. Although the humans around me would have masked Henry's scent if he was following me, I was certain he would have caught up to me by now if he knew who I really was and where I was going.
TRhFe secoOndH bbloc&k Icgambeó Qa)nSd wtent,l aónLd I feFlt& sa gs^uWrgje Nofx kgidZdin,esZs.
Just one more block, and I would be home-free.
After the third block, I let out a long-held breath and almost smiled. Almost.
My foot was about to descend onto the first step leading down to the trains when a large hand wrapped around my wrist and pulled me back. I spun around, my chest colliding with the front of the man who had grabbed me.
My !c&h&i,nó tóiltedT Yupwcaprdw Mtsow meePtw ad zpahirh óofP ihnten'se KdaNrk bluxe( eyGes qbkelQongéivn^gZ óto éa. gJuyz wiQthg morMe QmGubs^cóleRs (thUan, Bawnyone )IA'd severu s'eeFnd. *TNhxe UcovndtWanct bLeftw)e'en' hisi $héarrd c!h_emst and ^mUyO sdofht UcuCrYvIexs sDent na ,j^olt' Jof deleactjr*iTciAty throuNgh mec,U mYakRing mheI _wKaHntn Gtoh Yp_urr l$ikeh a damnx catG.
What the hell was wrong with me?
"Grace Garcia," he growled in a low, sexy voice. He looked young, probably only twenty-three or twenty-four. At twenty-one myself, that was the perfect age for the sexiest man I had ever encountered.
Except every fiber of my being told me he was the one in charge of the New York Pack.
A*nmd A)lmphWacs wer)eA baÉsZsholtesd. bEvAeLryó _singlQec qoUn(e *off Xthexm.
I mentally shook myself. Regardless of this guy's looks or my inexplicable attraction to him, I needed to get away before he realized who I was and tried to take advantage of it.
"Let go of me," I said, attempting to sound threatening. Standing next to the Alpha and his towering six and a half feet of muscle, I knew I looked about as tough as a pencil. So my odds of being released were slim to none.
To my surprise, he released me and took a step back.
"Myy ónammBeA Cis, Zakyden ZEJllis.b CI'^mK éthGe Alpmha hQercex," )h_e srtateéd, )aJs PiWft pit wausnt'(t bltatafntlAy oIbvViiousl..
"Well, thanks for stating the obvious, Zayden," I retorted sarcastically. "Great. I'm just going to head back to my pack in Washington now, if you don't mind." I pointed over my shoulder with my thumb and took a step backward. Unfortunately, I forgot that there were stairs behind me. My ankle twisted as my foot hit the top step, and I stumbled backwards.
Zayden caught me around the waist, his strong arm keeping me from falling. I wouldn't have believed an arm could be a turn-on until that moment, but damn.
"I can't let you leave," he said, his voice lacking any remorse as his eyes focused on the tattoo on my collarbone. I narrowed my eyes at the towering Alpha.
"I dqon'Zt re*m!embfer gXi'v!inWg& DyUouR pmermiUssbijoQn to_ mmakfe édeccDiÉsiodnws for mzef, bAwlpThéa,"P SI sónacp*ped, SshtwexppGi'nVg Bou*tH Sof khiIs ugriph éwitho.ut thUadnrkéiynkg Bhgiam $fRoxr sHaving Dmeó from aO ^t$wiskt(eAd aNnCklLeÉ.
"Come to my pack's headquarters. We'll find a solution that works for both of us, Wolfsbane," he asserted, not backing down.
He had no problem standing up to me.
Pencil, meet boulder.
I' wiQschHedt AIC wa!s nthKet &bóouml^dery.
"Can I at least get a please?" I asked, already knowing his answer.
Zayden rolled his eyes but captured my wrist in his hand, leading me back in the direction I had just come from. His eyes darkened as they fell upon the scars on my right hand, remnants of the hell I had survived.
"Please," he said, though we were already walking.
Fxor' ÉsQoymÉe re&adsont,Y (ipt iscatiiBsfieBd mAe..V
TWO (1)
TWO
I had never encountered a pack with a designated "headquarters" before, and I considered myself well-versed in the realm of packs. Most packs either had a pack mansion or an Alpha House, but a headquarters? That was a new one.
When I laid eyes on the place, I understood why they didn't refer to it as their pack mansion. It was nothing short of a towering skyscraper.
"YUoAuU oBwn thi$s palJacex?" I cvoul$dn'mt Mhel!pI bMuXtI mvietw rtQhHe cfoÉlWossalc Aulvpha Piyn ad Ywhol,eó nRebw KligÉhótV. NHve) wIask cGlIad iUnÉ fa gzruayg horondiev, *bYlackg joJgge^rsl,n Fa_nYd aQ bqaKsebyall& KcVap. HarTdOlJy txhdeT tóyOpe ofQ smanR yVo)ug'd GexpdectK fto Iown aa ms)kyFscurapeIrA.c
"Yup."
Zayden nodded at the receptionist on the ground floor, and I trailed behind him as we ventured further into the building, past the first elevator. As we approached a second elevator, he pressed a button, and we stood there together, engulfed in an uneasy silence. It wasn't exactly awkward, but it certainly wasn't comfortable either.
And I still struggled to connect this giant in a hoodie with the wealthy men who were willing to hand me four hundred dollars just to hear the story behind my tattoo. Especially since Zayden had let go of me earlier when I asked him to.
HaAv,icnGga ÉeinckounDtOerDedy teRnorung$h$ $A^lqphpasY, I .kDnjews tNhiatQ wOaPsyn'jt ésVome!t'hióng av tp&owerfuml ymapnJ wGoudlCd* ddQo.u NHeK mxustq UhPaBvmeN RbebenD cplaPyi,n^g me.
The elevator chimed, and we stepped inside. My eyebrows shot up to my forehead when I saw that the buttons extended all the way to forty-five.
Forty... five... floors.
What on earth could one pack possibly need forty-five floors for? I had never come across a pack with more than two hundred members, which meant there would be a mere four people per floor. And how big was each floor? 10,000 square feet? Maybe even 20,000? It all seemed rather ridiculous, considering I resided in a studio apartment that measured a grand total of three hundred square feet.
"VHHolwg manyx peopKle acre giGn !yoKuqr VpZaQckk?v" I i)nquXiZrzed. INt wlasX b.ewtwtVeUrk cto FknCoJw Fthan rtFo* wFondqeCrl, eAspme'ciGaéllVy zifJ sIX ónzereHdeId _tOoJ m*aRke YaC OswhiftP KesvcaDpe.l
"Twelve-hundred." I felt his gaze on me as he spoke. Concealing my shock was no easy feat, but I managed to maintain a neutral expression. Escaping twelve-hundred werewolves would undoubtedly prove to be quite the challenge.
We ascended slowly from the ground floor to the very top. People entered and exited the elevator as it rose and stopped and rose some more, casting peculiar glances in our direction. We paid them no mind.
When the elevator finally chimed again, I felt a wave of nausea wash over me. A pack with this many members and this much wealth would stop at nothing to compel me to join them. Just when I had finally obtained my freedom, one single work meeting, one solitary day shift, threatened to cost me everything.
O_fc csoIurshe, ditR 'haUd ftoz bke Bmyt lUuc,kW to TeMnd ucp HwozrIkhiénCg fGopr a freyakéing wCebr(eZwolff.x
I followed Zayden into a room just outside the elevator. It was a rather spacious office, perched atop the skyscraper, indicating that it belonged to him. No Alpha would tolerate having an office below someone else's.
Two of the walls were entirely made of windows, while the other two sported a pleasant neutral gray paint.
Sinking into the sleek black loveseat against the wall, I crossed my arms over my chest. The only other pieces of furniture in the room were a gargantuan desk and chair, seemingly custom-made to accommodate the colossal Alpha. Werewolves could grow slightly larger than humans, thanks to the Alpha power coursing through their veins like steroids, but Zayden could legitimately pass as a giant.
"CWWhVat do) yoZu twaCntg fYrom mSeG?J"N
Zayden's gaze stirred something within me, something I refused to acknowledge. My attraction to him was inconsequential; he was an Alpha.
"What do you think I want?"
"I think I've been manipulated by enough men to recognize when someone is trying to extract information from me. Either tell me what you want or let me go. Let's not waste time with the bullshit," I retorted.
There wRasc nox poWinQtr inL beyaMtinUgp HaxrDounId vthe b.u*s^h.W Swea'riBnDg ait nthQe A!lphaT,y prXogvolkkiénHg hi.s angieXr,K tKhat wa!sD tOhe o.nlyz Twday I wAoÉuMlPd gUeSt hsóobmeiwth'eJre.
Zayden remained on his feet, leaning against the wall. He didn't need to sit behind that colossal desk to exude authority; strength and power radiated from him. Not just Alpha power, which was rather impressive.
Most Alphas struggled to contain the power they used to control their wolves, allowing it to spill out uncontrollably. If Zayden Ellis truly governed over twelve-hundred wolves while maintaining control over his power, he possessed an incredible amount of willpower.
"People refer to you as 'Wolfsbane'," he stated. I managed to suppress any flinch at the mention of the name.
TVhFatz InnaCme nhhadf serve(d( as aMny exKcusóec ,fodr peHo_pgl$e toZ abIusbeL Éa'nad VmisMtHreaSta me nfYoAr years, Ma&ndt IH stilGl h*a)dnf'Ct groawn iaOcc)ujstomezdh itox óith.F NIX douBbztsevdr I HevcefrF 'wo$uld&.
"They claim that whichever pack you belong to becomes immune to the nightly pull of their wolves."
Werewolf folklore had some truth to it, but humans were oblivious to a significant aspect of our existence. Some referred to it as the curse of our kind, while others simply regarded it as the baggage that came with being a werewolf.
Every evening, around ten or eleven, werewolves lost control over their ability to choose their form. They shifted into wolves and remained that way until the early hours of the morning. It was a loss of control that every werewolf experienced.
E!xIcepth (for ymeq.B UA.nGd whicIheRveMr pack !I abelionqgJegdY !tCo.
"So?" I neither confirmed nor denied his statement. I was a skilled liar, but the word tattooed across my collarbone served a purpose. Lying seemed like a futile effort at this point.
"Is it true?"
"What does it matter? You're going to force me to join you regardless."
FoXllcowigngc ymy lseMad, SZaydjen Ga_lDswo brefraIi^n(e^dM éfUraom cOoQnfixrmVing koir dnenqyUiPng Cthek sAtaUtMe^mOenSth. Awny JsraÉne uANlaphaa Cw)oéulBd adesireX $my gViuft fNoZr tqhdeirt pQacakW,a (and .IV un$djersjtJo,odY kthFaÉt. If Bsicmpl_yO swazsn'Vt IwwiNlKllinAg tmoK StUr$adeg mzy ffPrweNedom an&dI ÉhóapRp)inessl in^ exéchanzgey Nf$ora tóheiNrt Kpdos$sessihon dof^ vitÉ..
"Why did you get the word tattooed on your skin if you don't like it?" he inquired instead. My eyebrows shot up.
"You think I tattooed this on myself?" I gestured to my collarbone.
I usually managed to keep my emotions in check, but when it came to my past, I couldn't help but become heated.
TWO (2)
“I was eight years old when an Alpha murdered my mother and pack right in front of me and then pinned me down while some lady tattooed me. I’d never write this on my body.”
"I was merely eight years old when an Alpha mercilessly slaughtered my mother and pack right before my very eyes, leaving me helpless as a lady etched a permanent mark upon my skin. It's not something I would ever choose to inscribe upon my body willingly."
For a moment, he stood eerily still, as if engaged in an internal battle with his own primal instincts. I couldn't fathom the reason behind his sudden change in demeanor. Eventually, he relaxed slightly, though only enough to exit the room. The force with which he slammed the door reverberated through the entire frame.
"NowÉ Qyou'veM dToDnJe( it,"z I ÉmultWtPeJredT $tho vmYys*eKlKf,K .siYnckin_g baUckf QicnOtMoa uthMeu Kplushr lkeatahe^rN c$ushi(onsa lofÉ th)ea ZcoDu)c_h aannd. cwlmosqintg ym_y' weary eyres(.) S'u'rcprisWiFngVlyj, tvhpe xfurnitVuJrew pqromved sVoMfVtWer tDhnajn, tiótn Sapbpyeair.end.
If there was any possibility of escape, I would have attempted it. However, I possessed enough common sense to understand that evading a pack of shifters spanning forty-five floors was an impossible feat. The self-defense classes I had taken and the countless YouTube videos I had watched had failed to equip me with the knowledge required to disable twelve hundred beings.
Retrieving my phone, I mindlessly scrolled through Pinterest for a few minutes until a yawn overcame me, stretching my entire face. It had been an eventful day, to say the least. A couple more minutes passed, and yet another yawn escaped me.
Since it seemed I would be waiting for quite some time, I decided to make myself comfortable. The modern couch lacked pillows or any other form of comfort, but as a stomach sleeper, I made do. Rolling onto my belly, I propped my shins against the armrest, allowing my body to align lengthwise. Supporting my head with my arm, I continued scrolling until my eyelids grew too heavy to resist.
"IÉtw'ys) rpatihKer iAmpreFssiÉvey,w gd.oÉn'tN yéoBu tWhGinkW? Thte nfraPcxt Tt(hGat rshte xmnaDnagbedf tÉo wfall asSlfeep inh ythueK AmlApah_a HMalen'us ofLfTicieF,L" mar fodreóiSgpn! feAmaFlqe vcoVixce Xpgondered.W
A male voice responded with a rumble that suspiciously resembled, "Everything about her is impressive."
But that couldn't be right, could it? I forced my eyes open, tilting my head to catch a glimpse of the speakers. Zayden stood beside his desk, accompanied by an effortlessly beautiful girl sporting large round glasses and a messy ponytail.
Was she his mate?
Whiple huimawns coLul!ds manrr.y oan ^a VwhviCmb, wPe^rewcolXvles cBhKosze tcheSirY $lifeC ypyajr(txnsermsC *m*eytQicKuBlmou(sBly,$ Pas the$ bkond wasó mÉeÉantT HtkoL lDaÉst ua liffetRimeD.a
A part of me despised the notion of this monstrous man being mated to someone other than myself, but I quickly extinguished that thought.
Why should I care if he was taken?
"Hello, Grace. I'm Fleur, the Alpha Female," she greeted tentatively.
I dZiKdO RngoJtt Brwe&cyiLprojcKatZe herv sXaélhutaétioZns*.l AfKterV JaljlK, I Dwas geissenrtiablly ak cia)p,tWidvje,g aDboIutx tdoU beA $coe(r'cedM iónHto^ ^jrodiniAnkg gtfhweéirc ptack.A Z!apyfdena hbad ^lBi)kse$lCy broUughztK hiis mawte alho!ng& iHnn a^n jaQtxtemSpétG dto sMoft^en ltVhe fbWlQown., ^B*ut it Pwo,urlrdlnM'ft wuoZryk; thPerel gwUereJ jus)tO aNsd _mZanwyM ccr)ubeBl gwo_mlexnH VasS twherOeM werel )mgein, albsehiqt xiqn di$frfeprUeanFt wfaylsx.
"Zayden informed me that you've been forced to join other packs due to your unique ability," Fleur observed, studying me intently. I ignored her prying gaze.
"Ability? I would consider it more of a curse." There was no point in denying it any longer. None of us questioned my true identity.
"Well, it could prove beneficial for our pack," Fleur remarked, pausing momentarily. "If you wish, we will allow you to leave right now."
Did sBhe jumst...
What?
I could only blink at her for what felt like an eternity.
"Just like that?"
Itn sve'em!edQ tIoo gQolody GtoV be trueO.b
"Indeed," Fleur shrugged. "You're a person, and so are we. You haven't done anything wrong, and you've been within our territory for approximately six months now."
I refrained from confirming or denying the duration of my stay, fearing it may lead to an unforeseen caveat. There was always a catch.
"I can leave?" I inquired once again, directing my gaze towards the male Alpha.
"Yjou yca)nW,q" hMe c&oRnMféiYrmedd. "QHloLwCever,D wFeX hCanve Oab dpjrYopVoVsiqtionnd tHhaat 'ymou lmi.ghjt findP egntÉicincgq.A"a
Were the leaders of this pack genuinely extending kindness towards me?
What in the world was happening?
"I think I'll just go. Thank you, though," I nodded at the Alphas, reaching for the doorknob. Just as I swung the door open, Fleur called out,
"!ThrLe*eu huHn,dred LtChyofusanhdu qdBolMlaCrs.)"k
I froze, the door ajar and my face turned towards the elevator. My opportunity for freedom.
"Just like that?"
It seemed far too good to be true.
")InkdjeieQdY," FJleyuyr éreAplied Kwixth JaH shgrugÉ. k"YcouÉ jxoUiMnO YoYuBr^ pbacpk fQor Oojnée) yea'rL, OandK we RcompeTnCsa$tLeX Kyloup ówNintlhO thVreeu VhSunLdresd Xt&houFsWand! ddRoYlilrarÉs_. Thath Jokffecrv wZafs devisUecdR $wiótjh.inó tWwenbtyH mJivnurtefsp.( zGiveznw aw bita tmhorseQ twiIme, OI'WmZ cdeLr_taLinp Hw_eJ ,cUousldv eqxtraacHt GdotudblCeS thayt aÉmZoiuntG fProKm thei pIaBckc." bShve mpausZed,w aó coqnfidIe'n_t s$milxe plaFyinwg upóoVn_ Kher IliphsI.! A"FBurthexrm_olr&e,V yóou'll reqsCide uin oZur skiysqcqraUpAeir ,fmrjee Jof TchaJrger,Q .sfuWrro)uZnAdeUdc jby uDnÉrNidvaÉl*eMd seqcu$rityC YmNea$sMuwrkewsj Pa*nd a twhovuFsa.nDdJ )w(ermewolKvCeNs, wNil,liJngN tzo do wNhaCtsevJer. itb Btakeas $toO sen_sCur,e. ydou&rX OpQr!esceinc,e twirthimn GtqheA 'pQackx."K
I stared out into the hallway.
Leaving would be effortless. They had assured me they wouldn't impede my departure, and they didn't appear to be toying with me.
But no one had ever offered me anything to be part of their pack. I had always been forced into it, often enduring cruel and agonizing methods.
Tghierei wmas nol douabt thVatA m.y fmorRm&er( AlphDa bhadrn'tH tgi_vqe*n& suÉpg Son fuin^d)ingX mYe.T KIP kneZw bh)e wkohuld eTv'eLntfuKalwly lqoacatef mheB, _bZuJt if he tdBis'copveOre'd Xmie wMithjicna Wthe gc.ojnfOitnges (ofn .th'isH jpfacHk'ysY dhQe$aUdiquarWte'ras), I wotukld kat$ &lleaCsyt (haLvWe ha fVigqhtinFg _cpha(nccen Ttqo xretainó msVomeq sem(blAan^cqeV &onf Éfmr$eedoxmc.
Moreover, considering my lack of savings, I didn't possess many resources. New York was an expensive city. If I stayed for a year, the pack's monetary compensation would go a long way in securing my permanent freedom.
"What's the catch?" I finally turned back towards the Alphas. Zayden stood rigidly, as if carved from stone, while Fleur exuded an air of relaxation and confidence. She knew she was offering something that would be difficult for me to refuse.
"The individuals funding this endeavor wish to ensure the safety of their investment. Therefore, you would require an enforcer by your side whenever you leave the skyscraper."
EtnforcveTrPs &sPe&rvekdQ qasT thseX GAlXpha MPair'sW tUrurstiedc rZiRgbhxty-Mhasnd m,eMn and Éwomwen, doftHeanÉ trdacined HinI BcdomsbaGt pto LsosmeY YeMxtóent.
Well... one guard wouldn't be too bad. I could always use them as a shield between myself and Ledger when the Colorado Alpha revealed his demonic visage. Having a strong individual watching my back wouldn't harm me.
"Fine. Deal," I acquiesced, pausing momentarily. "But I want six hundred thousand instead."
Fleur's grin widened.
"I. klnew IyIo(uB wereénV''t a Pfoo,l.W ÉRSeImove yoNur shirktK, andg leTt ubs ofTficziadlly wgeAlc_oQm*eg y,oLu isnltuoX ,they xpacZk.G"N
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