Chapter: Never going backThe click of the door latch echoed in the silence of the wisteria room, a small, definitive sound that ripped through Hunter. He stood there for a long moment, staring at the closed wooden panel, the stark finality of her words ringing in his ears. The air felt heavy, suffocating, laden with unspoken pain and insurmountable barriers. Slowly, his shoulders slumped. He backed away from the door, each step heavy, dragging. The carefully constructed facade of calm he had maintained for days, the relentless pursuit of truth, the desperate hope that had fueled him, all crumbled into dust. He didn’t go to his own room, or to the comfort of his grandmother's presence. Instead, he simply sank to the floor, right where he had spent so many nights, just outside her door. He didn't curl up. He didn't pace. He didn't make a sound. He simply sat, his long frame folded, his elbows resting on his knees, his head falling heavily into his hands. His fingers tangled in his hair, gripping it, as if tr
Last Updated: 2025-07-06
Chapter: I'll never come back to youThe silence that followed Hunter's raw confession hung heavy in the air, a palpable weight between them. Evelyn remained at the window, her back to him, the soft lamplight doing little to dispel the shadows clinging to her. Hunter’s words—"I can never cheat on you, Evelyn, because you are my only truth, my only desire"—were a potent balm to a wound she had believed festering, but they couldn't mend the deeper gashes left by neglect and absence. Finally, she moved, slowly, deliberately. She walked over to the edge of the bed and sat down, her shoulders still hunched, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. Her face remained unreadable, a carefully constructed mask of composure that gave away nothing of the turmoil raging within her. Hunter, still standing frozen by the desk, watched her, his heart a raw, exposed nerve. Every fiber of his being yearned to cross the space between them, to kneel, to beg, to simply touch her, but he held back, respecting the invisible, yet impenetrable, ba
Last Updated: 2025-07-06
Chapter: Painful pastThe silence in the wisteria room was thick and suffocating, punctuated only by Evelyn’s ragged breathing and the soft, insistent drip of her tears onto the laptop keys. The weight of Sophia’s betrayal, coupled with the crushing realization of her own misguided anger, pressed down on her. Hunter’s quiet declaration—"I never did. Not once. I could never cheat. Not on you. Not on us"—echoed in the air, a devastating truth that brought no immediate comfort, only a fresh wave of agony. With trembling hands, Evelyn reached out and, with a swift, decisive movement, slammed the laptop shut. The sharp click resonated in the quiet room, a final, emphatic punctuation mark to the horrifying revelation. She pushed the laptop away, as if its presence burned her, then she turned away from Hunter, walking a few shaky steps towards the large window that overlooked the moonlit gardens. Her back was to him, her shoulders hunched, her hands clasped tightly together. Hunter remained rooted to the spot,
Last Updated: 2025-07-02
Chapter: The truth is out The grand estate was cloaked in the deep, velvet silence of late night. Hours had passed since Hunter had received the irrefutable proof from his lawyer, the digital files a damning testament to Sophia’s malice. He’d spent the time pacing, the weight of the truth heavy in his hands, contemplating the best way to present it to Evelyn. He wanted to be patient. But the urgency to clear his name, to alleviate Evelyn’s torment, was a burning ache in his chest. He couldn't wait until morning. The thought of Evelyn spending one more night believing the lies, suffering under the weight of a betrayal that wasn't real, was unbearable. He moved silently through the hushed corridors, the soft carpet muffling his footsteps, until he stood before the heavy wooden door of the wisteria room. His heart hammered a frantic rhythm against his ribs, a mixture of trepidation and desperate hope. He raised his hand and knocked softly, just twice, a hesitant, almost imperceptible sound in the stillness. A
Last Updated: 2025-07-02
Chapter: Proof The quiet rhythm of the estate continued, punctuated by the soft sounds of daily life, yet for Evelyn, the underlying current of Hunter’s presence was a constant, unsettling hum. She’d wake each morning, a faint dread coiling in her stomach, knowing what she would find. And each morning, he was there. She stepped out of the wisteria room, the gentle morning light spilling into the hallway, and there he was – slumped in the same antique chair, a thick blanket pulled up to his chin, his head lolled to one side. He looked utterly exhausted, faint shadows etched beneath his eyes, his hair a rumpled mess. The sight, a stark testament to his stubborn vigilance, ignited a complex cocktail of emotions within her: annoyance, a flicker of guilt, and, despite herself, a grudging, almost imperceptible warmth. He stirred, a soft groan escaping him, and slowly, his eyes fluttered open. They focused on her, and a tired, genuine smile, disarmingly soft, touched his lips. "Morning, Evie," he murmure
Last Updated: 2025-07-02
Chapter: Ice around her heart The days at his grandmother’s estate settled into a quiet, almost domestic rhythm, a stark contrast to the chaotic storm that had brought Evelyn there. Hunter maintained his silent vigil, a constant, unobtrusive presence in her periphery. He didn't hover, didn't demand attention, didn't even try to engage her in conversation unless absolutely necessary. His care was a quiet, steady current, flowing beneath the surface of her resistance. Each morning, before the sun had fully climbed above the ancient trees, Hunter would bring a tray of freshly brewed herbal tea and a light breakfast to the small table outside the wisteria room. He’d tap softly, just once, and then retreat, giving her space. He knew her routine, the faint rustle of silk sheets, the soft pad of her bare feet on the polished floor. Sometimes, she would open the door just enough to slide the tray inside, her face a blank mask. Other times, she would leave it for a few minutes, a silent acknowledgment that she knew he was
Last Updated: 2025-06-29
Chapter: Their love. Their family. Their forever.2 years later - The stage, still shimmering under the golden wash of the spotlights, echoed with the thunderous applause even as the velvet curtains descended, sealing off the spectacle. Selena stood at the heart of the stage, her chest heaving, her breath coming in ragged, triumphant gasps. The final, soaring notes of her performance, a culmination of years of relentless dedication, hung in the air, a testament to her talent. Yet, the audience's roaring cheers, a wave of unabashed adoration, confirmed what she already knew: she had captivated them.She had done it. She had finally reached the pinnacle she had so ardently pursued.From her early days as a precocious prima donna in the grand opera houses, where her crystalline soprano had enchanted audiences, to this very night—her Broadway debut as the leading lady of a prestigious opera troupe—her journey had been a testament to her unwavering spirit. Yet, as she took her final, graceful bow, her gaze fell upon a familiar sight wait
Last Updated: 2025-03-31
Chapter: I want kids The soft glow of the fireplace flickered across the dimly lit living room, casting long, dancing shadows that painted the walls with a warm, intimate hue. Julian leaned back on the couch, his arm stretched along the top, a silent observer of Selena as she tucked her legs beneath her, creating a cozy nest of her oversized sweater. There was something about the way the firelight danced in her eyes, catching the subtle flecks of gold and amber, that made his chest tighten with a complex mix of tenderness and a vague, unsettling apprehension. He’d always admired her quiet strength, but tonight, there was a fragile vulnerability that both captivated and worried him."You've been quiet," he murmured, his voice a low rumble that barely disturbed the stillness, reaching out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear. The simple gesture was meant to be comforting, a gentle reminder of his presence, but he felt a flicker of unease at the way she flinched slightly, as if startled by his touc
Last Updated: 2025-03-30
Chapter: Honeymoon Selena's breath hitched as Julian planted a series of soft, wet kisses down her neck, his teeth gently nibbling at the tender skin. His hands roamed freely across her body, leaving goosebumps and a warmth that felt like wildfire wherever they touched. He caressed her breasts, teasing the nipples until they were taut with desire.Feeling the firmness of his erection pressed against her, Selena couldn't resist any longer and reached down to stroke him slowly. The base of his cock felt thick and velvety in her grasp. Julian let out a deep moan that reverberated through her entire body, sending shivers dancing along her spine.Their limbs tangled together, Selena's legs wrapped around Julian's waist as their bodies moved in perfect sync. Their breathing grew ragged and desperate, their exhales and inhales mingling together in a symphony of passion.Julian's gaze lingered on Selena's flushed face and he paused for a moment, his pupils dilating with unbridled lust. "You are so beautiful," h
Last Updated: 2025-03-30
Chapter: A grand wedding Every day was a new adventure, every moment a testament to their connection, their bond growing stronger with each passing hour. They explored the city together, sharing kisses in the rain, and dancing in the moonlight, their laughter echoing through the streets, their love a constant, steady flame, burning bright, warming their hearts.It was perfect, it was bliss, it was everything she had ever wanted, and as the days passed, and the months turned into years, Selena couldn't help but wonder if maybe, just maybe, fairytales could come true after all."Marry me," he whispered one night, his voice a low, husky murmur against her skin, his eyes filled with an intensity that made her heart ache."Aren't we already married?"He smiled. "I want to marry you again, grand and happily."She nodded, her smile a promise, her gaze filled with a love that spoke volumes, her answer a silent declaration of her devotion.He smiled, his expression tender, his gaze filled with a deep, unfathomable aff
Last Updated: 2025-03-30
Chapter: Always together They returned to their home at night.Home.Selena loved how the word felt on her lips, a promise, a hope, a dream come true.That night, after a romantic dinner in a dimly lit restaurant, their meal accompanied by a string quartet and a glass of rich, velvety wine, Julian led her upstairs, his touch reverent, his eyes dark with a passion that mirrored her own.When he touched her, when he kissed her, her mind went blank, a haze of desire, and her body, her body was on fire, aching, longing for the feeling of him, the warmth of his skin against hers, the intimacy of their shared pleasure.He gently pushed her on the bed and hovered above her.She felt his hand brush the sensitive spot on her stomach, moving up to her breasts and cupping them, teasing them, and she couldn't hold back the moans that escaped her lips.She closed her eyes and arched her back. His hot, wet mouth enveloped her left breast while his thumb circled the nipple of her right.He sucked, nipped and bit until the p
Last Updated: 2025-03-30
Chapter: Love in paris Paris was everything Selena had imagined, and yet, it was also so much more. It was a living, breathing dream, a symphony of sights, sounds, and scents that resonated deep within her soul. She had seen the postcards, read the novels, watched the romantic comedies, but nothing, absolutely nothing, could have prepared her for the sheer, intoxicating reality of being here. The city hummed with a vibrant energy, a palpable sense of history and romance that permeated every cobblestone street, every ornate building, every whispered conversation. Every corner held a story, every street exuded a timeless charm, and every glance Julian sent her way, every touch, every word, amplified the magic tenfold.Their first morning in Paris, the soft light of dawn filtering through the curtains of their bedroom, Julian had woken her with a gentle kiss on her forehead, a feather-light touch that sent a shiver down her spine. "Get dressed, sweetheart. We’re going out." His voice, a low, husky rumble, w
Last Updated: 2025-03-30
Chapter: Can't ignore the pull Lily’s POVThe rest of the school day unfolded in a surreal, almost dreamlike state of forced normalcy. It was a carefully orchestrated performance, a collective act of denial played out against the backdrop of ringing bells and echoing hallways.No fights erupted, no sharp, sarcastic jabs were thrown my way, no cruel comments were uttered within earshot. The usual undercurrent of tension that often simmered beneath the surface of my interactions with Ryder and his entourage was strangely absent.But the silence that filled the void was far more deafening, more oppressive than any verbal assault. It was a thick, suffocating blanket that stifled the very air I breathed, a constant, aching reminder of the unspoken truth that hung heavy between us.Ryder didn’t speak to me again after that first, chillingly possessive “mate” jab in the morning. He moved through the crowded classrooms and bustling hallways as if I were invisible, a mere figment of his imagination. His booming laughter ech
Last Updated: 2025-04-14
Chapter: Back off, Ryder Lily’s POVThe morning sun, usually a welcome sight, felt like an unwelcome intruder, its harsh, unforgiving rays streaming through the classroom windows as if determined to expose every raw nerve I had desperately tried to bury beneath a fragile veneer of normalcy the night before. It illuminated the dust motes dancing in the air, each one a tiny, mocking reminder of the chaos that now reigned within me.School felt different today. Colder, somehow. Quieter, despite the usual morning bustle of students. Or maybe that was just my perception, the world around me muted and distorted as I walked through the familiar hallways like a ghost, a spectral presence pretending that everything was normal when the very foundations of my existence had irrevocably shifted.They were my mates.Ryder.Hunter.The words echoed in the hollow chambers of my mind, a relentless, insidious mantra that felt more like a curse than a blessing. Each syllable carried the weight of my past pain, the chilling unce
Last Updated: 2025-04-14
Chapter: Such a precious little thing Lily’s POVThe walk back into the grand hall felt like traversing a tightrope suspended over a chasm of unspoken truths. Sam’s steady presence beside me was the only anchor in the swirling vortex of my emotions.My heartbeat hammered against my ribs, a frantic drumbeat that echoed the chaotic rhythm of my thoughts. My skin felt strangely disconnected, alternating between icy chills and sudden, unwelcome flashes of heat. The invisible thread that tethered me to them – Ryder and Hunter – seemed to tighten with each step I took toward the throng of smiling strangers and the looming table laden with brightly wrapped gifts.I forced a smile onto my face, a brittle, carefully constructed mask that felt alien and unnatural, as if it had been crudely glued there. My mom’s eyes, scanning the room, finally locked onto mine, and her entire face illuminated with a radiant joy that pierced my carefully constructed defenses. “There you are! We were starting to worry, sweetheart. Everyone’s waiting
Last Updated: 2025-04-14
Chapter: Being their mate is a nightmare Lily’s POVI stood there, by the edge of the shimmering turquoise water, the cold night air clinging to me like a damp, unwelcome shroud. The distant sounds of the party – the muffled laughter, the faint strains of music – seemed to mock the turmoil raging within me.The golden flickers of light spilling from the mansion’s windows danced across the surface of the pool, a distorted reflection of the joy I couldn’t share. My dress, a flowing expanse of soft blue silk that had felt so promising just hours ago, now felt heavy and constricting against my skin, a tangible representation of the weight that had settled in my soul.The door behind me creaked open again, the sound slicing through the stillness of the night. I didn’t need to turn to know who it was. The soft, rhythmic click of heels against the cool tile was unmistakable. Slowly, reluctantly, I turned to see my mother—Olivia—walking toward me, her silhouette framed by the warm glow emanating from the doorway. Concern was etched
Last Updated: 2025-04-14
Chapter: Running away already, sweetheart?Lily’s POV“Mates… mates… they’re our mates,” my wolf kept whispering, a mournful lament that echoed within the confines of my skull. It was a sound I had never heard from her before – a raw, wounded cry that tugged at my heartstrings despite my fierce resistance.“No,” I choked out, my voice a mere breath against the stillness of the night. My hands gripped the edge of the pool, my nails digging into the rough cement, as if I could anchor myself to reality, to the life I knew before this impossible revelation. “No, it can’t be. It can’t be.Of all the people in the world, the moon goddess, the supposed architect of our destinies, had to choose them? The sheer injustice of it was a bitter pill that threatened to choke me.Ryder—the devil incarnate, the golden boy whose casual cruelty had haunted my high school years. The one who tormented me with his cutting words, who humiliated me with his dismissive glances, who had even, on that horrific night, slapped me across the face, a brutal
Last Updated: 2025-04-14
Chapter: Possessive Hunter’s POVThe celebratory air in the grand ballroom evaporated the instant that single, earth-shattering word echoed in the deepest recesses of my being. It wasn't spoken aloud, not by human tongue, but by the ancient, primal part of me – my wolf.Mate.The pronouncement hit with the force of a physical blow, knocking the breath from my lungs and sending a jolt of raw, untamed energy coursing through my veins. My wolf, usually a steady, watchful presence, surged forward with a ferocity I hadn't anticipated, a guttural snarl of pure instinct ripping through my consciousness.Mine. Ours. The claim was possessive, absolute, echoing the undeniable truth that resonated within the very core of my soul.No. The denial was a reflexive whisper in the face of such overwhelming certainty. No way. Not her. Lily? The quiet, almost invisible girl who navigated the halls of our lives like a ghost? The one Ryder… the one we had both, in our own ways, overlooked?And yet, despite the shock, despite
Last Updated: 2025-04-14