Blossom POV.I wished I could find better words to express everything swirling inside me. I needed Dean to understand how I felt, yet I didn't want to come across as a whiny, spoiled girl. At the same time, starting my marriage by allowing myself to be used or disrespected felt utterly unacceptable."I didn't expect to face more crowds, more questions, and more disapproving stares. I had hoped for a quiet evening," I said, my voice trembling. "It's all just been so overwhelming. I'm not trying to be ungrateful, but I don't think I can handle all the inevitable comments and prying questions."Dean listened intently, and I could tell he was beginning to understand my feelings almost as if they were his own. Could it be that he was already connecting with me on such a deep level? He seemed to grasp the turmoil I was experiencing.I knew I wasn't wrong to anticipate unwanted remarks and questions that would best remain unspoken. The truth was, Eliza was so cherished and admired for her be
Blossom POV. Just as quickly, I had scolded myself for those thoughts. I had assured myself I would remain devoted to my love, Eliza, and banished images of Dean. But despite my efforts, thoughts of him kept slipping back into my mind, suggesting this was more than mere lust.I felt Dean mark me, sending a thrilling shiver down my spine. I was truly to be his mate; there was no turning back once I bore his mark. I sensed his hand travel down my neck to my shoulder blades and then to the small of my back as he pulled me closer, leaning in ever so often to let me feel the intensity of his growing passion.My body responded to him as he lightly traced the tip of his tongue across my skin. When he finally reached my mouth, he kissed me hard. I felt his tongue, his teeth, and the roughness of his beard. Although he held me gently, careful not to bruise me, there were moments I struggled to catch my breath. As he kissed me fiercely, his tongue parted my lips, and I pressed my mouth against
Blossom POV.Here I was again, noticing Diana's presence. She was leading me back toward the suite's entrance when she paused at the door. I could sense that I had one more venomous remark brewing inside me. If I dared to unleash it, I would never know, for she swiftly pushed me through the entryway before I could say a word....With Diana gone, at least for now, I locked the door behind her. I assumed that Dean still had the key from earlier, when he showed me around the villa. If he didn't, he would simply have to wait because my heart was set on enjoying a long, luxurious bath. I filled the tub with water and headed to the closet to find something nice to wear afterward. Although I had planned to stand my ground regarding the dinner party, if I had to attend, I wanted to look presentable. If Dean agreed that my presence wasn't necessary, I would at least be fresh for the evening.I returned to the bathroom and tested the water, ensuring it was at the perfect temperature. It had
Blossom POV"You'll be all right, Blossom. I will always protect you. But remember, you are stronger than you think, I promise. You don't need to worry about anyone trying to shame you. You are the mate of the alpha, and everyone will see that," Dean assured me.I noticed the distant demeanor he'd held onto was beginning to melt away. Looking into his eyes, I let him pull me close to his chest once more. I felt him gently caress my hair, then rest his face atop my head, taking a deep breath of my she-werewolf scent.Dean lovingly lifted my face away from his chest to meet his gaze. He leaned down, lips poised to touch mine, but suddenly, a loud knock at the door shattered the moment."Brother! It's time to go! Save the merrymaking with your mate for later!" Caleb's easy laugh echoed from outside."Come," Dean said gently. "We must go. We'll finish this later." He gave me a slight smile before leading me to the door.Dean took my hand, guiding me through the large crowd assembled for t
Blossom POVI had been pleasantly surprised that we made it this far into the evening without any major confrontations. I was aware of some sarcastic remarks made under guests' breaths upon meeting me—occasional mentions that no one could ever fill Eliza's shoes because she was, apparently, flawless.But my relief was short-lived. All I wanted was to sit down for dinner and retreat to our suite. I was exhausted from forcing a smile and extending graciousness to those who treated me so coldly. Dean, who had likely been reminded of Eliza a few too many times, had remained rather indifferent to me throughout the evening, stirring an unsettling ache in the pit of my stomach. I yearned for the moment we could finally sit at the table together—Caleb was already waving us over.Instead, I found myself facing this furious young woman hurling insults at me. Her assertion that I was unworthy dredged up all the fears and anxieties I had experienced while living with my uncle. He consistently bel
Dean POV"Fina, you know I see you as family. If I didn't feel that way, I wouldn't have invited you this evening. Of course, you had the choice not to accept the invitation. But now that you're here, I hope you'll show me a measure of respect. I also ask that you extend that same respect to Blossom. Let me remind you that I am the alpha, and Blossom is my mate. As the alpha, I couldn't move forward alone. I had to make a choice, and she is the one I chose."At that moment, Caleb had left his seat at the table and made his way across the room to where I, Blossom, and Fina stood. He swiftly took Blossom's arm and led her away to her seat at the head table as dinner began, wanting to remove her from the confrontation and leave it for me to handle. Blossoming under pressure, she had already endured enough.I felt an overwhelming sense of relief when I saw Caleb striding quickly in our direction. I always counted on my brother to be there when I needed him. I knew he would instinctively g
Dean POV As I made my way back into the dining hall, I took a moment to glance at the head table. There was Blossom, sitting beside her brother, looking more at ease now that she was distanced from anyone who might make snide remarks or bring up the confrontation with Fina. Initially, I was hesitant about the idea of elevating the head table—it seemed too formal for a party—but the staff had insisted, and now I was grateful. It kept Blossom away from any potential drama, and I even caught a glimpse of her smile. Despite feeling guilty for placing her in such a tense situation, I was relieved to see she found a safe haven.Most guests were engrossed in their dinner and conversation, and the atmosphere had finally calmed with laughter and chatter, just as I had originally envisioned for this party.I moved quickly to the back of the room, where Fina was holding court with a group of young women her age, likely reveling in her defiance against Blossom. Gently cupping her elbow, I steere
Blossom POVSensing it wasn't the right moment to address deeper issues, I eased the tension by encouraging Dean to eat as a steaming plate of food was set in front of him. I could tell he was hungry, and the quiet that followed was comfortable. It was a relief to have him close by after such a chaotic evening, though the lingering crowd hinted that we wouldn't be retiring anytime soon."Blossom, I hate to leave you again, but it will only be for a little while. There are guests I haven't had the chance to speak with yet," Dean said, looking apologetically at me. "You're welcome to join me, or you can stay here and enjoy the company at the table."I thought about it for a moment before deciding he should go alone.As I settled back into my thoughts, I felt a gentle touch on my arm. Turning to look, I saw an older woman had taken Caleb's seat."How are you, dear?" she asked warmly. It was one of the rare times that evening someone had addressed me with genuine kindness."Oh, me? I'm fi