Chapter 5: Darius is back

Serena's POV

Darius walked into the room with a confidence that sent shivers down my spine. I couldn't believe my eyes as I watched him stand between the door frame.

Derek was also frozen on the spot; he looked like he had seen a ghost.

I observed the tension between the two men and my mind raced with questions. How was Darius here, standing on his own two feet when just moments ago he was lying in a hospital bed?

Is he a twin to the man I met at the event? If so, the man I met at the event can't be here claiming I was his bride when I was already pronounced a wife to the one lying on the hospital bed. So why was he claiming me as his wife?

"I am here to take my bride home, who wants to stand against me?" His eyes bore into Derek's, who couldn't even lift his gaze to meet Darius's intense stare.

It was the first time I'd seen Derek cower due to fear. He had always had what it took to confront his enemy head-on, but we all know Darius; I guess Derek knew him, too.

Derek's face and reaction weren't all that mattered. He said, “he was there to claim his bride.” Me?

I felt a lump form in my throat as I watched the scene unfold before me. Darius turned to look at me and gave me a smirk. There I confirmed it was the same man lying on the hospital bed.

"It seems you don't understand. Derek, Serena here is my bride, my wife. Lay a finger on her and die," Darius declared, his voice steady and unwavering.

My heart pounded in my chest as I realized the gravity of the situation. I wanted to speak up. I wanted to ask questions. Or rather thank Darius for being right as rain, coming at the nick of time.

But as I opened my mouth, Darius turned to face me again and I became mute. No words came out. I felt trapped in the middle of a power struggle between two men who both claimed ownership over me. Although not on equal platforms.

Derek finally mustered the courage to speak, his voice trembling slightly. "I-I'm sorry, Darius. I didn't know she was yours. I swear I had no idea."

Darius's expression remained stoic as he regarded Derek with a cold gaze. "Ignorance is not an excuse, Derek. You should have done your homework before getting involved with someone who belongs to me."

I felt a knot tighten in my stomach as I realized the implications of Darius's words. He was fully aware. I thought his mother had made a deal with us and that he was unconscious and he would be unconscious throughout the time. But he knew about it all.

Just then, as I stood there riveted on the spot, Darius turned his attention to me, his eyes softening slightly as he took in my stunned expression. "Serena, my love,” he said and walked close to me. “ It's time to come home. I'll take care of you and protect you from anyone who dares to stand in your way."

His words meant the world to me. I needed his aura, I needed his presence and strength. As well as his sense of protection. He was all I needed and I was glad that Derek could hear.

Perhaps, with him, I can get back my losses.

I was at a loss for words as I looked between Darius and Derek, torn between the past I thought I knew and the uncertain future that lay before me. At that moment, I realized that I had a choice to make. And whatever decision I made would have far-reaching consequences for all involved.

Darius held my hands firmly as we walked out of Derek's domain. His touch sent shivers down my spine. The shivers were not of fear, but of nervousness. This was the man I nearly rejected, a vegetable, but as it seemed, he was the revered alpha that was feared.

As we went, members of Derek's coup lowered their heads in respect. This told me how much Darius was feared.

To me, it was also a bit of payback. In just a day as Darius's wife, my enemies were bowing. What if it's a week, month, or a year? I would totally have them under my feet.

Once we were in the car, he took the wheel while I sat beside him, unable to tear my eyes away from him.

"I am alpha Darius, alpha of the Crimson Pack," he began, his voice deep and commanding. "The accident was a fuss and now, coming here to save you has exposed me, and I believe my enemies now know that I am alive. I thought you were sent to spy on me, but it seems you are genuine. That is why I have come to save you."

His words took me by surprise, and all I could do was listen in silence, my heart racing in my chest. He continued, his gaze intense as he spoke.

"I have requested for you. I want you as my wife, but only for a year," Darius revealed, his eyes searching mine. "I know you are being forced into this, but please, be with me for a year. It is all I ask."

He reached for a paper in his drawer and handed it to me, detailing his terms. My hands trembled as I read through it, the weight of his proposal sinking in. To play the role of his wife for a year and to give him a son within that time frame. The offer was both thrilling and daunting.

I wanted to know more about this enigmatic man, to understand the depths of his world and the dangers that came with it. Despite the uncertainty and fear, there was an undeniable pull towards him, a desire to experience the adventure he promised.

Without hesitation, I picked up the pen and signed the contract, sealing my fate for the next year. As I handed it back to him, Darius looked at me with a mixture of relief and determination in his eyes.

"I will protect you, Serena," he declared, his voice unwavering. "I promise to keep you safe and to make this year unforgettable for you. You can start to tell me what you want in return. Let's start from there.”

“Derek! I want him to pay,” I answered.