Lauren, Killian's poised cousin/baby sitter, seemed to be the director orchestrating the chaos. As we sifted through racks of dresses that seemed more suitable for a royal ball than a shotgun wedding, Lauren regaled me with tales of Killian's childhood escapades. It was like getting the inside scoop on the enigmatic leading man of a blockbuster movie. "You know," Lauren began, her fingers gliding over the sequins of a particularly extravagant gown, "when Killian was eight, he tried to impress a girl by climbing the tallest tree in the neighborhood. Ended up stuck there for hours until the fire department had to rescue him." I burst into laughter, imagining a pre-teen Killian perched precariously in a tree, all bravado and misplaced heroics. "Well, he's certainly mastered the art of making an impression." "That's one way to put it," Lauren agreed, shooting me a knowing smile. Lauren tilted her head, contemplating the idea. "You'd certainly be the talk of the town, but It won’t be lo
I shrugged. "If he can't handle a bit of cleavage, he's in for a wild ride." Killian finally spoke, his voice husky. “I think..” "That you look stunning in everything, Mellisa." Well, color me surprised. Maybe he wasn't mentally drafting that escape plan after all. Then came the pièce de résistance—the A-line wedding dress straight out of a fairy tale. As I stepped into the ethereal creation, I couldn't help but feel like a majestic cupcake with glitter frosting. Jenny clasped her hands together. "Oh, this is the one!" I twirled, sending glittery particles into the air. "I feel like a walking cupcake." Killian's eyes bore into me, and for a moment, the room felt still. He seemed captivated, as if the universe had momentarily aligned to showcase the most dazzling sight. The moment stopped when I spotted the sight of him. As I stood in the ethereal glow of the bridal boutique, draped in lace and tulle like a glittering mannequin, the universe decided it was the perfect time for
As I walked out to the car, the cool evening air kissed my cheeks, and I spotted Killian sitting in the front seat, an inscrutable expression on his face. Behind him, Lauren and Jenny were deep in conversation, their laughter filtering through the air.Sliding into the driver's seat, I greeted Killian with a playful smirk. "Did you miss me, or were you reveling in the silence?" I quipped, teasingly raising an eyebrow.His gaze met mine, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "You took your sweet time," he said, his a bit serious.The voice from the back seat, presumably Lauren, chimed in, "You should've called us to witness the epic Colin-roasting session. We would've brought popcorn."Jenny, who seemed equally invested in the conversation, added, "Yeah, a phone call would've been nice. I was missing my daily dose of Mellisa's sarcasm."Killian shook his head, a mock disapproval on his face. "It wouldn't have taken that long," he said, conveniently handing me a glass of
It was almost closing time when our manager - Kevin arrived. I squinted at him, he walked straight in and didn't look at me.Dany, shot me a look laden with meaning. "Mel, wish me luck," she muttered under her breath as the door swung open.I offered a nod of solidarity, understanding the delicate dance Dany was about to engage in. As she approached our manager, I prayed for her. Dany, with her signature determination, laid out her case before Kevin. "Hey, Kevin, How are you doing?” “Fine.” He still didn’t lift his head from the screen“I've got some accumulated days, and I need to take a week off to visit my sick mother in Kansas. Can you swing that for me?"Kevin, ever the embodiment of stoicism, glanced around the diner without making eye contact. "We're understaffed, Dany. Can't afford to lose anyone right now."I rolled my eyes, knowing that understaffing was a perpetual excuse, conveniently surfacing whenever it served Kevin's agenda.Dany persisted, her tone laced with earnes
Before tying the knot with Killian, there's a prerequisite I must fulfill. The prospect of marrying the future alpha of a wolf pack comes with its challenges. According to Killian's mother, proving my worth is an essential trial. This involves venturing into his pack's territory, navigating the enchanting Solana forest—a mystical expanse. Both Killian and I must traverse this woodland to affirm our connection as each other's true mates.I turned to Killian with a raised eyebrow. "Magical forest, seriously? Are we going to encounter fairies and unicorns along the way?"Killian chuckled, his eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint. "More like mischievous sprites and perhaps an enchanted tree or two.""Enchanted trees?" I rolled my eyes. "Great. Just what every bride dreams of encountering before her wedding day.""If I accidentally offend a tree spirit, do you think it'll hold a grudge against our marriage?"Killian laughed, the sound echoing through the magical grove. "I'm pretty sure
Just as I contemplated my newfound metallic makeover, the ground beneath me stirred. Vines and plants erupted from the forest floor, wrapping around me in a surreal dance. I yelped, flailing as the tendrils squeezed my body like an overenthusiastic boa constrictor."Okay, Solana forest, I get it. You're the mystical guardian, and I'm the sacrificial snack. Very funny," I quipped, the panic in my voice masked by forced humor.The plants tightened their grip, and I felt a strange energy coursing through me. It wasn't pain, but a pulsating sensation, as if the forest itself was examining my very essence. I squirmed, unsure if this was part of the werewolf initiation or if I was starring in a particularly bizarre nature documentary.My fingers instinctively reached for the small silver locket around my neck, a keepsake from my childhood. "Hey, Dominique, long time no howl. Got a minute?" I addressed my inner wolf, expecting the usual surge of chatty commentary. However, instead of the ty
Trapped in this stifling room, my body immobilized, my pleas echoing against the walls like a desperate symphony. I'm not one to easily admit defeat, but in this hellish confinement, my frustration reached a boiling point. "Mom, for the love of all that's holy, let me go! Melissa's in danger, can't you see that?" I roared, every fiber of my being aching to break free. Henrietta, my composed and infuriatingly calm mother, stood on the other side of the door. Her gaze, unwavering, met mine through the narrow gap between the frame and the door itself. A twisted smile played on her lips, sending shivers down my spine. "Patience, Killian. Your beloved Mellisa will be fine. Just a little longer," she replied, as if orchestrating some cruel game. Frustration clawed at me, my hands involuntarily balling into fists. "Damn it, Mom! My mark is burning. She's in pain. Why are you doing this?" I seethed, the weight of helplessness bearing down on me like a vice. Henrietta, ever the enigma, regar
[Killian’s trial] The dagger cut a clean line into my wrist, and blood poured out. I couldn't help but marvel at the strangeness of the situation, even in the face of impending danger."I hope you appreciate the dramatic flair," I muttered to Mellisa, as if she could hear me amidst the arcane mystique of the ritual. Her limp form hung in my arms, the very essence of vulnerability, and I was determined to see her through this bizarre ordeal.Blood dripped from my wrist, painting a crimson tableau in the air. With a firm resolve, I pulled Mellisa closer and encouraged her to drink the blood."I always dreamed of a romantic date, but this is not what I had in mind," I quipped, my attempt at humor an odd counterpoint to the gravity of our predicament. The blood continued to flow, weaving a macabre dance in the air before it met Mellisa's lips.The crimson liquid, our makeshift elixir, worked its peculiar magic. I watched as it cascaded over Mellisa's form, washing away the malevolent sil
At 9am, I received a call from Dany. Or one to be known as lady Dana Serpentine. She wanted to call me out for coffee. I enthusiastically agreed.The soft chime of the coffee shop's doorbell signaled my entrance, and I scanned the room until I spotted Dana Serpentine. Her smile was warm, welcoming, and I couldn't help but reciprocate as I approached her table."Dany," I exclaimed, giving her a light hug.She returned the embrace graciously. "Melissa, so glad you could make it. I hope you've been settling in well."I nodded, taking a seat across from her. "As well as one can, considering the circumstances."Dana chuckled, her eyes twinkling. "Oh I absolutely knows the Andersons. But it's good to see you out and about. We all need a break from the craziness every now and then."As we settled into conversation, I noticed the presence of two more figures beside Dana – Ramiel and little Seraphina. "Melissa, I'd like you to meet my kid brother and sister, again with proper introduction – R
The early morning sun had barely begun to paint the sky with hues of orange and pink when Killian's phone rang, jolting us awake from the cozy cocoon of our shared dreams. As he answered the call, the urgency in his voice mirrored the sudden shift in the atmosphere."Richard," Killian called out, glancing at me with a furrowed brow. "Duty calls. Dad needs me. Get ready, Mellisa."I groggily got out of bed, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. Richard, Killian's loyal beta and confidant, stood by the door ready for whatever lay ahead. There was a weight to the air, a heaviness that hung like a storm waiting to unleash its fury.We made our way to the family meeting, a place I had only heard about in hushed conversations and somber tones. I couldn't help but feel a shiver run down my spine.We entered the room, the dark wood-panelled walls seemed to close in on us. At the center, George Anderson, the patriarch, stood."Killian," George's voice trembled as he spoke, "sit down. We
I gazed at Killian, who was nursing his wounded pride with a generous swig of whiskey. The glass emptied in one go, and I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at his dramatic display of defiance. He looked like a scolded little puppy, eyes cast down, lips pursed in a pout that somehow managed to be both endearing and comical."You look sad," I teased, leaning against the nearest wall.Killian shot me a side-eyed glance, a mix of irritation and resignation in his ashy eyes. "You think I'm a sore loser, don't you?"I let out a dramatic gasp, placing a hand over my heart. "I never said such thing."He huffed, a small smile playing on his lips. "But I think so."I couldn't argue with that assessment. So I leaned closer. "You know, Killian, there's a way to find out if you're truly a sore loser or not."His eyebrows furrowed in curiosity. "And what might that be?"I grinned, grabbing his hand and examining his palm with exaggerated seriousness. "Palm reading, my dear. Your fate lies in the l
George's gaze narrowed on Killian, and without warning, a whip lashed through the air. Instinctively, Killian shielded his back, sparing me from the intended strike. The crack of the whip echoed in the silence, leaving an eerie aftermath.My eyes widened in shock, and I couldn't suppress a gasp. What the hell is going on here?Killian shot me a quick glance, silently urging me to stay composed. He knew I wasn't accustomed to the hierarchy.George, continued with a stern expression. "Killian, your recent actions have consequences."I couldn't fathom what actions they were referring to."Why don't you enlighten us on what these 'actions' are?" I retorted, my frustration seeping into my words.George turned his gaze toward me, his eyes narrowing. "This is pack business, not for outsiders to interfere."Outsider? That stung. I may not have been born into this world, but I had chosen to stand by Killian's side.Killian spoke up, "Father, she is my wife. Anything that concerns me concerns
The crowd's attention shifted from the bullied girl to our confrontation, and whispers of anticipation spread like wildfire. Killian, realizing that this was a storm he couldn't control, opted for a supportive stance, ready to back me up if needed.I continued, my voice steady but loaded with a sarcasm that could cut through steel. "And let's not even get started on your definition of beauty. If I were you, I'd worry less about appearances and more about the state of your character. It seems to be suffering from a severe lack of decency."As Killian and I stood our ground, facing off against the mean-spirited teenagers who had targeted the little girl with Down syndrome, Killian leaned in and whispered a quick briefing in my ear."House Frank, these guys are the richest gold and oil traders in the country," he murmured, his expression serious. Just as I processed this new piece of information, a woman in her 30s, presumably Colette Frank as Killian had told me, stepped forward. Her d
A murmur rippled through the crowd as everyone exchanged curious glances. What could George be referring to? And who were these troublemakers he spoke of?"I want to make it clear," George continued, his voice firm, "that such behavior will not be tolerated."George continued his speech without mentioning Killian, leaving a conspicuous void in his narrative. My eyes narrowed as I exchanged a perplexed look with Killian. Something was amiss.The blonde-haired guy, radiating smugness, locked onto Killian, and a derisive smirk played on his lips. It was clear he took pleasure from George's speech.I leaned towards Killian and whispered, "Who's that guy, and why does he look like he just won the lottery of pettiness?""That's Damien."I raised an eyebrow. "Damien? I’ve never heard you speaking of him."Killian shook his head. George concluded his speech, the room erupted into applause. Killian and I stepped out of the great hall, Killian seemed disappointed. Of course. The night air was
We set up for the contest. Killian, ever the silent observer, stepped forward, a gleam of amusement in his eyes as he handed me a bow. It was a beautiful piece, crafted from silver wood and adorned with delicate carvings that seemed to shimmer in the moonlight. It was his own. "For you, my dear," he said, his voice laced with a playful undertone. "May the best archer win."My father owned a racecourse before everything else happened. I was raised on horseback. He loved his horses, so he taught me to ride every day. Archery was something I didn't need to pay to learn. A hundred yards from their abbey was designated for it. I grew up doing archery and riding horses; that's why I was so confident in performing stunt double scenes for medical films. I was not to lose to these boys.I glanced at Killian, a silent question in my eyes. He met my gaze with a reassuring nod, his confidence in me unwavering despite the odds stacked against us."Ready to show these boys how it's done?" he whi
My heart pounded as I found myself surrounded by the group of werewolf descendants, their menacing glares making it clear that this was not a friendly encounter. Richard shot me a signal that conveyed both concern and reassurance. Richard stepped forward, his posture radiating authority. "Let her go. We don't want any trouble."The leader of the pack chuckled menacingly. "Trouble found you, little beta."Before I could process what was happening, the situation escalated. The punch landed with a sickening thud, and Richard crumpled to the ground. I felt a surge of anger, but I knew I had to play it cool, at least for now.As they continued their assault on Richard, my mind raced, searching for an escape plan. This wasn't a situation I could sass my way out of. I needed a distraction, something to throw them off their game.I knew Richard'd be off to locate Killian and unleash the cavalry if necessary. But how to keep him alive for was the question. “You wanted to hang out with me, my
Amidst the vibrant and crowded party, I found myself surrounded by unfamiliar faces. The room pulsated with energy, and I could hear the classical music thumping in the background. Despite the lively atmosphere, I felt a bit lost in this sea of people.I surveyed the room, searching for a familiar face, none of which is a friend of mine. Panic started to bubble up as the realization hit me—I was on my own in a room filled with strangers. Everyone seemed to be engaged in lively conversations, greeting each other with a mysterious pound to the third left chest. It was like a secret code, and I was left out.To make matters worse, my supposed guide into this social labyrinth, Killian's mother, Mrs. Henrietta, was treating me as if I were invisible. I stood there, awkwardly trying to blend into the background, but it was clear that I was a mere spectator in this grand social spectacle.The woman hated me. A lot. I shot a quick glance at Killian, who appeared to be thoroughly engrossed in