I took a bite of my delicious steak, savoring the flavors as my mother and I enjoyed our meal at the restaurant. The ambiance was pleasant, and we were engrossed in our own little world until the door swung open, announcing the arrival of Katherine Marsh, the A-list celebrity. The man accompanying her, adorned in flashy attire, immediately drew my attention with his wandering eyes.I decided not to disturb Kat's privacy, so I continued enjoying my meal, stealing glances at their table every now and then. However, my attempt at discretion was short-lived as the man suddenly approached our table, a curious gleam in his eyes."Hey there! Mind if I ask what that divine dish is you're having?" he inquired with an enthusiastic grin.I glanced up, slightly taken aback by his bold approach. "Uh, it's the house special cut. Really good."His eyes widened with excitement. "That sounds amazing. I want that too." Without missing a beat, he raised his hand to signal the waiter. "Excuse me! Can we
My mother, sensing the tension, chimed in with a motherly smile. "We're just here to enjoy a meal, Tony. Let's keep the conversation light and pleasant, shall we?"Despite Kat's attempts to defuse the situation, Tony remained undeterred. His stubbornness was almost impressive in its audacity. He leaned in closer, a sly grin playing on his lips. "You're a tough nut to crack, Mellisa. I like that."I needed to land a good blow to lose him for good. I knew I had to think fast and come up with a convincing excuse to get him off my back. But telling Tony about my marriage to Killian was out of the question, especially considering our agreement to keep it private.“I have a boyfriend.”Kat seemed surprise. “I never know you do, Mel.” Tony, with his eyebrows raised in skepticism, leaned in and quipped, "A boyfriend, you say? You're just saying that to fend me off, Mellisa. I don't buy it."I sighed, feeling the absurdity of the situation. "No, really. I have a boyfriend. Very tall, quite
I sighed, not in the mood for his sarcasm. "Cut it out, Killian. I didn't ask for your drama this early."He crossed his arms, his eyes narrowing. "Drama?"I rolled my eyes. "I don't control Tony's actions. If I did, he'd be miles away from our lives. I told him I have a boyfriend; what more do you want?"Killian's gaze remained piercing. "You could've handled it differently. You know, like mentioning that you're married."I scoffed. "And have the media turn it into a spectacle? No thanks. We agreed to keep our marriage low-key."He didn't seem satisfied. "Low-key doesn't mean letting other men think they have a chance with my wife."I crossed my arms. "Excuse me? Your wife? Suddenly, I'm your wife again, and not Ms. Lane? Make up your mind."Killian took a deep breath, attempting to cool his temper. "Mellisa, this isn't a joke. I don't like other guys sniffing around you, especially arrogant ones like Tony."I sighed, realizing this was more serious than I thought. "Fine, I'll be mor
"Are you trying to strangle me with my own tie, Mellisa?" he teased, his lips curling into a smirk.I released the fabric, feigning innocence. "Who, me? Just admiring your fashion choices, that's all."He chuckled, his eyes never leaving mine. "Is that so? Or is there another reason you keep yanking on it?"I bit my lip, a playful smile dancing on my lips. "Maybe I just like how you look when you're slightly disheveled. It suits you."Killian raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Slightly disheveled, huh? Is that your subtle way of saying I look like a mess?"I laughed, enjoying the banter. "Oh, please. You could roll out of bed and still look like you stepped off a magazine cover."He leaned in, his ashy eyes penetrating mine. "Flattery will get you nowhere, Mrs.Anderson."I tugged at his tie again, a daring glint in my eyes. "Who says I'm trying to get anywhere? Maybe I just enjoy your company."His lips twitched into a half-smile, the tension between us shifting into
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
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
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
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
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