CHAPTER THREE - TYRANT OF THE BUSINESS WORLD
MIKHAIL'S POV I hated crowded places, especially ones filled with humans, but this was what I could not escape if I wanted to make sure I stood at the Pinnacle of the business world. Twirling the wine glass in between my fingers, my eyes glanced around the hall, looking for anything that could pique my interest. "What do you think about the corporation? Mr Romanov." An annoying voice chattered in my ears. I glanced at the middle-aged man who had been trying his best to strike a deal with me, but it was not a profitable venture. "I will think about it." I politely declined, even though we both knew I was not going to give him a second thought. How boring? A sigh left my lips for the hundredth time today. I was bored out of my mind. Maybe I should have attended the wedding even though my beloved brother didn't invite me. It would be fun to see the unfortunate human he tricked into marrying him. The unfortunate soul I would have to kill when I finally get rid of that menace Viktor. Rumours got to me that he runs the biggest Russian mob now. How interesting was it? My ears caught sight of murmurs going around the hall thanks to my better perception as a Lycan. ' What got them all worried?' I wondered, sensing the tension in their tone. The thought of crashing Viktor's wedding was getting more pleasing because of how boring the event was. My nose scrunched when the metallic smell of blood assaulted my nostrils. My brows furrowed with confusion evident in it, I turned towards the direction of the strong scent of blood and then my eyes locked with the clearest set of green eyes I had seen before. She was the cause of the ruckus, dressed in a wedding dress that would have been beautiful if it wasn't stained with blood. Her left hand seemed limped with blood trickling down a bullet wound. Her entrance was sensational. Without a doubt, I recognized her from the pictures sent to me. Adelina Maino, the Mafia princess and the girl my younger brother was to get married to. I was shocked when I discovered Viktor was getting married to a human, but this was more stunning. What was his bride, or would I say wife, doing here? Her green eyes were burning, and I knew she wanted to meet me with how determined she was, but I couldn't move an inch from where I stood rooted. My heart was beating faster than normal right inside my chest, and there was this strange pain I felt in my heart. I just could not look away. I was disgusted by the metallic smell of blood, but there was something different from her blood. It was drawing me in. I knew the reason why, but I could never accept it. My hand clenched the wine glass until it scattered in my grip the glass cutting my hand and leaving blisters. The pain in my palm didn't bother me but the one in my chest was unbearable. This could not be right, I understood the signs but there was no fucking way. My wolf was clawing inside me, trying to surface, and kept on saying one word I dreaded to hear. "Mate!" She was struggling to break free from the security that was wary of her appearance, and I stood by, holding myself, trying to control the urge I had to rip their hands away from touching her. I couldn't do that because it meant accepting her. There was no fucking way I would accept a mate that was my younger brother's used toy. I took in a sharp breath to get my thoughts straight. ' Alpha there is something important I have to report to you.' My beta's voice echoed in my head through a mind link. Sensing the urgency in his tone I knew it was time I took my leave. I gave her a last glance before turning away knowing that our paths would never cross again. Barely moving a few steps away, fast-approaching footsteps caught my attention, and her scent got closer. My head whipped back to her direction and I was stunned to see she had broken free from the security running in my direction. The crowd parted for her to run through because of her appearance, which was akin to a psychopath. My eyes darkened seeing she was indeed coming for me. The security ran behind her "I need to talk to you." She blocked my way. My eyes narrowed, pondering why she came after me; it was hidden that Viktor was my brother, the same with the fact I was a Lycan. My eyes scanned her from head to toe. She shrank under my gaze; pathetic, that was what I would use to describe her. "What do I owe the pleasure to Miss Marino, or should I say, Mrs. Romanov?" I chimed at her. The security finally caught up with her and grabbed her hand wanting to drag her away. She resisted; seeing how adamant she was about seeing me, I signalled the security to back away. Some of my officials were in this hall and would not hesitate to take a move if something went wrong. She gritted her teeth, her doe-green eyes filled with hatred. "I am not that devil's wife." She spat, and I shot her an amused look, knowing she was talking about Viktor. She was not even surprised that I knew her surname. "Can I have a minute of your time?" She requested with her hand clenched to her side. Her little face brimming with determination made her damn sexy. A smug smile graced my lips, "sorry I don't have the luxury of time." With that being said, I walked past her, completely uninterested in why my brother's wife, turned my mate, came looking for me in a bloody dress without treating her wound. To be honest, even if she was my mate, I didn't care if she died or not. The only way her weak human body could be of use to me was crying under me while I grind my dick into her pussy. Thinking about it made my dick twitch within my slacks. It was just the annoying mate bond messing with my head. I had to stay away from her. My body froze when a jolt of sparks ran through my skin. I glanced behind me and saw her little hand grabbing my hand with sparks forming from her touch. She whipped her hand away probably because she also felt it. "Please, I am ready to do anything. I beg you to help me. You are the only one powerful enough to stop him." She begged, her angry eyes making it hard to ignore her. ' Alpha, we need your presence.' My beta's voice ran in my head again. ' Hold on, I am in a sticky situation.' I replied to him via mind link. I turned towards her completely, my height towering above her. She took some steps back, intimidated by my size and aura. "You are ready to do anything you say. Are you sure you can keep those words?" I snickered amused at her empty words. Her eyes burned and she braced herself with no intention to back down. "Yes, as long as you can make him pay. He killed them all; he made what was meant to be a beautiful dream turn into a nightmare." She bravely said. Her voice choked, and tears started streaming down her already tear-stained face. I could care less about her tears but seeing her cry was uncomfortable. Once again, the annoying bond is messing with me. The smile on my face turned into something wicked. I was no saint, so why would I help a stranger and a human nonetheless? "Anything, including giving yourself to the devil." I chirped. She slowly nodded. "Only a devil can handle another devil." Grinning at her a mischievous thought popped into my head. "For starters, strip right here and now." Her mouth parted then closed, taken back by my request. She bit her lower lip between her teeth, being thrown into a serious dilemma. "I don't have all day, Mrs Romanov." I urged her, tucking my hand in my pockets.CHAPTER FOUR - THE ROMANOV BROTHERSADELINA'S POV I was completely blown out of my mind when I heard him. Mikhail Romanov was a mystery to me. A seasoned businessman who suddenly popped out of nowhere and stormed the entire business world. There was very little about him online but there were rumours of how ruthless he was when taking out his competition and how much underground connection he has. When I said I was ready to do anything in my mind, the most degrading thing that crossed my mind was to be his servant at his mercy, but it never crossed my mind he would tell me to strip in a public event. I bit my lower lip in between my teeth, not only because of how nervous I felt in his presence but also thanks to the Bullet wound in my arm. "You must be joking, that can't be a request." I blurted. Thinking he would laugh out, saying it was a joke, but he didn't budge one bit. He stood tall with his hand in his pocket and his eyes keenly observing me. His lips p
(Karis's POV) It felt like my world froze, and everything became bright immediately after I saw a single word, ' positive' on the pregnancy test results with tears welling up in my eyes. "This is not a dream." My voice broke as I spoke. "Congrats, ma'am, you are three weeks pregnant." The doctor congratulated me. I was unable to hold it anymore and immediately burst into tears. They were tears of joy; after five long years of being called barren, I was finally able to conceive. I was so excited by the news my ears turned deaf to anything other thing the doctor said. I just waited for him to dismiss me before rushing out of the hospital. Suddenly everything thing seemed brighter. I was so happy that my emotions were all over the place, laughing and crying at the same time. On my way home, I kept thinking about how to share the good news with my husband, with multiple ideas popping up in my head. Tomorrow is Xander birthday, so I decided to get an early birthday present for him a
(Karis's pov) My head was spinning and it took a while for me to realize what was happening. A second ago, I was in the middle of the road about to be crushed by a car, and the next second, I appeared in the dressing room on my wedding day. I would have thought it was a dream or a joke but I could feel Bertha hold on my wrist. Was I being reborn to have a second chance in life? I stopped moving as I came to the realization. Bertha turned back at me, surprised why I stopped; her eyes went wide, stunned because my eyes were blurry with unshed tears. I felt like crying, remembering everything that happened in my past, which might repeat itself in the future. "Karis, Are you crying? Please don't cry today should be your happiest. I can't believe you are finally married to Xander, your long-time crush." Bertha said in a calm voice caressing my hand. "I can't help it." I sniffed, hugging Bertha; it had been ages since I saw her because Bertha died in the past. She wa
(Karis's pov) My heart skipped a beat, feeling Xander's hands around my waist in a protective way. Even the way his voice sounded in my ears made me shiver. I was stunned that Xander stepped in between me and Skyler because he had never done something like this in our past life. He was never protective of me, and I knew secretly it was because he resented me because of our arranged marriage. Xander was forced to marry me because of a promise his mother made to my dead mother. It was funny to realize I came between him and his true love Emma. ' What was he trying to do here? ' After all, he should not give a fuck about me or who I speak to. He should run ahead to his crying lover and not me. If this was the former me, butterflies would have been in my stomach, yearning for the touch of the man I loved and chased for years, but his touch didn't feel the same anymore. "What if I can't do that Mr De Marco? You have a beautiful wife here, and it is tempting and hard to
(Xander's POV) Karis was left speechless, her mouth parted and closed as if searching for the words to reply to me. I could not point my fingers at exactly what it was, but after when she stormed out of the hall because of Emma's provocation, it seemed like she was a different person. Her eyes, which were always filled with admiration, were dull. I was still finding it hard to believe she had run away from me. What the hell was going through her mind? She used to be a naive open book I could easily read, but now I had no idea what she was thinking. The lady underneath me was different from the little girl I grew up with, who kept pestering me everywhere. The shock in her eyes disappeared and was replaced with a mischievous look. "Who said I belong to you, Xander?" She snickered at me. I didn't like the tone in which she spoke, how dare she suddenly behave like she didn't love me after we were married due to her obsession. "Repeat what you just said Karis and I
(Karis's pov) I loved to see the shocked expression on Xander's face; he probably could not believe that I lost interest in him. "You are in love with someone else." Xander chuckled, unable to believe the words that were coming out of my mouth. His shock was understandable because which bride in her right mind would tell her husband on their wedding night that she doesn't love him but it had nothing to do with me "Yes, I made a mistake in the past and I..." He didn't let me finish my statement as my lips were sealed by Xander's lips again. It seemed like he wanted to dominate me with his sexual appeal, and I wouldn't lie 'cause he was dangerous. Every time his lips captured mine, and his sinful tongue started exploring my mouth. It makes me feel like giving in to him. Xander was going to be the death of me. Despite how I kept on telling myself I should avoid him a part of me that always craved his love and affection wanted to give in. Why was he doing this to
(Karis's pov) "Come in." I managed to say. My voice was a bit raspy from crying all night. Luckily, the maid could hear me. The door creaked open, and a brunette a few years younger than me opened the door. The maid was shocked when she laid her eyes on me with them popping out. "You slept with your wedding dress on!" She gasped with her hands rushing to cover her mouth. She quickly realized her tone was a bit rude and immediately apologized. "I am sorry for the way I spoke. Good morning, Madam De Marco. I am Deborah, and I will be serving you this morning however you want ." Deborah introduced herself slightly bowing. "Did Xander send you to check on me?" I asked Deborah whose eyes subconsciously averted. I scoffed at her reaction. He must have sent her to check if I did anything crazy after last night. "Mr De Marco instructed us to take very good care of Mrs De Marco." She answered, avoiding my question. This was how Xander's staff were even in the past. Now I
(Karis's pov) I tried my best to behave like I was not affected by his words, but my burning ears gave me out. "That sounds like a tempting offer but I think it is presented to the wrong woman." A soft smile graced my lips. I was bringing up Emma again but not directly because no matter how trained and confidential the servants were, it would be unpleasant to have rumours going around about my husband having a lover that was none other than my very own sister. "We will see about that," Xander replied in a flat tone, still not affected by my words. He was different this morning from how he was last night. This was the Xander I knew who cared less about me and exactly what I wanted. "Don't get your hopes high after all, remember what I said as my reason last night." Xander's expression finally cracked a bit. I was talking about the lie I said about being in love with another, it seems that was his bottom line. Xander was a very possessive person from what I remember
CHAPTER FOUR - THE ROMANOV BROTHERSADELINA'S POV I was completely blown out of my mind when I heard him. Mikhail Romanov was a mystery to me. A seasoned businessman who suddenly popped out of nowhere and stormed the entire business world. There was very little about him online but there were rumours of how ruthless he was when taking out his competition and how much underground connection he has. When I said I was ready to do anything in my mind, the most degrading thing that crossed my mind was to be his servant at his mercy, but it never crossed my mind he would tell me to strip in a public event. I bit my lower lip in between my teeth, not only because of how nervous I felt in his presence but also thanks to the Bullet wound in my arm. "You must be joking, that can't be a request." I blurted. Thinking he would laugh out, saying it was a joke, but he didn't budge one bit. He stood tall with his hand in his pocket and his eyes keenly observing me. His lips p
CHAPTER THREE - TYRANT OF THE BUSINESS WORLD MIKHAIL'S POV I hated crowded places, especially ones filled with humans, but this was what I could not escape if I wanted to make sure I stood at the Pinnacle of the business world. Twirling the wine glass in between my fingers, my eyes glanced around the hall, looking for anything that could pique my interest. "What do you think about the corporation? Mr Romanov." An annoying voice chattered in my ears. I glanced at the middle-aged man who had been trying his best to strike a deal with me, but it was not a profitable venture. "I will think about it." I politely declined, even though we both knew I was not going to give him a second thought. How boring? A sigh left my lips for the hundredth time today. I was bored out of my mind. Maybe I should have attended the wedding even though my beloved brother didn't invite me. It would be fun to see the unfortunate human he tricked into marrying him. The unfortunate soul I would have t
CHAPTER TWO - THE BLOODY BRIDE ADELINA'S POV The best day of my life slowly turned into a scene from a nightmare I could not wake up from. Sitting in a white pool lace of my long princess wedding dress, my face was pale, and I froze. "Papa," I said again but it came out like a whimper this time around. The flower bouquet in my hand was on the floor. I grabbed my face with both hands, shaking my head over and over again, thinking it was a nightmare, but it was real. All that was on my mind was to reach my father's side, but Viktor had other plans. He firmly held my arm. "Where are you going, Mrs Romanov ?" He asked me. I did not care about that title. All I wanted was to run to my father's side. Why did Viktor shoot Dad? We were his allies. No matter how I think of it, my head could not think of a reason why. "This is a wedding present from me to you." He grinned at me. Everyone was in shock because of the sudden gunfire. Soon, it sank into my father's men's heads that thei
COMING SOON CHAPTER ONE - A BLOODY WEDDING ADELINA'S POV The happiest day of a woman's life was meant to be the day she gets married to the love of her life and I thought it was true. I had never felt this genuinely happy in my life before, despite all the resistance of us being from rival mobs. Finally, I was getting married to Viktor, the Mafia boss of a rival Russian mob today. Although my marriage was not purely based on love, the main goal was to join two of the biggest Mafia underground associations. My fiance, Viktor, owned one of the richest and most dangerous Russian mobs; my father agreed to this marriage to seek his protection as our group, despite its large size, is nothing compared to Viktor's association. The soft organ melody echoed through the large sculptured walls of the old cathedral to the outside, it was loud enough to reach the environs. Stepping down from the car I made my way towards the large doors of the ancient cathedral. The doors swung open
(Xander's pov) The soft sound of running water echoed from the bathroom; I pushed the door open entering the bathroom filled with steam with a thick scent of Lavender oils. It smelled like heaven, my little heaven. I got rid of the towel wrapped around my waist and then brushed my hand through my hair before my eyes drew to the glass walls of the shower. A silly grin graced my lips as I made my way towards the shower, where I could see Karis's figure from the glass taking a shower. I couldn't help but smile wider; I slowly walked towards the shower, the only place where I was sure the children wouldn't disturb us because Xavier sometimes cries to sleep with his mother. My life was pitiful, fighting with my children over my wife's time and attention; maybe we should have stopped with the twins. I stopped in the shower; Karis's back relaxed, sensing my presence. "I thought you weren't coming," she said, rubbing her hair with her back against me. "So you were expecting me." I c
(Xander's pov) SIX YEARS LATER The cool spring breeze blew, carrying a little scent on wet soil. It was another spring again and 15 years after Alessia left this world. I placed a bouquet of flowers on her tombstone, along with several others, which have been kept here. A lot has happened these past years, and I have been so busy I barely had time to visit Alessia aside from her death anniversary. Karis and I are hosting a small get-together to celebrate. Mum and Dad loved the idea of getting old friends and family together. "Alessia, it's been a while, and we all miss you, but you are in a better place now..." I started my one-sided dialogue with my sister. I had a feeling she was listening. Honestly, everyone was fine these past years, at least from what they told me. Skyler was getting better. At least he wasn't hallucinating again, but his condition was permanent. Either way, he was doomed; he deserved it. It was crazy, but I think I am ready to forgive
(Karis's pov) " So he planned everything before you even knew you were pregnant. He knew and understood the danger it would put you in. There was no way he could hurt the child you have been looking forward to, a baby he secretly wished for, so he planned everything..." " Have you ever wondered why he hid the affair until that day? His plan was to make you divorce him and heartlessly take the child away from his messed up life. You deserved better and still do. But I can't imagine living a life without you. That's why I am sorry for his insensitive actions." So that was the truth, it was crazy but I chose to believe him more like I didn't care anymore. I got a redo, and this time, none of those things happened. Xander never cheated even when he was hypnotized. "It is fine, Xander; I really don't care. It never happened to us, but to them, and if you could never bring yourself to have sex with Emma when she was carrying the illusion of being me, I can't possibly se
(Karis's pov) The heartbeat slowed down and dropped to my stomach. I felt emotions and I didn't understand happiness and dread. I was happy that the man I loved was back but dreaded it because it felt like the old Xander. "You remember everything," I muttered, and I felt Xander stiffen his hold. "I am sorry that Xander was a jerk, but he did not mean to break you that way," Xander muttered his words, swallowing. My jaw clenched, "Xander, let go," I stated, but he only held on tightly. "If you don't let go it will only make things worse. I promise I am not running unless it's to you." Those words seemed to have worked because his hold relaxed. I took a step back to look clearly at him; he truly looked sorry. This was the Xander I had known for four years and not the jerk who cheated with Emma, yet there was this fury that bloomed in my heart. Next, the sound of skin striking against each other echoed in the room; Xander was stunned as he gazed back at me; conf
(Karis's pov) Time seemed to have ticked by slowly every minute took forever. I was sitting in the waiting area with my hands still covered in Xander's blood. I was too anxious to even get cleaned. Xander was in surgery already, and Ivan kept on assuring me that everything would be fine. I also hoped the same thing, but I would have felt more assured if Kyle was here. Although he was an annoying prick, Kyle was, without a doubt, a genius doctor. "Mummy," I heard childish voices call out, slicing through the tension. I glanced at the direction of the voice and a soft smile crossed my lips when I saw Val and Vance running towards my direction with Camilla following behind. They ran into my open arms, and I embraced them, feeling at home. "Where is Kyle?" Ivan asked instead. "I ran into him and the twins while heading for the emergency ward. He had to leave to prepare for the surgery. It seems things are a bit complicated." Camilla said, sounding exhausted; I