Lila's eyes sparkled with amusement as she gazed at Ava. She wondered how Sebastian knew her. She herself was seeing Ava for the first time. She must have arrived when Lila went to the capital. She wondered if Ava could be a new threat to her carefully knitted plans to win Sebastian back. She would nip this in the bud."Oh, Sebastian, don't be so harsh. I think Ava could be...useful to me."Ava stopped on her tracks, her eyes narrowed, sensing a trap. "What do you mean?"Lila's smile grew wider. "I mean, I will hire you as my personal assistant for a week. I just got a modeling contract today and I need to prepare. You can help me with my schedule, and...other tasks." Sebastian raised an eyebrow. "Lila, I don't think that's a good idea."But Lila waved her hand dismissively. "Oh, don't worry, Sebastian. I can handle Ava. And who knows, maybe she'll surprise us."Ava hesitated, unsure of Lila's motives. But the promise of high pay and the chance to gain insight into Denizens Pharmaceu
Becca's Boarding House, a humble yet welcoming establishment, stood as a beacon of comfort and warmth in the heart of Wet Creek town. The facade, adorned with a cheerful sign creaking in the gentle breeze, presented a cozy appearance, with curtains of faded floral patterns and a porch that invited weary travelers to rest awhile. Inside, the atmosphere was simple yet sincere, with plain yet clean furnishings, and the scent of fresh-baked bread wafting from the kitchen.The common room, a warm and convivial space, featured a roaring fire, plush armchairs, and a well-worn piano, where guests could share tales of their adventures or simply enjoy a quiet evening. Upstairs, the modest yet tidy rooms offered a respite from the rigors of the trail, with soft blankets, featherbeds, and the promise of a restful night's sleep.Becca, the kindly proprietor, ensured that every guest felt at home, serving hearty meals and offering a sympathetic ear to those in need. Her boarding house was a haven f
As the hour drew to a close, Colton reached out and gently brushed a strand of hair behind Ava's ear. The touch sent shivers down her spine, and she felt a flutter in her chest. Their eyes met, and the past seemed to melt away. Colton's eyes burned with a deep longing, and Ava's heart skipped a beat as she realized her feelings for him were still alive.In this fleeting moment, Colton's efforts had bridged the gap between them. Ava's icy demeanor had thawed, and she felt a spark of connection reignite. The air was charged with tension, and Colton knew he had taken the first step towards winning her back.As the moment hung in the air, Colton's face drew closer to Ava's, his eyes locked on hers. He could see the spark of connection, the hint of feelings rekindled. Without thinking, he leaned in, his lips inches from Ava's.But Ava's instincts took over. She felt a rush of anger and betrayal, remembering the pain Colton had once caused her. Her hand flashed up, and she slapped him acros
As Ava headed to the kitchen to prepare dinner, Colton couldn't help but watch her, his eyes fixed on the sway of her hips. He felt a stirring within him, a desire he couldn't ignore.Ava, sensing his gaze, smiled to herself. She knew she had his attention, and she was determined to keep it. She would teach him today, not to mess with seemingly weak beings. If he had not rejected her when mated to him, things would have been different between them. They would have held their mating ceremony by now and she would have grown in love with him, supporting him and ruling their back as a good Luna. She wondered how Sarah could leave him alone to come on this journey. Was she also performing some Luna duties? Or…maybe she was already carrying a pup! And her roving mate was seeking additional avenues to satisfy his pleasures. Well, he would get beyond that today. Ava smiled at Colton, a smile of the slaughterer taking an innocent sheep to its final destination.As they sat down to eat, Ava mad
Colton's towering 6'2" frame was imposing, yet his gentle features and warm smile put those around him at ease. His short, dark hair was flecked with hints of chestnut, and his bright brown eyes sparkled with a quick wit and easy humor. A strong jawline and sharp cheekbones gave him a ruggedly handsome appearance, while a small dimple in his left cheek added a touch of boyish charm. Colton's broad shoulders and athletic build spoke of a love for the outdoors, and his relaxed demeanor suggested a man comfortable in his own skin. His deep voice was smooth and soothing, like a gentle breeze on a summer day, and his laughter was infectious, making those around him feel like they were part of a special inner circle. That was the voice he used presently as he pleaded with Ava.Colton's eyes pleaded with Ava as he continued, "Ava, I know I don't deserve it, but I'm begging you...please, help me. Help my pack. We are cursed, Ava. A curse that has been plaguing us since we banished you. Our nu
NB: Kindly note that this chapter comes before Mated to Kael. Accept my apology.Sarah ran through the forest, her heart racing with anger, hurt, and betrayal. She couldn't believe Colton's deception, using her for her status and royal connections while his heart belonged to another. The thought of being a substitute for Ava made her stomach churn.As she ran, tears streamed down her face, her vision blurring. She felt like she'd been punched in the gut, her breath knocked out of her. How could Colton do this to her? She thought they had a connection, a future together.Sarah's anger turned to sadness as she realized she'd given her heart to a wolf who didn't truly want her. She felt used, disposable. The weight of her pride and dignity crushed her.Eventually, she slowed to a stop, exhausted and emotionally drained. She collapsed on a rocky outcropping, her body shaking with sobs. She felt lost, alone, and unsure of what to do next.As the sun dipped below the horizon, Sarah's tears
Ava stood outside Lila's temporal office in Denizens Phamaceuticals, taking a deep breath before entering. She had been working as Lila's assistant for a week now, and every day had been a whirlwind of tasks and errands. But Ava was determined to make the most of this opportunity, perhaps she would be able to show her capability and be given a real job at the company.As she entered the office, Lila looked up from her desk, a bright smile on her face. "Good morning, Ava! Today's schedule is packed. We have a photo shoot for the new campaign, and then a meeting with the marketing team."Ava nodded, taking notes on her jotter. "Got it. Anything specific you need me to focus on?"Lila's smile grew wider. "Actually, I need you to accompany me to the meeting. I want your...unique perspective on the marketing strategy."Ava's instincts flared, sensing a trap. But she pushed on, curious about Lila's true intentions.As the day unfolded, Ava found herself drawn into a world of high-stakes mar
Ava's phone buzzed with a text from Lila. "Hey, Ava! I'm attending a charity gala for Denizens Pharmaceuticals tonight. Want to join me?"Ava's heart skipped a beat. This was the perfect opportunity to gather more intel. "I'd love to, Lila. Thanks for inviting me!"That evening, Ava donned a stunning black gown and met Lila at the luxurious venue. As they mingled with the guests, Ava noticed the who's who of the city's elite, all praising Denizens Pharmaceuticals' revolutionary serum.Lila introduced Ava to the company's top executives, including Sebastian, who eyed Ava with a mixture of curiosity and suspicion. Ava smiled sweetly, playing the role of Lila's loyal assistant.As the night wore on, Ava found herself drawn into conversations about the serum's miraculous benefits. She listened intently, gathering tidbits of information, but couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off...Suddenly, Lila grabbed Ava's arm, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Ava, come with me. I w