Avalor Brandon.

Melissa's mind raced as she searched for an excuse to appease Richard's curiosity. She knew that revealing her true identity as a werewolf would only complicate matters further. But she also couldn't keep hiding the truth from him forever. 

"I... I didn't want to burden you with my past," Melissa stammered, her voice filled with hesitation. "Lucas... he's just someone from my past who has some unresolved issues with me. It's complicated, and I didn't think it would affect our relationship."

Richard's expression softened as he listened to Melissa's explanation. He could sense that she was holding something back, but he didn't want to pressure her further. He wanted to give her the space she needed to open up when she was ready.

"I understand that everyone has their own past, Melissa," Richard replied, his voice gentle. "But I want to be there for you, through the good and the bad. You don't have to face these challenges alone."

Melissa felt a mix of relief and apprehension. She wanted to trust Richard with the truth, but the fear of rejection held her back. She took a deep breath, gathering her courage.

"Richard, there's something I need to tell you," Melissa began, her voice trembling slightly. "But I need you to promise me that you'll listen without judgment."

Richard nodded, his eyes filled with genuine concern. "I promise, Melissa. I'm here for you."

Melissa took a moment to steady herself before she spoke. "I... I'm not entirely human. I'm a werewolf. I ran away from my pack, and now my mate and second chance mate are after me."

Richard's eyes widened in surprise, but he maintained his promise to listen without judgment. "I had no idea, Melissa. But it doesn't change how I feel about you. We'll figure this out together."

Melissa felt a wave of relief wash over her as Richard's words sank in. She had been carrying the weight of her secret for so long, and now she had someone she could rely on. She knew that their journey wouldn't be easy, but with Richard by her side, she felt a glimmer of hope.

"Thank you, Richard," Melissa whispered, tears welling up in her eyes. "I'm so grateful to have you in my life."

Richard reached out and took Melissa's hand in his, offering her comfort and support. 

“Let me take you home Melissa, staying here isn’t safe.” Richard said to Melissa as he escorts her towards the garage.

Richard's heart sank as he saw Melissa's car, its windows shattered and tires slashed. He quickly scanned the area, making sure they were alone before approaching the vehicle. On the windshield, there was a chilling message written in blood-red letters: "I will find you."

Melissa gasped, her hands shaking as she read the threatening words. Fear coursed through her veins, but she refused to let it consume her. She had Richard by her side, and together, they would face whatever came their way.

"We need to go," Richard said, his voice filled with determination. "It's not safe here."

Melissa nodded, her eyes filled with a mix of fear and determination. She trusted Richard's judgment and knew they needed to leave immediately. As they walked away from the damaged car, Richard kept a protective arm around Melissa, offering her comfort and stability.

Once they were a safe distance away, Richard called the security team and informed them of the situation. He instructed them to search the building thoroughly and to be on high alert for any signs of Lucas or the mysterious figure from the security footage.

As they waited for the security team to arrive, Richard led Melissa towards his car. He opened the passenger door for her and helped her inside, making sure she was comfortable before getting into the driver's seat.

"Richard, I'm so sorry," Melissa said, her voice filled with guilt. "I never wanted any of this to happen."

Richard glanced at her, his eyes filled with compassion. "Melissa, none of this is your fault. We'll get through this together, remember? We'll find a way to keep you safe."

Melissa nodded, grateful for Richard's unwavering support. She knew that their journey was far from over, and that there would be more challenges to face. But with Richard by her side, she felt a renewed sense of strength and determination.

As they drove away from the company, Melissa couldn't help but glance back at the shattered remnants of her car. It was a stark reminder of the danger that lurked in the shadows. But she refused to let fear control her. She would fight for her freedom and for the love she had found in Richard.

Melissa knew that very soon Avalor would be after her as she could also sense Avalor.

“We got a new deal from a very precious client of ours.” Richard said trying to change Melissa mood but all she did was chuckle awkwardly.

“That’s must be great news for the company.” She murmured.

“Yes, a really huge news as this client is a well known business tycoon known around the world and it was really a huge honor that he picked our company to do this job for him.” Richard said to Melissa who smiled at the same time letting go of all the bitterness she had just felt and ready to feel positive about her life.

“When would we be having the grace of impressing this client as I need to start preparing our speech.” Melissa said bringing out her phone to place a reminder.

“Next week,he was actually in a hurry but I had few words with him and told him to calm about everything as we had you which was our best employee.” Richard said making Melissa smile even wider.

“That’s a good news.” Melissa said.

“What’s the client name?” Melissa asked while she worked on the reminder.

“Avalor Brandon.” Richard said to Melissa who felt a shock wave through her body, her phone soon slipped off her hands in shock.