Cassie’s POVI mentally slapped my forehead. Derek was the most persistent person I had ever dealt with. He wasn't just hard-headed; he was something more. Sometimes he was overwhelming, but oddly enough, I found his relentless nature oddly charming.He walked into my apartment as if he were the one paying the rent. It was strange how at home he seemed. He plopped down on the couch and started chatting with my son, clearly gearing up for another round of their favorite game, pretending to be wolves and puppies. I had no idea how Derek had learned this traditional bonding game. Despite my frequent checks, there were no signs that he was anything other than a normal human. He smelled entirely human—no trace of wolf.Since Derek was essentially a free babysitter for the day, I decided to make us a nice lunch. As the turkey roasted to perfection, I called out, "Food is ready!"My son and Derek raced toward the kitchen, their excitement making them seem like children. They took their seats
Cassie’s POVRegarding Mr. Ross's confession to me, I thought about it and found a sliver of hope. Despite my desire to accept everything, it remained vague and filled with uncertainties. I couldn’t allow myself to become too attached to him. At that point, I had no opportunity to stop him or make him leave. All I could do was minimize the impact. I planned to divert his attention until he managed to move on from his feelings.Just minutes before we were set to enter our department, we were already prepared to get into the car. We arrived at the airport right on time and boarded a luxurious plane, a type I had never imagined I would experience.My boss, who often visits me at my apartment and plays with my son like a best friend, seemed to be more of a simple man. I had forgotten that he was actually quite wealthy.The flight was long, but being in a top-class airplane, we enjoyed an exceptional experience. My son was delighted with the unlimited steak, and I couldn’t help but notice t
Cassie’s POVWe had a wonderful time in Japan, exploring Tokyo and soaking in the refreshing and surreal experiences. I loved the food, the culture, and the people. It felt like paradise.However, the old Japanese lady in the black kimono and her cryptic premonitions lingered in my mind. Her words seemed to offer a sliver of optimism, suggesting that someone would return to my life. The only person I had lost was my mate, and no matter how much I wished for his return, I knew it was impossible. I had witnessed his burial myself, just a few months ago—though it felt like it happened yesterday.Back in Claybourne City, we landed at the airport, and Derek insisted on driving us home. He had promised my dad and brothers that he would bring us home safely and valued their trust in him.We arrived at the apartment building, and Derek wanted to stay. Despite his insistence and pleading with those puppy-dog eyes, I remained firm."No, you cannot stay. I appreciate that you brought us home, but
Cassie’s POV"I’m not," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady."There’s no problem at all. I’m just having some random thoughts," I added, trying to brush it off."I don’t believe you. Please, tell me what’s bothering you. I’m always here to listen," Derek insisted. The expectation in his voice made me feel cornered. I worried that someday I wouldn’t have the strength to reject him."I was just thinking about my husband," I admitted quietly. "I wonder if he’s alright now, if he’s happy, if he’s watching us."I wiped away the tears that had begun to fall. I missed Kaiden deeply. He was irreplaceable and everything I had wished for. Even though he wasn’t here anymore, I believed my life for him was far from shallow."Your late husband must have been a wonderful man," Derek said softly. "Even though I never met him, I believe he’s happy wherever he is. He loved you, and your happiness is his happiness."I gave him a warm smile. Derek might be the most empathetic person I’d ever met, a
Cassie’s POVI decided to cook a beef stew in a tomato broth. It was going to be a treat, and I hoped it would bring some comfort. By the time everything was ready, it was already dark outside. I assumed Mr. Dax was at Angel’s apartment.I knocked on his door, and when he answered, his face was slick with sweat and he looked in considerable pain."Hi, Cassie. I’m sorry, but I’m not in any condition to entertain you tonight," he mumbled, his discomfort evident.I gave him a warm smile and took his hand gently. Gradually, he seemed to calm down, his tension easing as he looked at me with a mix of exhaustion and relief. "How?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.I shrugged, simply feeling the need to offer comfort. "Do you want to have dinner at my place? Charlie is there, waiting for us," I suggested.He hesitated, clearly conflicted. "I don’t want to impose on you and your family."I chuckled softly. "It’s just the three of us. You won’t be a bother."Reluctantly, he agreed, and
Cassie’s POVTime has a way of speeding up when you least expect it. It’s hard to believe we’ve been away from Clayland for months already. Life here seems to be shaping up better with each passing day, despite the ongoing challenges of disagreements, racism, and violence that still cast shadows on our new environment. I continue to find this life far superior to the one I left behind, even though the transition hasn’t been without its hurdles.Reflecting on my past with Kaiden brings me a bittersweet joy. Despite the hardships, those days were filled with happiness that now feels almost unreal. Receiving Derek’s call about his return from an extended holiday has me busily coordinating with other departments. I’m thrilled to welcome him back, especially since our friendship seems to have evolved into something deeper.It’s confusing, though. Now that Derek isn’t here, I find myself feeling lonely, and Charlie misses his "uncle." I’m not entirely sure why I’m feeling this way, but I do
Cassie’s POV"The food is ready," he announced with a hint of reluctance. My two visitors looked as though they had just seen a ghost for the first time."What on earth is your brother doing here?" my boss asked, his tone dripping with disapproval."Well, my brother needed someone to accompany him, so I asked a friend of mine to stay with him," I explained. Cassie seemed to agree, and it looked like they were making progress. Angel’s comments clearly hinted at deeper issues, as reflected in her behavior."Dax had been suffering from nightmares and dealing with some tough situations. I had offered him a place to stay, thinking it would help him, and it appeared to be working. But why was I defending myself?" I wondered."Is he not sleeping in the bedroom?" my boss asked, his tone disapproving."The living room has become our makeshift bedroom for the night," I replied. His grunt of displeasure nearly made me jump. The reaction was disproportionate, as if his response were beyond that of
Cassie’s POVAngel mentioned that despite seeing various physicians and professionals, her brother hadn’t found any relief. Art had tried numerous therapies without significant improvement. I couldn’t deny the request for Dax to stay at my apartment if it would help him feel better. Even though I had pledged to distance myself, I couldn’t turn down a plea for help.One thing I had learned about humans was their extreme fragility."I’ll help; he can stay at my apartment," I said."I wish I could hug you now, but I’m driving," Angel replied with a smile."After you park the car," I responded, and we both chuckled. Our conversation then turned to how Derek had abruptly changed his demeanor once more.I had noticed Derek becoming increasingly agitated in recent days. I heard he had reverted to his devilish ways, and many staff members were avoiding him to escape his wrath."Did something happen that night?" Angel asked, her curiosity piqued. Perhaps it was time to tell her. Humans were inh
Cassie’s POVThe day Derek and Dax accepted their new roles as both humans and werewolves marked a significant turning point. My father, my brothers, and I took it upon ourselves to teach them about our culture—what is right and wrong, the taboos, and the essence of being a werewolf: our love for the moon, our bond with the forest, and our partnership with nature.Recently, the attacks have become more frequent, and it’s clear that we need to relocate for real. Xander and his supporters are sending threats and unleashing dangerous creatures with one goal in mind: to kill me and those I care about. This is something I will never allow. I love my family, especially my only son and the two men who have taught me a new definition of love. I refuse to repeat the mistakes of the past.Xander should brace himself because he won’t know what’s coming. I plan to personally see to it that he pays for his actions. A man like him deserves no mercy. Driven by jealousy, he murdered his own brother, w
Cassie’s POV"What! But you should assist me!" the vampire shouted, clearly agitated. At that moment, I could barely tolerate his presence."If I hear you spreading unnecessary information about me to Dax, Derek, or anyone else, I swear it’ll be the last thing you do. I’m not joking," I warned him."What?! I didn’t say anything," he protested, though I could see through his feigned innocence. I knew Dax wouldn’t lie to me; he had no reason to."Huh, so you’re the one who mentioned that my life is in danger and that they should protect me?" I asked. "They don’t need to be involved in this. This is my battle, not theirs. But since you’ve already spoken out, I have to address it.""I think it’s better for them to be aware. The more they know, the harder it will be for them to lower their guard. This isn’t just about your past or your personal conflict. Once they start caring about you, they’re already involved," he said. He made a good point, even if it annoyed me."But I don’t want to i
Cassie’s POV"Let’s take a break, son," I suggested, noticing we had been practicing for almost three hours. It was time for some rest."Mom," Charlie said, his smile brightening as he looked out at the expansive woodland. "You’re growing up, and I feel like I’m not doing a great job as your mother," I admitted honestly. I felt I wasn’t fulfilling my role as a mother to my beloved son, Charlie.My son wiped away my tears, kissed them, and gave me a reassuring grin. "Mom, you don’t have to apologize. There’s nothing to apologize for. I love you, and I appreciate everything you do for me. If I have a mom in my next life, I’d choose you over and over again," he said, causing me to cry even more."Please stop crying, Mom. I promised Dad I’d protect you and make sure you’re happy no matter what," he continued. It amazed me how mature he had become so quickly. I felt my age more keenly at that moment."You promised that to your father, but I promise to protect you no matter what as well. So
Cassie’s POVMy eyes were tired from crying and staying up too late. I wasn’t feeling well and decided it was the right time to request a leave of absence. Despite werewolves typically having excellent stamina and health, we’re not invincible. Like all creatures, we have our weaknesses. For werewolves, a fragile heart can be our downfall, and right now, mine felt incredibly delicate.I was struggling with emotional sickness again, feeling so heavy and weak that I couldn’t get out of bed. The cold was a result of my forgetting to close the window last night. I asked Angel to cover my schedule for the time being, promising to return the favor. I was grateful she agreed, but my severe headache was making me extremely lethargic."Mom," Charlie knocked gently on the door. I told him to come in."Are you sick, Mom?" he asked, brushing his hand against my forehead. His concern touched me deeply, but I didn’t want him to worry too much. I had to remind myself that I was strong."I’m fine, swee
Cassie’s POVAfter leaving work, I decided to do some grocery shopping. I was still a bit taken aback by Dax becoming my new boss, but I understood what Angel and Dale meant. Dax was someone kind and close to my heart, and I completely agreed with that. I actually liked the idea of him being my boss—thank goodness."Angel, I’m so shocked to learn everything," I said, while Damon pushed our cart loaded with vegetables, fruits, and various types of meat. My new condominium unit was three times as large as the previous one, and I needed to restock supplies and prepare dinner. My son was growing so fast that he needed a lot of nutrients."Yeah, Dax knows you dislike surprises, but he was worried that if you found out he’d be your new boss, you might leave or disagree," Angel murmured. I looked at her in disbelief."Why would I do that?" I asked. Dax was a great guy whom I trusted, and I knew he’d treat me well, so I couldn’t see any reason for me to be against having him as my new boss."W
Dax’s POV"So, you’re the real owner of the company, huh? All along, Dale was just your proxy. What made you decide to reveal this now?" Derek asked, his voice laden with curiosity and a hint of suspicion. We were seated in our usual café, a cozy place with a warm ambiance that had become our go-to spot for conversations about our complex lives.I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks. The truth was that my main reason for taking on the position was to spend more time with Cassie. It was something I hadn't fully admitted before, but it was time to come clean. Since we had agreed to share our feelings with Cassie equally, there was no point in hiding anything from Derek anymore."Well, it’s primarily because I wanted to spend more time with Cassie. But also, I wanted the financial resources and influence to spoil Cassie and Charlie just like you do," I confessed in one breath. The words tumbled out before I could second-guess them. Derek’s reaction was immediate; he spilled his coffee
Cassie’s POVI took a cab to the company building, feeling a surge of anxiety as I arrived. I almost backed out. It was frustrating that they had kept my new boss a secret. I had already made it clear how much I disliked surprises.As I entered the elevator, I silently prayed to the goddess that my boss would be someone I could tolerate—someone friendly and serious about work, and not a creep, as that would test my patience.When I reached the top floor and stood in front of the boss's office, my nerves were on edge. I had faced many challenges in my life; this should be manageable.To my surprise, Dax was sitting in the CEO’s swivel chair. Dressed in a sharp suit, he looked dazzling and charming. I couldn’t help but blush, realizing I had been staring at him longer than I intended."Dax, what are you doing here? And I must say, you look fantastic in that suit," I remarked, genuinely admiring his appearance.Dax scratched the back of his head, looking slightly embarrassed. "The truth i
Cassie’s POV"But what about my brother and dad? I don’t want to move too far from them," I said, voicing my concern. Marcus, ever confident, chuckled."We’re moving as well, so don’t be sad. I know you’ll miss your handsome brothers," Marcus said, his arrogance shining through."Whatever, Marcus. But I can sense that Derek owns that condo building, doesn’t he?" I said, having uncovered their plan. They must have anticipated I’d be hesitant."Don’t worry, I’m not angry. Although, I do plan to give Dale a hard time for lying to me so much today," I said, glaring at the sneaky vampire hiding behind my son."I can help with that," Derek offered, raising his hand."You traitor! This was all your idea," Dale said, feigning tears.I decided to ignore the further discussion. Dale’s chatter was giving me a headache. It was time to open my gifts. The important people in my life had given me a very comfortable chair, and they lined up to present their gifts. My son’s gift was especially touching
Cassie’s POV"It’s alright, don’t be upset," I reassured Derek, trying to ease his mood. "Tonight is my birthday, and I want everyone to share in my happiness. This moment is incredibly special to me." It seemed I had managed to bring a smile to his face. Derek, with his intense and sometimes risky demeanor, also had a softer, more vulnerable side that I had come to appreciate."How about me?" Dax asked, looking as if he didn’t want to be left out. His puppy-dog eyes made me smile. I patted his head affectionately. "Good boy. Now, shall we eat? I’m starving," I said, and they guided me to our table."Mom!" Charlie’s voice cut through my thoughts. He looked incredibly handsome in his white suit. "My son looks dashing!" I exclaimed. "You may be young, but your smile can capture anyone’s heart." He blushed at my compliment."Mom, you’re beautiful too," Charlie said, handing me a small box. "I hope you like this." I was deeply touched. It reminded me of the times when Kaiden and Charlie wo