Chapter 3
***
It was a busy day for Leila. She had received so many texts about ordering cupcakes and cookies. It made her so busy that she almost forgot about what happened to her yesterday.
Well, almost, but not quite, for the moment she went to her gate, and she had seen the massive mansion just beside her house – everything just popped into her head like a fleeting mockery to her.
She pouted and let out a deep sigh before shrugging her shoulders. Maybe, she wouldn’t ever forget how he treated her cookies!
She’d made sure to avenge her poor cookies when the time came!
She chuckled at her own joke and slightly shook her head. She wasn’t that morbid, though. Maybe, she’ll just put some stimulant laxatives in his food – nothing more.
Leila bit her lower lip as her mind drifted towards the man who had occupied her mind the entire night. She let out a frustrated sigh before driving towards the arc where her customers were waiting for her pastries and cupcakes.
“You’re such a talented young woman, Leila. Josefa and Emilio would be so proud if she’s still here with us.” An old woman tenderly told her as she smiled at her.
Leila reciprocated it with a sweet smile.
“That was so kind of you, Mrs. Gomez. Thank you.” She softly replied.
If her grandparents were still alive, they may have looked like the old woman in front of her. She just missed them so much.
“By the way, I just want you to be careful. You’re living alone and your nearest neighbor was just so snobby and mysterious. Be careful, okay?” Mrs. Gomez worriedly reminded her.
“No worries, Mrs. Gomez. I have my baseball bat with me.” She jokingly stated as she pointed her bat at the back of her bicycle.
The old kind woman giggled at her funny remarks.
“By any means, do you know who the man living in that mansion is?” She curiously asked.
Mrs. Gomez’ forehead creased as she tried to remember something.
“Well, I heard his name was Hunter Black and he was just living with his butler named Henry. They were just so aloof that not anyone in this village had always seen them. Anyway, what I know of was they just moved in recently. They didn’t attend to any of the invites that we sent them, so…” Mrs. Gomez shrugged her shoulders.
“They were just so distant and mysterious.” She simply added.
Leila just nodded her head. So, the gorgeous rude man’s name was Hunter Black. It suited him well. She bit her lower lip as she remembered how stunningly handsome, he was – if not for his rude behavior.
She instantly thanked Mrs. Gomez and went home. She needed to clean up her mess. She was her last customer for the day. She was so glad, though. She had four of them, which was very satisfied with her pastries. They even told her that they’d recommend her to their relatives.
“Oh, wait, I still have my carrot cake.” She, then, remembered and immediately went to her fridge after cleaning up the mess in her kitchen.
Her perfectly baked six-round carrot cake was standing proudly there. And she thought of a bright idea. She immediately placed the cake into a box. She would try to talk to her rude neighbor once again.
Well, she was certainly too persistent that way.
Though she wasn’t that heartless, she didn’t put any type of laxative in her cake. She mentally chuckled.
She pressed the doorbell once again, but no one went out. She’s been pressing it thrice, but to no avail.
“What kind of mansion is this? Was no one around?” She suddenly thought as she tried to push the gate, and to her surprise, it was open.
Leila shrugged her shoulders and peeked into the gate.
“Hello?” She softly whispered.
She saw a vast lawn with various plants around it. The brightly colored flowers were blooming attractively, and their fragrance filled her nose. She was undeniably awed!
Leila was just so amazed and curious that she walked towards the stone pathway that led towards the mansion. She was just right. It was so beautiful, and the design of the mansion was just so intricate and stunning.
She swallowed the lump in her throat as she tried to grasp the magnificence in front of her. Not until she had heard a loud eerie scream coming from the second floor of the house. She gasped in horror.
A loud painful cry resonated in the entire mansion once again and it made her more worried and scared at the same time.
Did someone need help? – She mentally thought as she felt doubtful whether to go up or just walk away.
She went there unannounced anyway.
Leila was so agitated until a loud painful groan echoed throughout the entire mansion once again.
With that, she slowly walked towards the grand staircase.
Her heart was pounding so loud because of mixed nervousness and concern.
She heard a hurtful panting followed by a loud crashing sound and then a painful growl.
Leila swallowed the lump in her throat as she found a huge wooden door where the noise was coming from. She held her breath as she held the doorknob – when someone had grabbed her hand.
She flinched and almost screamed out loud if the man didn’t cover her mouth.
“Who are you?”
His voice was hoarse – full of unsaid accusation and coldness.
It was an old man wearing a black waistcoat over his white long sleeves and tie paired with black trousers and black shiny shoes.
A typical uniform for a butler.
He must be Henry!
Leila was staring at him with her eyes widened.
He was maybe in his mid-fifties, yet still muscular at his age. His gray eyes were like piercing the hell out of her.
She bit her lower lip and played with her fingers, the moment he removed his hand in front of her mouth.
“Uh…” Leila couldn’t find the right words to say.
Her eyes widened when she heard the loud screams once again. She stared at the closed door and then at the butler standing in front of her. She saw a bit of concern that flashed in his eyes but immediately changed into coldness – as if she was just hallucinating.
“Who are you? What are you doing here?” The man strictly interrogated her.
Leila cleared her throat.
“Uh, I’m Leila. I live in a bungalow house just beside the mansion. I met Hunter yesterday and I just wanted to give you this – only to find out that the gate wasn’t closed. I heard loud screams that led me here. Your Butler Henry, right?” She swiftly said those words without a pause – as if some horses were tailing her.
She took a deep breath right after.
The man held the box that she gave and nodded his head.
“Yes. I’m Henry and I think you need to go now, Miss Leila. Master Hunter didn’t want any visitors in the meantime. He was resting.” His hoarse voice sent shivers down her spine.
She looked away because of the embarrassment she felt.
Butler Henry led her downstairs. He was just a few inches taller than her – for she had just reached his shoulders.
“Uh, what is h-happening inside? Is someone hurt?” She nosily asked while slowly following him.
The butler’s forehead creased and let out a deep sigh.
“Master Hunter likes to watch suspense and thriller movies. His room wasn’t soundproof yet.” Butler Henry simply replied.
Leila just felt her entire face turn bright red because of the pure humiliation she felt. The loud screams were just the sound effects of what Hunter was watching?!
What the heck was she thinking anyway?
She harshly bit her lower lip as they reached the gate.
And before she even took a step out, she gathered all her strength to face the butler.
“Uh, sorry for barging in.” She sincerely apologized.
The butler just nodded his head, and she immediately went out of the gate.
Leila slightly knocked her head twice for the embarrassment she felt.
“So much for being so nosy, Leila.” She lowly whispered and marched towards her house.
On Hunter’s mansion, Butler Henry heaved a deep sigh before proceeding urgently towards the second floor, where the woman named Leila almost caught Hunter’s shifting.
He immediately opened the huge wooden door and found Hunter lying naked on the cold floor. He instantly went near him and covered him with a huge blanket.
“I smell someone entered in my territory.” Hunter seriously commented while gritting his teeth.
Butler Henry’s eyes widened.
He wanted to hide Miss Leila’s trespassing escapades, but Hunter had advanced senses – even more advanced than their Alpha Hudson, his father, had.
Butler Henry cleared his throat.
“Our neighbor went inside the mansion.” He plainly stated.
With that, he saw how his deep ocean blue eyes darkened – because of fury.
Chapter 4 *** Content Warning: This chapter might contain violence, abuse, crime, or triggering factors that may be harmful, disturbing, or traumatizing to some. Reader’s discretion is advised. Thank you. *** “You’re such a great baker, Leila. Thank you for this.” Mrs. Johnson proudly commented as she stood beside her. Mrs. Johnson contacted her to create a customized cake for her daughter’s birthday. She was slowly building her name in the community and words were easily spread all throughout. Those words brought her back to reality and gave the kind woman a gentle small smile. “I really love baking. Thank you for trusting me on this, too.” She sincerely replied. “I’ll surely help you market your pastries and cakes, then. Maybe you can give me your portfolio so I can share it with my friends.” Mrs. Johnson excitedly told her. That made Leila ecstatic. “Sure, Mrs. Johnson. I’d do that. Thank you for giving me an idea.” Her voice was filled with happiness and anticipation. Le
Chapter 5 *** Leila was dumbfounded, but she tried to stand up with her trembling knees. She had no idea why, but she followed the massive wolf that actually… rescued her! She couldn’t believe that there’s a meek wolf like that – not to mention that it was so huge and bulky. She had seen them on television, and they were predators – mostly wild and fierce. Leila ignored the bruises that were throbbing in some parts of her body. All she could think about was following the massive wolf and finding out who owned it. She wanted it! She wanted one for herself! Well, that might serve as her best friend while living here in the village. Her mind was clouded with the gratitude towards the wolf that saved her. She couldn’t believe that during that hard, awful, and hopeless time – she could find someone unexpectedly. She was panting inaudibly – breathing in her mouth as she tried to keep up with the wolf, which was slowly walking like it had nowhere to go. The owl cooed, and it echoed
Chapter 6 *** It happened so fast that Leila couldn’t believe how she had come this far. She was flabbergasted upon discovering that it was Hunter Black, whom her mother had been indebted to. Well, technically, it was all her stepfather’s fault, but her mother had been his collateral. That man really had to give them a headache after what he had done to her! She couldn’t believe him! A heartless beast if she might add! But what’s worst was that she couldn’t believe how she had come this far and how fate was truly playing her right now. She stared at the huge mansion in front of her as she managed to press the doorbell. Butler Henry’s cold and blank expression welcomed her and ushered her towards the pathway. She mentally heaved a deep sigh. Now, she was welcomed here already, and that was because she had no other choice but to be the one who would pay for everything instead of her mother. “There are few rules that you had to remember while working here, Miss Leila.” Butler Hen
Chapter 7 *** Leila was so guilty that she couldn’t just leave Hunter’s mansion. She wasn’t allowed on the second floor of the house, and she hadn’t seen Butler Henry go down. She had eaten the steak that she had cooked, and she had a tiny tinge of pain, thinking that she hadn’t even asked for Hunter’s food preference. How could she ever forget something as important as that kind of information?! “I should’ve asked…” She murmured under her breath. Then, a loud bang of the door suddenly interrupted her thoughts. Her eyes widened like a saucer as fear and worry instantly attacked her. She hadn’t heard the doorbell, and she knew that no one would enter the place – for it was only Hunter and Butler Henry leaving in this huge mansion. “Then, who the heck is this?” She asked herself as she immediately held the vase just beside her. Whoever, this intruder was, she would instantly shout to Butler Henry and alarm them. But that also meant that her life would be in danger. Her heart be
Chapter 8Leila didn’t know how many times she had heaved a deep sigh as she plopped down the comfy sofa.Everything that happened that day was already wearing her out.However, what made her more perplexed was about what Butler Henry told her about a while ago.***Flashback…“But Hunter – err, I mean Master Hunter – seems like he is pushing his brother away…” She inquired nosily.She even corrected herself as Butler Henry shot her a knowing look.‘When can I ever get used to calling him ‘Master’? Tsk!’ She rolled her eyes inside her head as she mentally thought.Butler Henry heaved a deep sigh – like he was already worn out. She had been asking him too many questions since Hector went out of the mansion, and he might have cut his cord of patience because of her prurience.She swallowed hard – hoping that Butler Henry wouldn’t throw him out of the mansion for being too meddling.Leila just wanted to drop that topic when his next words made her more curious.“Master Hunter didn’t want
Chapter 9In the forest, the eerie silence was being broken by a loud and fierce growl from a hurt animal. The owls’ hooting suddenly stopped – afraid that they might disturb the creepiness growing around the place.“You are not going to get away with this! You skank! I swear they will know who you are eventually!” A man furiously screamed as blood flowed into the corner of his lips.Behind his eerie black mask, a man wearing all-black jeans and shirt with a hooded long cape smirked.“Just try. I have already eradicated half of all the packs in here. No one will come my way, especially since I already handled the group.” He plainly stated – using his low and cold voice.He saw how the dying man in front of him suddenly looked so worried and scared.The man in his mask let out a loud bark of laughter.He was suddenly amused by how the dying man tried so hard to pretend that he was strong enough to stand in front of him. ‘What a fool…” He mentally thought.“Don’t make me laugh, you idi
Chapter 10“I need you to do something.” Hudson said using his serious and cold tone.Hunter was all ears at his father’s words. He surely wouldn’t want to miss any of it.Right after his brother’s wedding, he instantly went towards their house. He didn’t want to be seen with his parents – more with Myrtle and Hector. It was too awkward for him to see the curious eyes of the people in their pack again.He let out a sigh inside his head.Apparently, his father decided to go home right after, too. So, that only means that this is something important. He was just too curious as to what it was.He had been away from the pack for a bit long and only Butler Henry was the one who visited the pack. He didn’t want to go home, as he tried to live independently.“What is it, Dad?” He coldly inquired as he looked at him with his serious eyes.Alpha Hudson let out a deep sigh. He looked a bit problematic despite his grim expression.Now, he felt like he needed someone to help him with this.“A lot
Chapter 11“Why am I thinking about it anyway? As if it does matter?” Leila muttered under her breath as she walked towards Hunter’s mansion.She was thinking about Butler Henry’s words. And it was her third time thinking about whether to continue to go towards the mansion or not.But she had to go… as if she had a choice.Leila rolled her eyes at the mere thought of it.“Did he really marry someone already?” She said unconsciously as she pouted her lips.That certain thought made her heart sink.“Wait, why am I thinking about it anyway?” She still couldn’t stop herself from taking her monologues, and she frowned.“Why would I even be surprised? He’s handsome, tall, and hot… not to mention that she was also hot-tempered, snobby, and…” She tried to create her own inside joke about it but the sulking feeling attacking her system just wouldn’t budge.“He might not come home now, huh? Because… he’s married. Now, what?” Her lips pouted at that.“Why am I so bothered about it anyway? Ugrh!
Chapter 115Too Late***Content Warning: This chapter might contain violence, abuse, crime, or triggering factors that may be harmful, disturbing, or traumatizing to some. Reader’s discretion is advised. Thank you.***Leila knew that she wouldn’t back down – not without a fight.She would make sure to embrace Silver fully.Silver growled loudly – as if she was trying to intimidate Donovan.She wanted to embrace Silver. If she was simply alone – she knew that she couldn’t fight Donovan that way.He looked like a devil wanting to devour her anytime.His wolf form – as a pitch black furred wolf – was just a scary thing to see.Not to mention his pitch black eyes – staring at her with devil glint. It was making her shiver down her spine. But she wouldn’t simply let h
Chapter 114Legendary***Content Warning: This chapter might contain violence, abuse, crime, or triggering factors that may be harmful, disturbing, or traumatizing to some. Reader’s discretion is advised. Thank you.***Leila saw blood.Hunter…Hunter is hurt.Worry began to rush into her veins – as fear started to succumb her heart.She was so worried about what might happen to Hunter.Especially when he tried getting up – the very moment he saw her.Leila bit her lower lip – as she felt the sting of her wound in her arm.Blood started flow from her skin – as Hunter growled and shifted into his wolf form.Her eyes widened in both shock and worry.“N-No! Stop it, Hunter!” She tried yelling at him again.A huge part of her was so scared.She
Chapter 113Bloodbath***Content Warning: This chapter might contain violence, abuse, crime, or triggering factors that may be harmful, disturbing, or traumatizing to some. Reader’s discretion is advised. Thank you.***Leila shook her head.‘I have to go?’ She mentally repeated those words.And then, what?Let them get caught in her behalf?!She wouldn’t let that happen.And Hunter knew that she wouldn’t agree with his plan.“And what? Leave you here?!” Leila spoke seriously.She shook her head once again – ignoring the pairs of eyes that were looking at them.“Stop talking in whisper…” Donovan said – this time, annoyed that he seemed not to be taken seriously.“You both know that I am holding your dear life right
Chapter 112Trapped***Hunter clenched his jaw – as he watched Leila’s bruised face.Right there and then, he wanted to make that freaking Triad leader pay for what he did to her. He had no right to do that!However, he needed to calm his horses down because he needed to get Leila out of her and make sure that she was safe.That is his top priority for now.He knew that he would have a chance to make him pay – well, very soon.Hunter held Leila’s hand – making sure that the coast is clear.They had to get out of there – and fast.“How did you know that I am here? Did… Did Hector and the rest with you?” Leila asked in a hush tone.Perhaps, she was already getting too anxious because she couldn’t see anyone that was with him.Hunter swallowed the lump in his throat.Leila’s pres
Chapter 111Appear***Content Warning: This chapter might contain violence, abuse, crime, or triggering factors that may be harmful, disturbing, or traumatizing to some. Reader’s discretion is advised. Thank you.***Leila was shaking so hard.She thought that she could face her past with her head hold so high now. She thought that she could not let anyone shake her down to the core.But she was wrong.She realized that even though she managed to strengthen herself – she couldn’t ignore the fact that there was a huge part of her in the past that was still haunting her down.And it was wearing all of her strength.“Leila…” Silver tried to call her – give her comfort.However, she had no strength to even talk to her.She curled and hugged her legs – then, she r
Chapter 110Stopped***Content Warning: This chapter might contain violence, abuse, crime, or triggering factors that may be harmful, disturbing, or traumatizing to some. Reader’s discretion is advised. Thank you.***Donovan licked his own lips – causing her hair at the back of her neck to stand up.This feeling was just so familiar to her, and it was waking up the fear that she had in a very long time.Leila closed her eyes firmly – and that only made Donovan’s smile widened more.He tried to get close to her – but Duncan pulled her arm so she could hide behind him.Donovan chuckled – but it was laced with annoyance. His black orbs glared at his adoptive son coldly.“I am getting annoyed at your recent actions now, Duncan. And you know what might happen to you, right?” He warned h
Chapter 109Revealed***Content Warning: This chapter might contain violence, abuse, crime, or triggering factors that may be harmful, disturbing, or traumatizing to some. Reader’s discretion is advised. Thank you.***“Father…”Leila heard Duncan’s voice – as he called the eerie masked man, who was entering the prison cell right now.But he simply ignored his adoptive son – as if his words flew into thin air.Because his attention was solely to her.Leila pursed her lips together – as she tried to let out her breath slowly.He was looking intently at her – and that only creeped her out so much. Especially when she met his eyes. Those familiar black orbs.‘How could I ever forget? Why didn’t I see it before? Why didn’t I notice it? Freaking hell!&
Chapter 108Leader***Content Warning: This chapter might contain violence, abuse, crime, or triggering factors that may be harmful, disturbing, or traumatizing to some. Reader’s discretion is advised. Thank you.***Duncan looked away – as he frustratedly run his fingers in his hair. He had never been like this – messy, bewildered, and lost.However, his words had hit her like a ton of bricks.‘I knew him… The leader of the Triad?’ Leila mentally inquired about that to herself.And no matter how much she tried to rake her brains out about it, she couldn’t think of any.Duncan let out a deep sigh.“You shouldn’t marry him…” He said – full of pure resolve.Leila shook her head harshly.‘Is he trying not to tell me who the hec
Chapter 107Burden of the Past***Leila’s mouth dropped wide open.She didn’t know what else to say.‘What the freaking hell?!’ She mentally stated – as she swallowed hard and breath harshly.She was trying to absorb everything that he was trying to tell her.But she couldn’t stop herself from cursing inside her head. Or she might just be freaking out already. She didn’t know that part of Duncan’s life.And for a moment she realized how hard it was for him to be discreet about everything about him. His secrets and his sincerity towards her. They were bound to be questioned now.Leila saw pain crossing his eyes.And she felt that Duncan couldn’t fake that one.This time, she realized a lot of things. She realized about some weird things about Duncan – but it was making her feel guilty now.