Emmeline froze in the middle of the hallway.Her heart stuttered in shock when she lifted her head and saw none other than the devil who had been tormenting her sleep since their last encounter standing there in an impeccably tailored suit. What’s more, his expression was dark. Very dark and unsettling.Emmeline stared at him, momentarily unable to move or speak as she struggled to comprehend the situation."M-Mr. Blackthorn? What are you doing here?" she finally managed to stammer out.Zavian’s hungry gaze raked over every inch of her, lingering lecherously on the deep vee between her breasts and the teasing glimpses of thigh and leg exposed by the daring dress slit.He seemed to be devouring her with his eyes alone, no doubt able to make out every curve and swell through the sheer fabric."I'm the one who should be asking you that question!" his voice sounded low and extremely dangerous. Like he was barely holding himself back from descending on her like a ravage beast.It was only
One of Zavian’s hands slid up to splay possessively over Emmeline’s abdomen, holding her firmly in place as the other landed on the wall beside her head. "Let's just pretend we never had this...encounter on the corridor," he purred silkily against the feverish skin of her neck. "That you didn't get in my way and tempt me so deliciously with your sinful beauty. That I didn't see you at all."Emmeline flinched instinctively when his free hand moved, stiffening against the wall in fear even though all he did was brace it there beside her head, caging her in.Zavian’s jaw ticked. The reaction clearly angered him."Did you buy this little get-up specifically to seduce your husband?" he demanded in a low, dangerous tone.Before she could respond, he gripped her chin firmly, forcing her to meet his piercing stare. "Trying to please a good-for-nothing man who abuses you, Emmeline?" he bit out, his furious breaths fanning hotly over her lips.Shock and confusion flooded Emmeline’s features at
Emmeline instinctively tried to pull away, but Zavian tightened his grip on the nape of her neck and drew her closer still.She attempted to push him away by placing both hands against his broad chest but found herself weakening under his relentless assault.His grip around her waist was ironclad; she couldn't break free even if she wanted to."Stop fighting it and give me a damn kiss!" he commanded through clenched teeth when they finally broke apart for air.Emmeline looked up at him through half-lidded eyes, mirroring his own lust-filled gaze.The heat between them was palpable…it threatened to consume them both."You need to get your act together, Mr. Blackthorn," she admonished weakly, struggling against the magnetic pull that threatened to sweep away all reason and logic. "Your wife is under this very roof."Zavian responded by brushing his nose against her cheek. "Don't overthink this, babe. Just let yourself melt into my arms and savor the forbidden pleasure of my touch."Desp
"I don't have the right to think about you," Emmeline’s voice trembled as she spoke. "But I can't get you out of my mind. The corner you occupy is getting wider little by little, and I'm afraid you'll monopolize my thinking." She admitted.Zavian’s lips curled into a sly smile and a wicked glint danced in his eyes. "I will live in your memory forever," he promised drily, leaning in closer to leave a trail of kisses down her neck.Each touch sent a shiver through Emmeline’s body, and she felt herself melting under his attention, her resolve weakening with every passing second."I want you to think of me even when you're in his arms," he murmured. "I know I beat him the moment we met but remembering me when you're with him will make me feel better.”His fingers moved with practiced skill, exploring her with a touch that was both gentle and demanding.Emmeline's lean frame trembled and a soft, barely audible whimper slipped past her parted lips.Zavian silenced her with a fervent kiss th
Tears of frustration stung at the corners of Emmeline's eyes as she hurried away.She couldn't fathom how Zavian could so brazenly make licentious advances and suggestive remarks one moment, only to shut her out entirely the next with cold indifference. His mercurial shifts in behavior left her reeling, unmoored.Had she read the situation completely wrong? Misinterpreted the heated looks and the undeniable chemistry that seemed to crackle between them with every weighted glance? Or was there something deeper, darker at play - secrets he was harboring that prevented him from acting on his apparent desires?The sound of shattering glass from the direction of the bedroom made Emmeline jump.She couldn't discern if it was the product of Zavian's rage, or simply an accident. Part of her was tempted to turn back if only to ensure he hadn't hurt himself. But the larger part knew that retracing her steps could prove dangerous, like willingly stepping into the eye of the storm.So she pressed
~Meanwhile~The sun was setting over the sprawling Blackthorn Villa estate, casting long shadows across the manicured lawns and elegant gardens.Zavian’s imposing figure stood with his back to the room, staring broodingly out the massive floor-to-ceiling windows.His broad shoulders and powerful frame seemed to almost fill the entire luxurious master bedroom suite, dwarfing the king-sized bed and furnishings.Handsome was an insultingly inadequate word to describe the man's striking looks - he was flat-out gorgeous, sculpted to utter perfection with a body that belonged on the cover of a fitness magazine.Powerful muscles rippled beneath his black suit with every subtle movement, hinting at the immense strength contained within his towering 195" form.His strong jawline was set in a hard line, and his piercing blue eyes reflected a tumultuous storm of emotions as he gazed unseeing at the picturesque grounds below.The heavy oak door creaked open to admit Yuna.She slunk inside wearing
"A Seer!" someone gasped in shock. "By the ancient ones, I haven't witnessed such a manifestation in over three centuries!"A hush descended over the assembled crowd. Shock was registered on all their faces.Seers had been thought extinct for centuries. They were said to possess the ability to perceive events across the veil of space and time, glimpsing fragments of possible futures and long-forgotten pasts.It was clear this girl was the real deal. Her gift manifested in a violent vision that held everyone transfixed."The great king, the ruler of all the supernatural realm has found his mate," the girl chanted in a raspy voice that seemed to emanate from everywhere and nowhere at once, though her lips didn't move."Glory, glory, glory!"The words seemed to reverberate from every surface, yet Zavian could hear them as clearly as if she'd shouted them directly into his ear.Messages from true Seers were only perceived by their intended recipient, a safeguard against those who might se
Yesterday, Emmeline had firmly decided not to go on a date with that devil of seduction. However, she found herself changing her mind this morning.The reason was painfully clear—she couldn't bear the thought of him being with Yuna. The idea rose a persistent ache that refused to be ignored, like a splinter lodged deep beneath her skin.‘Damn it, Emmeline! Stop lusting after a married man!!’ She berated herself, feeling frustrated as she stood before her wardrobe. Yet she couldn’t stop herself from falling into temptation.Emmeline selected her golf clothes with her lips pressed into a flat line, angry at herself for being too weak.She got ready in a crisp white skirt that fell just above her knees and a tight black jacket that hugged her figure just right.Then she tied her long, silky hair into a high ponytail, trying to push aside the emotions swirling inside her.Her reflection in the mirror showed a woman torn between desire and guilt, yet there was an unmistakable spark of reso
The drive home was uneventful, giving Emmeline time to prepare herself for what awaited.The peace she had felt in Zavian's presence began to unravel with each mile she drove, like a sweater coming undone one stitch at a time. By the time she pulled into her family's driveway, her shoulders had tensed and her jaw had tightened in anticipation.Emmeline's apprehension proved justified the moment she stepped through the front door.Eleanor sat waiting in the living room, her posture rigid like a statue and her expression as stormy as a thundercloud about to burst.The morning light filtering through the curtains did nothing to soften her mother's harsh features or the disapproval radiating from her in palpable waves."Good morning, Mom," Emmeline greeted, forcing a polite tone despite the knot forming in her stomach. She closed the door behind her with a soft click, the sound unnaturally loud in the tension-filled room.Eleanor shot up from the couch like a spring released. Her movement
Emmeline's appetite vanished instantly, replaced by a knot of anxiety that settled in the pit of her stomach.She carefully set down her utensils, the soft clink against porcelain sounding unnaturally loud in the sudden tension."Bad news?" Emmeline asked hesitantly. She searched his face for clues, finding his expression uncharacteristically difficult to read.Zavian's gaze dropped to their joined hands and his fingers tightened slightly around hers.The gentle pressure felt both reassuring and concerning, like a doctor holding a patient's hand before delivering difficult news."I won't be presiding over your assault hearing," Zavian stated quietly, brushing over her knuckles in small, soothing circles.The words hit Emmeline, knocking the air from her lungs. Her heart seemed to stutter in her chest before resuming at double speed.The kitchen suddenly felt colder despite the heating."What?" She whispered, trembling with disbelief and the first stirrings of panic. "But you promised..
Emmeline's brows furrowed slightly in confusion, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her features.Zavian's expression softened immediately, and he offered her a gentle smile that eased her momentary worry."Not the kind of promise you're thinking, little one," he murmured, reaching up to brush a wayward strand of hair from her face with unexpected tenderness.The casual intimacy of the gesture contrasted with the intensity of moments before."I meant what I said," Zavian stated. "I'll stay out of your way until you get your damned divorce. No surprises, no complications."Emmeline exhaled. The tension that had been building in her shoulders eased slightly. However, her brows quickly drew together as she fixed him with a pointed look."You scared me," her voice carried a hint of reproach despite the lingering breathlessness.Zavian's lips twitched into a mischievous smirk. Without warning, he reached out and lightly pinched the tip of her nose between his thumb and index finger."Are you
Sunlight filtered through the gauzy curtains, painting golden patterns across the empty space beside Emmeline the next morning.She blinked awake slowly and her hand reached out to touch the cool sheets where Zavian had been.The bed felt strangely empty without his presence.Emmeline stretched languidly. Her arms extended above her head as she arched her back like a contented cat. The silky fabric of her oversized shirt slid against her skin—a pleasant sensation that made her smile despite the momentary disappointment of waking alone.A tantalizing aroma drifted through the partially open door—something buttery and savory that made her stomach rumble in anticipation.Emmeline slipped from beneath the warm cocoon of blankets and her bare feet met the cool floor with a slight shiver.She padded toward the door, pausing only to run her fingers through her sleep-tousled hair.The staircase whispered softly beneath her feet as she descended, following the increasingly enticing scent. Morni
Zavian's fingers combed through his dark hair, tension evident in every movement. The weight of his thoughts pressed heavily on him as he considered the complicated situation they faced.Zereth, his darker half, harbored hatred for humans that had resulted in bloodshed centuries ago.During that dark period, Zereth had slaughtered without discrimination, sparing neither adult nor child from his wrath. He didn't care if his victims were eighty or eight—all he needed was a glimpse in their future and they were dead meat.In his twisted perspective, humans represented everything despicable: creatures of deceit and greed that deserved extinction.And now, in some twisted joke, fate had picked a human as their mate. Not just any human either, but Emmeline. Sweet, sensitive Emmeline who jumped at her own shadow sometimes.What made Emmeline different, though, was her heart. The girl wore it on her sleeve, honest to a fault and without a greedy bone in her body.Zavian had spent countless nig
Emmeline’s heartbeat accelerated. “What?” She playfully smacked his chest with their joined hands. “Just tell me!”Zavian chuckled, pulling his hand free to wrap his arm around her. He shifted to his side, holding her close. His face was so near hers that their breaths mingled.“I filed for divorce two weeks ago,” he said finally. “But it’s going to take a while. The court’s trying to reconcile us first.”Emmeline’s eyes widened in shock and her body instinctively jerked upright, however Zavian’s arms tightened around her, keeping her close.“Did you really file for divorce?” Her voice trembled with disbelief.Zavian nodded. “We’ve been talking about divorce for a long time,” he sighed. “Do you remember the day we reconciled on the yacht? After the cruel things I said to you at home?”Emmeline gave a nod. “I remember it well.”Zavian’s arms relaxed slightly. “I told you then I wanted you in my life. And I meant every word.”Disbelief mingled with a strange sense of joy in Emmeline. “Bu
Zavian spread the mattress out, smoothing it with his hands before arranging the pillows at one end. “You know,” he said, glancing at her with a small smile, “I’ve never done anything like this. Not even as a teenager.”Emmeline lay down first, stretching out with her feet near the fireplace’s warmth. She looked up at him, her expression incredulous. “You’ve never been camping?”Zavian settled beside her before pulling the blanket over them both. “I went once in high school,” he admitted. “But we slept in tents, not out in the open like this.”Emmeline rested her head on his shoulder. “Let’s go on a camping trip next,” she said eagerly.Zavian turned his head to look at her. “Let’s do it,” he agreed without hesitation.She traced her fingers over the tattoos on his arm, her gaze lingering on his face. “We look like an old married couple,” she teased.He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer. “You’re the one with the old-fashioned ideas,” he mused. “The irony is, I’m the only
Emmeline’s cheeks flushed and quickly looked away. “You’re a dirty man,” she shook her head. “I don’t even know how I got involved with you.”Zavian cupped her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. “I’ll let you keep my underwear too,” he said with a smirk. “That way, we’ll be even.”Emmeline was in disbeleif. “You’re insane!” She muttered, pulling away.The sound of Zavian’s phone buzzing broke the moment.He grabbed it from the bed, glancing at the screen.“The delivery guy’s here,” he announced.Emmeline clapped her hands together excitedly. “Finally!”Zavian tossed the phone back on the bed. He quickly pulled on a pair of gray pants and a loose black shirt. Then he left to grab the food while Emmeline lingered in front of the mirror, adjusting the oversized shirt and boxers.“Baby, come to the kitchen,” Zavian called out.“Coming, Papi!” Emmeline teased while hurrying over to him.Zavian’s gaze darkened. He turned sharply toward her from where he stood by the refrigerator with two ca
Emmeline’s face turned an even deeper shade of red, and she looked away. “That’s enough, Mr. Blackthorn!”Zavian chuckled, turning her around to help her slip into her bathrobe. “I can’t believe you’re still shy around me after everything we’ve done. I’ve seen every inch of you, Emmeline. At first, I thought it was a confidence thing, but now I’m not so sure.”Emmeline slid her arms into the sleeves. “It’s not about confidence. You’ve already convinced me that you’d still like me even if I were… imperfect. But I’ll never get used to standing naked in front of you.”She turned to face him. “It’s just… nudity isn’t comfortable for me.”Zavian frowned slightly but didn’t press the issue. Instead, he tied the belt of her robe and wrapped a towel around her hair. “I hope you change your mind before we take things to the next level. I don’t want you to suffer because of me.”A playful smile tugged at her lips. “Looks like I’ll be suffering a lot in the future.”He narrowed his eyes in mock d