Zenab growled, feeling her irritation mount. "I am not a damn kitten, and stop telling me what to do!"The bastard merely smirked, as if he found her cute. He had no idea just how dangerous she truly was.After a moment, she sighed deeply. "Let's return to the matter at hand. Why me, and what's in it for you?"This was the part she couldn't grasp. While she hadn't had much time to process everything he'd just laid out, this particular question nagged at her. Why had he chosen her out of all women?They were practically strangers; they didn't know each other beyond the surface. So why approach her with this proposition? Yes, it appeared he harbored animosity toward Miles as well, but that was the extent of their common ground."It's quite simple," Sander replied. "You've just had your heart shattered, so the chance of you falling in love with me is slim. That works in my favor because for this arrangement to succeed, love can't complicate things. I want revenge, and I'm confident you d
"Good girl." "Splendid, we'll start acting as a couple tomorrow," Sander announced as he stood up. A quick glance out the window revealed that evening had arrived; the sun was already dipping below the horizon. Zenab couldn't believe they had spent so much time in this room. She turned her gaze back to Sander as he moved to stand beside her, offering his hand."Wait! Is that it?" she asked, her tone filled with doubt.He looked at her in confusion at first, but then realization seemed to dawn on him. Zenab had anticipated a more extensive discussion. Business contracts typically took time, and this was a mating contract—a matter of significant importance. She expected it would take even longer to finalize."Did you expect something different?" he shot back, raising an eyebrow."Well, yeah... kind of." She hated feeling so uncertain in his presence. Was she overthinking this? Was there really nothing more to discuss?If Zenab was honest with herself, she wanted to prolong their conve
Meanwhile... "Daddy, I want Mommy," Emerald said in a soft voice. Dave turned to her, uncertain of how to respond. She looked heartbroken, and nothing he did could lift her spirits. She had lost interest in all the activities she once loved. The past few months had been a nightmare for her, and he felt powerless to help. Despite taking her to the best child therapist, nothing had seemed to work. She remained withdrawn, depressed, and sad. Once full of energy, she was now a mere shadow of her former self. The decline had begun a few months after Zenab vanished. Emerald had struggled with sleep and often came to his room. One night, while he held her, waiting for her to drift off, she turned to him and asked, "Will you take me to Mommy tomorrow? I want to tell her I'm sorry for being so mean. I've been a very bad girl." He had been taken aback by her sudden request and the tremor in her voice. The tears that glistened in her eyes shattered him. He hadn't known how to react. He
Zenab's phone rang for what felt like the hundredth time. It was Dave calling, and her irritation was mounting. Didn't he understand that she didn't want to speak with him? She sighed and hung up, frustrated. He had been calling her regularly ever since that day Sander had kidnapped her, persisting even when she left his calls unanswered. "Who keeps calling you?" Jaymie asked, her curiosity evident. It was the day after Jayson's successful surgery, and everyone was rejoicing over the news that the tumor had been removed without complications. Jayson was going to be okay, and they would be able to bring him home in two weeks. Zenab had invited Jaymie to late lunch, wanting her friend to take a break now that Jayson was out of danger. She deserved some time to breathe and relax after all the stress surrounding Jayson's diagnosis. "It's just Dave... the idiot doesn't seem to grasp the hint," Zenab replied, her irritation creeping into her tone. The thought of him fueled her anger,
Zenab just stared at him. Perhaps Red had been right after all; her defiance may have been a terrible mistake. It was too late now, though; the look in Sander's eyes made her feel like he wanted to choke the life out of her."Could you please turn around?" she asked politely, just realizing the bubbles had dissipated, leaving her exposed.Not that she thought he would even glance at her or desire her. Werewolves generally had no qualms about nudity, but for some reason, she didn't want him seeing her naked. It felt too intimate."Ten minutes, Scarlet. If you're not dressed and out by then, I swear I'll come back and dress you myself," he said tersely before storming out and slamming the door.Zenab's heart raced at the look on his face; he wasn't joking. It was clear: this was no empty threat.Zenab had never dressed as quickly as she did today. Once she was ready, she stepped out of her bedroom to find Sander lounging on her couch. He sat with one leg crossed over the other, an arm r
Zenab was on the verge of turning to see what had angered Sander when Dave's voice cut through the air. "Zenab, what the hell are you doing with him?"She sighed, feeling her relaxation from the evening dissipate. Just when she thought she could enjoy herself, Dave had to show up and ruin everything, just like he had ruined her life."Sander?" Miles chimed in, sounding a mix of shock and fluster.Zenab glanced at Sander and froze. The murderous intent in his eyes was palpable—he looked ready to explode. If she didn't intervene, the couple behind her would likely end up in serious trouble.Without hesitation, she left her seat and moved to stand behind Sander. Unsure if her actions would be welcome, but knowing there was no alternative, she began to rub his shoulders, hoping to ease the tension she sensed in his body. Thankfully, they were in a private section, shielded from prying eyes.To her surprise, instead of shrugging her off, he began to relax. Zenab felt a surge of satisfactio
Today, Zenab left the office early, her mind too cluttered to focus on anything. Thoughts swirled chaotically in her head, making it impossible to concentrate on a single task.Now, she found herself in an ice cream shop, savoring a large bowl of vanilla—a guilty pleasure that usually had a way of grounding her and restoring her sense of calm.Yet even while indulging, her thoughts drifted back to what Jaymie had shared about Emerald and her upcoming prenuptials. A sense of unease settled over her as she worried about Emerald's well-being and whether Miles was treating her as kindly as before. She was also concerned about how people might react to her mating with Sander. The potential responses from Jaymie, Emerald, and even Dave's parents weighed heavily on her mind.She hadn't spoken to Dave's parents since she had left a year ago, nor had she seen them since coming back. Despite loving them for all they had done for her, the thought of having them in her life after the way their so
"I'm afraid it won't be that easy," the third man said menacingly. "You trespassed on our land, and we're going to teach you a lesson. We have certain punishments for bitches like you."Her voice faltered as panic surged within her. "I swear I didn't know."They ignored her plea, advancing as she took hurried steps back, her heart racing. The instinct to flee kicked in."We don't fucking believe you. Did someone send you here to spy? Thinking that just because you have a pretty face and long legs we'd let you off easy?" the tattooed man taunted."Nobody sent—" the guy interrupted her, his voice dripping with suspicion."How much are they paying you?"Fear gripped Zenab, tightening around her throat. They were unwilling to hear her side; they didn't want to believe her intentions were innocent. Something in their eyes told her this situation was about more than just territory; they were intent on causing her harm."If only you would listen to me... Nobody sent me to spy on you," she pl
Meanwhile, Dave remained in Sander's territory, staring into the void. The incident—Zenab's outburst and attack on Miles—had concluded. Zenab had been sedated and taken to their room, while Miles had been consigned to the pack dungeon. A profound coldness enveloped him. He felt utterly lost. How had things reached this point? He'd believed he possessed everything—his mate and daughter—only to discover it was a cruel deception. How could Miles betray him like this? He'd trusted her, given her a second chance after she'd chosen Sander a decade ago. Yet she cheated on him. How could everything unravel so completely? He heard footsteps, but remained leaning against the balcony, staring into the endless night. "You alright, Dave?" Brennan, his beta and Jaymie's mate, asked. How could he answer? He was adrift, unable to define his emotions. Was this normal—this emotional paralysis after such a devastating event? He felt numb yet raw with pain. "I don't know, man...I just don'
Zenab stared at Miles, a woman who'd been a constant irritant since her return. Her hatred burned fiercely, especially now, so close to restoring her and Red's normalcy, only to have Miles ruin it. Fury consumed her; "angry" was a vast understatement."You can't mark her. I won't allow it," Miles insisted."Where do you get off thinking you can allow me to do anything?" Sander retorted coldly, causing Miles to flinch, her bravado dissolving.They were surrounded by Sander's pack, none of whom seemed to welcome Miles. Growls and menacing stares indicated a readiness to attack. Miles must have been truly reprehensible to inspire such animosity.Sander stood beside Zenab, unfazed, his gaze cool and calculating. While outwardly calm, Zenab knew the beast within—a predator poised to strike unexpectedly."Zenab!"Dave's voice cut through the night. He looked like a charging bull, having likely shifted to reach them so quickly—or perhaps he'd been nearby.He joined them, protectively envelop
"You may now kiss the bride," hung in the air—a dread Sander had carried since the day began. He didn't do kisses. Never had, never would. He wasn't a virgin; he had sexual encounters, but that was the extent of it. His lips never touched a woman's body, a peck on Miles' cheek being the closest he'd come.The joyous guests erupted in cheers, eager for a display of affection—a display that wasn't going to happen. Sander stared at Zenab; her eyes were wide with panic, her mouth agape, like a deer caught in headlights. She was clearly unsure what to do, waiting for his cue.He wrapped an arm around her waist, his other hand cupping the back of her head. He smoothly swung her around, shielding them from the guests' view. This suited him perfectly.Instead of kissing her lips, he kissed her neck. Given their height difference, the guests wouldn't notice the deviation from a proper kiss. Their enthusiastic cheers confirmed their belief in the charade.A tremor ran through Zenab's body, caus
"Would you please hold still?" Jaymie muttered, struggling to tie the laces of Zenab's wedding gown.Zenab's frustration erupted. "I can't!" she exclaimed. The day of her wedding had arrived, and she was a bundle of nerves, fidgeting uncontrollably, plagued by anxieties.The preceding week had flown by in a blur. Following the mall incident, she'd decided to design her own wedding gown, unwilling to risk another potentially dangerous shopping trip. Her company specialized in design; it was a logical solution to utilize her own employees' skills.Examining her reflection, Zenab was delighted with the result. She'd chosen a princess-style gown: a long-sleeved, high-necked illusion dress, adorned with rhinestones and delicately hand-sewn flowers."You look absolutely stunning," Jaymie whispered, her gaze reflecting Zenab's beauty. "Sander won't be able to take his eyes off you."Zenab grasped Jaymie's hand, squeezing it firmly. "Thank you, Jaymie."Indeed, she looked breathtaking. The dr
The attack, combined with dealing with the paparazzi earlier and confronting Miles, had left her utterly drained. Exhaustion washed over her; she just wanted to close her eyes and sleep.Jaymie shook her head sympathetically. "I'm sorry for what happened today. Don't worry—we'll find out who's behind the attacks, and when we do, they'll wish they had never crossed you."Sometimes Zenab forgot that Jaymie was the female beta, and she often underestimated just how intimidating Jaymie could be.Offering a small smile, Zenab hugged Jaymie and thanked her for saving them. They exchanged goodbyes after promising that Zenab would call once she was home.After getting into her car with Emerald, they drove off in silence, both lost in their thoughts. Though it had ended poorly, it felt like a victory because Emerald hadn't pushed her away as Zenab had feared.They soon arrived at Dave's pack, and driving through the familiar streets stirred up unwanted memories—memories Zenab had tried hard to
A surge of nervousness gripped her, worrying that Emerald might say no. The girl looked at her thoughtfully before breaking into a smile and nodding. Zenab exhaled a relieved sigh, releasing the breath she didn't realize she had been holding.Their food arrived, and they dug in. While the awkwardness lingered, it felt a bit more bearable. Zenab tried to convince herself that it would take time to restore their previous dynamic.Once they finished their meal, they prepared to leave after receiving a text from Jaymie saying she was waiting outside for them. Upon stepping outside, Zenab silently thanked the moon goddess that the paparazzi had dispersed.They made their way to the parking lot, but as they searched for Jaymie, Zenab turned around and bumped into a man."Sorry, I didn't see you..."Zenab couldn't finish her sentence before a man seized her by the neck, squeezing with a brutal grip. His fingers dug into her skin, cutting off her air supply. Emerald screamed, but Zenab doubte
A surge of nervousness gripped her, worrying that Emerald might say no. The girl looked at her thoughtfully before breaking into a smile and nodding. Zenab exhaled a relieved sigh, releasing the breath she didn't realize she had been holding.Their food arrived, and they dug in. While the awkwardness lingered, it felt a bit more bearable. Zenab tried to convince herself that it would take time to restore their previous dynamic.Once they finished their meal, they prepared to leave after receiving a text from Jaymie saying she was waiting outside for them. Upon stepping outside, Zenab silently thanked the moon goddess that the paparazzi had dispersed.They made their way to the parking lot, but as they searched for Jaymie, Zenab turned around and bumped into a man."Sorry, I didn't see you..."Zenab couldn't finish her sentence before a man seized her by the neck, squeezing with a brutal grip. His fingers dug into her skin, cutting off her air supply. Emerald screamed, but Zenab doubte
A surge of nervousness gripped her, worrying that Emerald might say no. The girl looked at her thoughtfully before breaking into a smile and nodding. Zenab exhaled a relieved sigh, releasing the breath she didn't realize she had been holding.Their food arrived, and they dug in. While the awkwardness lingered, it felt a bit more bearable. Zenab tried to convince herself that it would take time to restore their previous dynamic.Once they finished their meal, they prepared to leave after receiving a text from Jaymie saying she was waiting outside for them. Upon stepping outside, Zenab silently thanked the moon goddess that the paparazzi had dispersed.They made their way to the parking lot, but as they searched for Jaymie, Zenab turned around and bumped into a man."Sorry, I didn't see you..."Zenab couldn't finish her sentence before a man seized her by the neck, squeezing with a brutal grip. His fingers dug into her skin, cutting off her air supply. Emerald screamed, but Zenab doubte
A week had passed since the incident, and Zenab was finally back home. Today, she was set to meet Emerald at last. It was also the day Sander planned to announce their upcoming wedding. They had postponed the announcement the previous week until Zenab had fully recovered, knowing she couldn't handle the media frenzy that would surely follow.Sander had visited Zenab daily while she was in the hospital, and they had finally signed their contract. The terms he proposed were fair, so Zenab had signed it without hesitation.'We're here.'Zenab read the text just as she heard a car pull into her driveway. Nervousness crept in about seeing Emerald. She had no idea what to expect. Would Emerald still resent her? Was she upset that Dave had compelled her to visit?The car door slammed, prompting Zenab to move. Grabbing her bag and keys, she opened her front door, locking it behind her. Turning around, she saw Dave striding toward her with palpable anger. Emerald remained in the car, absorbed