Ch. 521..530

Chapter 521

When Selena and I arrived at the training ground, my eyes were immediately drawn to Maddox engaged in a fierce battle with a werewolf soldier trainee.

His presence was undeniable, standing out with his commanding aura and physique that exuded power and perfection. I couldn't help but swallow hard, captivated by his formidable appearance.

"Close your mouth, you're practically drooling," Selena teased with a mischievous glint in her eyes. I rolled my eyes.

"I have seen a lot and even hotter guys than him," I sighed carelessly, but it was a lie.

Blaze purred softly in my mind, craving our mate and urging me to approach Micah, Maddox's wolf. My gaze remained fixed on him as he diligently trained a junior soldier.

Every move he made was executed with precision and grace, showcasing his remarkable skill. With each victory over the soldier, he took the opportunity to point out the trainee's mistakes, offering valuable guidance. It was evident that Maddox was not only a formidable fighter but also an exceptional teacher.

But still, he was an asshole. He had broken my heart, shattering it into a million pieces.

"Blair, are you sure about this?" Selena asked, her brows furrowed in concern.

I took a deep breath, mustering up my resolve. "I'm certain, Selena. Today, I want Maddox to train me," I declared firmly, my voice filled with determination.

Ever since I discovered that Maddox was my mate, everything fell into place in my mind. I understood why he had abruptly stopped touching me, talking to me, and avoiding eye contact after his 18th birthday. It pained him to feel the connection, to experience the depth of our bond bestowed upon us by the moon goddess. He wished to defy the sacred and powerful mate bond bestowed upon us by the moon goddess.

He knew that if he dared to touch me, his reaction would be impossible for him to suppress. His wolf couldn't control himself, and he had to reveal I was his mate.

I couldn't fathom how he managed to resist the allure of the mate's scent because I wasn't able to resist his intoxicating scent of pine and grass. It drove me to the brink of madness, awakening desires deep within me, causing my core to throb and my wolf, Blaze, to yearn for his touch.

Now, a burning determination consumed me. I wanted him to experience the same torment that had consumed me ever since I discovered he was my mate. I was resolved to make him suffer and inflict some measure of pain upon him today. "Princess, what are you doing here?" I heard the deep voice of the handsome warrior, Lewis.

"Lewis, I'm here to practice. I wish you could train me," I smiled, batting my eyes innocently.

"It would be an honor for me, princess. I will train you. Come with me," Lewis grinned excitedly.

"Lewis, what's going on?!" We heard Maddox's voice thundering in the surroundings as Lewis held my hand.

"Beta Maddox, the princess is here, and she wants me to train her," Lewis replied to Maddox.

"You are not designated to train the princess. I will take care of this matter. You go train those kids," Maddox instructed, pointing toward the new trainee squad practicing freely on the ground.

"No, Beta Maddox, I want Lewis to train me. No one else," I said stubbornly, noticing that Maddox's eyes narrowed and a muscle twitched in his jaw, indicating his annoyance.

However, he didn't argue with me. Instead, he turned to Lewis, motioning for him to go ahead.

Lewis grinned as he approached me, his presence filling me with excitement. I winked playfully at Selena, who shook her head in warning.

And... the game began.

With a mischievous smile, I unzipped my jacket, revealing the hot sports bra and shorts I was wearing underneath. Confidence surged through me as I made my way to the center, eagerly awaiting Lewis to initiate the moves of our fight practice. I could tell he was pleased at my sight of less clothing.

As we engaged in a dynamic and intense practice session, our bodies moving with precision and fluidity. Each strike and block brought us closer together, our skin occasionally touching as he intentionally tried to hold me longer in his arms.

I couldn't help but notice Maddox's presence nearby, and a mischievous satisfaction filled me as I imagined a tinge of jealousy flickering in his gaze.

His grey eyes remained fixed on us, his fists clenched tightly, and his jaw visibly tense. Suddenly, a low growl rumbled from his throat when I found myself pinned beneath Lewis in a sparring move.

In the blink of an eye, Maddox forcefully ripped Lewis away from me.

"Your time is up. You can leave, Lewis. I will train Blair," Maddox declared, his voice authoritative and commanding.

"But, Beta," Lewis attempted to protest, yet one glare from Maddox was enough to silence him. Reluctantly, Lewis bowed his head and silently departed from the training ground.

Maddox's intense gaze shifted to me, and I couldn't help but notice the subtle bobbing of his Adam's apple as he swallowed, yet his emotions unreadable.

I took my time to ogle my mate from

up close. He stood shirtless, wearing only shorts, proudly displaying his chiseled muscles. Every rippling muscle was on full display, from his bulging biceps to his defined abs and toned chest. His narrow hips accentuated his strong physique, leading down to his powerful legs.

"Are you sure you can handle me?" I teased, a mischievous grin playing on my lips. "I've never been more certain in my life, kid," he intentionally called me 'kid,' despite knowing I was nineteen, just to get under my skin.

"Well then, what are you waiting for?

could

Let's get started," I replied with a teasing smirk As I threw my punch and attacked first, he swiftly dodged, showcasing his intelligence and quick reflexes. It seemed he believed he could maintain a safe distance from me. However, before she could understand, he swiftly grabbed my outstretched hand, effortlessly pulling it back and countering my movements with precision. I was startled at that moment.

It was in that instant that I felt an unexpected spark between our bodies. His firm physique pressed flush against mine, creating a tingling sensation that sent shivers down my spine. It was the first time I experienced such an unseen connection, and it left me breathless, my heart racing with a mixture of

fear and intrigue.

The intensity in his gaze was unmistakable. He must have felt it, right?! The way his grey eyes darkened and his breath quickened, it seemed as though he had just made the worst decision of his life. Seizing the opportunity, I pushed him, causing him to lose his balance and fall onto his back when he least expected it. With lightning speed, I straddled his hips and firmly held his arms in place.

His eyes bore into mine, his full plump lips slightly parted. In a swift motion, he flipped me over, and now I lay beneath him, my hands pinned above my head.

"You need to stay alert, kid. Focus on your moves, or else you could easily end up getting killed," he gritted his teeth, sounding breathless.

He persistently called me "kid," a deliberate attempt to provoke me or perhaps to convince himself.

However, I couldn't help but chuckle at his apparent helplessness, knowing that he was struggling to convince himself that he could fight the mate bond between us. I could feel his growing boner pressing against me, a fact that only added to his frustration. His expression shifted to one of anger, though I wasn't sure if it was directed at himself or me. He swiftly rose to his feet, putting some distance between us.

"The session is over. Return to the pack house, Blair," he ordered, his tone filled with authority.

Beta Maddox, I've only just begun, and soon your life will be as much of a living hell as mine.

 

Chapter 522

Selena abruptly left me standing alone in the Royal medicinal garden She ran away from me just as she always did, and this time the excuse was Blair. Confusion and a lingering sense of unease gnawed at my insides as I watched her back, walking away from me. What

the hell just happened between us?! Her taste and her smell

still lingered in my senses. I was shocked at how I behaved around her as if I wasn't myself.

Looking around, I found no bad signs but, instead, a pleasant vibe in the surroundings, just like she always left behind her. The soothing scent calmed my stress, awakening some emotions and desires I thought had died within me.

Taking a deep breath and inhaling the enchanting fragrance that was fading after her departure, I sprinted toward the pack house at my Alpha's lightning-fast speed.

Upon reaching the pack house, I directly set out to confront Avery, the one person I trusted above all others. I needed to hear it from her.

Entering Avery's room, I found her seated by a window. She smiled when she saw me.

"Avery, did you send Selena to the Royal Garden to get the poisonous herb?" My voice conveyed my growing impatience and the weight of my suspicions.

Avery's eyes widened, and her features contorted with disbelief. "What are you saying, Zander? I would never do such a thing. Who told you that I sent her to get the poisonous herb?"

"Selena herself," I replied, furrowing my brow as my words dripped with conviction.

Avery let out a disbelieving scoff, her gaze shifting toward the window, admiring the beautiful morning outside.

"I don't understand why she would make such an accusation. But you know she's prone to falsehoods and manipulation."

Avery's words resonated with my past experiences, flooding my mind with memories of my broken relationship. My ex-mate's duplicity still haunted me, her lies a constant reminder of the fragility of trust. She knew how much I despised liars, yet she never hesitated to deceive me.

"I acknowledge that she has spoken the truth on occasion," I confessed, my voice heavy with regret. "But I saw her touching those deadly herbs. It could have taken her life, Avery. I want to hear the truth from you, and I hope I can expect only honesty."

"Zander, how can you doubt me based solely on her words? Why would I do that? Tell me," she urged. "We have a bond that goes beyond the surface. We've fought side by side, bared our souls to each other. Surely, that should count for something," an ache filled Avery's voice, revealing the pain of being doubted by someone she cherished.

I closed my eyes, taking a deep breath. Sometimes it was so hard to find the truth. "Avery, my intention is not to doubt you. You are my best friend, my confidante. I

stand here as your Alpha, seeking the truth because you deserve the chance to clear

your name from my list of suspects."

Tears welled in Avery's eyes, exposing her vulnerability. I hated that I had hurt her. She was the one who stood firmly beside me on my worst days.

"I would never conspire to bring harm to this pack or deceive you, Zander. Selena's actions are clearly an attempt to create discord between us. I still can't believe it." Avery shook her head slowly, a tear rolling down her cheek.

Though I couldn't look into her eyes clearly, the pain in Avery's voice made me pause in confronting her. I didn't need proof; she had proven her loyalty to me on many occasions.

However, Selena's actions had become increasingly confusing, leaving me with a throbbing headache. What did Selena really want from me by doing all this? Did she lie again, as she used to in the past? I couldn't understand her motives, but one thing was clear: I needed to find out the truth and put an end to this chaos.

As I turned to leave Avery's room, she grasped my hand, stopping me from taking another step ahead.

"Wait, Zander. If you're here, stay with me for a while. It's been too long since we've had time to be together simply," she insisted, her voice filled with longing.

A heavy sigh escaped my lips. My mind was already racing with the many things that awaited me this morning. I didn't have time for chitchat.

"I do have some work that needs to be addressed this morning. Shall we meet at the breakfast table?" I suggested, gently freeing my hand from her grasp.

As I made my way to my own

chamber, I quickly shed my clothes and headed to the bathroom. I took a refreshing shower, feeling the cascading cold water wash away my weariness. Placing my hands on the shower wall, I found myself lost in thoughts about the moments I

had spent with Serana

had

been one way just a moment ago and suddenly transformed into a different personality. It felt like she was playing with my mind.

Lyon's voice echoed in my head, taunting me, "She's not playing with your mind, Zander. But you're unwilling to admit that she has an effect on you."

His words served as a disconcerting reminder of the internal battle I was fighting. Lyon always seemed to have impeccable timing, appearing when I needed a break, yet managing to remind me of all the things that could add to my stress.

My eyebrows furrowed and I clenched my jaws, feeling my frustration seep through the mental connection with my wolf.

"That's not true, Lyon. You know I have strong self-control," I retorted, a touch of defiance coloring my thoughts.

Lyon's laughter echoed in my mind, his amusement acting like a grating soundtrack to my thoughts.

"Ah, Zander, my poor Alpha. I've seen your self-control crumble time and time again when our ex-mate was around," he jeered, mocking me with his words.

I scowled, my frustration simmering. "Shut up, Lyon," I snapped. He enjoyed provoking me because I didn't always listen to his dangerous advice.

"Why, Zander? Why resist the truth? Is it because you don't want to admit the effect she has on you?" he challenged, relishing his ability to push my buttons. An exasperated sigh escaped my lips as I tried to regain control of my spiraling thoughts.

"Listen, Lyon, I'm already burdened with confusion and stress. Please, let me think peacefully," I pleaded, a hint of weariness seeping into my mental voice.

A moment of silence followed as if Lyon was considering my request. Then, he presented his suggestion with a mischievous purr.

"Okay, but listen to me. Why not let me take charge whenever Selena is nearby? It would make things easier for you," he proposed, his words filled with a perverted amusement unique to my wolf.

"I don't want more confusion and complications," I scolded, and I heard him laugh even louder.

Shaking my head, I turned off the water and made my way to the room. Once dressed in a sleek black suit and a crisp white shirt underneath, I walked down the hallway.

The delightful aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, blending with the enticing scent of warm pastries and fresh fruit. Morning sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a gentle glow upon the table as if nature itself wanted to relish the meaningful morning. The members of the pack house had taken their seats.

I scanned the room, my eyes searching for only one person. However, she was nowhere to be seen. I headed to the kitchen with hope, and there she was, engrossed in her tasks, seemingly oblivious to my presence. When her eyes finally met mine, she pretended I didn't exist. She hurried away as though I were contagious with some disease.

"Selena!" I called out, my voice filled with a mixture of frustration.

But she continued with her work as if my words hadn't reached her ears. Undeterred, I approached her, closing the distance between us.

"Selena, how long are you going to

avoid me?" I questioned, my voice laced with a hint of desperation. As I leaned in closer, my lips almost brushing against her ear, I

whispered, "You can't ignore ma net

forever." The proximity was electrifying, and I could sense her body freezing in response to my presence. The moment hung in the air, brimming with tension and something more, something.... something indescribable.

From my vantage point, I could see her face turning a deep shade of pink, her eyes filled with panic.

"What... What are you doing, Alpha?" she stammered, her voice betraying her nervousness. "Someone might misunderstand."

A mischievous smile played at the corners of my lips as I pressed myself against her, savoring the knowledge that I had affected her too.

"Don't try to change the subject, Selena," I murmured, my voice dripping with playful provocation. "When will you learn to take responsibility for your actions? Can't you see what you've done to me this morning?"

Her gasp mingled with panic, her traitorous body reacting to my proximity. I felt the tremors coursing through her, a tangible manifestation of the tension that had been building between us.

Suddenly, Selena turned around

abruptly, accidentally colliding with

the jug of juice she had been

holding. Its contents spilled out, staining my expensive suit with vibrant colors. I took a step back, shifting my gaze from the ruined fabric to Selena's frightened expression. The sound of the jug shattering against the floor reverberated throughout the kitchen.

Chapter 523 Who Is Jealous, Alpha King? *Selena*

Oh no! How could I be so careless? But... but he was the one who instigated my reaction. My eyes darted back and forth between Zander's once pristine white shirt and his tailored, expensive grey suit, worth a fortune, now colored in juice, and the shattered glass jug on

the floor. Panic surged through me as I worried about what others might think, assuming I did it intentionally.

"Oh, my Goddess! I'm sorry, I am so sorry, Alpha," I mumbled, clasping a hand over my mouth, my heart racing with embarrassment. I reached out, instinctively grabbing Zander's hand, and pulled him towards the sink, eager to salvage the situation.

"I swear I didn't spoil your clothes intentionally," I uttered in a rush, trying to explain myself. With a sense of urgency, I grabbed a glass, filling it with water, and splashed it onto his shirt, frantically trying to wash away the colorful, tangy stain from his expensive white fabric. He flinched, muttering a curse under his breath, and I felt even worse for the mess I had caused.

"Oh no, you're drenched, and you have to go to the office," I murmured worriedly as I watched water droplets trickle down his now-drenched clothes.

"It's okay, Selena," he assured in his deep voice, attempting to reassure me.

"I am sorry," I mumbled again, shaking my head in genuine regret, hoping he would understand that my actions were accidental.

In an unexpected move, he grabbed my hand and pulled me closer, his gaze intense, and my heart skipped a beat.

"One more time, you say sorry, and I will kiss you," he threatened playfully, causing my eyes to widen in surprise.

I blinked, my heart racing as I quickly glanced around the kitchen. What if someone heard us? Luckily, all the omegas were busy serving on the dining table, leaving us alone in the kitchen.

"Your shirt," I gasped, my eyes shifting back to his drenched clothes, feeling guilty for ruining his outfit.

"You can spoil as many shirts as you want; I don't mind," he whispered, a hint of a smile forming on his lips, and my heart fluttered at the sight of his unexpected grin.

Goddess, he actually smiled! It was a stark contrast to my memory of my cruel ex-mate who never smiled.

"Selena!" I heard a thundering voice, and instinctively, I pulled my hand from Zander's grasp, though he didn't let go. My head turned abruptly to find Eden glaring at me with intense disapproval. "You useless, clumsy butler!" she spat out, her words sharp and filled with disdain.

"How dare you spoil Alpha's clothes," she gritted her teeth in anger, clearly infuriated by the situation.

"Eden!" Before I could even attempt to give an explanation, Zander's voice roared, surprising me with the anger in his tone. "It's not her fault. It was my mistake," he confirmed firmly, coming to my defense. His grip on my hand tightened instead of releasing me.

"I-I'm sorry, Alpha. I didn't know about it," Eden mumbled in fear, feeling the overwhelming aura emitting from the Alpha King. The atmosphere around Zander turned so intimidating and scary that no one could stand before him unaffected.

"You can leave now, and remember to clarify before blaming anyone next time," Zander scolded, his voice commanding and authoritative, demanding obedience. Eden immediately ran off, looking horrified. Alpha King's aura was overpowering, making everyone submit before him.

"I am going to change my clothes," Zander whispered, surprising me once more as both his voice and gaze softened.

I nodded silently, still taken aback by the sudden shift in his demeanor. I couldn't tell if this was his true self or if he was once again pretending to be sweet.

As he left, I cleared the glass pieces from the floor, ensuring the area was safe, and then filled another jug with juice before carrying it to the breakfast table. The omegas were bustling around, efficiently serving everyone and placing plates of food before them. Lola playfully came to my side and whispered in a teasing tone, "Why are you blushing so much this morning?"

"I'm not blushing, Lola," I retorted, my cheeks flushing slightly despite my denial. She grinned mischievously, clearly enjoying my discomfort.

"Oh, I know why you're blushing today," she teased, winking at me, which made me gasp. What did she mean?

I quickly tried to regain my composure, "Lola, you're imagining things. I'm not blushing!"

Her smile widened as she spilled the beans, "Prince Damon is here for breakfast today, and he asked about you twice!"

Relief washed over me as I heard her mention Prince Damon. So, she didn't know about the incident with Alpha Zander. My brain worked swiftly, trying to process the unexpected news. "Prince Damon?! What is he doing here? I thought he was staying at the Moonglow pack's seven-star hotel," I asked, genuinely surprised by the prince's presence at our pack's breakfast table. "Luna Avery has invited him for breakfast, and oh my goddess, he looks so hot in casuals," Lola gushed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"You lazy omegas," Eden scowled at

us, her stern tone cutting through our conversation. "Stop gossiping and go back to work. The royals

won't be waiting for you to preparee

breakfast. You know the

consequences of being late," she warned firmly, reminding us of the

importance of our duties, Lola and I

exchanged a quick look of

understanding and hurriedly

returned to our tasks.

As the breakfast progressed smoothly, I caught sight of Prince Damon, looking effortlessly handsome in his casual attire. His presence was magnetic, drawing attention from everyone in the room, including me. "Good morning. How are you, Selena?" Prince Damon greeted me with a charming smile, and to my surprise, he didn't address me as Isabella today.

"I am fine, thank you, Prince Damon," I replied softly, feeling my cheeks warm up under his gaze.

"Call me Damon," he insisted, his eyes locked onto mine. An unknown sensation tingled my heart.

I nodded politely, trying to regain my composure, and returned to my job, focusing on serving breakfast to the royals. Zander had changed into a new black suit and white shirt. He took his seat, engaging in pleasantries with Prince Damon.

LOV

Throughout the breakfast, Damon's attention seemed to be fixated on me. I could feel his eyes following me wherever I went, making me slightly uneasy.

Once the meal was over, and I began to collect the plates, Damon called out my name again, drawing the attention of those around us.

"Selena, I was thinking... Can I take you to lunch?!" he asked politely, but his direct approach before everyone caught me off guard.

"No!" I refused promptly, immediately regretting my abrupt response. "I mean, I have work, and I don't get a day off," I stumbled over my words, trying to find a way to decline without offending him. "Oh, that will not be a problem if I talk to Miss Avery," Damon offered, showing persistence in his request.

Damon turned toward Avery, his charming demeanor intact.

"Miss Avery, can I take Selena for lunch?" he asked politely, his eyes glancing toward me with a hint of hope.

Avery agreed quickly, "Yes."

"No!" But a refusal from Zander

came just as quickly as Avery's agreement. Both Avery and Zander spoke simultaneously, their conflicting opinions filling the room. Avery's head snapped towards Zander, her expression questioning his objection.

"I mean, who will help during the preparation of lunch if she won't be available at that time?" Zander reiterated, trying to justify his stance.

"Oh, come on, Zander! We have so many Omegas in the pack house. Anyone can take over her duties. But Prince Damon is our honorable guest, and we cannot disappoint him," Avery replied persuasively, defending her point of view.

"Still, Selena doesn't want to go with him. You can't force her," Zander's intense gaze locked onto mine, his eyes seeming to search for something.

Oh, Alpha King, you think so highly of yourself. If you can move on, I can too. Yet, something in me shifted. I wanted to go, not for Damon's sake but to prove to myself that I could move forward.

"I don't have any problem going to lunch with Prince Damon!" I said, surprising even myself. I saw Zander clench his jaw, his eyes narrowing slightly. His deep blue eyes bore into mine, forcing me to take my words back.

"I am ready for a lunch date with Prince Damon if I get a day off," I declared, trying to muster up the courage and putting on a brave smile. I saw Zander scowling, unable to hide his annoyance at my decision.

"Great. You have a full day off. Go and accompany Prince Damon. Take care of our royal guest," Avery grinned, clearly delighted with the outcome.

"I will try my best to provide good company to our royal guest," I said, smiling sincerely.

Damon got up from his seat, expressing his gratitude, "Thank you, Selena. If you're ready, can we leave?"

"Give me a few minutes, Prince Damon. I want to get ready properly for our lunch

date," I said with a smile. Damon nodded, his grin growing wider, and Zander left his seat abruptly.

Now, who's jealous, Alpha King?!

Chapter 524

Oh, Goddess! What had I gotten myself into? Agreeing to go to lunch with Prince Damon on impulse just to annoy Zander seemed like a brilliant idea at the time, but now I was freaking out. I barely knew anything about Prince Damon, and the thought of going to lunch with him was nerve-wracking.

Agh!

Sometimes I wished I could just bang my head against a rock instead of acting on impulse.

But whenever Zander was around, my brain seemed to shut down, and rational thinking went out the window.

As I had the entire day off, I thought I could focus on some work after this lunch debacle. It was just a lunch, right?! It would be over before I knew it, or maybe I could find a way to end it early or come up with a few good excuses.

Lost in my thoughts and planning an escape from this sudden date with the vampire prince, I was suddenly yanked to a corner, startling me out of my reverie.

"Emile, you scared me," I huffed, recognizing her.

"It's been a week since you joined this pack. When are you going to finish this task?" Emile asked with a disdainful expression on her face.

The task!

"Emile, you're talking about the most impenetrable data system in the world. Hacking into it isn't easy, and my last attempt was a near-disaster. But I've been working on my program, and it's almost ready. Tonight, I'll hack into Moonglow's security system," I declared with a hint of determination in my voice. "Tonight?" she warned, her sharp gaze fixed on me.

"Tonight," I assured her.

Emile left swiftly, ensuring no one spotted us together.

After retreating to my room, I took the time to prepare for this unexpected lunch. I settled on a sophisticated black midi dress that accentuated my figure, paired with elegant heels. A light touch of makeup enhanced my features, and I gathered my hair in a high ponytail.

As I returned to the hall, I noticed that everyone had dispersed to attend to their own tasks, and even Zander was nowhere to be found. However, to my surprise, the Vampire Prince was still there, waiting patiently for me. His presence commanded attention, and I couldn't help but feel a flutter of nerves as he complimented me.

"You look beautiful, Arabella," he said with a warm smile, extending his hand towards me. I chuckled softly and placed my hand in his.

"Ah, I was wondering why you hadn't called me Arabella yet," I teased. He responded with a charming smirk, clearly enjoying the playful banter.

"So you want me to call you Arabella?" he inquired, and I quickly shook my head.

"No!" I gasped, my eyes widening. "I mean, I've heard the name Arabella from you many times before, and I was just curious to know more about her. So, tell me,

Prince..." I began to ask, but he smoothly interrupted me.

"Damon," he interjected, his eyes narrowing slightly as he corrected me. With that, he led me towards his car, an air of mystery surrounding him.

"Yes, I mean tell me, Damon, who is Arabella?" I asked, watching him intently, my curiosity piqued.

"I have told you that Arabella was a beautiful queen," he shrugged, smiling. "No, I want to know everything about her," I insisted desperately.

"I will tell you everything about Arabella," he replied, his tone playful and teasing. "But first, you have to have lunch with me."

I rolled my eyes, unable to resist a smile. He was undeniably a flirt, and though I tried not to let it affect me, there was something about his charm that was difficult to ignore. I had heard about Vampire's charm and now I could say they all were true.

He graciously opened the passenger door for me, assisting me in settling into the comfortable seat. With a gentle touch, he secured my safety belt, displaying a chivalrous side that I didn't expect from a powerful vampire prince. As he closed the door and made his way to the driver's seat, he skillfully inserted the key into the ignition, setting the car in motion towards our destination.

The car glided smoothly, and soon we arrived at a luxurious five-star hotel where Prince Damon was staying. I couldn't help but eye him with suspicion, unsure of what this lunch date had in store.

He laughed, seemingly reading my thoughts.

"Don't worry, I won't take advantage of you after getting you drunk," he said with a playful shrug.

"You can't, because I don't drink," I lied, trying to gauge his reaction.

"Oh, my bad luck," he sighed with mock regret, adding a playful touch to his remorseful tone.

Inside the hotel, he guided me to a pre-booked table, and as I looked around the opulent atmosphere and heard the soft music, memories of my first date with Zander flooded my mind. This place held sentimental value, reminding me of the time he had taken me here and even booked the entire hotel for our private time together. The

realization that now people's interest centered around Prince Damon being here with a girl, made me feel a pang of resentment.

I hated Zander. Yes, I hated him.

We were no longer mates, and he had already moved on and was about to get married. So why couldn't I do the same? Why was I finding it so hard to let any man come close to me? It felt like a curse, being trapped in the aftermath of loving a cruel demon. Damon smiled at me, his eyes filled with curiosity and charm as he watched me looking around.

"So, what would you like to order?" he asked, his voice smooth like velvet.

Taking the menu in hand, I perused the delectable offerings before settling on a few of the best dishes the hotel had to offer. The flavors promised to be exquisite, a perfect reflection of the luxurious setting we found ourselves in.

As we savored the delightful lunch,

we were then served my favorite dessert - a heavenly creation known as "Euphoria Delight." The name itself seemed fitting as the first bite sent waves of bliss through my taste buds. The creamy texture combined with the perfect blend of flavors made it an unforgettable treat.

"Selena, I like you," Damon blurted out, and unexpectedly, Damon's voice took on a more serious tone as he spoke.

The statement caught me off guard, and I blinked in surprise, trying to process his sudden admission.

"Damon, you..." I hesitated, searching for the right words. "You don't know me. I am..." But before I could continue, he interrupted me with a calm yet firm assurance.

"I know everything about you, Selena. I know that you are Alpha Zander's ex-mate and the former Luna of this pack," he confessed, leaving me speechless.

I sat there, utterly shocked by the revelation that Damon already knew about my past with Zander.

As the silence stretched between us, I finally found my voice.

"Listen, if you're trying to get close to me just to take revenge on Zander, it won't work. He doesn't feel anything for me anymore," I scowled, wanting to clarify my position.

He looked at me with sincerity in his eyes and a softness in his voice as he replied, "No, it has nothing to do with Zander or our peace pact. I liked you the first time I saw you, and I knew nothing about you being the Alpha King's ex-mate at that time."

His words caught me off guard, and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of curiosity and uncertainty about his true intentions. However, the earnestness in his gaze made me want to believe him, to trust that he was being genuine.

"But you have no idea how I feel about you. If I were to say I love you," he paused, his smile warm and genuine, "you wouldn't believe me."

Nervousness gripped me, and I giggled slightly to ease the tension. "Love? Isn't it too soon?" I questioned, my heart beating faster.

"Why? Haven't you heard of love at first sight or the kind of love that transcends the limits of life, death, and the universe?" he challenged, his eyes locking with mine, leaving no room for doubt that he was speaking from the heart.

His words resonated deeply within me, leaving me speechless.

He spoke of a love that seemed like a distant dream, one that I had once believed in before Zander shattered my heart.

"Selena, I want you to come with me after your job is done here," he demanded, his expression serious. My eyebrows furrowed as I tried to process his words.

He knew?!

My thoughts raced, wondering how much information he had managed to gather about me and my purpose.

"How do you know why I am here?" I inquired, surprised by his knowledge.

"Miss Avery told me about you being her butler and..." he trailed off, offering a casual shrug. I nodded, realizing that Avery had been the one to reveal my presence here. "Selena, come with me. You deserve to be treated like a queen, not an omega," he insisted earnestly.

But could I trust this? Was this my

chance to move on from my past with Zander? My mind raced with doubts and insecurities. I scrutinized him carefully; he was undeniably. handsome and charming, the kind of man who could have any woman he desired. So why did he want me to go with him? Was this love he spoke of genuine?

"I need some time," I replied, my voice almost involuntarily, seeking a moment to sort through my emotions.

"Of course," he replied, his voice slightly tense. "I am here and won't go anywhere until I get an answer from you."

He continued, his voice soft and sincere, "But on a serious note, Selena, I want you to give us a chance. I want you to feel the connection between this is real and the only truth."

I nodded, the idea of exploring a new connection intriguing yet terrifying.

As I tried to gather my thoughts, he leaned in closer, his eyes locking with mine. I felt my breath hitch as I noticed him glancing at my lips.

"A date is incomplete without a kiss. I hope you won't mind kissing me on our first date, my love," he whispered, his voice husky and deep, sending a shiver down my spine.

Before I could respond, my mind

froze as I looked into his eyes, conflicting thoughts overwhelming my senses. I couldn't decide

whether to give him a chance

hold back in fear of getting hurt again. Just as his lips were about to meet mine, our intimate moment was abruptly interrupted.

"What's going on here?" a powerful growl tore through the surroundings, sending shivers down the spines of everyone present in the room.

Chapter 525

The whole surroundings trembled with that loud growl, as if an earthquake had come just at that moment. I instinctively clutched the edge of the table, desperately trying to steady myself and prevent myself from falling off the chair.

"Prince Damon!" Zander's voice was deep and intimidating, cutting through the air like a razor-sharp blade. His warning was laced with deadly intent, and in the blink of an eye, I was pulled away from the chair and found myself standing behind Zander. "Don't forget you're a guest in our pack!" His words were cold and firm, carrying a threatening undertone.

"Alpha Zander! I do remember everything," Damon snarled, his nose flaring with anger. He was suddenly standing beside me as if he had teleported there.

"But you can't spoil my date," Damon bit out, glaring at the Alpha king.

"I have every right to interfere if you cross your limits," Zander spat out, staring dangerously at Damon.

"I can kiss her on our date. She is an adult and willing," Damon reasoned with a smirk. Zander growled, his teeth baring as if he would rip him apart the next moment.

Shit, this was getting ugly.

"You can't touch her," Zander howled, Lyon taking control.

"Why are you so possessive? She is your ex-mate, after all. You have no right over her," the Vampire Prince, Damon, frowned.

My eyes ping-ponged between two powerful alpha males. I saw the expression change on Zander's face.

"She is living in my pack as a pack member," Zander's voice turned cold and distant again. "So, you stay the fuck away from her and any female here. Until we agree on the peace pact, I don't want any relationship between the two communities."

I couldn't help but stare at him awestruck right at that moment. He was a successful ruler, and no one could deny it. A king's aura mingled with his alpha dominance made him invincible and incredibly powerful.

Damon gritted his teeth, his frustration visible as his hands clenched into fists, with veins pulsating beneath his skin. A muscle twitched in his jaw, a visible sign of the internal struggle he was trying to control. He seemed to want to say more, but he was restraining himself from getting into a fight that could escalate into a war between Vampires and werewolves if the argument continued.

"Selena, let's go," Damon commanded.

But before I could move an inch, Zander stood between us again, a formidable barrier that blocked my sight of Damon.

"She won't go with you," Zander declared, his voice firm and unyielding as he glared at Damon. But Damon didn't pay attention to his warning.

"Selena!" Damon tried to reach out, but Zander intercepted his hand halfway before he could touch me. I peered over Zander's shoulder as I stood behind him.

"Leave her alone," Zander's words were like a steel wall, sending clear messages. "You can't be serious," Damon snorted, challenging Zander's stance.

"I am damn serious," Zander retorted, his eyes locking onto Damon's with unwavering resolve.

The tension in the room thickened, and I found myself caught between two powerful and fiercely determined alpha males. My heart pounded in my chest, fear creeping into my heart about what was going to happen next. Both were giving each other murderous looks as if they would kill each other at the very next moment.

Oh, moon goddess, what had I gotten myself into?

"This is not good, Alpha Zander," Damon hissed, his tone sending a hidden warning. "Don't teach me, Prince Damon. I know what I am doing," Zander shot back, exuding his alpha authority.

I sighed, feeling the weight of their clash pressing upon me, an unintended pawn in their power struggle.

Damon's eyes blazed red with anger as he narrowed his gaze, glaring at Zander while clenching his teeth. Zander remained cold and indifferent, but the aura emanating from him was overwhelming and dominating. I glanced around nervously and noticed everyone bowing their heads in submission.

"See you later, Isabella," Damon said, his eyes softening as he looked at me with a mix of longing and frustration, but before I could respond, Zander interrupted.

"Her name is Selena," Zander huffed.

Damon stormed away, and the resounding thuds of his footsteps echoed, conveying his willingness to tear this land apart beneath his furious feet.

My heart sank as I watched the heartless alpha king, my ex-mate, looking at Damon's retreating back with a scowl on his face. He ruined my date. Frustration swelled within me, and I took a deep breath to calm myself.

Turning to leave the tense scene behind, I barely had a chance to move before a strong hand grabbed me and slammed me against the nearest wall.

My eyes instinctively closed as I gasped, feeling the impact. "Ah!" I uttered in response to the sudden force.

"Selena Ardolf!" Zander's deep, husky voice resonated in my ears, filled with anger. "Did you really want to kiss that bloody vampire?" he spat out the words with disgust. My eyes fluttered open, meeting his cold blue orbs ablaze with rage. Why did he care?

"It's not your concern, Alpha," I retorted, trying to hold his intense gaze.

His grip on my waist tightened, and strangely, instead of pain, I felt a rush of hot desire surge through my veins.

He narrowed his eyes, burning with anger. "No one can make you feel the way I can," he pronounced, his voice piercing as he stared deep into my eyes. "So, you

used to switch from man to man to find a substitute for me? But remember, no one can pleasure you, to take you to ecstasy, only I can."

"I am not looking for your substitute, and I am not a whore who switches from man to man," I bit out, my voice tinged with both defiance and hurt.

He knew how to hurt me. He had done it in the past and must have enjoyed his effect on me.

"Good to know that you realize you won't find my replacement," he breathed out, a hint of arrogance in his tone.

"You're such a conceited jerk," I whispered, grimacing and fully aware of the consequences of insulting an alpha in his own territory. But his relentless provocations had pushed me to my limit.

"Why? Isn't it true?" His smirk

surprised me had expected him to be angry. "The last I remember, you almost came from kissing me. Do you want me to show you how else I can make you come?" He let his words out, laced with desire as his lips were dangerously close to mine, tempting me with their proximity.

"I know it already. I was married to you," I surprisingly found myself accepting the undeniable chemistry we once had. The red-hot lust swirled in his eyes, mirroring my own desires.

"You would have come to me rather than going on a random date if you wanted an earth-shattering orgasm," he leaned closer, his intense gaze fixed on my lips.

Panic surged through me as I realized the attention we were drawing in the luxurious five-star hotel's crowded restaurant. Every eye was on us, and I couldn't let this situation escalate any further. I pressed my hands against his chest, halting him from going any further. "We are in public," I reminded him, my voice trembling.

"I don't care," he whispered.

"But I do," I mumbled, gazing into his eyes, hoping he would understand the implications of our actions.

He clenched his jaw, becoming angry again. Was it because I stopped him and not Damon?!

A low furious growl rumbled from his chest, but then he grabbed my hand with a forceful grip.

"Come with me," he ordered, not waiting for my reply, and began to drag me away. As we approached the reception, he demanded a room key from the trembling receptionist. "Key!"

She handed him the key hesitantly, seemingly scared by the intensity of the situation. He had a room in this hotel?! I didn't get time to process this thought as he quickly dragged me to the elevator. "Wait, where are we going?" I asked, panicking.

"You don't want me to kiss you before everyone," he replied sternly. He pressed the button impatiently, and the elevator door slid open.

Once inside, he pressed the button

for a floor without saying a word. As

the elevator doors closed, the heat at that moment was palpable, and !

ก่อน

could feel the electric charge between us. I knew I shouldn't be here with him, but my senses were numb because the feeling he ignited in my core was so intense and hot. Rationality left me the moment his eyes held me captive. Now I didn't know what I was doing as if an automated program was switched on.

He pressed me against the back corner, his hands slamming on both sides of my head, trapping me with an intensity that left me breathless Our eyes locked, and I could feel the heat radiating off his body, his chest heaving loudly and brushing against my breast as if he was fighting for control.

My nipples became erect and hard as diamonds, poking through the flimsy fabric of my dress. In the confined space of the elevator, desire crackled between us like a live wire. My throat felt dry, and I struggled to catch my breath.

His heavy breathing fanned my face, his manly scent overwhelming my senses. The truth was, no one had ever made me feel like that. I was dripping wet just from his closeness and had to fight the urge to rub my thighs.

"You have a fiancée," I bit my lip as I reminded him, my voice barely a whisper. His gaze turned cold again, and a shiver ran down my spine.

"Are you looking for a romantic affair?" he challenged, tilting his head slightly. "No," I panted, and licking my lips, I added, "Not at all."

"Good. Then, don't worry," he said, raising his chin smugly as if to assert his dominance.

Of course, he was used to cheating in a relationship. His reputation for being a playboy alpha preceded him.

The elevator came to a stop, and the doors opened. Without letting go of me, Zander held my waist and pulled me with him as we stepped out. He led me to a luxurious suite, hastily unlocking the door and ushering me inside. He entered, closing the door behind him impatiently.

Before I had a chance to take in my surroundings, he moved swiftly, and in the blink of an eye, his lips crashed onto mine, kissing me with raw, passionate hunger. His hands circled my waist, pulling me impossibly closer, and my own hands instinctively curled around his neck, deepening the kiss.

 

Chapter 526

*Zander*

was when I first met her.

Those hazel eyes, glistening like gemstones, locked onto mine, and I felt my heart race. They were my endgame, my salvation, and my undoing. At that moment, everything else faded away, and I was lost in the oceans of sweetness that resided in her gaze-just like I Her soft lips met mine with an intensity that mirrored my own longing. The kiss was a fervent dance of need, hunger, and desire, each movement filled with raw emotion. There was no one else in the world, only her and I, tangled in a moment of undeniable passion. With a surge of strength fueled by desire, I lifted her up, and she wrapped her legs around my waist, drawing me closer to her. My hands instinctively found their place, gripping her bottom firmly, pulling her flush against me as I carried her toward the bed. Once on the bed, I broke the kiss momentarily to shrug off my jacket and hastily rip off my tie, the urgency of the moment taking over any notion of patience or restraint. Unbuttoning my cufflinks, my eyes never left Selena's expression. She did it again: looking at me with that expression as if I were her entire universe.

Who are you, Selena?

Are your eyes revealing the truth, or is it your words I should believe?

"Stop overthinking, and show her what she's missed all these years," Lyon growled in my head. He sounded more desperate and turned on than me. I found it really hard at this moment to stop him from taking over me.

Leaning down, I silenced any lingering doubts with another passionate kiss, my fingers trailing over her soft curves, brushing against her soft nipples, eliciting shudders, and moans from her.

I wanted to explore every inch of her, to feel her skin beneath my fingertips, needing to taste her essence.

Not able to resist any longer, I grabbed the corner of her dress and pulled it over her head. She bounced slightly on the soft mattress, her soft blond curls sprawled and scattered wildly. Such an erotic sight she was. "I thought you only wanted to kiss," she demanded, biting her lips, looking at me with her hooded eyes.

"Yes, baby. I want to kiss..." I whispered, leaning closer until our breathing mingled. "...every inch of your sexy body," I added, unable to believe how my voice turned huskier, laced with desire.

She sucked in a shuddered breath, her hands clutching the bedspreads.

Holding her gaze, I hooked my fingers in the waistband of her panties and slowly dragged them down her legs, throwing them somewhere in the room.

"This was very slow, you prick. Hurry up, I am dying," Lyon howled again through the mind link.

I ignored him. He was distracting me while all I wanted was to stare at her before she changed her mind.

"Lyon, if you don't shut up, I will block you and not let you feel it. So, better don't disturb me while I am going to worship this beautiful goddess," I warned him in my mind and heard him let out a frustrated growl. My focus was entirely on my ex-mate. In a swift movement, I unclasped her bra and removed it, sliding its straps down her shoulders, and throwing it somewhere in the room. Her full, round breasts bounced freely. "Beautiful!" I breathed out, stunned by her beauty.

Palming her soft bosom, which fit perfectly in my hand, I kneaded them, eliciting a sexy moan from her. I rolled her nipples between my thumb and finger, playing with them and relishing how they became erect under my touch. Her eyes darkened with lust; she watched me as if she were ready to devour me. Encouraged by her body responding to me naturally, I licked her nipple, and her head fell back on the pillow. "Oh, you're killing me, Alpha," she moaned. I loved her calling me Alpha when she was beneath me at my mercy. My hands craved to touch her every inch, roaming along her skin, not leaving any part untouched.

This was insane because I had never craved to touch a woman as I craved her. Only her. My hands caressed her soft thighs, and her hips jerked. I slowly parted her legs, and her glistening pussy showed up. Fuck! She was so fucking dripping with arousal, and I was going to taste her.

I sniffed her arousal and groaned.

"Fuck, you smell so sweet and intoxicating, like a drug, my love," I took a whiff of her sweet scent more and felt a shiver running down her visibly. "I wonder if you still taste the same as I remember on my tongue," I growled, staring into her eyes. "Why don't you find out yourself?" she challenged. I smirked.

"I have no intention of stopping until I make you come on my mouth, finger, and cock," I declared as I covered her nipple with my mouth.

"Oh, goddess!" she screamed, her fingers entangled in my hair.

I swirled my tongue and nipped and bit her soft nub. She was so responsive and sensitive to my touch, driving me crazy with her soft, sexy moans as I devoured her deliciousness. I suckled more, relishing how her soft nipple swelled in my mouth. I pulled firmly and released with a pop. My gaze fixed on her nipple as I determinedly took my turn with another, savoring the taste on my tongue. My hands kneaded her

round, full breasts as I sucked her soft nub firmly, eliciting a moan from her sweet mouth that sounded like music to me. Desperate to hear it more, I nibbled harder. She gasped as I dipped a finger inside her tight cunt.

"Ah, yes! Yes!" she moaned, and her whole body trembled as she came so intensely, solely from my touch.

"Selena!" I whispered, looking at her sweaty face. She was panting and breathing heavily, recovering from her orgasm. I gently moved up and covered her lips with mine, kissing her passionately and wildly.

"I love how responsive you are to me, baby," I whispered against her lips. Her

half-closed eyes gazed at me with so much emotion, stirring something deep in my heart.

Desperate to pleasure her further, I threw her legs over my shoulders and dipped my head between them, craving to taste her.

I licked along the length of her sweet pussy, lost in her taste. Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.

She tasted heaven, and I could never

get enough of her. She was an addiction; I knew I was going to be intoxicated by her tastes. I licked her more, drinking in her flavor. Her small body writhed as she thrashed her head on the pillow. Her hips moved, grinding herself on my face. I chuckled at her impatience and flattened my

tongue on her clit. Fuck! She trembled under my touch, crying my name so loudly. I sucked on her sensitive bud, which made her scream my name even louder. My finger found its way into her tight hole, and her cries intensified. "More!" She moaned, and I gave her what she wanted.

Adding two more fingers, I

continued to suck her clitoris, my other hand caressing the softness of her thighs. Her screams of ecstasy echoed louder in the room. I thrust harder, faster, deeper, and she came again, letting out a louder cry of pleasure this time. I bet the whole hotel would have known what was going on on this floor. I savored her sweetness while keeping my finger pumping in her tight cunt.

"So fucking sweet," I murmured.

I dragged myself near her face; she wore an expression of pure pleasure, with her lips parted and soft moans escaping. Her glossy eyes were half-closed as she looked at me, indicating that she was not done.

I slammed my lips onto hers and kissed my Selena with everything in me. She pulled me closer, her soft, small hands caressing my body.

Her eager hands traced my chest

with an impatience that mirrored the

racing of my heart. Her touch

became more hurried as she fumbled to unbutton my shirt, and I couldn't help but smile, my eyes

fixed on her stunning face. Emotions surged within me, longing

overwhelming my heart.

"Where have you been, baby? I missed you so much," the words escaped my lips before I could think twice about them.

Chapter 527

"Where have you been, baby?" he whispered, his eyes reflecting the pain. "I missed you so much." He leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss on the tip of my nose. My heart skipped a beat.

His words seemed to wrap around me like a spell, making me feel weak in the knees. Part of me wanted to surrender to him, to believe every word he spoke. But I knew I couldn't. Not after everything that had happened. The memories of our past, our love, and the hurt came rushing back, conflicting emotions tearing at my heart. As if I snapped out of the trance, I panicked.

"I have to go," I mumbled, trying to break free from his grasp.

I pushed him with all my strength, but he held on firmly, refusing to let go. Our eyes locked, and I saw a flicker of frustration in his gaze. "Let me go," I demanded more firmly, trying to regain my composure.

Zander sighed heavily, the struggle evident in his expression, before he rolled aside and got off me, finally releasing me from his tight grasp. "So you're running away again," he taunted, his voice laced with bitterness as I began gathering my clothes scattered across the room.

My hands trembled slightly as I tried to focus on the clothes in my hand, blocking out the memories that threatened to overwhelm me.

"I don't have any reason to stay," I replied sternly, my voice tinged with a mix of sadness and anger.

The hurt was still there, buried deep beneath the surface, but I couldn't let it consume me.

"Right, no reason!" he muttered under his breath, his frustration seeping through his words like venom.

I looked over my shoulder, throwing a slanting glance at him. He ran a hand through his disheveled hair, his chest heaving loudly. I wore my panties and clasped my bra. "What just happened between us means nothing to you?!" he asked, his voice rising with annoyance, and for a moment, I almost faltered.

"What happened between us, Alpha?!" I asked innocently, wearing my dress. "What do you want, Selena?" his voice again turned cold and void of any emotions. "What is your purpose for coming back?"

I turned and looked into his eyes, finding him becoming that emotionless Alpha again. How good he was at pretending.

I shook my head and laughed breathily. "Oh, so this was the reason the mighty Alpha King served me in bed, but you won't get anything, Alpha, because the truth is I am here to pay off my education loan," I replied with a smug smile on my lips. "You are lying," he gritted out.

"Huh! Why would I lie?!" I shrugged, casting a challenging stare at him as I smoothed my hair, trying to make my appearance good.

I looked around and spotted my heels that I didn't remember removing. Both of them lay in different directions. I slid my feet into the footwear, and I was ready to leave.

"You don't have any education loan, Selena, because I paid the whole amount myself," he revealed, taking me off guard.

No. Why would he pay my loan? Was it his another trick to get the truth from me? I was shocked, but I masked my expression and fought back.

"And you want me to believe you?!" I sneered.

"So tell me, Alpha King, who should I believe?! Because you are saying my loan was paid already, and your fiancée was saying I had a huge amount left," I snapped angrily.

He had ignited the rage within me. I knew the loan must be deducted from the amount in my account. He was lying.

"Selena, I know who has messed with the bank system and changed information," he accused, narrowing his intense blue eyes with a hint of red anger around them. Of course, it's me! I did it to get entry into this pack. But he would never know about it.

"I told you so many things are going

on in your pack, but you didn't pay attention to me. Look at this! Your bank system was tampered with, But how do you know about those things? Because you have no time from expanding your pack's territory," I mocked, snorting.

"What do you mean?!" Zander glared.

"It's not a secret. We know how greedy you are for power and land. It's your hobby to finish a whole pack, and kill their members if they refuse to submit and surrender spat out with disgust as I

remembered how he demolished my

pack and killed all its members.

"Do you have any idea what you are saying?" he growled furiously.

"I know what I am saying, Alpha, because I have heard your Beta and some warriors talking about increasing your pack's boundary, expanding your kingdom," I retorted fiercely, my voice laced with anger. "I can't believe the whole world is on the verge of a big war. The entire werewolf community could be wiped out, and you don't seem to care about it," I shook my head, taunting him with my disbelief. "Alpha King!" "You know nothing," he gritted out, his expression tight with controlled frustration.

"Yeah?!" I snorted, refusing to be intimidated. "So correct me if I am wrong," I demanded, my eyes boring into his.

"Would you be honest to tell me everything if I tell you everything?" he made a proposition, his voice almost calculating.

For him, everything seemed like a business transaction: give and take, just like our marriage had been.

"I don't bargain," I said, raising my chin with pride.

"I have expected this from you, Selena. You are still as stubborn as you have always been," he frowned, squinting his eyes at me as if scrutinizing my whole being. How dare he judge me?

"I can also say you know nothing about me," I shook my head, challenging him.

"Goodbye, Alpha King," I said, my voice firm, and I turned on my heel, slamming the door shut behind me.

"Fuck!" I heard him cursing loudly.

I was done with this conceited Alpha. He couldn't deceive me with his good looks and fake sweet gestures, unlike our first meeting when he had managed to trick me.

Chapter 528

The knock on the door echoed through the room, a soft but unmistakable sound that sent ripples of anticipation through the space. I glanced at my father, and he nodded ever so slightly - a silent understanding passing between us.

With a determined exhale, I crossed the room. My fingers curled around the doorknob, and as the door creaked open, there she stood - Eden.

I swiftly gestured to her, my hand extending to guide her inside. She slipped past the threshold urgently. I locked the door behind her with a soft thud, the world outside

now sealed away. Turning around, I faced her, my eyes searching hers.

"Did you make sure that no one would see you coming here?" I asked urgently. "No, Luna Avery, I told the soldiers on the border that I was going to take some important ingredients only found in this village," Eden replied in her voice, low but resolute. "Good," I said in a stern tone.

"Do you know what happened this morning, Luna Avery? The Alpha king took that slut's side. He is falling for the charm of that bitch again," Eden's words dripped with venom, her fists clenched at her sides. The fury in her voice resonated with the resentment that had fueled our determination to challenge the status quo.

"So, without delaying anymore, we have to execute our plan tonight," I declared. "Tonight?!" Eden's voice held a flicker of disbelief, her eyes widening in response to the sudden acceleration of our timeline.

"Yes, all the arrangements have been made. Just stick to the plan and be careful," I ordered. "Tonight, when everyone from Moonglow pack is caught up in the yellow moon festival - an event that graces them once a year - we will execute our plan. This night will be forever marked by the rogue's hand claiming Selena's life."

A faint, vindictive smirk played on my lips, mirroring the ferocity in Eden's expression. She nodded in agreement, her lips pressing together in a tight line.

"She deserves it for stealing your mate," Eden spat, her voice laden with a mixture of disgust and determination.

"You may leave now. Otherwise, someone might suspect," I instructed.

"Luna," she acknowledged, her head bowing respectfully before she turned to depart.

After Eden left, I pushed the door close, and the door clicked shut behind me, the distinct sound of the lock echoing the finality of my actions. My gaze shifted, and I found myself facing the imposing figure of my father.

I was in my father's pack - his territory, a small village nestled within the sprawling dominion of Zander's Kingdom in the north.

"I have already warned you, Hailley," my father's voice carried a weight of disappointment, like a long-suffering mentor unable to reach an obstinate student. "That woman, Selena, is going to be a significant problem for you, but you are incredibly stubborn and refuse to listen to me."

I swallowed hard, the knot in my stomach tightening as I braced myself for the reprimand that was to follow. His words were a bitter truth I had tried to evade.

A surge of determination flickered within me, and I squared my shoulders, meeting my father's gaze with a mixture of confidence and defiance.

"Don't worry, Father. Everything is under control. I will handle her this time," I asserted, my voice laced with a veneer of self-assuredness that I hoped to embody. He let out a deep, exasperated sigh, the lines on his face deepening as he regarded me with a mix of concern and reproach.

"You said that last time as well," his words were sharp, a blade slicing through my façade of confidence. "But your worthless rogues failed to kill her in the forest, and they were subsequently killed. Their bodies, torn into pieces, were all that remained - a testament to your failure. Moreover, your attempt to shift blame for trying to burn down the kitchen and the pack house onto Selena by setting fire to her clothes but it failed when she was rescued... this only added to your failure."

My fists clenched at my sides as his words struck home, each one a blow to my pride and determination. I glanced away, my frustration etched across my features, struggling to maintain my composure.

"I know, Father," I admitted through gritted teeth, my voice strained. "You don't have to keep reminding me of my failures every time we speak."

He held my gaze with an unwavering intensity, his eyes like shards of ice, piercing through any pretense.

"I have to, Hailley," his tone remained stern, unyielding. "Because it seems you refuse to learn from your mistakes. I told you to seduce Zander, to bear his pup as soon as possible - a means to secure your claim to the throne. Yet, here we are," he concluded, his lip curling with a mixture of disdain and frustration.

"Dad, I have to maintain the facade of being good in his eyes," I began, my voice tinged with frustration and desperation.

The truth lay bare, an unspoken secret I had kept hidden beneath the surface. Every time I attempted to seduce Zander, he relentlessly turned me down, and the memory of this still hurts my pride.

As my memories resurfaced, an ache of longing gripped my chest as I recalled those moments when I had yearned to make him mine, to tear down the barriers between

us. The desperation had clawed at my insides, fueling a determination that had bordered on obsession.

"I can't force myself to be a whore

for him and risk unraveling

everything I've painstakingly built. He values me as his best friend," my words flowed like a plea, tinged with the anxiety of holding a precarious position My gaze remained steady, resolute, as I explained my

ve

reasoning. "Zander's trust in me is unparalleled. He believes Lam the embodiment of truth, the one person who has never lied to him." The air seemed to thicken as my father's stern gaze bore into me, a mixture of disappointment and skepticism painting his expression. His voice cut through the tension, sharp and unforgiving.

"But it's your foolishness that has brought this complication named Selena back into his life," his words struck like a lash, causing my jaw to clench in response.

I recounted every strategy I had employed, the lengths I had gone to in order to rid myself of the threat Selena posed.

"I tried everything to make him hate

her. I put wolfsbane in her food

when she was pregnant, causing miscarriages and pushing her away from Zander. Since she was wolfless, it didn't seem to affect her visibly, and people suspected nothing." my voice wavered with a

mix of frustration and resentment.

A chilling memory resurfaced, the call from Dr. Anderson, the whisper of a nightmare. I was almost caught red-handed.

The urgency in my voice was evident

as I continued, "When I

coincidentally received that call on. Zander's phone, hearing that Dr. Anderson knew what caused

Selena's miscarriages, I had to

eliminate her. I had to burn her office

té erase every trace of proof she

had."

It was the day when Zander was in Alpha's conference and couldn't receive calls or mind links.

"I didn't go that far just for her to triumph. It was my mistake to spare her life, but that won't be the case any longer," I declared, the vehemence in my voice cutting through the air like a blade.

"You have to hurry up, Avery, because if the prophecy is true," my father's voice carried a gravity that held me captive, "he will die on his 30th birthday."

My heart seemed to stall for a moment, the world around me narrowing down to his words.

"What?!" The single word tumbled from my lips, disbelief and surprise merging in my tone. "What did you just say?!"

His nod was solemn, a confirmation that sent a chill racing down my spine.

"Yes," he affirmed, his gaze unflinching. "The Alpha King is invincible, and no force in this world can kill him. But the prophecy dictates that he must die on his 30th birthday."

"And you knew all along?" My voice wavered, the hurt I felt evident in the cracks that laced my tone.

A heavy sigh escaped my father's lips, his eyes carrying a mix of empathy and regret.

"Yes, Avery. I've known you have been in love with him, and I understand your emotions. That's why I kept this from you. I didn't want your feelings to cloud your judgment." Swallowing the lump that had formed in my throat, I mustered a response, the truth, "I did love Zander, but not more than I love this position and power."

A wistful smile tugged at my father's lips, a hint of wicked pride in his gaze.

My curiosity was piqued, and I found myself leaning in, the urgency of the situation demanding answers. "But Father, how did you come to know about this? How did you find out?"

A sly glint entered his eyes as he recounted the events.

"When George came to our pack, his suspicions arose. He discovered our secret thefts in Zander's pack and intended to confront me. I managed to sneak into his room and uncovered a scripture that detailed the prophecy."

A realization dawned upon me, widening my eyes. "So Zander's father, George, wasn't killed by the rogues?"

A casual shrug from my father confirmed my suspicion. "No, I had to kill him to protect our secret."

A mix of astonishment and admiration flickered within me. "Father, you're even more cunning than I gave you credit for."

He chuckled softly, a shadow of amusement dancing in his gaze. "Avery, I wish I could say the same, but your actions have disappointed me. Your recklessness could have cost us dearly."

A smirk tugged at the corners of my lips, a trace of my confidence returning. "Don't worry, Father. I will tread carefully. No more missteps."

Chapter 529

The moment I laid eyes on Blair training with Lewis, I knew I was in deep trouble. It had already been incredibly challenging for me to resist the mate bond, especially considering I had a chosen mate and had been leading a happy life for all those years. But Blair's return

brought back the agonizing pain of staying away from my destined mate.

Why couldn't she make things simpler? Why couldn't she either reject me or accept my rejection? She's only making this situation harder for both of us. She deserved to find a mate who truly deserved her, someone who was of her own age.

Eleven years ago, when I discovered that she was my mate, she was only eight years old. I was faced with two options: either wait until she turned sixteen and claim her, but I doubted she could handle my dark desires at such a young age, or inform her about our mate bond and overshadow her childhood, only to claim her when she reached the legal age for werewolves, which was sixteen.

However, I chose a third option. I released her from the mate bond and selected Emile as my chosen mate instead. This way, Blair could live a normal life, cherish her childhood, enjoy her teenage years, and flourish in her adulthood. She could date boys her own age and find a mate who truly deserved her, someone who would love her wholeheartedly.

We were not meant for each other, and she had to accept that.

I needed to talk to her, but she was blocking my mind links, refusing to let me reach out to her.

Feeling exhausted, I finally went to her room. Blair opened the door, wearing a silk robe with wet hair as if she had just come out of the shower.

"Maddox?!" she exclaimed in surprise upon seeing me at her door, quickly replacing her surprise with a taunting smile.

"I didn't realize you would be so desperate after just one touch that you came to meet me in my room," she taunted.

I let out a sigh of frustration as I entered the room and closed the door behind me. She smirked mischievously, her eyes glinting with desire as she began to untie the sash of her robe.

Fuck!

She didn't know that she was playing with fire. I couldn't help but recall how she had tried to seduce me during our training session. It took every ounce of self-control to resist succumbing to the mate bond and kissing her.

I swiftly reached out and grabbed her hand, stopping her from opening her robe. As our skin made contact, I could feel Micah stirring within me, growling in response to our fated mate's presence.

"I'm not here for that, Blair. I came to talk to you," I stated, my voice tinged with frustration.

She narrowed her eyes at me, quickly tying the sash of her robe.

"Well, don't bother because I'm not in the mood to talk," she dismissed, flinging the door open and gesturing for me to leave.

Fuck me!

"Blair, I won't leave until you listen to me," I stated with an unwavering firmness, my voice a reflection of the stubbornness that had taken hold of me.

Her gaze remained fixed ahead, cold and distant, a clear indication that my presence was far from welcome.

Her words, when they came, were laced with a frostiness that mirrored the ice in her eyes. "Get out, Maddox. I have to get ready for the Yellow Moon Festival."

I understood her anger, and I deserved every ounce of it. But I wasn't about to let her shut me out.

"Blair," I stated firmly, my tone intimidating, "I'm not leaving until we talk about this."

Her posture stiffened, and for a moment, I saw a flicker of surprise in her eyes. She turned away, crossing her arms across her chest. It was okay for me as long as she would listen to what I was going to say.

Taking a deep breath, I continued, my voice softer yet determined. "Blair, you are the most beautiful woman I've ever known. From the moment I met you, I've been captivated by you. But when I found out that you were my fated mate, fear took over. I was terrified of burdening you with a life you didn't sign up for. I didn't want you tied to a man so much older than you, didn't want you to miss out on the life you

deserve."

She turned abruptly. Her eyes bore into mine, a mixture of hurt and confusion swirling within their depths.

"Who are you to decide what's best for me?" she snapped, her voice laced with anger.

I winced inwardly, knowing that my actions had led us to this point. But I needed her to understand, to know the truth behind my decisions.

"You didn't have the right to take my fated mate away," her voice quivered, and in her tear-filled eyes, I saw a torrent of pain and longing.

"Princess," I whispered, my voice a hushed promise, my heart aching in response. Without thinking, I closed the distance between us in two long strides until I was by her side, my arms instinctively reaching out to pull her into an embrace.

Micah surged within me, a primal

howl echoing through my mind as

the realization dawned that our mate

อน

was in my arms, the one we had yearned for. The intensity of the connection was overwhelming, a symphony of emotions crashing against the shores of my consciousness.

Her delicate arms wrapped around me, her touch like a balm to my fractured soul. At that moment, my resolve wavered as the walls I had built to protect both of us threatened to crumble. A tender impulse guided my actions, my thumb brushing gently across her wet cheeks, wiping away the tears that glistened like dewdrops on petals.

"I am sorry, sweetheart," the words were raw and honest, each syllable heavy with the weight of my feelings. "Though it kills me to say this, I truly believe that you deserve someone who can offer you more than I can." Her voice, soft and uncertain, inquired, "Why do you think we don't deserve to be together?"

Her eyes, the color of warm amber, held a kaleidoscope of emotions, each shade flickering like flames beneath the surface. The vulnerability and innocence in her gaze were both a heartache and a comfort, tugging at the frayed edges of my resolve. "Because I am older than you, darling," I admitted, my voice a mixture of tenderness and regret. "And because I know what's best for you. Just like I used to tell you when you were a child."

I had always been the one to shield her, to protect her from harm. It was a role that had become ingrained in me, a duty that I couldn't forsake, even if it meant denying my own desires. Tears continued to flow down her cheeks, each drop proof of the storm of emotions raging within her.

"What will we do, Maddox?" Her voice wavered, a broken plea that resonated with the depths of her pain. Her grip tightened around me, her head finding a resting place against my chest. A rush of longing and desire surged within me, and I held her tighter as if my embrace alone could chase away the shadows that clouded her heart.

"I don't want anyone else but you," she confessed through sobs, her words piercing the defenses I had so carefully constructed.

"It's the mate bond, Blair," I began softly. "It's messing with your head. You have to think logically, rationally."

"And besides," I continued, my words measured and steady, "I can't do this to Emile. She's been by my side all these years, and she's a wonderful mate. I can't betray her trust."

Blair pulled away slightly, her wet eyes locking onto mine as if searching for some kind of validation or explanation.

"Is she better than me?" she questioned, her voice barely more than a whisper, a fragile thread holding back a deluge of tears as her gaze, still pained and glassy, not leaving mine. Her lips trembled as she bit down on them to stop herself from sobbing.

"Hell, no!" I responded quickly, my voice firm yet gentle. "Blair, you're different. You can't be compared to her. But you have to try and understand - as much as I want to be with you, I can't. I can't hurt Emile like that."

Her eyes flared with a mix of

surprise and confusion, her lips

parting slightly. At that moment, an

overwhelming urge surged within me, a powerful longing to close the distance between us, to kiss away her doubts and fears. Micah growled

Within my mind, fighting to take over

me.

I released her gently, putting a deliberate distance between us. Her expression transformed, the confusion giving way to a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty.

"Blair, please," I pleaded with desperation. "We have to reject each other. It's the only way. I can't let this continue."

She nodded slowly, her lips trembling as she exhaled a shaky breath. "Okay," she breathed out.

A sense of relief washed over me, but my chest felt heavier than before.

"We'll do it the day before the full moon," I instructed, my voice a mix of pragmatism and empathy. "The mate bond will be weaker then, and hopefully, the pain will be

less."

Her silent nod spoke volumes. I exhaled deeply, feeling something within me broken. With a heavy heart, I managed to summon a faint smile.

"See you at the festival, princess," I said softly, and turning away, I left her room.

 

Chapter 530

The Moonglow pack was having a big celebration of the yellow moon festival today. Everyone was there, but Eden told me to stay back at the packhouse. My job was to clean the kitchen and get things ready for breakfast tomorrow. I scrubbed the kitchen until it sparkled, putting all the kitchen tools in their proper places. I even chopped up some vegetables and got things ready for the next day if I still stayed till tomorrow.

The packhouse was super quiet and empty because everyone had gone to the party spot far away.

After completing my tasks, I retreated to my room, getting ready to perform the final task.

Just as I was about to power up my laptop, the world outside my thoughts was interrupted by a gentle yet insistent knock at my door. Surprise mingled with uncertainty as I approached. As I opened the door, the door's creaking hinges breaking the solitude that had enveloped me. Before me stood Lola, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

Without a word, she embraced me. I was momentarily taken aback. My hand found its way to her back, gently caressing and conveying my comfort.

"What happened, Lola?"I spoke softly, breaking the silence in a voice laced with concern.

"Jason-he... he fought with me," she managed to say between sobs, her voice quivering with vulnerability.

Jason was Lola's mate.

"It happens, honey," I murmured, offering her reasoning. "When we love someone, we fight. But we still love them."

Her tear-stained face turned towards me, her watery eyes searching for reassurance.

"No, he doesn't love me," she replied, her voice trembling with a mixture of hurt and resignation. The vulnerability in her eyes tugged at my heartstrings. "When I told him to stay away from Sabrina, he said I couldn't order him," she continued, her voice quivering with a mix of sadness and frustration.

Male ego.

"He was angry, Lola," I said softly. "You should try to talk to him when you both calm down. Fighting isn't a solution."

Her brows furrowed as she struggled to balance her anger and longing.

"But right now, I am very angry, and I don't want to talk to him," she confessed, inhaling and exhaling deeply.

I offered a soft smile, my hand tenderly caressing her head. She was like a younger sister to me.

"Okay then, don't talk to him," I replied, smiling gently.

I smirked as a flicker of mischief crossed my mind, a plan forming.

"Go and enjoy the festival," I whispered conspiratorially, "and make him jealous." A glimmer of hope danced in her eyes.

"Thank you, Selena," she said, her voice carrying a newfound lightness. "Now I am feeling better, but I won't go to the yellow moon festival because I can't see him with Sabrina," she added with a pout.

I nodded in understanding, acknowledging the depth of her emotions. "That is a really big problem," I replied, sitting down beside her.

"Can I stay here in your room?" Lola's question hung in the air, catching me slightly off guard.

Oh no!

No! No! No!

That would be a problem if Lola stayed here because I was on the brink of completing this task tonight. I had to do it tonight. I couldn't miss this great opportunity. But she was upset, and I could not throw her out. Pausing to gather my thoughts, I replied, "Okay, but I have to go and clean Luna Avery's room. So I have to go for half an hour." I shrugged, trying to sound casual while my mind whirred with calculations. Lola's face brightened with a helpful offer, "It's okay. I can assist you."

Oh no! I couldn't afford for her to come with me.. Thinking on my feet, I quickly fabricated an excuse.

"Lola, you know Luna Avery doesn't like everyone to enter her room," I explained, hoping to deter her gently.

"Okay, I don't want you to get into trouble, so I will let you go and do your work. Come back fast, and we can have a girl's night," she suggested with a warm smile as her expression softened.

I nodded, grateful for her

understanding As she settled back,

engrossed in videos on her phone, I seized the opportunity. Sneakily, I concealed the laptop under my clothes. The timing seemed almost serendipitous; it was as if the stars were aligned in my favor. Eden's instructions had confined me to the packhouse while the rest reveled in the yellow moon festival, allowing me the perfect cover.

With cautious steps, I left the room, the door closing silently behind me as I made my way through the dimly lit corridors toward the data room. It was that time again-the changing of the guards' shift, the opportunity I needed to enter the room where the world's most secure system was kept.

I inserted the key into the lock and

turned it slowly, the metallic clink echoing softly in the narrow corridor. I looked around attentively as the data room's heavy door swung. open, revealing a realm of secrets and possibilities. I stepped inside, the cold air washing over me, accompanied by the fainthum of

machines that seemed to pulse with

otherworldly energy.

I took a deep breath and approached the central terminal, my fingers dancing over the keyboard with practiced ease. This was the culmination of countless hours spent crafting and refining a program designed for this very task. As the code began to execute, a flicker of anticipation lit up within me.

However, my hope was short-lived. The program hit an unexpected roadblock, halted by an inbuilt countermeasure. It was as if an invisible hand had intervened, thwarting my efforts. My brow furrowed in frustration, and a sense of unease crept over me. I had accounted for every contingency-or so I thought.

Gritting my teeth, I unleashed a program that I had dared to use only as a last resort. Desperation fueled my actions, each line of code a calculated risk.

Fuck!

The outcome remained the same-failure. It was as if someone was actively interfering, bypassing the safeguards I had meticulously put in place.

I pushed my frustration aside,

replacing it with a more ruthless determination. My fingers flew across the keyboard, each stroke carrying the weight of my urgency. The programming grew brutal, a digital battle fought on an invisible battlefield. I was on the brink of success when, once again, the system rebooted, mocking my efforts.

Time was slipping through my fingers like grains of sand, and the guards' return loomed like a sword over my head. Sweat beaded on my forehead as I gritted my teeth and tried one final time. The seconds ticked by, each one carrying the weight of my hopes and fears. A flicker of triumph surged within me as the screen displayed progress. 89%-a tantalizing promise of success. A spark of euphoria surged through me, only to be extinguished moments later as the program faltered and crashed, leaving me with nothing but a string of expletives.

"No!" I hissed, frustration and exhaustion merging into a single, bitter emotion. Time had betrayed me, slipping away like a thief in the night. I cast a final, longing glance at the terminal, a silent promise that this battle was far from over. With a heavy heart, I turned away and made my hasty exit.

I stealthily exited the data room, my senses were on high alert as the distant sounds of voices, raised in concern or panic, immediately seized my attention. With a sense of urgency, I traced the source of the commotion, my footsteps quickening.

As I neared the Omega quarters, a sense of foreboding settled over me. The sight that greeted me was surreal-everyone had congregated, their faces etched with worry and shock. Instinctively, I concealed my laptop near the kitchen, ensuring it was out of sight and safe. My curiosity led me to the center of the gathering, where the emotional energy was the most concentrated. My heart raced, a mixture of apprehension and concern flooding my senses as I approached the scene. Everyone was gathered in my room. Gasps and cries punctuated the air, creating an eerie symphony that gripped my attention.

And then, I saw it. Blood. My breath caught in my throat, a shiver of dread running down my spine. Panic surged through me as I took in the scene before me. There, on the floor, lay Lola. Horror gripped me, my mind racing to grasp the reality of what had transpired. Her once vibrant form was now a haunting tableau of devastation. Her head was ripped apart from her body, her limbs torn and mangled- evidence of a brutal attack by an animal. The sight was jarring, a nightmare made real. My mind raced to find answers, my thoughts a whirlwind of disbelief and shock.

Rogue attack?!

"Lola!" A desperate cry escaped my lips, a guttural sound of anguish that cut through the air. My eyes brimmed with tears, a flood of emotions overwhelming me. Amidst the chaos, the sea of faces turned towards me.

"She is the murderer! Selena has killed this omega!" Avery's voice rang out as her finger pointed in my direction, the accusation searing through the air.