《The Rogue Alpha鈥檚 Claim》


 Chapter 1

    ¡°Alpha. The shipments have arrived, and we need your signature.¡± Mason, the beta of the rogue pack, said to his Alpha.


    The man in question looked up from his desk and eyed his Beta, his jaw set in a frown. He is what every youngdy would consider hot, with an aura like that of a god and a well-chiseled face that has been sculpted by the moon goddess herself.


    ¡°Alright. Give me a minute, and I will be there.¡± He replied, returning to his work. ¡°Meanwhile, another request just came in from the Blood Moon Alpha, and he is requesting our services.¡±


    Mason sighed aloud before proceeding to dump himself on the chair in front of Kane. ¡°What does he want this time?¡±


    Kane paused his writing and turned to look at his friend and the man he considered his brother. ¡°He needs our help in taking over a pack, and he is offering to pay a lot.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that against thew?¡± Mason queried, ¡°I don¡¯t get werewolves; why would you want to destroy another pack and im it? Why isn¡¯t the Alpha King saying anything about it?¡± His forehead furrowed into a frown as the very thought of it gave him a nasty headache.


    ¡°Why is it surprising to you? This isn¡¯t our first rodeo, and they do it all the time. I don¡¯t even care again; they can fuck themselves up if they like. I am taking the job. The money is too good to pass.¡± Kane stated, leaving no room for argument, and Mason shrugged.


    ¡°Alright. When should we start preparing?¡±


    A little smile formed on Kane¡¯s lips, and he looked up at him. ¡°Soon.¡±


    ***


    The rogue park, as their pack was fondly called, is just as the name implies. They have been the outcasts of their packs, left to suffer a terrible end in the woods, but fate has managed to bring them together.


    Of them all, Kane was thergest, standing at 6¡¯3 ft., and his wolf was thergest among them all and feral, so he naturally became the Alpha.


    To humans, they were known as rogue mafias, one of the deadliest underground movements in the United States, and they specialized in the sale of weapons and arms.


    However, what had brought them to the limelight and made them rich and popr was assassination. They had trained soldiers and specialized in terminating people if you have the money, and you wouldn¡¯t imagine how many people sort for their expertise every day.


    And one was the Bloodmoon Pack.


    Bloodmoon Park was a fierce pack in the United States, and they were easily the third strongest in the states. They grew their own resources and had their own services that they rendered to humans.


    But they had a rival.


    The Moonlight Pack shared a boundary with them, and they had been longtime enemies. It was so bad that if anyone entered the opposing pack, he or she was killed right away.


    Their rivalry has been long, and everyone was aware of it, but this was the first time they needed the service of the rogue pack.


    Now they could always take the moonlight pack, but the alpha didn¡¯t deem them worthy to get his hands soiled, hence the reason he hired the rogue pack.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Have the weapons been tested?¡± Kane barked at his third-inmand, Toby. Toby was in charge of war and coordinating attacks.


    ¡°Yes Alpha. The guns have been tested, and they work fine, but we are yet to try out the bombs.¡±


    Kane shook his head, looking around the armory. He had managed to turn a deserted forest into a storehouse for thetest weapons, and he was proud of himself.


    There was a hint of a smile on his lips as he thought of the money that would be entering his ount in a few days. ¡°Gather the men; we attack in two days.¡±


    ¡°Yes Alpha.¡±


    ****


    ¡°Daddy, I want to go with you.¡± Ariel whined, clutching her father¡¯s pants tightly. He was supposed to be in a meeting with the elders in the pack, but he was being held by his 15-year-old daughter-a spoilt daddy¡¯s girl.


    ¡°Baby, you know you can¡¯t follow me there. We will be discussing adult things, and you will get bored.¡± Her dad tried to exin, but she wouldn¡¯t hear the end of it.


    She shook her head, her luscious brown curls bouncing around her as she did. ¡°I want to go with you.¡± Ariel whined, clutching her father¡¯s pants with a grip that surprised even the alpha.


    The alpha looked at his wife with a plea, a sigh releasing from him as he signaled her to help him, and the Luna chuckled as she moved towards them, gently removing Ariel ¡®s hand.


    ¡°Ari, your dad needs to go now. I promise you, when he gets back, you can have him to yourself.¡± The Luna tried to reason with her child, but she didn¡¯t want to hear anything about it. She just wanted to be with her father. And it was their fault, as they had spoiled her as an only child.


    The Luna was able to calm her daughter down after bribing her with her favorite ice cream, and Ariel was sitting on the sofa, eating her ice cream with a wide smile on her lips.


    The Luna sat down beside her daughter, watching her with a smile on her lips, and she reached to clean the dollop of cream that was tickling down her lips when they began to hear footsteps.


    The footsteps were loud and urgent, and they were nearing them. The person behind the footsteps arrived and stood in front of the Luna, her body hunched forward as she tried to catch her breath. However, she knew how urgent the message she was to pass was.


    ¡°They are here!¡±


    That was the only thing the Luna needed to hear before she grabbed hold of the startled Ariel, who was about to burst into tears because her ice cream had fallen to the ground.


    Then there was silence, so deadly that it sent a chill down the spines of everyone present. And then¡­


    Boom!


    The explosion rocked the foundation of the house, shattering the sses and items in the house and throwing everyone with its impact. The Luna was quick, and she threw herself on the floor, shielding her daughter from the impact.


    Stones and debris flew, raining on them, and soon dust particles were flying everywhere.


    ¡°Luna.¡± She heard one of the pack members scream. ¡°Luna, where are you?¡± Her voice got weaker by the second.


    The Luna coughed, trying to clear up the dust that had gathered in her chest. She rose up and checked on her daughter, relief written all over her face as she noticed she was fine.


    ¡°I am here, Brie. I am here.¡± Brie managed to crawl to meet Luna, tears brimming from her eyes. ¡°What is happening?¡±


    ¡°We are under attack, and I don¡¯t know where.¡± Brie was screeching, the panic evident in her voice. But the Luna stopped listening to the word attack. Her motherly instinct kicked in, and she was sending a message to everyone through the link.


    ¡°Be calm, everyone; everything is under control.¡± Her words were like soothing balm,ced with a bit of power, and the people began to visibly rx. ¡°If you have not been trained to fight, make your way to the underground bunker. The children should go in first, and¡­¡±


    She hadn¡¯t finished talking when another explosion rocked the foundation of the house, and she was thrown off bnce. She grimaced as she fell to the floor, hitting her head on the ss table, and it pierced through her flesh.


    ¡°Mom!¡± Ariel cried out as she saw her mom thrown like a rag doll. The same would have been her fate if not for Brie, who had carried her.


    ¡°Go! Run to the bunker!¡± The Luna screamed, afraid for her child.


    ¡°Mom!¡± Ariel screamed, struggling toe down to get to her mother, but Brie was already dragging her away even as her shrieks continued to pierce the whole room.


    ***


    Kane and his men were high on adrenaline as they ran through the rubble that was once the moonlight pack. The attack had been meticulously nned to fall on a day that they least expected, and they had carefully nned bombs at strategic ces that would go off within a 5-minute interval.


    Some of the bombs have beenced with a concentrated amount of wolfsbane to weaken their wolves even before they realize it.


    The rogue pack didn¡¯t get their title for nothing.


    Once the explosion had gone off, they had scattered and spread out, walking through the rubble and killing anyone on site, both alive and dead.


    One can never be too careful.


    The bullet had been made with a wolf¡¯s bane to make sure no one survived the shot. Kane has earned his reputation for being thorough, and he was determined to keep to the end of the bargain.


    His men were rounding up the loot and ounting for the massacre when Kane began to head to what used to be the Alpha¡¯s house.


    He stepped on the falling stones while trying to avoid the bodies that were on the floor. He grimaced at the sight in front of him, but he continued pressing onward.


    His body tingled as something pricked in him, and he found himself moving towards a wall. Kane stood in front of the wall; it didn¡¯t seem suspicious, yet his mind was telling him something else.


    Frustrated, he punched the wall, and the ground underneath him rumbled, and he began to descend downward.


    He dipped his hands in his pocket, feeling for the cold metal, and as soon as the elevator stopped, he fired, hitting the target straight in the head.


    His ears rang as he heard screams, but they were soon silenced by three shots. ¡°I need backup at the alpha¡¯s house now!¡± He yelled to his packmates, and there was a chorus of yes, sir, before the connection went off.


    Kane walked towards the screams, his guns poised in two hands and ready to attack. But he wasn¡¯t ready for what was toe.


    Because he locked eyes with a pair of electric blue ones, and all hell seemed to let loose.

 Chapter 2

    ¡°Mate.¡± Max, his wolf, hollered loudly. Kane was still in a state of confusion as he locked eyes with the blue ones that supposedly were his mates, and he was lost for words.


    A young girl had brown curls for hair; she was fair but had be pale, and she was looking at him. She was barely holding up as she inhaled the gas that had weakened her wolf, but her gaze dropped to the woman who had been with her, and she began to sob.


    Her cries were guttural and sad, and they triggered something in him-something he never thought he had. Sympathy.


    Kane quickly tucked the guns away, and he came closer to her, taking slow, careful steps so as not to startle her. But Ariel curled into herself, wailing aloud, even as she felt the cord that linked her to her family, to her pack getting broken.


    Ariel¡¯s pupils widened in fear, and she whimpered, trying but failing to scamper away from this man. She was bound by her mother¡¯s words, so she couldn¡¯t leave the bunker.


    Kane continued to approach the frightened girl, his wolf itching him to meet her so he could touch her. ¡°Get a grip, Max. She is already frightened, and I don¡¯t want to startle her anymore than she already is.¡± Kane cautioned his impatient wolf.


    Of all the things he had expected, thest thing on his mind was finding a mate. And from what he could see, it was likely that she was the alpha¡¯s daughter.


    ¡°Alpha. The pack has been wiped out; save the alpha, and await your judgment.¡± Toby announced as soon as he got closer, and Kane froze as he heard that.


    Shit.


    Ariel only took so long before it registered in her mind that it was her pack they were attacking and her father was going to be the next target whose blood would be spilling on the floor, and she was screaming bloody murder.


    ¡°What the hell, Toby, Mindlink?¡± Kane roared at his gamma, spittle flying from his mouth.


    His wolf wanted out; he wanted to teach the disrespectful wolf a lesson, and maybe he would think twice before scaring his mate.


    ¡°Oops.¡± Toby gave a tight-lipped smile, his hands flying to his hair to scratch the messy lock. ¡°Sorry.¡± He apologized and was running back to where the other warriors were before Kane would react.


    Kane could hear them chanting war songs, no doubt with smiles on their faces, and he managed to smile despite his condition.


    There was no time to waste, so he grabbed the hands of his mate. ¡°Fuck.¡± Kane shuddered as he felt the unmistakable spark that erupted on contact.


    He closed his eyes, ignoring her shouts and struggles. Her tiny fists were pounding on his arms, but he could care less. Instead, he sucked in arge amount of air, exhaling it rather noisily.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Kane said to the child, his anger only rising by the minute. She was still looking at him with pure hatred in her eyes, and if looks could kill, he could be six feet under now.


    Such looks don¡¯t fit her, and he wishes he could erase whatever she had just seen.


    You can. The taunting voice in his head was loud, but Kane shook his head hard, erasing such thoughts. He would never do that to her; he had already taken her family away from her, and thest thing he was going to do was take away her memory.


    ¡°What the fu¡­¡± Kane yelled, his eyes looking down at the culprit. The little shit had bit his hands so much that he could perceive the faint smell of blood reaching his nose. ¡°You.¡± Kane snarled, baring his teeth as his wolf threatened toe out.


    His wolf would tolerate no disrespect, and if it were an ordinary member, they would have been on their knees with some of their teeth gone.


    Before he could rein in his wolf, Ariel had fled the area to where she supposed her father was while wailing for the world to hear.


    ¡°Fuck.¡± Kane eximed, rubbing his hands through his hair. He had cursed more times now than he would have in a day, and it was all because of the mate the moon goddess had decided was a great match for him. ¡°Fuck.¡± He screamed his frustration again, and he was marching towards the door, following her tiny footsteps.


    It wasn¡¯t long before he saw her kneeling in front of her weakened father. The once-great man was also on his knee, his body covered in blood, bruised and battered, and a sheen of sweat covering his face.


    Even he could realize when he had been defeated, and there was nothing he could do.


    ¡°Dad!¡± Ariel cried out, shaking her father with her tiny fist. ¡°Please don¡¯t go.¡±


    Kane hated to admit it, but her pleas were doing something to him. It had been a long time since he had experienced such emotions, and he wasn¡¯t sure what to do about it.


    All he knew was that he couldn¡¯t spare this alpha.


    ¡°Kane.¡± Ariel¡¯s father spat out with what little strength he still had. His words wereced with so much hatred and venom that Ariel was turning her neck towards him, mirroring her father¡¯s look.


    It soon came to put him back on his ass because he doubled up in pain, holding his chest as he coughed up blood.


    Kane could only shake his head in sympathy. The once-great alpha has been reduced to a caricature of himself.


    ¡°It is alpha to you, John.¡± Kane spat out with the same venom. Their hatred had run deep, and it was only death that could put an end to it.


    It wasn¡¯t going to be too long now since John was already knocking on heaven¡¯s door or wherever werewolves end up when they die.


    ¡°You are no alpha, Kane,¡± John sneered, baring his teeth as you would a rouge. ¡°You are nothing but a wannabe, a filthy wolf, and a feral, and no matter how you try, you will never be a real wolf.¡± No sooner than he finished saying those words, his face was meeting the floor in a thud.


    Kane, unable to bear the words he had thrown at him, had kicked his head so hard that it met the floor in a sickening crunch that was bound to affect his skull, and his nose red as the undeniable smell of metal reached him.


    ¡°Daddy.¡± Ariel yelled a blood-curdling scream, and he was cringing from it.


    ¡°Mason!¡± Kane yelled for his beta, ¡°Come, get her out of here.¡± He couldn¡¯t stand to see her in pain, especially when he was the cause of the pain.


    Quick footsteps were approaching them, and Mason was soon in sight. ¡°Alpha.¡± The beta said, lowering his head in respect.


    ¡°Get her out of my sight. She doesn¡¯t need to watch this.¡±


    ¡°Yes alpha.¡± Mason replied and was moving towards her side; no question was needed. All he cared about was doing his bidding.


    His hands wrapped around her tiny wrist, and he was pulling her up. ¡°Noooo.¡± Ariel cried, and both men were cringing from the noise. The sound is too loud for their sensitive ears.


    For someone who had inhaled the gas, she was quite energetic.


    ¡°Dad? Daddy? Wake up, please wake up.¡± Fat drops of tears were dripping out of her eyes as she held on to her father.Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Ari.¡± Kane heard the weary voice of the alpha, and he knew that it wasn¡¯t long before he met his ancestors. His little girl rushed to his side as she heard her name, and Mason made to go after her, but Kane raised his hands.


    It is alright; just give them time.


    Ari kneeled in front of her father, and the dying alpha was whispering to her ears even as Kane looked on with a faraway look, and Ariel was nodding her head at every word.


    The next event happened so fast that Kane could barely stop it. The alpha produced a needle from his pocket and stabbed his daughter¡¯s thigh, even while the other needle was already jammed in his thighs, pumping loads and loads of wolfbane into his system in such a lethal dose that no wolf could survive it.


    ¡°The fucker.¡± Kane yelled, kicking the syringe out of his hands. But it was toote; the damage had already been done, and the alpha fell on his side, white foam spewing from his mouth.


    Kane heard a dull thud, and he watched as his mate crumpled to the floor beside her father. Wet trails of tears were still visible on her face, and he shook his head.


    ¡°What have I done to deserve this?¡±

 Chapter 3

    Kane¡¯s eyes were still bulging from the fact that he had just witnessed a fucking suicide before his eyes, and his heart rate was skyrocketing. He wasn¡¯t a stranger to blood and gore; he was born in it, and all his life has been about blood and gore.


    However, the sight in front of him was so horrible that he had goosebumps all over his body, and Kane shivered despite the fact that the air was not even a bit cold.


    ¡°What should we do about him, Alpha?¡± The voice of his beta was disrupting his thoughts, and Mason eyed the murder scene with distaste. Despite the massacre, thete alpha was a great man, but suicide was frowned upon in the werewolf world.


    ¡°Light up the pack on fire. The Moonlight pack is no longer avable, but make sure to take everything that will be useful for the pack. I will be going now.¡±


    ¡°Yes alpha.¡± Mason said, bowing his head as a sign of respect, until his eyesnded on the crumpled bundle on the floor. ¡°What are we doing about her alpha? Are we killing her?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch her!¡± Max snarled, baring his bloody teeth towards Mason. ¡°I will break anyone¡¯s hand who dares to touch her.¡± The power leaked from his voice, and all the werewolves around were having trouble keeping their heads up.


    ¡°I am sorry, Alpha. I never meant to anger you; I was just concerned.¡± Mason apologized in a calm voice, lowering his head to the point that he was sure he would develop neck pain if he continued.


    ¡°No one gets to touch her but me, no one!¡± Max barked, and even for a beta, the power that Kane had was so great that he wanted to bend his knees.


    Then it clicked in his brain.


    ¡°She is your mate.¡± No sooner than he said the words, Kane pounced on him, having regained control.


    ¡°You will tell no one about this.¡± He snarled, and Mason nodded his head in affirmation before he was scurrying off to carry out the bidding of his alpha.


    Kane lowered himself to the sleeping position on the floor, his bloody hands reaching gingerly to her nose. A little sigh of relief left him as he felt the hot air, and he was picking her up gently.


    For a moment, his heart had stopped beating as he watched his mate crumple to the floor like a rag doll, and he thought the former alpha was so wicked to kill his daughter.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    When he hadn¡¯t felt any loss from the mate bond, it was only then that he was reassured that she lived, but even at that, Max was still going crazy at the thought that she was unconscious.


    ¡°Can you stop acting like a lovesick puppy?¡± Kane spat out, as he couldn¡¯t bear the constant whining from his wolf any longer. ¡°Fuck sake, you have only known her for a few minutes, and you are acting like she is your world.¡±


    Max refused to take the jab; instead, he settled in his space andid his head.


    ¡°Ariel.¡± Kane murmured the name he had heard them call her, and he reached out, stroking her hair. The long hair was full of debris from blowing the house up, and it was matted and tangled.


    He was going to have to run her a bath when they got home.


    He picked his mate up, the spacks igniting on their touch as if to confirm that it was really the person sent by the goddess for him.


    ¡°Why?¡± Kane couldn¡¯t help but whine as he walked to where the warriors were still chanting war songs about their victory.


    Their celebration ceased as soon as they sighted him, and they were rushing to him with huge smiles on their faces that reminded Kane of the pups he had rescued some time ago.


    ¡°Alpha, they are gone.¡± One said, his eyes lighting up like the 4th of July. One would think they won a lottery and not just massacred the whole pack.


    Kane remembered the man as a bloodthirsty rogue who had begged him to join the pack because of his love for blood and gore.


    Kane had been reluctant to let him in because his type would prove too difficult to handle. But he would be a great addition to the pack, and Kane was reluctant to let him go.


    The man froze as he neared Kane, his nose ring as he sniffed the air, and he stilled. ¡°Why is she here?¡± He growled in a tone that Kane wolf didn¡¯t find funny, and his chest rumbled in response.


    ¡°Watch your tongue.¡± Kane barked in response. There were already enough deaths, and he wasn¡¯t going to add a pack member to the list.


    ¡°You told us to kill everyone, irrespective of who they are, and I demand to know why you are holding one of those dogs in your hands and refusing to obey your order.¡±


    The next moment was quick and painless.


    One minute he was a breathing living being, and the next, Kane¡¯s hands were on his neck, wsing out of his hands and ripping out his throat like it was nothing.


    Kane watched as his lifeline fled from his body, his hand flying up to meet the empty gaping hole that once housed his voice box, which was gone and, in its wake, was a bloody, fleshy mess.


    ¡°A-aa.¡± He attempted to call his name, reaching his hands to touch him, but blood flowed out of his throat like a fountain, and he crumpled on his knees,nding on his face down.


    ¡°Does anyone else have something else to say?¡± Kane yelled out to the frightened wolves, and they shook their heads in unison, too scared to open their mouths; otherwise, they risked losing their tongues. ¡°Good, clean this shit up and let us go home.¡±


    ¡°Yes alpha.¡± Various voices thundered before they scampered around to do their alpha¡¯s bidding.


    Kane came out of the pack house that has been reduced to rubble, and the first sight that greeted him was the loot that has beenid on the road as a peace offering.


    He nodded his head in happiness, taking note of everything: livestock, jewelry, raiments, and, of course, money.


    His gaze shifted to the cars that had been packed in the garage, and they zeroed in on the red Mustang. That will look good with me inside, Kane thought to himself.


    He was already walking towards the car, his eyes on the prize, until he got there. This pack must either be so safe or so stupid to leave their keys inside, but it worked in his favor. ¡°I will be on my way now. Toby will load all the spoils into the vehicle and assign some warriors to take them back to the pack while the rest will run home.¡±


    ¡°Yes alpha.¡± Toby replied in a loud voice, and Kane nodded to himself as he watched as his third-inmand began to dish out instructions.


    Kane lowered himself into the car, but not before putting her in the seat next to him and securing her with the seatbelt.


    He couldn¡¯t carry her and drive, and the rear seat couldn¡¯t befortable, hence his decision.


    Kane was almost recoiling at the thought that his mate was a young girl. Just how old is she? He peeped at her sleeping form, and she didn¡¯t look as young as he had thought. She could be fifteen or sixteen.


    He tried to ignore those thoughts and got into the car, turning on the ignition. The car roared to life, and Kane was smiling at the sound.


    He began to whistle to the music in his head as he drove back to the car. For a moment, he pretended. He pretended like he didn¡¯t just wipe out a whole pack; he didn¡¯t just abduct his mate-his underage mate, in fact-as if blood weren¡¯t dried on his fingers and his shirt had the blood of the men whose lives he had wasted.


    For now, he was just a regr man who was enjoying a good ride, but it was quick toe to an end as he neared the pack. It wasn¡¯t your typical pack, as there was no pack house or massive structure, but it was a ce he called home along with 54 other people.


    Kane beelined straight to the makeshift room that was serving as the pack clinic, and he opened the door with such force that the door shook from its hinges.


    ¡°Alpha.¡± The noise had startled the nurse, the only female member of the group, and she was standing up. as she saw the bundle in his hands. ¡°What is wrong?¡±


    ¡°I need you to treat her.¡± Kanemanded, and he was storming out of the room before she could ask any other questions.

 Chapter 4

    Kane stormed out of the room, his steps heavy as they pounded on the floor. ¡°Fuck!¡± He wanted to scream his frustration out for anyone who cared to hear it, but he held himself back.


    He looked up as he heard the sound of various enginesing closer, and behold, it was his pack members-some in the car and some in their werewolves-running with their tongues out in excitement.


    Kane stood outside, waiting for them until everyone wasplete, and he cleared his throat, demanding an audience.


    ¡°Today, you all have shown your bravery and determination, and I have never been more proud of you.¡± His voice rang out between them, and they nodded in agreement. ¡°You were once cast away from your various packs, but now you have proven that you could be more, and I have never been more proud of you.¡±


    The warrior¡¯s chest puffed out as they began to chant their war song, and Kane was smiling from ear to ear.


    ¡°Tonight, we shall wine and dine and celebrate our victory!¡±


    ¡°Yey!!!¡± The pack roared with him, and Kane was all smiles as the adrenaline pumped into his blood. The noise died down, and he was able to escape to the confines of his room.


    There was nothing fancy about it; it was just a room that had all his essentials along with dull painted walls. They were a rogue pack and were still trying to build their pack, so they had to make do with what they had.


    But with the recent loot, there should be more than enough to rebuild the pack.


    Kane¡¯s face contorted in pain as he peeled off the shirt from his body. He had sustained a cut during the battle and needed to get it checked.


    But first, he needed a shower.


    He hopped into the shower and took his precious time, scrubbing the blood that had clung to his skin. He watched as the red liquid went down the sink, and he wondered if this was how it was going to be all his life


    It wasn¡¯t too long before he had a tingling sensation in his head. A pack member was trying to contact him.


    ¡°Yes?¡± Kane replied as he opened the link.


    ¡°Alpha, I think you need toe now. It is about your mate.¡±


    ¡°Shit!¡± The panic in her voice had him abandoning his shower and hurriedly picking up whatever clothes he couldy his hands on, and he was throwing them on his wet figure.


    ¡°Alpha.¡± Denise panicked as she saw the alpha in front of her, his hair still dripping with water. His shirt had clung tightly to his muscr frame, and even he had to admit that he was hot.


    ¡°You called?¡± Kane asked with a tinge of impatience.


    ¡°Yes, I did. There is something wrong with your mate, and I thought to let you know.¡± Kane pounced on her before she could get all the words out.


    ¡°No one, I repeat, no one should know that we are mated. If I hear the news flying around, I will know that it is you, and you know what I did to betrayers.¡± Denise quickly shook her head, afraid that a dy in response might signify her end.


    ¡°Good. Now what did you have to say?¡± Kane asked, aware of the water dripping down his back but not making any effort to clean it. His matees first, and anything else can wait.


    ¡°I can¡¯t feel her wolf.¡± Denise said, going straight to the point, and Kane looked at her like she had just ordered his manhood to be chopped off and made into sausage.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand you, Denise; if you are going to talk, I suggest you do so in simpler terms. We are werewolves, and she is of the age to get one already, so what do you mean that she doesn¡¯t have a wolf?¡±


    Denise inhaled a whiff of air because it was going to take a lot to convince him before she started talking. ¡°I have conducted all the necessary tests, and I couldn¡¯t find a wolf. I am of the belief she doesn¡¯t have one, which will be unusual since your wolf has recognized her or something is blocking her wolf.¡± It was as she said it that it clicked in Kane¡¯s mind, and he was nodding his head.


    ¡°I think I could remember that before her father died, he injected her with something, and she fainted almost immediately.¡±


    Denise nodded her head as she connected the dots. ¡°I see; that must be the reason why. It is a cruel thing to do, but I know of a way to remove it if you will allow me.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Kane stroked his full chin of beard as he gave it some thought. The beard was getting too bushy, and it needed a trim. ¡°No, don¡¯t remove it.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Denise¡¯s eyebrows were raised so high that they almost reached her forehead. ¡°Alpha. You can¡¯t possibly allow her to go like that without knowing who and what she is.¡±


    ¡°Who said I couldn¡¯t? It is only between two of us, and I am sure I wouldn¡¯t talk, so I would advise you to be careful.¡± Denise gulped down the ball of saliva that had pooled in her mouth, and she lowered her head.


    ¡°Yes alpha.¡±Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Good. Just make sure she is fine and awake the next time Ie here.¡±


    ¡°Yes Alpha.¡± Denise replied, and Kane acknowledged her response with a nod, and he continued on his way. His hair was already getting dry and frizzy, and he needed to rest his head.


    The battle hadsted for most of the day, and the night was drawing near so fast. He needed toy his head on the bed before the time for the celebration.


    Kane closed his door, making sure to bolt it shut so no one would disturb him. He pulled his shirt over his head, and he was dumping himself on the bed.


    It didn¡¯t take long for him to fall asleep, as he was weary-both his mind and his body-and it was a sweet sleep until he heard a pounding on his door.


    Kane was a notorious light sleeper; it could be from the fact that he had lived in the wild for a long time and you have to learn to be alert.


    He sat up on his bed and nced at the bedside.


    The party must have kicked off.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it too early for booze?¡± Kane cocked an eyebrow at Beta. Mason had entered his room, nursing a bottle of vodka.


    ¡°No time is too early for booze, but we are just getting started, and I thought to inform you.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, thanks; I will be on my way. Meanwhile¡­¡± Kane snatched the bottle of alcohol from his hands, and he took a long gulp before he handed it to him and sent him on his way.


    Kane had already taken his bath, so he went for his signature ck shirt and ck pants. He ran his hands through his hair, not bothering with a mirror. They were all male except for the nurse, and they had no one to impress.


    He walked towards the entrance of the pack, where a fire was burning brightly and men gathered around it, drinking andughing.


    A hush fell on them as they sensed his presence, and they began to shout in victory.


    Praises have a way of getting to your brain, and Kane was nodding his head to their cries as he made his way to the middle, where the fire was still burning bright.


    Someone handed him a bottle, and he didn¡¯t look at it before he was chugging at it. He raised his hands in the air and opened his mouth. ¡°To victory!¡±


    ¡°To victory,¡± the pack thundered after him and broke into a loud shout.


    Kane nodded his head as he looked at the men seated. They all had their struggles, but somehow they had ovee them and gotten to this point in their lives, and he had never been more proud.


    The celebration dragged on until the night, but there was only so much they could do as there were no females around, so they pretty much retired to bed on time, drunk out of their minds.


    Except Kane.


    He had slept during the day and needed to use the time to work. He padded back to the little room that served as his office and sat down to work, taking note of the inventory of theirtest conquest.


    Kane was neck deep into work, scribbling into pages and racking his brain, and suddenly his ear perked up as he sensed a presence.


    ¡°Dad?¡±

 Chapter 5

    ¡°Daddy?¡± Ariel called with a soft voice that had Kane¡¯s hardened heart melting. He looked at the young girl, who was looking smaller for her age, and he was shaking his head in pity.


    He had asked his men to snoop around the pack house before they burned it, and they had discovered she was just 15 years old. He was 20, which means there was a five-year gap between them.


    It wasn¡¯t all that much, yet as he looked at her innocent face, he couldn¡¯t feel anything but pity for her.


    ¡°Come.¡± Kane said, motioning to her. Ariel made her way gingerly to him, despite the fact that her mother had warned her several times not to talk to strangers.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    But right now she was in a strange world and had no recollection of herself, and it was only this strange man that was radiating afortable warmth she could trust.


    Kane watched as she made her way to him, and he couldn¡¯t help the smile on his face. The moment was, however, disrupted when his ear pricked and he heard panicked footstepsing from afar.


    ¡°Oh, my goddess. I am dead. Oh, my goddess, he will kill me.¡± The voice continued to ring out, proiming her demise, even though Kane had no intention of shortening her life span.


    Just as he had thought, a knock went off on his door, and upon his verbal consent, the door opened quietly, as if afraid that the mere creaking of the door would anger him.


    If this was what his pack members thought of him, Kane thought he would have to be more friendly.


    ¡°Alpha.¡± Denise peeped her head through the small opening of the door, and her worried eyes scanned around the room until theynded on the ones she had been looking for, and she released a little sigh of relief.


    ¡°Denise?¡± Kane looks at her with a slight annoyance. He wanted alone time with his mate and needed no one to disturb him. ¡°What do you need?¡±


    ¡°I just wanted to check up on you. I know you have been quiet busytely, and I just wanted to appreciate you for what you did.¡±


    Kane rolled his eyes at the obvious ttery. ¡°You lost her, right?¡± He said it in a teasing voice, and Denise gulped before nodding her head.


    ¡°I am sorry. I went to get her food, and suddenly she was nowhere to be found. She doesn¡¯t have any scent, so I didn¡¯t know how to track her.¡±


    Kane dismissed her with a wave of his hands before she continued to ramble his ears off. ¡°It is alright, but I expect you to do a better job next time.¡±


    ¡°Yes Alpha.¡± Denise lowered his head for a second longer than necessary, and she scurried out of the office, shutting the door in her wake.


    ¡°Are you hungry?¡± Kane said, directing his attention to his mate. She has been quiet throughout their conversation. Ariel shrugged her shoulders, refusing to utter a word.


    Kane took her reluctance as a yes, and he messaged one of his men to arrange a meal for her. He will need to hold a meeting with his friends to discuss what he is going to do with her. He can¡¯t possibly keep her here in a rogue pack of 99. 9% men.


    He wanted her to explore the world and, more importantly, to grow up; in his head, she was just a young girl he had taken under his care and not his mate.


    His thought was disrupted when he heard a knock on the door and a male warrior entered, bncing a tray on his hand.


    ¡°Alpha, you called.¡±


    ¡°Yes, thank you. Just ce it on the table.¡± Kane said, gesturing to the table, and the man left it there before hurrying out of the way.


    Ariel needed no prompting before she was walking towards the table and eating from it. She couldn¡¯t care if it was going to be poisoned; her belly needed to be filled.


    She finished eating and cleaned her mouth, moving to sit down away from him, and when she was done, she dozed off to sleep.


    ***


    ¡°Why did he call us here?¡± Toby asked, his eyebrows rising in question. He had been rxing on his bed, ying a game, when Kane messaged him that he wanted to see him.


    ¡°I am not sure; I have an idea, but we may never know.¡± Mason said, his face stoic as ever. All he could think of was how Kane got mad when he suggested they killed the girl from the pack, and he was sure she was his mate.


    ¡°I have something to do; he should be¡­¡± The door opened before Toby couldplete his words, and he was standing up as if he had been struck by lightning. ¡°Kane, you are here.¡±


    Kane nced from his Beta to his Gamma, his eyebrows furrowed in a frown, and he shook his head. ¡°I need your help.¡±


    ¡°Alright, how can we help you?¡±


    Kane sat on the edge of the bed while the rest had made themselvesfortable on the only piece of furniture he had, and he leaned forward. ¡°I have found my mate.¡±


    He looked at his closest friends as he dropped the bombshell, and he almostughed as he saw Toby¡¯s expression.


    If he wasn¡¯t so serious, he would have whipped out his phone and taken a picture. ¡°The hell.¡± Toby¡¯s dramatic ass was standing up before he could think of it. ¡°You are lying.¡±


    Kane gave him the side eye, not so fond of his words; there are many things he could be, but he wasn¡¯t a liar.


    ¡°I am dead serious.¡± He replied, ncing at his beta. Mason¡¯s face was a nk te, showing no emotions, and he was sure he suspected it before.


    ¡°Who is she?¡± Mason spoke just to confirm his doubt, and Kane gave him a look that confirmed all he knew.


    ¡°What the hell is going on? I want in on the gist.¡± Toby whined like a spoiled child, and Kane was rolling his eyes.


    How did he even be his Gamma?


    ¡°You don¡¯t know how, but I will introduce her to you when the time is right.¡± Kane exined, straightening his back. ¡°Anyways, that is beside the point. She can¡¯t stay here; she is too young to be here, and honestly, I am not ready for a mate now.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Mason stroked his clean-shaved jaw. ¡°I don¡¯t think that is all to it; there is something you are not telling us.¡±


    Kane¡¯s lips stretched into a thin line, cursing himself for being so easy to read, and he released a sigh. ¡°She has no idea she is a werewolf.¡±


    Toby¡¯s eyes widened to the point that they bore great resemnce to a saucer. ¡°If this is a joke, Kane, I suggest you stop it. What do you mean she doesn¡¯t know she is a werewolf?¡±


    Kane released a weary sigh, already developing a headache from the long talk. He had called them to propose a solution to his dilemma, yet he was the one doing most of the talking. ¡°It is a long story, but the summary of the point is that her father poisoned her wolf, and it is no more.¡±


    ¡°I see, but you can always reverse it.¡± Mason suggested.


    ¡°I know, but I don¡¯t think I want to do that. It is better she doesn¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Toby was going to say something in protest, but he saw the look on his face, and he was keeping quiet. ¡°I have a friend in a pack in Australia, and they will be happy to watch over her if you like.¡±


    ¡°Mason, do you have any idea?¡± Mason shook his head for a no. He had a lot to say, but it would probably anger Kane, so it was best not to say it. ¡°Alright, it is settled.¡± Kane dered.


    For the next two days, Kane made himself scarce to Ariel while he allowed Toby to fill her head with talks of Australia.


    He had alreadye up with a suitable lie to give her. She was an orphan, and he found her and decided to take care of her, but he had seen a schrship opportunity in Australia, and he believed she was the best fit.


    Ariel had been sold on the lie, and she had no problem following it. And the following weekend, Toby was escorting her to the airport and bidding her farewell as she set out to begin a new life in an unknown ce.

 Chapter 6

    Seven yearster,


    Ariel was whistling the tune of the lost city as she took her shower. The shower head sprayed hot jets of water on her body, just as she liked it, and she sighed in bliss.


    She couldn¡¯t believe that it had been seven years since she left for Australia, and soon she was going to write her final papers. She wondered how homing would be when she returned.


    Ariel couldn¡¯t remember much from when she was little; apparently, she had an ident that affected her memory, but she lost her parents and was taken in by Kane, who was her guidance.


    But that was where it stopped; they had no bond with each other. During the period she had been here, she could count the number of times he had called her, and it wasn¡¯t going to be up to all her fingers.


    She wasn¡¯t exactly bothered by it, though; she didn¡¯t need to have a good rtionship with him as long as her ount nevercked money, but all that shecked in paternal care, Toby made up for it.


    Toby was the brightest ray of sunshine, and he made her not feel the absence of her parents, and she would forever be grateful to him.


    Her phone red from the loud speaker in the bedroom, and she was cringing at the loud sound. Who had told her that it was a good idea to install speakers in all the rooms in her house? She had somehow forgotten to turn off the Bluetooth.


    ¡°What?¡± Ariel answered the call, not in the mood to be polite.


    ¡°What with the attitude?¡± udia grumbled at the loud speaker. udia was her first and only friend at the university, and only because Ariel could tolerate her.


    Somehow Ariel couldn¡¯t stand to be around humans, and they have always felt she was snobbish and rude, so no one bothered with her.


    udia, however, was a different case; she had thick skin and it was hard to get under her skin, so no matter what Ariel said, she never took it to heart.


    Ariel soon got tired of it and reluctantly agreed to be her friend, and now they were as close as ever.


    ¡°Sorry, I was just taking a bath, and the noise startled me.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± She heard udia said on the phone, and she was sure she was pouting. ¡°I was just calling you to remind you that we are meeting at the library to revise for the exam. It is ourst paper, and we need to do well.¡±


    ¡°You should be worried about yourself; I know that I will pass, but I can¡¯t say the same for you.¡± Ariel smiled as she scrubbed her skin. ¡°Now get off my phone; I need my beauty bath.¡±


    ¡°Bitch.¡± udia yelled on the phone before hanging up. Ariel shook her head, and she continued whistling to the tone of the song, shaking her ass to the rhythm when her phone rang again and she was sighing.


    ¡°What the fuck, udia?¡± I need my beauty bath!¡± She yelled as she entered the prompt that connected to the call.


    ¡°Hmm mmm.¡± The person at the other end was clearing their throat, and Ariel froze. ¡°Is that how you talk to your favorite uncle?¡± The baritone voice said with a teasing tone.


    ¡°Shit Toby. I am so sorry. I thought it was udia. She has been up my asstely.¡± Ariel replied with a sigh. The shower was already getting cold, so she rinsed herself for thest time and wasing out of the shower.


    Ariel wrapped the fluffy towel around her body and took another one, scrubbing her hair furiously with it. ¡°Were you in the shower?¡± Toby asked as his sensitive ears had picked up the sound of water hitting the tiles.


    ¡°Yeah, I was preparing to go to the library to read for my uing exams.¡± Ariel said, looking at the outfit she hadid on the bed. The idea had looked great in her head, but looking at it now, there was something missing.


    ¡°C¡¯mon, it is yourst paper. It is not going to be all that hard.¡± Toby urged her, ying his part as the fun uncle.


    ¡°I wish it was that easy. My professors are after my life. But it all ends today; I promise I will not read anything, not even a billboard, once I bag this degree.¡±


    ¡°I wish I could rte, but I can¡¯t.¡±


    Ariel was rolling her eyes as she heard him. ¡°Yea, yea, no need to gloat. How are you doing, though? How is¡­?¡± Ariel didn¡¯t need to say the words before Toby grabbed what she was trying to say. Even though she liked to deny it, she cared about Kane more than she would admit to anyone.


    Hell, the man was basically her sugar daddy, funding her an expensive lifestyle; the least she could wish for him was a long life.


    ¡°He is fine, and I am sure he is looking forward to seeing you.¡± Toby replied with amusement. He still couldn¡¯t understand why Kane was ying hard to get. They were mates, and someday they were going to see each other, and it seems it was happening sooner thanter.


    ¡°Humph.¡± Ariel snorted, ¡°I doubt that, but anyways. Guess what?¡± she said, her voice rising a tinge higher in excitement.


    ¡°What?¡± Toby said it with equal excitement. He couldn¡¯t help but look forward to their conversations. Ariel was so full of life and a bubbling adult, a far cry from the male-dominated pack.


    Although they had more females now that some of them had found their mates, it was still dominated by males who were only interested in war, sex, and alcohol.N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    ¡°Come on,¡± Ariel whined with an exaggerated sigh. ¡°I said to guess, don¡¯t be a killjoy.¡±


    ¡°You need to cut me some ck. I have been swamped with a lot of work.¡±


    ¡°You have never told me the nature of your work, Toby. I could help you promote it here and get an international client, or even ask people to follow your social media handles.¡±


    ¡°I already told you that we deal with transportation and distribution.¡± Toby recited the lie he had cooked up a long time ago.


    ¡°You mean like a cargopany?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I guess.¡± Toby was almost snorting. If distributing weapons and arms was a cargopany, then it was one. But Ariel was smart, and if he didn¡¯t find a way to distract her, she was going to continue drilling him. ¡°You were going to tell me something.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, so¡­¡± she drawled. ¡°I met a guy, and I think I like him.¡± As soon as she finished her sentence, she heard what she thought to be an animalistic growl. ¡°What the hell!¡± Ariel wondered, almost throwing her phone away. ¡°Toby?¡± She tried to call the man on the line, but all she could hear was shuffling and a static sound.


    ¡°Toby?¡± Ariel screamed into the receiver, trying to be calm but failing desperately at it. ¡°Toby?¡± she tried again, but all she could hear were struggles, and suddenly the line was dead. ¡°The hell?¡± Ariel was looking at the receiver as if she had somehow conjured what had just happened.


    No human could produce the sound she had just heard, and it was unlike Toby to go hiking or even to the forest without mentioning it, and suddenly she feared for his life.


    The screen lit up as she pressed the power button, and she tried his number again, but it went straight to voicemail, along with the other two, and she had no choice but to give up. Ariel took a long look at the dress she hadid on the bed, and she was changing her mind.


    She needed something more ssy, and she ended up with a ck short dress that had white sleeves. She did her usual ritual of eyeliner and lip oil that had her lips looking more plump than ever, and she nodded her head in satisfaction.


    Ariel was ady who knew how beautiful she was, and she made sure she unted it. She has been blessed with good gics and a fast metabolism, so she has always looked like a goddess while everyone was passing through their awkward teen stage, and she had the money to back it up.


    Ariel nced at the time, and she was picking up her bags. udia would be here any minute, and she was going to bitch about it the whole day if she rante.


    And trust me, you do not want udia nagging in your ears. True to her words, she heard her front door open and footsteps approaching the room.


    ¡°What happened to your car?¡± udia asked, popping a gum as she dumped her ass on the bed. Ariel took a look at it, and she was pursing her lips.


    ¡°Get up; you are going to rumple the sheets with your fat ass, and there is nothing wrong with my car.¡±


    ¡°Girl, that wasn¡¯t the car you were using before. I could swear I saw an Audi packed outside.¡±


    ¡°Oh, it had a fault, and my guidance decided to change it.¡± Ariel said offhandedly, and udia could only look at her with an open mouth.


    ¡°Girlll, how the hell did you meet him? Quick question: Is your guardian up for grabs? Because hell, I am definitely interested.¡± Ariel didn¡¯t take it funny from the dirty looks she threw her friend¡¯s way, and thetter was raising her hands in apology.


    ¡°Girl, it was just a joke. Come on, we are going to bete.¡±


    ***


    Fortunately for them, the exam was simple enough to pass even though you didn¡¯t read, and Ariel was just d she was out of the school system. She had a ne flight already booked in two days, and she didn¡¯t know how to feel.


    But one thing was sure: She was ready to meet Kane.

 Chapter 7

    Ariel sat with her legs stretched on her flight, enjoying all of the benefits first ss has to offer. She popped a grapefruit in her mouth, chewing thoughtfully and nodding her head as the pleasure burst into her mouth, while her watchful eyes were training on the aisle, scanning for any celebrities she could notice.


    udia was going to kill her if she knew that she had entered the ne with celebrities and had refused to update her, and she couldn¡¯t risk the wrath of her friend. There was no one on sight, so she contented herself by closing her personal door for the rest of the flight. As she sank into the chair-turned-bed, she couldn¡¯t be more happy that she could afford a first-ss ticket.


    The pilot¡¯s voice was waking her from sleep as he made his announcement that they were getting ready for descent, and Ariel was shuffling in her seat, trying to arrange herself before the flight would start descending.


    She quickly typed a message for Toby, reminding him toe pick her up before the nosy flight attendant was in her face, telling her to turn it off.


    Ariel rolled her eyes as the flight attendant told her off. She hated being told what to do, especially if she was about to do so. But she ignored the flight attendant and focused on the ne that was descending.


    She held on to her seat as the ne rolled on the tarmac, and an air of nervousness filled her. While she had beenmunicating with Toby for a while now, she wasn¡¯t sure how the reception at home would be.


    Hell, he could be pretending, and he could totally stand her up today. Suddenly, Ariel felt like a lost ship in the middle of the sea with no way to go out, and her chest began to rise rapidly. A thin film of sweat covered her forehead, and her heart rate picked up at the thought of being abandoned in a foreignnd.


    ¡°Miss.¡± The attendant gave her a light tap on her shoulder, but she was too far gone to notice her surroundings. ¡°Miss.¡± She tried again with more force, and Ariel broke free from her reverie, her breathing out in short pants as he tried to normalize her breathing.


    ¡°What?¡± She turned to the flight attendant, her toneing off as rude, not as she intended.


    ¡°We have arrived, and you can disembark now.¡±


    ¡°Yea,¡± Ariel gave her a nervous smile while craning her head to look around her, and most of the upants had gotten off the flight. ¡°Thank you.¡± She stood up and brought down her carry-on bag before she was alighting out of the flight. She checked her phone for any messages, but she couldn¡¯t see any, and her heart began to pound beneath her rib cage.


    He couldn¡¯t have stood her up now, would he?


    Ariel tried to remove that thought from her mind and focus on getting her suitcases. She should have listened to udia and packed light; she could always get more clothes back home.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    She was finally able to secure all seven big boxes, and she was ready to start cursing him out when she spotted a big card with her name written on it and a silly little stick figure that she was assuming was hers.


    Ariel could recognize that face any day, with his jet ck hair hidden in a cap and the huge smirk on his face. She didn¡¯t need anyone else to tell her that this was Toby.


    She was running to him with strength she didn¡¯t know she possessed, and she jumped on him as she got to him, hugging him with all she had. ¡°Ariel .¡± Toby said with a humph as shended on him.


    He shifted backwards so her bosom wouldn¡¯te in contact with his chest; otherwise, Kane could find a good excuse to finish him.


    Toby brought an awkward hand up, rubbing her back in a soothing way until he heard sniffles and the faint smell of salt.


    ¡°Are you crying?¡± Toby froze before he parted from the hug to look at her, and true to his words, fat drops of tears were dripping out of her eyes, and he panicked.


    ¡°Oh no. Ariel, please don¡¯t cry.¡± All he could think was that he was digging his early grave if Kane even got a hint that his mate had been crying, and he just stood there.


    Toby produced the hanky he always had in his pocket, and he dabbed it on her eyes gently, careful not to touch her skin.


    ¡°Sorry about that.¡± Ariel sniffed after she had regained herself. ¡°I was just overwhelmed with emotions. I thought no one would be here, and I was afraid I would be all along.¡±


    ¡°Oh dear, I understand, but one thing you should know is that Kane would never leave you estranged without any help. No matter what, he would alwayse and get you.¡±


    Toby¡¯s words sated the demon in her that was rearing its ugly head, and she nodded her head. Ariel stood on her tiptoes, scanning the faces of other people who hade to wee their friends and family home, and there was something missing.


    ¡°What of Kane?¡± She asked, still scanning her neck. He couldn¡¯t have such a drastic change that she wouldn¡¯t be able to notice him. Right?


    ¡°Unfortunately, he was tied down with a lot of office work, and he wasn¡¯t able to make it.¡± Toby said, and he noticed the change in her mood, and he was panicking.¡±But not to worry; the pack has been dying to see you.¡±


    Now Ariel was confused. ¡°pack?¡± Her forehead furrowed as confusion overtook her. ¡°I thought you said we stayed in a mansion.¡±


    ¡°Ha ha.¡± Toby tried to cover it with a nervousugh as he began to lead her away. ¡°I mean the people are eager to see you. Bute on, let us not waste time on meaningless things; I am sure you are hungry.¡±


    ¡°Starving.¡± Ariel sighed as she thought of a big pot of chicken and a tub of ice cream. ¡°Wait!¡± She yelled, halting in her steps. ¡°My bags.¡±


    ¡°Geez, you almost burst my eardrums. There are people taking care of it.¡± Toby said, gesturing to the back, and true to her word, huge men that felt like they belonged in the boxing ring were dragging her suitcase behind them.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel said with a sheepish smile, and they continued their journey to the car.


    They walked in silence until they got to the car, and Toby was helping her get inside. Ariel was beginning to feel the aftermath of the long flight, and she rested her head on the back seat, almost immediately drifting to dreand.


    ¡°Ari.¡± Toby called in a soft voice. He has been reluctant to wake her up because she looked so peaceful and beautiful in her sleep, but he knew he was risking his head if he carried her in his arms.


    Nothing pisses off an alpha wolf more than when their mate bears another scent that isn¡¯t theirs. It was in their nature to remove such a threat, and Toby still likes living on earth very much to end his life.


    Yet he could admit that his alpha¡¯s mate was a beaut. He was a man who could tell when something was good, and right now he was staring at the forbidden fruit.


    The plump of her lips, the swell of her breast, and the way her longshes curled up.


    ¡°Get a grip, Toby; she is off limit.¡± His wolf was cautioning him, and he was taking a step away from her.


    ¡°Toby?¡± Ariel murmured in a sleepden voice. Her eyes were fluttering from the ray of light that was entering them. ¡°Are we home?¡±


    ¡°Yes, we are; I was about to wake you up.¡± Toby replied, and he stretched out a hand to her, ¡°Come on, you could continue the sleep in your bed.¡±


    Ariel allowed him to lead her into the house while she kept her eyes half-closed, afraid that if she opened them wide, the sleep would leave her.


    She had barely gotten a good rest for the past two weeks, and coupled with the jetg, she needed a solid 10 hours of sleep.


    No sooner than Toby showed her her bedroom, she was climbing onto the bed and closing her eyes.


    ***


    Ariel worked up to an empty room, and she sat down on the bed, trying to recollect herself. She had no idea how long she had been out, but one thing was clear: she needed to put food in her system before she passed out.


    She was jumping out of bed with only one thought in mind. ¡°Food.¡± Her drunken walk reminded her of the gollum and his precious, and right now, she was the gollum.


    ¡°Where do I even start from?¡± Ariel thought as she came out of her room and saw simr-looking doors all around her.


    She was walking down the hallways until she stood in front of one, her hands itching to open the knob. They say curiosity kills the cat, but satisfaction brings it back, and that was her motto.


    Ariel pushed the door open, and surprisingly, it gave way-an obvious red g if she had been observant. Her pupils dted in the poorly lit room, and it took some seconds before she could recognize her surroundings.


    She brought out her phone and turned on the shlight, pointing it in the direction, and the first thing she saw was the bright red liquid. The first wave of dizziness passed through her, and the second had her stumbling a little, her heart rate spiking as she followed the trail of blood, but Ariel prided herself on being level-headed even in difficult situations, and she continued pressing on.


    ¡°Maybe someone got hurt and needs my help.¡± She tried to reassure herself, despite the beads of sweat that were clinging to her forehead like a second skin. She knew the basics of first aid, and she was sure she would be of help if she wasn¡¯t going to need it.


    Ariel was cing one foot after another, venturing deeper into the room. She tried to ignore the blood on the floor that had changed from a drop to a puddle, and she continued pressing on until she saw a dark mass on the wall.


    She shed her touch light on the image, and she froze momentarily, her organs recognizing the threat in front of her and shutting downpletely. Her stomach twisted as she made contact with those golden orbs, and the initial shock gave birth to flight. Ariel opened her lungs and did the only thing she could do.


    ¡°Aaaahhhh!¡±


    And her head was hitting the ground with a thud.

 Chapter 8

    Kane watched as the events unfolded before him in slow motion. He had juste back from a fierce battle that had left him more scarred than he would like, and he was livid.


    The only thing that has been keeping him sane is the fact that his mate ising back home after so many years. He didn¡¯t want to admit it, but he was nervous.


    He wondered about the changes that had urred to her all the while she was outside the country, and he couldn¡¯t help but want to see her.


    His wolf had been giddy all day long, dying to see his mate, and Kane, despite his outward disposition, shared the same fate.


    He had confirmed from Toby that she was sleeping peacefully in her room, and that was the only reason he had entered in his wolf form. Changing to human will slow down his healing.


    Kane had been trying to remove the splinter from his fur when he heard her footsteps even before she entered his room, and he had been praying to the moon goddess that she wouldn¡¯t enter his room. But the moon goddess could be a bitch sometimes because Ariel opened the door and entered like she owned it, and it took everything in him not to pounce on her.


    Kane had held his breath while still praying under his breath that she wouldn¡¯t venture further into his room, but who was he kidding?


    One moment, he was hiding himself before her, and the next, a powerful light shone on his face, and he shielded his sensitive eyes from the rays. Her screams were all he heard before she fell backward.


    Not on his watch!


    Before her head could touch the ground, Kane was running towards her, catching her before she could meet a terrible fate.


    ¡°Shit.¡± Kane wasn¡¯t prepared for the onught of electricity he would experience as their skins made contact. He sucked in a sharp breath, closing his eyes to steady himself, and he was able to help her towards the bed.


    She could wake up at any moment, so he had to be fast. He was changing into a human despite the pain that licked at him for disrupting the healing process.


    He barely spared a nce at his bruised knee with discoloration all over because he was picking up a mop and cleaning every trickle of blood.


    He needed to wash off all the evidence before she woke up.


    Kane was running to the bathroom, turning the knob to the hottest he could bear without getting burned, and taking the fattest bath ever before he rushed out of the bathroom all red and looking like a tomato.


    He was just putting on his clothes when he heard her breath returning to normalcy, and Kane was literally flying to go and meet her.


    And he was just in time because her eyes fluttered open, and he was rewarded with an alluring set of blue eyes that only seemed to draw you in the more you looked at them.


    ¡°Hello.¡± Kane said in his baritone voice that it had Ariel shivering against her will.


    Oh my gosh! She had a mini-fangirl panic in her mind. That was one of the hottest baritones she had ever heard, and she just wanted to curl up on the sofa and listen to him read her bedtime stories.


    But the haze was quick to disappear, and she suddenly remembered how she got here.


    ¡°Oh my god! The¡­the¡­the¡­ Be-be-bea¡± Suddenly, she lost her ability to breathe, and she was whizzing. Her mouth was opened, and her chest was rising rapidly as she tried to catch her breath.


    ¡°It is alright; you are safe.¡± Kane whispered into her ears while his hands caressed her arms gently. ¡°Just take a deep breath.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s eyes were fixed on him as she followed his instruction, taking puffs of air and inhaling it on hismand.


    ¡°Good girl, just like that.¡± Kane whispered, and Ariel was going crazy.


    Fuck! If he was sounding like this when he wasforting her, she wondered how he would sound when she was taking him in, and she was going crazy.


    The sharp look Kane gave her was as though he could read her thoughts, and she was sinking into the sheets.


    Good going, Ariel. You got the man thinking you are a horn dog. She chided herself.


    ¡°How do you feel now?¡± Kane¡¯s voice was breaking her out of her thoughts, and she nodded her head. She opened her mouth to talk, but she felt cold fingers on her lips, shutting her.


    ¡°Shhh. Don¡¯t talk too much; let me get you water for your throat.¡±


    What do you do when you have a fine piece of sex fawning over you?


    You keep mute and heed his advice, and that was what Ariel did. She nodded her head mechanically, like a robot, and wondered if she had somehownded in heaven.


    She watched him go, looking at his powerful limbs as he threw them in front of him. She had never felt this sexual attraction for anyone in a long time.


    Ariel had dered herself asexual when she didn¡¯t find anyone attractive on her campus. No matter how handsome they were, their appearance wasn¡¯t making her insides turn to jelly or herdy part throb.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Yet this man came, and she was almost putty in his hands. She could understand why people have one-night stands, and right now she was lusting after this man.


    Kane came back almost immediately, holding a bottle of water and a ss cup in his hands, and Ariel watched as he poured her a ss, bringing it closer to her mouth.


    ¡°Drink.¡± It was a simplemand, and she needed no prompt before she started chugging the water until she tapped his arms to signify she was satisfied.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel said, expressing her gratitude in a polite voice. She wasn¡¯t a shy person; hell, she participated in student politics back at the university, but she wouldn¡¯t meet this man¡¯s eyes.


    While hers were fixed on the abstract painting on the wall, Kane¡¯s eyes roamed about his mate, appreciating the view.


    ¡°You may speak.¡± Kane said, and Ariel was taken aback. How dare he tell her what to do?


    She would speak if she wanted to and not because a man asked her to, yet she was opening her mouth before her brain could process it.


    ¡°A bear.¡± was all she could stammer out when she remembered the furry creature she had locked eyes with before she passed out.


    ¡°You are going to have to talk to me in full sentences if you want me to understand you, Ariel.¡±


    Ariel was flying up from the bed into a sitting position before she could think of it. ¡°How did you know my name?¡± Kane was taken aback by her sudden outburst, and his shoulder shook as heughed. ¡°I didn¡¯t crack a joke, Mr., how did you know my name?¡± She snapped, her voice ringing in the hallways.


    Kane took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. He disliked any atom of disrespect, but he would let it slide since she was still new to their world. ¡°Where do you think you are?¡±


    Ariel looked around her for a moment, connecting the dots, and she suddenly remembered who she was. This person was talking like he knew all about her, and only one person coulde to mind.


    ¡°You are Kane.¡± Ariel stated as a matter of fact, and he smiled.


    ¡°Indeed, I am; now you were about to tell me what happened.¡±


    ¡°I saw a bear.¡± Ariel finally managed to speak out, and from the look Kane was giving her, she knew she would have kept her thoughts to herself.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be silly now, Ari; there is no way a bear could get inside here.¡±


    ¡°It is true. I saw a bear.¡± Ariel shouted in defense, but she remembered the look he had given her when she raised her voice, and she was lowering her tone. ¡°I could swear I saw blood dripping on the floor and arge bear.¡±


    Kane shook his head, and Ariel was not sure she liked it. ¡°Look around you.¡±


    Ariel hated the tone he was using on her, as if she were a stubborn child, and it was not sitting right with her. She grudgingly swept her eyes around the room, her lips forming a pout, but to her dismay, everything was looking sparkly clean, and she was losing her mind.


    ¡°I swear I saw blood around and a bear, and everything was dark, and¡­¡± she said, shutting her mouth as she felt his arms wrapped around her.


    ¡°You must be experiencing jetg and hallucinating. But it is fine; I will send in someone with your food so you can eat.¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡± That statement was enough to keep her shut. She could never say no to good food. So she sat and folded her hands as she waited for the food.


    As she took a bite of the tuna sandwich, all she could think of was wee back home.

 Chapter 9

    The event that happened in Kane¡¯s room has taken ce for a day now, yet Ariel couldn¡¯t get it out of her mind. Talk about one of the most unexpected ways to meet the man who had been her sole financier.


    Yet what she was feeling for the man wasn¡¯t something you are supposed to feel for a guardian, and she was ashamed, to say the least.


    The next day, she tried to avoid Kane with all she had, staying up in her room, but she shouldn¡¯t have bothered because Kane had made it his life mission not toe close to her.


    Ariel had taken to staying in her room and spending her time with udia, who always had a gist for her, while she was being waited on by the men in the house.


    ¡°Oh my gosh!¡± udia eximed one day as one of the warriors dropped a tray of food in her room. ¡°Who is that sexy piece of hot ass that just entered your room?¡±


    ¡°udia!¡± Ariel shrieked, beyond mortified by her friend¡¯s outburst, and she was sure ¡®the sexy piece of ass¡¯ heard what she had said.


    ¡°What?¡± udia rolled her eyes, craning her neck, to see the room clearly. ¡°I was just being truthful. Geez, Ariel, is there something you are not telling me? Are you a princess over there or a mafia¡¯s daughter? I promise I will not tell anyone.¡±


    ¡°Ha ha, very funny. And if I were a mafia daughter, you know I would have to kill you if you found out about my background.¡±


    ¡°Shoot.¡± Ariel could hear the smack as her friend pped her forehead. ¡°I didn¡¯t think of that.¡±


    ¡°You never think of anything.¡± Ariel was tempted to say, but she didn¡¯t know how udia was going to take it, so she kept quiet. ¡°Anyways, how has it been as a graduate? I know you must be missing me.¡±


    ¡°Girllll,¡± udia whined, stressing the consonant, ¡°you have no idea. No one hands over their card to me anymore to do whatever they want to do, and it is so disheartening. I miss you so much.¡± udia sniffed as she thought of her friend, and Ariel was rolling her eyes.


    ¡°Are you sure you missed me or you missed my money?¡± udia shrugged her shoulders, popping the gum she had been chewing with a loud sound.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t they the same thing?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm. I don¡¯t think so; in fact, never mind. Now tell me about the new guy.¡± Ariel just knew how to get her friend talking because, immediately after she mentioned the new guy, udia was squealing and getting up into a sitting position.


    ¡°Alright, so I met him when¡­¡± udia began, and Ariel only had to nod, pepping it with an asional, Oh my gosh! Really! To prove to her friend that she was listening.


    It had been two days since she came back, and nothing much had happened. She had only seen Toby since the day he picked her up, and that was all.


    Kane was even worse.


    After the unfortunate incident where she confirmed that she either needs to get sses or visit a psych ward, Kane has gone AWOL.


    They practically acted like she didn¡¯t exist.


    What happened to all the promises of fun and good times? What happened to the princess treatment? She wanted to yell all these things out, but she kept her calm.


    There is no need to get mad over little things, Ariel. It is fine; you don¡¯t need them. You can do without them.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Ariel looked at her reflection in the mirror, and she shook her head. Now she was going crazy talking to herself.


    ¡°Fuck you, don¡¯t look at me like that!¡± Ariel yelled at her reflection, moving closer to watch the shape of her mouth. ¡°It is official. I am going crazy. I have to do something before I turn full psycho.¡±


    With determination surging in her bones, Ariel was marching towards her wardrobe and grabbing whatever shirt she could find. She pulled it over her head and looked at the reflection on the mirror, ncing at the shorts she had worn.


    This was a mansion full of men, or so Toby had said, and she didn¡¯t want to seem too inappropriate. The short went away above her bum, so it should be decent.


    She grabbed her brush from the dresser, running it through her hair until it was able to tame the mess on her head, and she was satisfied.


    If they weren¡¯t going to give her a tour, she was going to be her own tour guide, and just maybe she would discover a secret room, a treasure house, or whatever rich men do for fun.


    Maybe a strip club.


    Now that would be exciting.


    Although Kane didn¡¯t look like he would own a strip club, he was so serious, like those stuck-up CEOs who were always overworking their staff and never giving bonuses.


    ¡°Oh shit!¡± Ariel eximed as she bumped into a warm body. ¡°I am so sorr-you are ady!¡± She didn¡¯t know when she screamed the words out.


    Thedy chuckled behind her palm, amused by the neer, and Ariel was turning red.


    ¡°I am sorry; I wasn¡¯t trying to be rude or anything. I just thought I was the only female in this.¡± She swept her hands around the house, looking for the right word to describe wherever she was, but the woman beat her to it.


    ¡°It is fine; I understand. I am Liza, by the way, and I can assure you that you are not the only female here.¡±


    Ariel released a dramatic sigh, holding her chest in relief. ¡°Thank goodness, you have no idea how happy I am to see you. I am Ariel.¡± Ariel stretched her hands for a handshake, and thedy took it warmly.


    ¡°It is nice to meet you, Ariel. See you.¡± And she was gone. Ariel stood there for a while, trying to make sense of what had just happened, but she didn¡¯t want to stress her brain too much, so she continued on her journey.


    She continued wandering through the mansion, only one thought going through her mind: to get to Toby. Right now, Toby was the only one who could cure the depression she was under, and she needed him.


    No, not that kind of need, you have to get your heads out of the gutter.


    After wandering through her floor and finding nothing, Ariel decided to be brave and take the stairs leading downstairs, and there it was: a whole city. There were people walking about, talking, or just going their way.


    Toby had told her that they ran a foundation that housed a lot of people, but she had been underestimating just how many people it was housing.


    It was like a whole city there, and she wasn¡¯t exaggerating. There were even females, although most of them were either glued to a man that Ariel assumed was their partner.


    But it was a sharp contrast to the floor she had just left.


    ¡°Hello.¡± Ariel said with a little excitement as she came close to the person. The look the man was giving her was enough to tell her that perhaps her big smile was scary and she needed to tone it down.


    ¡°Yea.¡± The man looked like she was an ant in his sight, and he would prefer anything than to talk to her, and she didn¡¯t want to waste his time anymore.


    ¡°Do you know where I can find Toby?¡±


    ¡°The training room,st floor.¡± Was the only information he provided, and he was walking away from her.


    ¡°Uhm, rude.¡± Ariel rolled her eyes at the man, although she was grateful for the information and decided to look for it alone. Apparently, they don¡¯t teach manners in their program.


    She took his advice and headed for thest floor, searching the door until she saw the one that had a training room boldly written on it.


    Ariel couldn¡¯t express her happiness, and she was increasing her pace as she made for the door. She opened it with a bang, ignoring all the heads that had turned to face the intruder, and her eyes horned on the man she had been looking for.


    He was in the midst of some people, his mouth opening and closing as he seemed to be dishing out instructions to them, but Ariel didn¡¯t seem to care, so she opened her mouth.


    ¡°Toby!¡± I need you.¡± The noises stopped immediately, and all eyes were trained on her, regarding her with certain hostility, and she swallowed, even though there was nothing in her throat that warranted such.


    ¡°Oops.¡±

 Chapter 10

    I don¡¯t know why I thought opening my mouth and telling the whole world that I needed Toby was a good idea. Ariel thought as all pairs of brown, blue, and gray eyes were trained on her.


    Can the ground just open and swallow me?


    ¡°Ariel?¡± Toby asked with a look of confusion, looking at her like she had lost her mind, and she agreed with him. Indeed, she has. ¡°Alright everyone, training is over; you can go rest yourzy ass.¡± Toby said, and there was a collective sigh of relief from the lips of everyone.


    Ariel moved to the side, making way for them as they began to file out of the room, but not before giving her a once-over.


    Yep, she was sure they were judging her in their minds. Suddenly, the shorts she had worn were too short, the shirt too old, her posture too slouched, and she was sure there was a horrible pimple sticking out of her face, just ready to burst.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± Toby¡¯s voice was breaking her thoughts, and she was grateful for that. ¡°Come in.¡± He gestured inside, and she didn¡¯t hesitate before she entered, shutting the door tight.


    ¡°I think I fucked up.¡± She sighed, pursing her lips, and Toby shook his head.


    ¡°You don¡¯t say. Now everyone would think we have something going on. I need to exin to him before he gets mad.¡± Toby said more to himself, but Ariel was quick to pick it up.


    ¡°Exin to who?¡± Ariel asked absent-mindedly; her eyes were all over the ce, taking note of the training room. ¡°Howe I didn¡¯t know that this ce existed, and howe you have been scarce?¡±


    Toby swept his hands around the room as if to say, ¡®This is the reason why.¡¯ ¡°To answer your question, Kane,¡±


    ¡°Kane?¡± Ariel squinted her eyes, more confused than ever. ¡°What has Kane got to do with this?¡±


    Toby was almost facepalming; his muscles were aching, and he needed a bath. Thest thing he wanted to do was talk. ¡°You were asking who I needed to exin to, and I was just saying that Kane may misinterpret your words, so I wanted to rify it.¡±


    ¡°Okay, hold up.¡± Ariel wagged her fingers around like a wand. ¡°Why do you need to tell Kane everything? Who even cares what he thinks?¡±


    ¡°Well, I do, since he is the one in charge here. Now tell me, why are you even here?¡±


    ¡°Ouch.¡± Ariel clutched her heart as if she were in pain. ¡°So much for a best friend.¡±


    Ariel watched as Toby went to the fridge in the corner of the room, opened it, and removed a bottle of water, which he chugged down in seconds. ¡°I thought Cloudy was your bestie.¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes, shaking her head. Staying in a ce with all men has a way of ruining you. ¡°News sh, you can have more than one bestie, and her name is udia.¡±


    ¡°Her parents should have done better,¡± Toby said underneath his breath, and Ariel heard it but pretended not to. ¡°So, really, why are you here? As you can see, I just finished training, and I need to take a shower and get some food in my system.¡±


    Ariel pursed her lips, wondering if she had made the right decision bying here. ¡°I was bored, and I neededpany. I have literally been cooped here alone with no one to talk to, and I am slowly losing my mind.¡± Ariel didn¡¯t realize how bored out of her mind she had been until she began to talk, and now there was no stopping. ¡°I barely know anyone here, and the people I know don¡¯t even bother to check up on me, something I wondered why I even came here.¡±


    She tried to blink back the tears that had pooled in her eyes, but she was failing. Coming here was a cry from Australia, even though she was living alone there. At least it was by choice.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Toby¡¯s mouth opened in a silent O. ¡°I am sorry about that; I have never thought of that. It wasn¡¯t our intention to make you feel left out. There has just been a lot of work around.¡±


    ¡°Yea yea.¡±


    ¡°Come on, I know you must be starving. Let¡¯s get something to eat, and we could talk better.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Ariel reluctantly agreed, wiping the tears from the back of her hand. She allowed him to lead the way while she dragged her legs around. She tried her best to ignore the pair of eyes boring into her as she made her way through the floor until they were standing in front of a room.


    ¡°Do you want to wait outside while I take a quick shower, or do you want toe inside to wait?¡± Toby asked, and Ariel gave him a look that he interpreted as really, and she was storming inside the room.


    ¡°Just make it fast before Ie to drag you out.¡± Ariel dered, dumping her ass on the sofa.


    ¡°Aye aye.¡± Toby teased, and he was racing to the bathroom before she could uncover any secrets. He took the fastest shower known to man and came out, feeling refreshed.


    ¡°You must really like wolves.¡± Arielmented offhandedly, holding a photo album in her hand, and Toby was frozen in ce. He tried to rack his brain, thinking of any things he had left behind that might give anything away, but it came back nk, and he was rxing his muscles.


    ¡°Yeah, I guess.¡± He replied, walking towards a part of his room that served as the kitchen. He ced a bowl in the microwave and set the timer before going towards him.


    ¡°So¡­ you train people.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I guess. We have to find people who are fit, and I love working out, so it was only fitting that I train them.¡± Ariel was regarding him as he talked, and her eyes widened almost like a saucer as a crazy idea came to her. ¡°No, no. I don¡¯t think I like that look, and I don¡¯t want to hear that idea.


    ¡°Come on, you don¡¯t even know what I was going to ask.¡± Ariel folded her arms, pursing her lips in a pout.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to know, because it is going to be a no.¡± Toby stated firmly, refusing to back down.


    ¡°I just want you to train me; it would at least upy my mind from a lot of things.¡±


    ¡°No, no, no.¡± Toby was shaking his head, and luckily for him, the timer went off, and he was running to get his food.


    There was no way Kane would be in support of it. Training leads to a lot of injuries-injuries that Kane would kill him for.


    He was still yet to find his mate, so he wasn¡¯t going to risk his life before that.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Ariel watched Toby as he came back, holding a bowl of what she thought was food. ¡°What did you cook?¡±


    ¡°I just microwaved some Mac and cheese; care for some?¡± he asked, handing her a fork.


    ¡°Hell yeah. I am starving, and I need food if I am going to convince you.¡±


    ¡°We shall see.¡± Toby said with a smile, and Ariel¡¯s lips widened.


    She liked a challenge.


    Ariel didn¡¯t know how she was able to do it, but somehow she was able to convince Toby that training her was a good idea, and she couldn¡¯t be any happier.


    She couldn¡¯t wait to tell udia; she was going to be so jealous.


    ***


    Enough was enough.


    Ariel was tired of Kane avoiding her; the man had practically vanished into thin air since thest time she saw him, and she couldn¡¯t take it any longer.


    Maybe she was going to pin him down the next time and tie him, but he was going to have a piece of her mind when she next saw him.


    She stumped to his room with this thought, letting the anger fuel her, but they were deting into thin air when she got there, and the door refused to give way.


    ¡°Shit! So much for nothing.¡± Ariel sighed.


    Dejected, she began to drag her foot down the hallway, about to take the staircase, when her eyes locked in with brown ones.


    They both froze, regarding each other, until she broke the silence.


    ¡°You have been avoiding me.¡±

 Chapter 11

    ¡°You have been avoiding me.¡± Ariel grumbled as she looked at Kane. Thetter looked at her like a deer caught in a trap, and Ariel had no ns of letting this deer go.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡± Kane argued, doing everything in his power to avoid looking into her eyes. He knew it only took one look before he was sucked into the hole that was Ariel, and he didn¡¯t think he was ready for that now.


    ¡°Yes, you are.¡± Ariel repeated, tucking her arms into themselves to appear menacing while she inches closer to him.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    ¡°No, I am not; if you would excuse me, I have some things to attend to.¡± Kane said, and he moved to the other side, trying to pass around her.


    ¡°At least, you should have the decency to look me in the eyes if you want to lie to me. Don¡¯t you think?¡± Ariel huffed, not at all impressed with his performance.


    Kane¡¯s patience was already hanging on a thin thread, but he took a deep breath, trying to calm himself. He needed to keep reminding himself that Ariel wasn¡¯t a werewolf and that she had no idea about their world or how it worked.


    She just needed to learn her ce.


    This time, Kane raised his head to meet her before he opened his mouth. ¡°I wasn¡¯t avoiding you, Ariel; if I was, you would know. Now, can you excuse me?¡±


    Ariel¡¯s breath caught in her throat as he looked up to meet her eyes, and suddenly she was speechless. Why was she just realizing his eyes were deep brown? They were so brown that they could almost pass as ck, and she had never seen something so mesmerizing before.


    Shit, the man was beautiful.


    His jawlines were so sharp that they could cut her in half, and she could say thank you.


    ¡°Uhm, thank you for thepliment; I think you are also beautiful.¡±


    ¡°W-what? Shit, did you hear that?¡± She asked, and Kane just shrugged his shoulders. ¡°You weren¡¯t supposed to hear that.¡± Can the earth just open and swallow her now to save herself from unnecessary embarrassment?


    However, Kane was already one step ahead of her, and he used her distraction to get past her and walk towards the room. Ariel looked up just in time to see that he was almost at his door, and she was seething.


    ¡°Coward!¡± She yelled after him, just as he shut his door tight. She was tempting to walk back to his door and kick it open, but she refrained herself and instead went the other way.


    Somehow, she was just realizing that they both shared the same floor, and she hadn¡¯t seen anyone else on their floor.


    Does it mean he thought she was special enough?


    Don¡¯t think too much about this Ariel; hell, he is housing more than 50 people. You are just one of them.


    It was brutal, but that was the harsh truth she needed to hear, and she was heading to her room. Her training with Toby was starting tomorrow, and she needed to prepare for it.


    Ariel grudgingly went back to her room and spent the rest of the day brooding. If not for the man who had been assigned to bring her food every time, she wouldn¡¯t have gotten anything to eat.


    She was so done with everything here, and she couldn¡¯t wait for the next day.


    Eventually, it was the next day, and Ariel was beyond ready to start her training. Toby had told her that her training was going to start early in the morning, which was why she was waking up early.


    He had training with otherster in the morning, so he had opted to train her specially, and there was no way she was going toin about that.


    She walked towards her wardrobe, picking her best sports bra; it showed the least skin and covered her up so well, so it should be appropriate, and she paired it with a jogger.


    Ariel wasn¡¯t sure how intensive the training was going to be, so she picked up an apple, biting into it before she took her leave.


    This time she walked down the stairs in a proud gait, strutting like she owned the ce. She would feel eyes starting at her, but she chose to ignore them and focus on what she hade for.


    She located the training room and held the door knob, twisting it and pushing it until it gave way. Toby was already inside, warming up, and he raised his head to look at the intruder.


    ¡°You came.¡±


    ¡°Of course I would; why are you surprised? I already told you I was interested in learning.¡±


    ¡°Most people would not have bothered, and I assumed you would too.¡± Toby replied, shrugging his shoulders. Actually, he had been praying; she didn¡¯t see through to it, but who was he kidding?


    Ariel shook her head, not at all impressed. ¡°Toby, you should know that I never back down on my words. Never. Now shall we?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but before that, we would have to do a little warm-up to get your blood pumping.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Ariel whined aloud, but she got into the position Toby was showing her. ¡°I thought I was going to be knocking off someone¡¯s teeth today or something.¡±


    Toby could only shake his head. ¡°No knocking on anyone¡¯s teeth for now, youngdy. Now you just need to loosen your bones and get your blood pumping.¡±


    ¡°You should be the one getting his blood pumping.¡± Ariel tried to joke, but Toby gave her a sharp look, and she wished she had not opened her mouth. ¡°Geez, y¡¯all can¡¯t take a joke. Fine, what do I do?¡±


    ***


    ¡°No, no more. No more.¡± Ariel held a hand up, signaling him to stop.


    Fuck! She had no idea she was so unfit until they began exercising, and 5 minutes into it, she was already panting like she had just run a marathon.


    ¡°We haven¡¯t even started the training.¡± Toby quipped, a little too happy for her liking, and one look from Ariel was enough for him to burst intoughter.


    ¡°Ha ha, keepughing. You win this time.¡± Ariel said, rolling her eyes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, cutie; with time, you will get used to it. I am releasing you early today so you can catch your breath. We will continue tomorrow, same time, same ce.¡± Toby said, and he was walking out the door, leaving her alone.


    Ariel was still flopped on the floor, trying to catch her breath. She stretched her hands to grab a bottle of water lying on the floor, and she opened it, chugging the contents down her throat.


    She nced at the wall, and she was jumping up almost immediately. She had just five minutes before the upants of the house began their training, and she didn¡¯t want to be in their way.


    She picked up the bottle and was dragging her weary body up the stairs because someone thought it was wise not to have an elevator.


    Ariel managed to make it to her floor in one piece, and she was dumping her ass on the bed, all sweaty and not giving a fuck. Sheid down for some minutes before dragging herself to the bathroom to wash off the sweat and grime.


    For the rest of the week, the routine was basically the same. Wake up, exercise, eat, sleep, rinse, and repeat.


    And in all those activities, she had only managed to see Kane for a total of zero minutes.


    But she wasn¡¯t bothered about it, right?


    ***


    Ariel had just finished her training for that day, and she was beat. It was nothing tooplex, just some basic exercise to keep her in good shape, but it had a way of draining her.


    She was going to start proper training next week or whenever Toby felt she was ready, but she didn¡¯t care anymore. As long as she got the opportunity to leave the confines of her room, she would dly take it.


    Ariel bopped her head to the music that was ying loudly on the stereo before turning to look at Toby. ¡°Do you dance?¡±


    Toby tilted his head in confusion, trying to determine if she was joking. ¡°Uhm, no. Why?¡±


    ¡°Do you want to?¡±


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    ¡°Come on, it will be fun.¡± Ariel pouted, taking his hands and trying to get him to move. ¡°Don¡¯t be a killjoy now, Toby.¡±


    Toby released himself and let her move him to the rhythm, even though it was awkward as hell. He was taller than her and everything, but Ariel could be a little more determined, and she made it work.


    He wasn¡¯t going to lie; the song was fire, and before long he was moving himself without her prompting and was actually enjoying it, and suddenly he was freezing.


    ¡°What the fuck is going on here?¡±

 Chapter 12

    Kane had been working around the clock for so long that he decided to take a break today before he copsed. There was a war brewing between some Latina gangs, and it meant good business for him, so he had been trying to supply them with the weapons.


    But right now, he is stretched thin.


    The suppliers were acting up and refusing to keep the end of their deal, and he had to go there physically to solve the issue.


    He thought that was all it took for him to receive a call from Mason that the American government was bing strict with their rules and he could no longer operate business as usual.


    Last week was a whole lot, but he had managed to keep his end of the bargain, everyone was happy, and he had decided to give himself the day off, and maybe he could go and see his mate.


    Kane had been so busy that he hadn¡¯t allowed himself to think of her; otherwise, he was going to be taking the next avable flight to run back to her.


    But now that he was around, he would try to get to know her, and maybe they could even go on a date, go watch a movie, or visit a nice restaurant.


    Now why did that thought make him giddy?


    Kane had woken up that morning, and decided to head to the training room. He needed to punch something or work up some sweat in order to get his day started.


    Unlike others, he actually enjoyed training and the bittersweet pleasure thates with it.


    He was almost reaching the training room when his feminineughter reached his ears, and he halted in his steps. Maybe he had gone crazy, but that sounds so much like¡­


    No, it couldn¡¯t be her, because that scent belongs to his gamma, and there was no way Toby would be together with Ariel alone in a training room.


    The math wasn¡¯t just adding up, and that was the only reason he was quickening his footsteps. He had to see for himself.


    Max was already foaming in his mouth at the thought of someone being with his mate. Hell, he had been pestering Kane so he could spend time with her, but Kane had been ignoring him.


    Yet another man was with her and making herugh. Laughter that he was not the course of.


    He was seeing red, and the only thing that could calm him down was blood.


    ¡°No need to get ahead of yourself, Max; I will take care of it.¡± Kane tried to calm his wolf before he went on a killing spree.


    He held the door knob and pushed the door open, but he wasn¡¯t prepared for the sight that greeted him.


    Yea; it was Ariel, no doubt, with his gamma, holding hands and moving to the rhythm of the song that was sting all over the room.


    She wasughing as they moved, and if he wasn¡¯t so blinded by jealousy and anger, he would have admitted that that was the most beautifulughter he had ever heard.


    ¡°What the fuck is going on here?¡± Kane thundered with unbridled anger. His hands tightened into a fist, and suddenly he could imagine Toby as his punishing bag.


    ¡°Alpha.¡± Toby froze in ce; he was immediately removing his hands from Ariel¡¯s hold, as if scorching hot.


    ¡°Oh, Kane, you are here.¡± Ariel said it in a nonchnt tone, and Kane wasn¡¯t happy with the way he said his name. He didn¡¯t notice the way her smile dropped as soon as she saw him, and he wanted to yell.


    I am your mate, not him. Only I deserve to see your smile, but he held himself.


    ¡°What the hell is going on here? Toby? Is this what you are supposed to be doing?¡±


    ¡°Uhm.¡± Toby was at a loss for words. There was nothing he would say that could put the alpha¡¯s wolf to rest, so it was better not to answer.


    ¡°I asked him to train me; is there a problem?¡± Ariel questioned,ing to stand in front of Toby. She folded her arms, but it only managed to push her boobs upwards, and his eyes shed down. ¡°Now, if you would excuse me, you are disrupting something.¡±


    ¡°Ariel.¡± Kane took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. She was just so infuriating, yet he wanted to grab her and just kiss her. Why was he just noticing that her lips were so plump and so inviting, and he just wanted to suck on them?


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I am needed here, so I would leave you two to it.¡± Toby said, trying to slip away, but Kane was too fast for him.


    ¡°Where do you think you are going? Who gave you permission to touch my mate?¡± Kane¡¯s nose red as he bared his teeth.


    ¡°Oh my gosh!¡± Ariel yelled, drawing the men¡¯s attention. ¡°What the hell is wrong with you? Why are you behaving like you are some possessive husband?¡±


    ¡°Ariel?¡± Kane interrupted her; before, she would say something she regretted, but she only gave him the side eyes, ignoring him.


    ¡°You have been invisible since forever, and I was left alone in this fucking mansion. Training was the only thing I could do to take my mind out of the fact that you left me and you dare get mad.¡± Ariel was practically screaming the words. ¡°Don¡¯t you daree here and act like you are the boss.¡± She yelled, poking his chest with each word.


    Kane held her chin, lifting her head to meet his. ¡°That is where you are wrong, sweetie. I am the boss, and what I say goes.¡± He whispered, and he couldn¡¯t ignore her sharp intake of breath, even as her eyes fluttered shut.


    Before he could think of it, he was already leaning towards her, lowering his head to connect their lips together, and he saw the faintest hint from her-the way she stretched her neck in anticipation.


    Then Toby just had that moment to move his legs, but the movement was enough to break whatever spell they were under, and the moment was gone.


    Kane cut sharp eyes at his gamma, his eyes telling him of the untold pain he was going to give him for disrupting this moment, and Toby had the guts to smile.


    ¡°Uhm, yea.¡± Ariel cleared her throat, and suddenly it felt so hot around her. How did this man have such power over her that she was losing every sense of the world just because he was so close to her?


    His cologne wrapped around her like a protective nket, and she wanted nothing more than to continue taking it in.


    ¡°From now on, I will be in charge of her training.¡± Kane dered, and he was walking out before he would do something stupid like kiss her senseless for the whole world to see.


    ¡°Excuse me, you can¡¯t do that. I enjoy Toby teaching me, and I don¡¯t want anyone else.¡±


    Shit! Was all Toby could think. Ariel thought she was helping, but the only thing she had managed to do was dig a bigger hole for him.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t ask for your opinion. Be ready by 8 tomorrow.¡± And Kane was storming out of the room before he did something he would regret. He hasn¡¯t gone so far since he heard her voice as loud and clear as the thunder.


    ¡°Fuck, I hate him.¡±Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Shh, don¡¯t say that.¡± He heard Toby trying to pacify her, but the damage was done, and he was so tempted to storm back inside to give her a reason to hate him more, but he held himself.


    She was his mate, and he should be looking for ways to get closer to her, not to make her hate him.


    But that shit hurt like crazy. Kane clutched his chest tight, rubbing it to try and soothe the pain that he was under.


    Everything was a blur as he tried to make his way to his room, mumbling incoherent words in reply to the greetings of his packmates.


    Never in his life had he thought that he would have a mate who would hate him. He needed to do something to change her mind, and he needed to do it fast, or else he would risk losing his mate to the arms of another man.


    Oh, maybe you could tell her the real truth about herself. Max suggested, and Kane was shaking his head. It was too soon; he needed to make her fall in love with him so she wouldn¡¯t be able to leave.


    If he told her now, she would demand to go, and he would not be able to deny her that.


    Kane continued dragging his legs until he got to his room, and he threw himself on the bed, the training long forgotten.


    All he could think of was his mate.

 Chapter 13

    Ariel looked at the door as Kane left, and she was almost foaming from her mouth. Her fist tightened in anger, and she wanted to do something.


    Like punch the wall or scream her lungs out.


    ¡°Gosh, I hate him.¡± Does he think he owns her just because he is her caretaker? Newssh, she didn¡¯t ask to be adopted.


    She may seem like she is ungrateful, but that is the truth.


    ¡°Shhh, don¡¯t say that.¡± Toby tried to caution her, but Ariel was not hearing anything of it.


    ¡°Oh, what is he going to do?¡± She asked, rolling her eyes. She was tempted to open the door and give him a reply, but she held herself back and turned to Toby. ¡°I am sorry for what happened.¡± She apologized to him, but he was shaking his head.


    ¡°It is fine; I should be the one apologizing. I knew it was going to cause trouble, yet I still allowed it. I will be taking my leave now.¡± Toby didn¡¯t even give her a chance to reply before he was walking out of the room and leaving her alone, speechless.


    Ariel stared at the empty space; her mood had already turned sour. Kane had managed to kill the joy she had for the training, and she didn¡¯t feel like doing anything. So she did the only thing that could soothe her mood.


    She was storming to the kitchen, quite oblivious to the stares she was getting. She has been here for a week now, and yet they continued looking at her like she was a pricey cow.


    ¡°Do I have something on my face?¡± Her voice rang out in the kitchen, and everyone was still looking at the neer. She cast her gaze on the crowd, staring at them head-on, and when no one gave her a reply, she continued. ¡°I don¡¯t think so, so you can stop looking at me like I stole your money; otherwise, I am going to gorge out your eyes.¡± Her sentence earned her chuckles from here and there, but they got the message, and they let her be.


    ¡°Finally.¡± Ariel whispered under her breath, walking morefortably to the kitchen. She was starving and needed to put something in her system before she fainted.


    She grabbed some eggs for toast and an omelet when she heard movements beside her. ¡°What?¡± Ariel barked before she even turned to meet the person. ¡°Oh my gosh, I am sorry.¡± She recognized the intruder as thedy she had bumped into the other day.


    ¡°It is alright.¡± Liza said with a sweet smile. ¡°I just wanted to say I admire your courage. I could have cowered from all the stares.¡±


    ¡°Oh please.¡± Ariel burst into a sarcasticugh. ¡°I am used to it. I was quite active in politics at the university, so I am used to it. But that doesn¡¯t mean I love it either.¡±


    ¡°Wow, that must be nice.¡± Liza was looking at her with starry eyes, and a crazy thought crossed her mind.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you have never seen the four walls of a university.¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes were literally bulging out of their sockets.


    ¡°Never.¡± Liza shook her head, and Ariel¡¯s mouth hung open.


    What is wrong with everyone here? Was she the only one who had a formal education?


    No wonder Kane was so barbaric and archaic.


    ¡°Oh my gosh, I don¡¯t even know what to say.¡± Ariel was shaking her head, but she couldn¡¯t me her. ¡°Do you care for some?¡± She asked, gesturing to the eggs she was frying.


    Liza looked at the delicious eggs, inhaling as the scent filled her nose, and she couldn¡¯t resist it. ¡°Sure.¡±


    Somehow, the two of them made their way to the dining table and were talking in a loud voice,ughing as they told their tales.


    ¡°Where have you been all this year?¡± Liza whizzed, barely able to control herself as sheughed. Ariel was one of the most funny human beings she has ever met, or maybe because she was the only one that managed to rte to her.


    Liza was an omega, which means only a few people could actually rte to her freely, and she was happy Ariel had been added to the too-few list.


    ¡°I would love to start and chat, but I have something to do.¡± Liza suddenly said, rising to her feet, and Ariel followed suit.


    ¡°Of course, I understand. If you are free, you coulde up to my room and we could talk, and maybe dress up, eat, you know, do what girls love doing.¡± Ariel had to stop before she got ahead of herself. She was just so happy at the thought of having another friend here.


    Liza used her palm to cover her mouth as she chuckled. ¡°It is alright. Which floor do you stay on, and what is your room number?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Ariel closed her eyes, trying to recall her room number. ¡°I think thest floor is on the left wing. Room 47, I think.¡±


    ¡°Uhm, are you sure?¡± Liza asked, tilting her head to the side, and Ariel was confused.


    ¡°Yea, why?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I am mistaken, but that floor is only for the alpha and his official work.¡±


    ¡°Alpha?¡± Ariel was even more confused, and her face twisted in a frown. ¡°Is that Kane?¡± She asked, and Liza was nodding her head. She had forgotten that Kane had asked them to keep the wolfy thing on a low when they were around her.


    ¡°Yea, I meant Al-Kane, yea, Kane.¡± She managed to say the words out, even though they rivaled everything in her. She was an omega, and Kane was an alpha; it was beyond disrespectful to utter his name like that.


    ¡°Why are you calling him Alpha?¡± Is that his nickname or what? Because that shit is weird.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it was a slip of the tongue. I think I need to go now. Bye.¡± Liza said, practically running away before she made another silly mistake. Ariel looked at the woman as she ran like someone was on her tail, and she wondered if they were all weird here.


    ¡°Oh well, I guess I fit just well.¡±


    ***


    The next day, Ariel was ready; she had woken up as early as 7 a. m. to prepare, and she was going to give Kane the shock of his life.


    Even though she hated to admit it, she was a little excited about how the training was going to be. There was no doubt it was going to be a bonding experience for them, and she couldn¡¯t wait.


    Ariel was practically skipping to the training room, and this time she waved at the people that looked at her. She was going to be staying with them for a long time, so it was advisable for her to make friends with them.


    She got to the empty training room and got into position, stretching her body and warming up before he woulde.


    She nced at the clock on the wall, and she was reapplying her lipgloss andbing out her hair. She positioned herself just in front of the door, so as he walked in, she was the first person he would see.


    She was prepared, and just as she heard the door open, she was timing it to coincide with the time she was lowering her ass to the floor for a squat.


    ¡°W-wh-what is going on?¡± Kane was almost choking. In his shock, he had swallowed the water in his mouth, and some had gone down the wrong pipe.


    ¡°Oh, hey, Kane.¡± Ariel mewled in the sexiest voice she could muster. This was unlike her, but she was fluttering her eyes and pouting her lips, loving the way his eyes seemed to dart everywhere as if looking for where to settle, but couldn¡¯t find any.


    She could imagine what he was seeing. She was dressed in the tightest sports bra she owned, which exposed more than it should cover; hell, her girls were practically suffocating in there, and the biker shorts did great wonders for her ass.


    Maybe she overdid it; this doesn¡¯t feel like she was trying to punish him.


    If she were actually truthful to herself, she would admit that it was partially to seduce him, but she would never admit that.


    ¡°D-did youe here like that?¡± Kane spat out the words as if it hurt him physically to say them.


    ¡°And if I did?¡± Ariel folded her arms in defense, ready to go against him if he tried to scold her.


    ¡°Shit, Ariel, don¡¯t tell me you were parading your juicy ass in a house full of men.¡± Kane¡¯s fingers balled into a fist at the thought as he tried to rein in his anger, while Ariel tried to ignore the flush of heat that went through her and instead focused on the anger.


    ¡°And if I did, what does that have to do with you? You are not the boss of me!¡± She yelled,ing closer to his face.


    ¡°You think?¡± Kane cocked his eyebrows. He was at the end of his tether, and he needed an outlet to release it.


    ¡°Fuck you!¡±


    ¡°Maybe I will.¡± There was a hint of a smile on Kane¡¯s lip as he spoke, and her heart rate picked up.


    Surely he doesn¡¯t mean what he said. Right? Right?Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    ¡°D-don¡¯t ce cl-¡± And everything became quiet.

 Chapter 14

    Okay, Kane didn¡¯t actually fuck her, but his lips inched closer to her, sounding like a warning that she failed to heed. ¡°D-don¡¯te near me, Kane; don¡¯t you dare?¡± Ariel was stuttering, yet she couldn¡¯t deny the hint of excitement she felt as he got closer to her.


    Is this what they call sexual tension, because she was definitely experiencing it now?


    However, she took a step backward, trying to move away from him, but Kane wasn¡¯t letting that happen. With each step she took from him, he took one towards her, and like that until her back met the wall.


    ¡°Kane. Don¡¯t.¡± Ariel whined, although she had no idea why she was telling him not to. His gaze dipped to her lips, and she looked into his eyes, wondering just how long hisshes were.


    He caught her off guard for a moment when he stared into her eyes, and she was whipping her head to the side in a bid to avoid him, but his hands held her jaw firmly, and he turned her to face him.


    ¡°Never hide away from me, love. I want to see those beautiful eyes.¡± Kane whispered in a sultry voice that was making her weak in the knees.


    Her pupils dted as they regarded him, and she was almost swooning.


    ¡°I want to kiss you.¡± Kane announced, catching her off guard, and she froze for a moment.


    ¡°Kane?¡± Ariel was bringing up her hands to put a distance between them, but they somehow managed to settle on his shirt. ¡°I am not sure we should be doing this.¡± Her eyes darted to the side, trying to escape his.


    ¡°It is a simple question, Ariel, and I need your verbal consent. Yes or no?¡± Ariel looked up at his lips, so plump and soft, and how inviting they were, and she was licking her lips unconsciously. ¡°Ariel?¡± Kane growled; his voice was deeper than before, huskier even, andden with a hint of desire that was making her go crazy.


    Ariel watched as his eyes closed, inhaling deeply, and when he opened his eyes, she swore they were glowing.


    ¡°I will kiss you now.¡± Kane¡¯s breath fanned her neck as he whispered the words, and she was almost dying inside. His hands crept to her neck, holding her firmly, while the others rested on her waist, rubbing circles on it.


    Just get on with it already. She wanted to scream, but in that moment, his lips met hers.


    It was just like a fairytale-all the sparks, the butterflies, the flowers, and the music. Everything was happening at the same time, and she just wished she could remain in that moment forever.


    Ariel¡¯s hands glided up to rest on his shoulder, holding them firmly as she pressed against him, and she closed her eyes, her only focus being on his lips and how soft they were and how they moved against her.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Mm.¡± Ariel moaned softly, and the sound was doing something crazy to Kane that he had never experienced before. He pulled her in closer to him, letting him feel how hard he was in all ces. She was soft, and he was rewarded with a kiss from her.


    But the moment was ruined when the door slide opened and Ariel was scrambling to leave his embrace, but Kane maintained a tight grip on her wrist, caging her in.


    ¡°Toby?¡± Kane growled as the scent of the intruder wafted through his nose. Why are you here? Kane was asking him through the link, and he shrugged.


    ¡°Ariel, I had no idea you were here.¡± Toby teased her, and Ariel had never prayed so much that the ground would open up and swallow her. ¡°Alright, I will leave you two to continue whatever you are doing. I promise, I didn¡¯t see anything.¡± And he was running out.


    ¡°Wait, Toby. It is not what you think.¡± Ariel called out after him, but he was already out of hearing, or so she thought, and she was moving towards the door to meet him, but a force was stopping her.


    ¡°And where do you think you are going to?¡± Kane queried, cocking his eyebrows in question.


    She raised her hands, pointing in the direction Toby had just left. ¡°I was just going to¡­ I-I.¡± Ariel slowly let down her hands, as she couldn¡¯t think of any words to describe what she was going to do.


    She raised her head to meet Kane¡¯s eyes, and the look she saw had her shivering against her will. ¡°Do you like Toby?¡± He suddenly questioned her.


    ¡°No.¡± Ariel yelled-a little too fast for her liking and definitely too loud. ¡°I mean? I don¡¯t like him, not the way I like you. He is just a friend.¡±


    The way Kane was looking at her told her that she must have said something she shouldn¡¯t have, and it urred to her. ¡°What? Oh shit!¡± She face-palmed mentally. ¡°I-I didn¡¯t mean it like that; I was just saying that.. Toby was.. You were.. You know what? I am just going to keep quiet.¡± It was better she shut up before shemitted another word vomit, but Kane seemed to think it was cute.


    ¡°It is fine; I totally understand you. I like you too.¡± Kane replied, his upper lips tugging to reveal a smile, and she groaned.


    Can the earth just open and swallow her now?


    But she tried to y it cool and clear with her throat. ¡°So the training?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, sure, the training.¡± Kane began, his jaw naturally clenching and his eyes bing focused as he went into a serious mood, and Ariel thought it was the hottest thing she had ever witnessed. ¡°I don¡¯t know how far Toby has gone with your training, so I want to test your ability.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I am anywhere near the level you are expecting. We have just been doing some warm-up and normal exercise just to introduce me to everything.¡± She had never really worked out in her life since she had good genes, but having good genes doesn¡¯t necessarily mean that she is healthy.


    ¡°Alright, I think I will start from the basics and teach you some self-defense skills. What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Yayyy! Maybe I could learn how to pluck off anyone¡¯s eyes who dares to look at me.¡± Ariel quipped, a little excited, and Kane was shaking his head.


    ¡°That is thest reason you should be taking self-defense sses; not that I would even allow anyone to look at you in that way, but yeah, do you. Now let¡¯s get to business.¡±


    Ariel had no choice but to be serious, as Kane was in his teacher¡¯s mode. She wouldn¡¯t lie; he was a good teacher, and she had a problem learning from him. ¡°If the enemyes from behind, bend forward from the waist, turn into the attacker with one of your elbows, and continue counterattacking. Try to turn fully and deliver a blow to injure the face or strike the groin.¡± Ariel was nodding her head furiously and taking note of all that he was saying, as it was going to help her.


    They continued going at it for some minutes, but Kane was quick to spot that his mate was getting tired and that he was moving close to her. ¡°I think a five-minute break wouldn¡¯t be so bad; what do you think?¡±


    Ariel didn¡¯t need any more prompting before she was flopping on the floor, and he followed suit, sitting beside her.


    ¡°Kane?¡± Kane was whipping his head fast as she called his name, and for a moment, her breath caught in her throat. ¡°I have wanted to ask you a question.¡±


    ¡°Sure, go ahead.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you bother calling me or reaching out to me when I was in Australia?¡± The question has always been in her mind, and she felt that there was no better moment to broach it than now, but from the way Kane stilled, she knew she shouldn¡¯t have asked that. ¡°It is alright if you don¡¯t want to answer.¡±


    ¡°I was afraid.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°When I found you, you were just a 15-year-old who had just lost her parents and had no knowledge of anything, and I was barely an adult, trying to find my feet in the world. Australia was the best option there while I tried to focus on myself.¡± Kane exined, and she was nodding her head.


    Ariel could understand the burden he must have felt, yet something didn¡¯t feel right. Either way, she threw it in the back of her mind as she got up and continued training, until they were both panting and tired.


    ¡°I would love to continue this, Kane, but I am beyond weary, and I would love a hot shower.


    ¡°Say we do this tomorrow?¡± He asked, and Ariel was nodding her head.


    ¡°Sure, tomorrow.¡± As Ariel walked up to her room, only one question came to mind.


    How did he know her age if she was an orphan?

 Chapter 15

    Something wasn¡¯t just adding up from his exnation, but Ariel ignored the questions that had been guing her and decided to put them away. She didn¡¯t totally forget it, but right now, her mind couldn¡¯t think of anything but rest.


    Kane had managed to push her body to the limit, and while it was fun then, she needed to rest her weary limbs before she copsed.


    She dragged herself to the bed and managed to take a short nap, but even that one proved difficult because she was just turning and tossing on the bed, reliving the minute they kissed.


    It had been long since she had been kissed like that, after her first rtionship, which had pretty much failed, but even that couldn¡¯t hold a candle to what she felt.


    Kane was a grown man, and he kissed her like one, holding her close and pressing into her and- ¡°Arrggghhh.¡± Ariel grabbed the pillow in front of her, screaming into it as she could barely contain her happiness.


    It had happened in a way she didn¡¯t expect, but she couldn¡¯t have had it any differently. But somewhere in her mind, she was afraid she was moving too fast with him.


    Kane was supposed to be her guardian, and she doesn¡¯t know how guardian-guardee rtionships work, but she was sure there was no kissing going on.


    But this was Kane; everything was different with him; he looked like he was born to break the rule, and honestly, she didn¡¯t care one bit.


    ¡°Alright, enough.¡± Ariel was chiding herself when 20 minutes had gone by, and she was only relieving the kiss. She had been reying it, scene by scene, making sure she wasn¡¯t missing any parts. ¡°This is not going to help.¡± She said, and she was walking towards the bathroom.


    A scalding hot shower should wash away any impure thoughts she was having, and it worked like magic.


    But the day after, when she was training with Kane and she was pressed close to him, she remembered the way he felt on her, and she was like a ripe tomato.


    ¡°Are you sick?¡± Kane¡¯s voice was disrupting her thoughts, and she was shaking her head, trying to get rid of the images.


    ¡°No, why?¡± Kane was staring at her as if he could see through her, and she wasn¡¯t sure she liked it.


    ¡°You are turning red.¡± He pointed out, his eyes carrying a sweeping look all over her, just to be sure.


    ¡°Yeah!¡± Ariel was fanning herself furiously, even as she was inching away from him. ¡°It is from the heat and exhaustion. Excuse me.¡± And she was fleeing before Kane could reply.


    The next day was a bit better, as she was able to rein herself in from jumping him when he was flexing those muscles as he taught her how to throw a punch.


    He had lost the shirt he had been wearing to reveal a wife beater when things became hotter and her eyes remained glued to his biceps, but she was able to exercise enough self-control and held off until it was over.


    Their training became consistent, and it was the only thing Ariel was looking forward to as she woke up every morning. In fact, it was what was waking her up earlier than usual.


    It has been a week since they started training, and everything has been going well. Although they haven¡¯t talked about the kiss or shared it with anyone again, they both pretend it never happened and go back to their normal lives.


    That day, Ariel was waking up earlier than usual, and sheid on the bed, staring at the ceiling. She needed to talk to Kane to know what her next decision would be.


    For seven years of her life, Kane had been financing her, and now that she has graduated, she has doubts that he will be eager to do so anymore.


    It is time for her to look for a job and maybe find out more about herself. It had always gued her that she knew nothing of her first fifteen years on earth.


    Nothing; whenever she tried to recall something, it waspletely nk, and she was beginning to get frustrated. She could only rely on what Kane told her, and the man was as vague as ever.


    Toby would never provide anything, no matter how much she begged him, as he imed that he didn¡¯t know anything, but she had a strong suspicion that he was lying.


    Arielid on the bed and continued working on her next line of action, mapping outpanies she could apply to until it was almost time to go.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    She jumped out of bed and was walking towards the bathroom to brush her teeth, smiling at the work of an overly expensive dentist. She finished brushing her teeth, and she leaned down, sniffing her armpits, and was satisfied that it wasn¡¯t going to drive anyone away or worse, mad, but to be on the safe side, she sprayed a generous amount of antiperspirant.


    Ariel changed into her training outfit-nothing ridiculous, just an old T-shirt and joggers that had seen better days. Since thest kiss, Kane has been avoiding all sorts of body contact with her.


    She had gotten the message loud and clear, and she decided to abide by it. Ariel strolled to the mirror, looking at her outfit, and she nodded her head in appreciation.


    She wore her sneakers, and she was out of the door. There was nothing Kane hated more thanteness, and she had to make sure she was there on time.


    But you could imagine her disappointment when she had raced all the way to the training room and it was locked.


    ¡°What the heck?¡± Ariel looked around, trying to find a possible exnation for why the training room was locked. It had never been locked since she started her training, and she didn¡¯t fail to notice theck of people around.


    Just what is going on?


    She looked around her, trying to make sense of what was going on, but no one could give her an exnation of what was going on.


    She was walking up the stairs to get her phone, but on second thought, she was taking a decor to Toby¡¯s room. If there was anyone who knew what was going on, it would be him.


    You could imagine her surprise when she got to the front of his door and tried the door knob, but it refused to give way.


    ¡°Geez!¡± Ariel yelled, kicking the door, but she was quick to find out that that was the wrong decision. Stumbling on her throbbing foot, she continued the journey to her room to get her phone.


    She should be able to reach Toby and ask him about his whereabouts or even about Kane. She was ashamed to admit it, but she didn¡¯t have Kane¡¯s contact information and had never bothered to ask.


    Ariel arrived at their floor, and she was walking towards her room, but she was pausing for a moment as she looked at the hallway. Kane¡¯s office and room were also located there, and she could save herself the trouble by just checking up on him.


    He had probably forgotten or had been too busy to remember.


    It sounded like a great idea in her head, and she didn¡¯t give it any thought before she was marching towards his office. If he wasn¡¯t in his office, then she would try his room.


    Ariel stood in front of his door and held the doorknob, praying that it was locked. Now that she was in front of it, she couldn¡¯t shake the nervousness that enveloped her.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± A voice barked behind the door, and she shook in fright.


    ¡°Shit!¡± Ariel was releasing the doorknob like it was on fire. She knew Kane¡¯s voice very well, and right now, that wasn¡¯t him.


    It was a wrong decision anyway, she thought, and she was turning to go.


    ¡°I know you are outside, so don¡¯t try to run away; otherwise, I will hunt you and find you.¡± The voice spoke again, and this time she broke out in sweat.


    It is fine; no one will hurt you here. Ariel tried to reassure herself while she took on her self-defense stance. If the intruder tried anything, she was going to practice all she had learned on him.


    She took in a lot of air, releasing it slowly, and she opened the door, letting herself inside. Ariel crossed her arms, trying to appear menacing as she faced the intruder.


    ¡°Who are you, and why are you here?¡± Ariel nced around the room, looking for something, anything she could use to her advantage.


    ¡°I should be asking you that; you are the intruder here, and I don¡¯t like intruders.¡± The man snarled, exposing his fangs just a bit to scare her.


    He was inching closer to her, and Ariel didn¡¯t know where she got the confidence from, but she remained on her spot, unmoving.


    And suddenly, the door opened with the force of an open-palm smack, and the new intruder looked at the scene in front of him, recognizing his female.


    ¡°Ariel?¡±

 Chapter 16

    ¡°Ariel?¡±


    ¡°Oh my gosh!¡± Ariel couldn¡¯t help the sigh of relief that left her when she recognized the intruder at the door. There was no way she could forget that voice, and she was running towards him as soon as she heard him. ¡°Kane.¡± She cried out as she saw him, running to his embrace.


    ¡°Ariel.¡± Kane said with a humph as she collided with him, but he weed it, wrapping his hands around her. He felt at home as the familiar sparks developed between them, and he inhaled her scent, letting it wash over him. But as soon as their bodies touched each other, she was inching away from him, and he let his eyes roam over her, trying to determine the cause of her difort. ¡°What is wrong?¡±


    Ariel couldn¡¯t bring herself to open her mouth; instead, she nodded towards the room, where the strange man was still standing there.


    ¡°Mason? Really?¡± Kane said in a monotone voice as he regarded his beta. ¡°Why are you terrorizing her? Come on, Ariel, he is harmless.¡± Kane said, leading her into his office.


    His arms had been throbbing as they had been hurting; he still had dried blood all over him, and he needed to wash it off, but he had summoned Mason to his office for an urgent meeting, and thest thing he was expecting was to meet his mate there.


    ¡°Who is he?¡± Ariel demanded; she had refused to take her eyes away from him in case he tried something funny.


    ¡°Ariel, meet Mason, the second inmand, and Mason, you already know Ariel.¡±


    ¡°W-wait. Hold on, how does he know me? Why is he here? And why are you COVERED IN BLOOD?¡± Ariel¡¯s voice held real panic as she observed him, and she was trembling. ¡°Oh, Lord,¡± she swayed unnaturally, but Kane was nearby, ready to catch her.


    ¡°What is wrong?¡±


    ¡°I think I need a trash can to-¡± No sooner had she said the words was she hurling the meal she had eaten, but thanks to the werewolf and their fast reflexes, Kane could already perceive the food making their way back to her mouth, and he had signaled to Mason to bring the trash just in time before the first hurlnded inside.


    Ariel, still lightheaded, seemed to have settled only for a moment before she took another look at his face. Her eyes widened in an unnatural way, pure horror overtaking her as the first drop of bloodnded on her face.


    Ariel wasn¡¯t conscious enough to witness the second one.


    Kane took his mate in his arms, clutching her tightly as she was gradually losing her color, and he was yelling at Mason. ¡°Help me arrange the sofa.¡±


    Mason was quick, doing the bidding of his alpha, and Kane gently ced her on the bed, arranging her dress so she wasn¡¯t exposed, and he was turning to face his beta.


    ¡°What happened to her?¡± Kane¡¯s scowl on his face deepened as he looked at Mason, but thetter only shrugged.


    ¡°I have no idea; I was just asking her why she was here, then she saw you and fainted.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Kane wasn¡¯t convinced, but he put two and two together, and he was walking to his bathroom. Yes, he had a bathroom in his office, even though his room was only three doors away.


    The structure was essential for times when he was so busy and was in his office throughout the day. It was easier to take a shower here than to run over to his room, where he may likely be distracted by the warm bed.


    Kane dashed to the bathroom, washing up the blood from his body before she woke up. He nced at his fractured arm, the discoloration was a little off-putting, but it was nothing he hadn¡¯t experienced, and the throbbing had reduced to a dull ache, so it was a win for him.


    He was still in the bathroom when he heard her first puffs of air, a sign that she wasing around, and he grabbed a towel, wetting it before rubbing it on any area where there was blood.


    He was almost through when he heard the second puff of air, and he was tearing the bloody shirt on his body and flinging it before grabbing the nearest shirt and throwing it on his body.


    He was just in time to see hershes flutter, and she slowly opened her eyes. It wasn¡¯t the first time Kane was looking at her, but like always, he seemed to be overwhelmed by her beauty.


    ¡°Hello, beautiful,¡± Kane spoke, saying the first thing that came to his mind, and the sudden hitch in her breath was the only sign that she had heard him.


    Can you leave us? I will stop by your roomter, and we can talk. Meanwhile, Toby would exin everything. Kane said through the mind link, and Mason practically blended into the room as he made his way out.


    ¡°Kane?¡± Ariel¡¯s lips were slightly open as she tried to draw in the air. Everything was so unfamiliar that it was giving her a headache, and she wasn¡¯t sure why. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Kane¡¯s chuckle shot straight down to her core, and she blushed hard because of her body¡¯s reaction to this man. ¡°This is my office, Ariel; I should be asking you that.¡±


    ¡°Yea,¡± She shifted on the sofa, raising her body up, but Kane was already holding her and putting her in a sitting position. ¡°I was looking for you; where¡¯ve you been?¡± Ariel asked in an usatory tone, her lips forming a pout as she talked.


    ¡°I am so sorry; I should have informed you earlier; we had some work to do.¡±


    ¡°Work that involves blood?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyebrows were raised in question. ¡°I thought you were into distribution and delivery services.¡± She could suspect a foul y here, but she couldn¡¯t just put her hands to it.


    In fact, nothing has been entirely in since she arrived. The upants of the house were always looking like they were hiding something up their sleeves, and she couldn¡¯t ignore the whispers as she passed.


    ¡°Yea, I-¡± Kane was looking for a suitable lie he could tell, but he couldn¡¯t think of one, and with the way her eyes were piercing into his soul, he was sure she could read him. ¡°I was attacked by a bear.¡±


    There was an awkward silence as they regarded themselves, Ariel looking at him with squinted eyes as if to say, ¡®Is this the lie you are going for?¡¯


    ¡°Yeah, I was attacked by a bear.¡± Kane nodded, backing up his lie, and Ariel looked at him with a nk expression, at a loss for words.


    ¡°Alright, if you say so.¡± She rose up from her chair, not finding the strength to argue again. ¡°I think I will be taking my leave.¡±


    Kane made no move to prevent her; instead, he watched her go, and he was flinching as she shut the door with a bang.


    I need to talk to her, he thought as he stared at the door wistfully.


    ***Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Kane was told beforehand that the training wasn¡¯t going to take ce today as he was busy, and for the first time, she didn¡¯t seem to mind.


    Ariel needed a day to actually think things through, and with the recent things that had been happening between her and Kane, she wasn¡¯t sure she wanted to be around him now.


    The man was a book full of secrets, and she hoped she could uncover them one after the other, or even better, he told her.


    She didn¡¯t think she could have anything with a man who had made it his life mission to be suspicious. She needed to clear her head, and that was the only reason she was strolling outside in the garden.


    Ariel was ashamed to think that she hadn¡¯t bothereding outside since the day we arrived when she saw the beautiful meadows. The green scenery was a pleasant surprise, and the vibrant colors of the flowers added to the beauty.


    She took a deep breath, breathing in the pure air, and as she slowly let out the air, her problem seemed to float away. At that moment, her thoughts were nk, and she was only concerned with reconnecting with nature.


    However, her ears pricked as she heard the crunching of leaves, and she looked towards her left just in time to see two couplesughing as they explored each other.


    ¡°Young love.¡± Ariel mused, shaking her head, and she was turning her focus to another scene. There was no need to witness a private moment between couples.


    But she was whipping her head so fast as she heard a sickening crunch that was no doubt the sounds of bones breaking, and her pupils widened as she got the shock of her life.


    ¡°Did he just-did they just?¡± And she was greeted with darkness.

 Chapter 17

    Kane had just gotten back from a meeting with his pack member, and he was losing it. He grabbed at his cor, tearing the button that seemed to be choking him, and only when they were undone did he feel relief.


    ¡°Why now?¡± He sighed as thest button snapped from his force, scattering all over the floor. He dumped his body on the sofa, his hands massaging his head as he tried to ease the headache away.


    He could still remember the events of the day, and they yed in his head like a movie clipped.


    It all began when he came back from thest raid. As usual, it was a sess, but they weren¡¯t able to host their regr party because of the new addition to the pack.


    Kane had called a meeting with his members prior to Ariel¡¯s arrival, and he had advised them to tone down their ¡®wolfiness¡¯ as she was a human.


    As usual, the news was met with uproar, and a lot of them were quick to voice out their dissatisfaction with the new rule, but Kane had grabbed the neck of the nearest man who had been too mouthy and sank his fangs in his flesh.


    A deep bite on his neck reminded everyone just who the alpha was, and they were quick to bow their necks. ¡°I understand that the new rule is not favorable, but Ariel doesn¡¯t know about this world, and seeing humans change into beasts will terrify her. I am just asking for a week to ease her up into our world, then we can return to how we were.¡±


    There were murmurs and grumblings here and there, but no one would dare raise their voice against him, and Kane took that as a sign of agreement.


    However, the first week had gone by, and he had been so busy. There had been a new shipmenting up, and he needed to be there to supervise the work. He had been so busy that he hadn¡¯t even seen his mate since she arrived; that was what he convinced himself, and not because he was trying to avoid her.


    Kane wasn¡¯t sure how he would feel looking at the face of his mate when he watched her parents die.


    What if she remembered everything and was just pretending not to?


    He wasn¡¯t ready to risk their rtionship, which had barely started, so he had tasked Toby with the job of watching her and keeping herpany, but Toby had done the job so well that when he came, he couldn¡¯t control his jealousy at seeing them in such close proximity.


    He had taken it upon himself to take over her training and teach her some self-defense skills, and he wasn¡¯t going to lie, it was the most fun he had had.


    And somehow, he kept forgetting to tell her.


    Their rtionship was finally looking like it was making headway, and he didn¡¯t want to ruin it. There was a saying that ignorance is bliss, and it had been working well for her. But Kane knew he couldn¡¯t keep up with it.


    This had gone on for two weeks and some days, and they had gone for their usual job. As usual, it was a sess, and as is their tradition, they were supposed to wine and dine and probably get drunk and go crazy.


    But with the new addition, there was no way they could do that without her finding their secret. No party isplete with alcohol, and for them, it is usuallyced with a special portion to get even the mightiest wolf drunk, and a drunk wolf was a recipe for disaster.


    Kane wasn¡¯t surprised when they called for a meeting, expressing their displeasure over the fact.


    ¡°I speak for all of us when I said we have tried and we are tired. We are wolves; we can¡¯t continue hiding who we are because of a mere human.¡± One of the pack members spoke out.


    A rumble formed in Kane¡¯s throat, expressing his displeasure with their choice of words, and there was shuffling of feet as the fear built in them. ¡°I suggest you watch your tongue when talking to my mate, if you still want it attached to your mouth.¡± Kane growled, and a shockwave passed through the crowd at his deration.


    There have been spections that the new human must be his mate, because Kane wouldn¡¯t willingly house a human, but no one has been bold enough to confront him about his choice, and now it is out in the open.


    ¡°I am sorry, Alpha; I meant no harm. But I am tired of hiding who I am. We are rogues; we are supposed to be free to express ourselves, but for some weeks now, we have abided by your words, and we are tired.¡±


    There was a little hum of agreement from the people that had gathered, and Kane nodded his head. He cleared his throat before he began to speak.


    ¡°I have heard all you have to say, and I will have to thank you for your patience and cooperation. Indeed, when you have done your best and you are right, you shouldn¡¯t be hiding who you are. Therefore, the ban is lifted; I will talk to her today, and everything should return to normal.¡±


    There were shouts of excitement from the crowd, and as he looked at the wide smiles on the faces of his packmate, he hoped he was making the right decision.


    Kane had only wished he had more time to think this through and n out what he would say, but when he heard the footsteps of his pack members running towards him as they screamed his name, he knew it was toote.


    Kane opened the door wide and collected his lifeless mate, her limp hands swaying as he walked to the sofa, cing her on it gently.


    Kane straightened up only after he had checked on his mate, satisfied to feel her warm breath on his fingers. ¡°What is wrong with her?¡± He demanded, a little too calm for the internal chaos that was going through his mind.


    ¡°Al-alpha, we were¡­¡± The female began, but she was too frightened to say anything meaningful, and Kane was turning his attention to the male with her.


    ¡°What happened?¡± He demanded, his patience running thin with the more time they spent stalling, although from the looks on their faces, he could tell.


    ¡°We were having fun in the garden, and I remember you giving us permission to shift freely¡­¡± The man began, reminding Kane of his words so it wouldn¡¯t backfire.


    Kane knew what he was trying to do, and his scowl deepened, not at all pleased. ¡°I only asked for what happened, not a summary of your day!¡± He barked, annoyed, and the female shivered, the authority in his voice too much for her to handle as she was an omega.


    The male nced at his mate, pulling her closer to himself and rubbing circles on her back before he continued. ¡°We decided to shift to our wolves and run since it had been a while, but we had no idea she was nearby watching until we heard a thud, and when we checked, we saw her lying unconscious on the floor, and we thought to tell you.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Kane nodded while trying to keep calm. ¡®What happened to your senses? You are werewolves; you should be able to detect when someone is near, or was the training all a waste?¡¯ The words were at the tip of his tongue, but he held them in.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    There was no need to me others for something he should have taken care of. ¡°It is fine; you may go.¡± He dismissed them, and he was already turning to face his mate.


    ***


    ¡°Ariel?¡± Kane whispered as he noticed the first signs of hering around.


    Ariel¡¯s pupils opened wide, and they dted as they focused on him. ¡°Kane, I saw¡­¡± She gestured towards the door, unable to bring herself to say what she had just seen.


    ¡°I know.¡± If it were in another situation, Kane would haveughed his head off at her reaction, but instead he willed himself to stay calm.


    ¡°They were¡­they¡­wolves¡­ we have to¡­¡± Ariel was trying to warn him of the impending danger at his doorstep, but she was having difficulties getting the words out.


    ¡°Yes, Ariel, they are werewolves; we are all werewolves.¡± Kane said the words carefully, his eyes glued to her, watching her expression and ready to catch her if necessary.


    He watched as she closed her eyes, inhaling a lot of air and slowly releasing it, before she opened her eyes. ¡°Okay, let me get this straight: you all turn into furry-smelling creatures during the full moon, and you howl at it, worshiping it?¡±


    Kane chuckled at her description-a far cry from what they were-but he couldn¡¯t me her. The media had done a horrible job portraying them. ¡°You are not wrong, but we are not smelling creatures, nor do we howl at the moon. Maybe we do howl, but you get the general picture.¡±


    Ariel shook her head, finding it a little difficult to keep down her food. Little beads of sweat clung to her forehead and the tip of her nose, despite the cool autumn wind that was blowing across the room.


    Ariel took a look at the man she had known for years, but all she could picture was him turning into the creatures of the night with fangs that could bleed her dry and ws that could carve her up, and her head swam.


    ¡°I think I will need the trash can.¡±

 Chapter 18

    Kane was racing to grab the trash can before she would make a mess in his office. That was thest thing he needed right now.


    He came back, holding it out for her, and had to bear the agonizing seconds that it took him to stay still while his mate emptied her breakfast.


    He moved the trash can away from his eyes, putting it in the back of his mind to call someone up to throw it away. He was walking up to the tinypartment that served as his kitchen, and he grabbed a bottle of water from the refrigerator.


    ¡°Here.¡± Kane stretched out his hands, and Ariel received the water with thanks and poured some into her mouth, gargling it about before spewing it out.


    ¡°Is there a bathroom I can use?¡± Her voice was barely recognizable as she spoke, and if not for his sensitive ears, he wouldn¡¯t have heard it.


    ¡°There is; just walk straight to the end of the room, and you will see the bathroom.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Ariel stood up to go, but she had underestimated how weary she was. Her legs crumbled under her, and she swayed, but Kane was always there, and he held her back, trying to steady her. ¡°Don¡¯t touch me!¡± Ariel shrieked, moving away from him like she had been electrocuted.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± Kane looked at her with worry written all over her face, and guilt washed over her.


    ¡°I am sorry for raising my voice, but can you avoid touching me? I am trying to process this news, and you being close to me is just too much to handle.¡±


    ¡°Hmm,¡± Kane nodded his head. There was a reason he had been reluctant to tell her about their real identities, and it wasing to y. ¡°I understand, and I will respect your wishes.¡± He simply said, and he watched as she staggered all the way to the bathroom.


    Ariel stood in front of the sink, and she stared at the small mirror in front of her. She was still trying to shake the image away that she had seen, but she had woken up, and Kane had confirmed all that she had seen, and she was short on words.


    Does that mean she kissed a wo-?


    She couldn¡¯t even bring herself to say the words because it would mean it was real, and she didn¡¯t want it to be. She closed her eyes, willing herself to wake up from this bad dream. And when she opened her eyes slowly, she was staring at her reflection in the mirror, and she shuddered at what she saw.


    ¡°You need to calm down, Ariel.¡± She wiggled her hands at the reflection on the wall. ¡°He is probably pulling your legs.¡± But in all the times she had known Kane, there was one thing he was horrible at.


    Jokes.


    Ariel sshed the water on her face, and she poured some into her mouth, gargling it to get rid of the horrible aftertaste.


    This wouldn¡¯t do, she thought, and she grabbed the toothpaste and poured a generous amount into her mouth.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    When she was no longer tasting like vomit, she wasing out of the bathroom, and she was face-to-face with Kane. ¡°Oh my gosh!¡± Ariel shrieked, stumbling backwards. ¡°You scared me.¡± His body was too close forfort.


    ¡°I was getting worried, thinking you had fallen asleep or even worse.¡±


    ¡°I am alive,¡± but not for long.


    ¡°I can see. Do you still want to talk? I understand that it is a lot, processing all the information, but I will tell you everything about us, and you could ask questions, which should ease your fears.¡± Kane suggested, praying that she would ept. Ariel looked at him with a nk stare, not that she had any choice.


    Kane was her legal guardian, and apart from her friends in Australia, only a few people knew of her whereabouts. Anything could happen here, and no one would bat an eyelid.


    ¡°Sure.¡± She replied in a polite voice, and they went back to his office. Ariel sat half-ass on the edge of the chair, making sure to be enough distance from him.


    Kane¡¯s chuckle reached her ears, and she was whipping her head up fast enough to know that cause. ¡°You can rx, Ariel; I have no ns to cause you harm. If I wanted to, you couldn¡¯t have been alive from the start.¡±


    What was supposed to be reassurance turned out to be a threat, and from the way her heart rate spiked up, pounding so loudly against her rib cage, he knew he had done the opposite.


    ¡°Yea. Just get on with it.¡± Ariel mumbled under her breath. As much as she was afraid, he was right; he would have hurt her a long time ago if he wanted to.


    But the fact that he had the power to do so made her feel uneasy.


    ¡°Alright, as you now know, we are werewolves. I am sure you must have a little idea of what Hollywood has been portraying us to be, but that is far from the truth. Actually..¡± Kane opened his mouth and tried to exin to her as best he could.


    He had never had to exin who he was to anyone, but for his mate, he would do anything.


    ¡°I see.¡± Ariel nodded as he finished talking, although there was nothing to see there. Maybe only the red-ring light screaming danger. ¡°How did you be a werewolf?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Now that was one question Kane had never thought of. ¡°I am not sure how the first werewolf came to be, but I was born one. My parents and their parents were all werewolves, and so will be my children.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± And suddenly, all thoughts of having his children werepletely erased from her mind. There was no way she would be carrying an animal inside of her. ¡°Let me get this straight: everyone here except me is a werewolf.¡± Kane nodded his head, and Ariel gulped. ¡°I see, so Toby, Mason¡­¡±


    ¡°We are all werewolves, but those two are part of the leaders. I am the alpha, Mason the beta, and Toby the gamma.¡± Kane exined, and she nodded. It made sense that he was the alpha. The way he carried himself was nothing short of a leader, and she couldn¡¯t ignore the way they respected him.


    Despite her inner turmoil, she felt a great respect for him and was proud. ¡°Wait, gamma?¡± This was the first time she heard of it.


    ¡°Yeah, Toby is the gamma, and he is in charge of training people.¡± Kane replied, leaving out the part where he also coordinated the war. He didn¡¯t want to spoil whatever friendship they still had together.


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that is all.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be ungrateful, but I am still trying to wrap my head around why you decided to adopt me.¡± Ariel shook her head as different thoughts ran through her mind, and none of them were good. ¡°You knew I was a human and that a human can¡¯t live freely in a house full of werewolves that could devour her at any moment.¡±


    Kane¡¯s growls were cutting her off before she couldplete her statement. ¡°I will never let any harme to you, Ariel. As long as I am in this house, you will be protected.¡±


    It was hard trusting his words when he was literally a beast, but if she was going to be honest, he had been holding up that part of the deal. ¡°Alright, but you haven¡¯t answered my question.¡±


    Kane shifted towards her, trying to get closer to her, but Ariel held her palm out, creating distance between them. ¡°Please don¡¯te close.¡±


    Hurt shed through him like lightning, but he ignored it and focused on her question. ¡°I couldn¡¯t abandon you when I saw you. I know we may be dreadful creatures, but I still have sympathy.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Ariel replied, and they fell into silence.


    ¡°You are taking this well.¡± Kane noted, and she looked up to meet his eyes.


    ¡°Am I?¡± Thest thing Ariel was doing was taking it well. She was just trying to process everything that has been going on.


    Different thoughts were running through her head as she ruminated about what she had just heard. She refused to believe that Kane had adopted her because he felt sympathy for her; hell, they could be keeping her because they wanted to eat her.


    Why would they train you if they wanted to eat you? The thought crossed through her mind, but she ignored it, pushing it to the bottom of her thoughts.


    Maybe they hate eating dumb people.


    Her face burned as the pair of eyes continued looking at her, and she looked up to meet him.


    ¡°I have heard all you have to say, but I will have to sleep on it. Excuse me.¡±

 Chapter 19

    Ariel staggered back to her room; her limbs had suddenly lost the ability to perform their functions, and she was holding the walls for support. After all she had just heard, she needed a breather.


    She managed to get to her room, and she was beelining straight to her bed, slowly lowering herself on it. Shey on her bed, her eyes fixated on the ceiling, but she wasn¡¯t even seeing anything.


    All she was doing was reying everything that had happened a few moments ago, trying to determine if he was really telling the truth or if her mind was just ying tricks on her.


    But she knew Kane; the man hardly jokes, especially on a serious matter like this. It had to be the truth.


    She needed to tell someone, just in case something bad happened to her, so they could trace her or, if the worst happened, get revenge for her.


    There was only one person she could think of, and she was picking up her phone to call her. The heavy silence was pierced by the noise of the ringing tone, and she wasing back to herself.


    If they knew that she told someone, they could hunt the person down, and lord knows what they would do to her.


    On a second thought, she brought the screen close to disconnect the call, but udia was already on the line.


    ¡°Hello? Ariel?¡± udia¡¯s thick ent pierced through the receiver, and for a moment she was startled by it. She had been in America for a while, and she had forgotten how heavily ented the Australian ent could be.


    ¡°Hey udia.¡± Ariel called out cheerfully, trying to hide any hint of fear from her voice. udia had very sharp hearing, and she could somehow manage to pick out that she wasn¡¯t fine.


    ¡°How are you doing? I don¡¯t mean to sound rude, but you called me earlier today, and I am just confused.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, my bad. It was an honest mistake. How are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Girl, you know it is too early for that. We have already talked, and you know how I feel. I will call you when I have had a good night¡¯s rest. See ya.¡± And udia was hanging up on her.


    Ariel stared at the nk screen, not at all surprised but somewhat relieved that she didn¡¯t have to spill anything. Then she remembered something Kane had told her, and she was freezing in ce.


    Can they hear what she just said?Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    She was fucked; if she was going to stay in the house and remain alive, she had to find a way to be ahead of them to ensure the continuity of her species.


    Ariel was picking up her phone from where she had thrown it away, and she was going straight to the search engines. The only way she could have an edge over them was to learn about their weaknesses.


    Obviously, no werewolf is going to provide her with that, so it was going to have to be the trusty inte. But even that wasn¡¯t helpful; she couldn¡¯t get anything meaningful from the, and the pictures she had seen were going to terrify her for a while.


    She had, however, managed to learn that sliver and wolfsbane were lethal for them, and she had never been so thankful that she lived a frivolous lifestyle.


    Ariel was rushing to her wardrobe and grabbing one of the jewelry sets she had gotten. She wasted no time putting on the ne, earrings, and bracelet, all pure silver. It was only after she had done this that she felt a little peace.


    If anyone tried something, she would press the jewelry in their hands, and it should give her a little time to escape. She had also gone ahead to order the wolfsbane flower that she was going to make into spray.


    Ariel went back to her bed and tried to ignore whatever he had said in the back of her mind, but that was the hardest thing to do. Another yawn tore from her lips, and she was having difficulty keeping her eyes open.


    A knock sounded on the door, and she was almost jumping out of her skin. ¡°Who is that?¡± Ariel called out in a brave voice, clutching her sliver ne for protection.


    ¡°I brought food.¡± She heard the familiar voice of the man in charge of her feeding, and her stomach growled in response. She was already standing up to open the door when it clicked in her head that the food could beced with anything.


    ¡°Can you just leave it outside? Thanks.¡± Sheid back on her beds, her thoughts consumed by the delicacy that may be waiting for her outside. ¡°You can fight this, Ariel,¡± she was reassuring herself despite the little worms that were tearing her stomach.


    Sheid on her bed for the next few hours, her bottle of water the onlyfort she had.


    For the rest of the day, Ariel didn¡¯te outside of her room, not even bothering to stand up from her bed; she remained there, starved and thirsty. She was even going crazy that she could perceive the pasta that was ced outside, but she wasn¡¯t going to be deterred.


    Dinner came, and it was the same thing, only that this time she didn¡¯t bother to answer the door. She was trying to conserve her strength to live on until the next day.


    Maybe she was doing too much, but she wasn¡¯t going to fatten herself up so they could eat her.


    If they were going to eat her, then she was going to make sure they had the leanest meat ever and give them dissatisfaction.


    ***


    ¡°Alpha, your mate has refused the food again.¡± The man Kane had been in charge of Ariel¡¯s feeding reported, and he released a sigh.


    Here, he thought she was taking it well, but it was far from that. Hell, she hadn¡¯t eaten anything since yesterday, when he revealed their secrets, and he was getting worried.


    ¡°Alright, thank you. I will take care of it.¡± Kane stared at the pile of paperwork on his desk and the pending email he had yet to attend to, but he was throwing them away for his mate.


    She would alwayse first in his life, and that was the reason he was standing up from his chair. His body protested as he stood up too fast, his waist spraining as he had been in that position for a long time.


    ¡°I need to take a break before I copse.¡± Kane grumbled to himself, but even he knew that it was impossible.


    There had been a surge of contracts and dealsing up, and he was having a hard time bncing the pack work and his outside work.


    Kane walked out of his room, and he was heading to her room. He stopped in front of the door as he saw the tray of food that was getting cold, and he was picking it up.


    He squeezed his finger into a fist and was bringing it to the door, hitting it gently. ¡°Ariel?¡± He heard the sharp intake of her breath as she heard his voice, and for a moment, he regretted telling her the truth.


    Kane trained his ears for any footstep, but after some seconds, none wasing forth, and he was trying again.


    ¡°Ariel? You know I can hear your heartbeat, right? I know you are awake, and if you don¡¯t want me to break the door, I suggest you open it.¡±


    ¡°Shit.¡± He heard the low curse under her breath, and he heard her footsteps as she dragged her legs to open the door.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± Kane¡¯s eyes were horned on the dark circles around her eyes and her cracked lips, and he was panicking. ¡°What happened to you?¡±


    Ariel shrugged, not in the mood to entertain him; she was only concerned with conserving her energy till whenever she could get out of the house. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I am concerned about you. I was told that you haven¡¯t been eating.¡±


    ¡°I am not hungry. If you don¡¯t have anything else to say, I will be going back to bed.¡±


    ¡°I can hear your stomach groaning from theck of food, and you haven¡¯t had anything to eat since yesterday. I don¡¯t know if you are avoiding me, but you have to eat.¡±


    Ariel cringed at his tone, covering her ears, as his voice was too loud. ¡°Just leave me alone.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t do it, darling; you are stuck with me.¡± Kane maneuvered his way inside, bncing the tray on his hand and cing it gently on her bed.


    ¡°You have two options, Ariel; you either eat now while I watch you or I will feed you till I am satisfied.¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes, shaking her head at the unwanted stranger. ¡°Why are you even here? You are not my boss.¡±


    Kane¡¯s chuckle reached her ears, and it was sending tingles down her spine. ¡°Have you forgotten, darling? I own you.¡±

 Chapter 20

    ¡°I own you.¡±


    The words rang in Ariel¡¯s ears as the warning bells went off, and she realized too well that he was right. He owned her in every sense of the word, and a shiver rang through her.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Definitely not a good one.


    ¡°You don¡¯t own me, Kane; I am my own person.¡± She spoke out, inching closer to him in spite of the fear that had her in her clutches.


    ¡°If you think so.¡± Kane sneered, giving her a once-over, and she cowered from his gaze.


    ¡°What do you want, Kane?¡± Ariel sighed, unable to stand the fact that they were standing in the same room and breathing the same air.


    ¡°It is simple, Ariel; just eat the food, and I will be out of your hair.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± Kane shrugged, and she nced at the food. It looked so delicious; the bacon was cooked to a delicious brown crisp, and the eggs were a little overcooked just the way she liked them, but looks could be deceiving. ¡°How do I know you didn¡¯t poison it?¡± Ariel asked, eyeing the ce even as she stood akimbo in front of him. She still had her sliver jewelry, and if he tried anything funny, she would use it on him.


    ¡°I would never-¡± Kane began, but he knew it was as useless as pouring water on a duck¡¯s back. Instead, he picked up one of the pancakes.


    ¡°What are you doing? That is my food.¡± Ariel¡¯s pupils widened a fraction as she imagined the worst, but he only took a bit of it and ced it down.


    Her eyes followed him as he took a bite out of everything, and he finished it off with a big gulp of the orange juice. ¡°Just because I wasn¡¯t going to eat doesn¡¯t mean you should finish everything.¡± Ariel grumbled under her breath, but of course Kane heard it.


    ¡°There is still more from where it came from. Now are you going to eat, or should I feed you?¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes, annoyed that she had been put under the spot. ¡°Fine.¡± She lowered herself to the bed and grabbed the fork from his hands, stabbing the pancake and bringing it to her mouth.


    Her taste buds leapt as she tasted the first bite of pancake, and she was almost moaning. Was the food that good, or was it because she was starving that she thought it was so good?


    Ariel didn¡¯t give it much thought, and she was taking another bite of the pancakes, the eggs, and just a bit of everything.


    The worms in her stomach have been starving so much, and now that she saw food, she couldn¡¯t hold herself. She ced the fork down to grab the ss of orange juice when she noticed the brown pairs of eyes still fixated on her.


    Did he see her wolf the whole food down?


    Shit, Ariel, what happened to table manners? But she masked her embarrassment with a frown, and she looked at me, her left eyebrows rising up. ¡°Why are you smiling at me like a creep?¡±


    ¡°I just love seeing your beautiful face.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s mouth hung open from the sudden confessions, and she wasn¡¯t sure how to react; hell, she didn¡¯t even have aeback. She resorted to stuffing her face with the pancake that had been drenched with honey.


    She cleared the te in no time and was currently sipping on her orange juice, but from the erect hair on her body, they informed her that the intruder was still here.


    ¡°Why are you still here?¡±


    Kane shrugged, not having a suitable response for that. All he knew was that her presence wasforting, and all his troubles just seemed to melt away whenever he looked at her.


    ¡°When did you transform?¡± The question she asked had him whipping his head up so fast that he almost had a whish.


    ¡°It is called shift, but it usually urs early, depending on the wolf. I am of Alpha origin, so I shifted early, at the age of ten.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel nodded, still trying to process the fact that this man in front of her could transform into a beast at will.


    ¡°Was it painful?¡±


    ¡°Like hell, it was. All your bones breaking and realigning is no child¡¯s y, especially at such a tender age. But I had my parents with me, and they guided me through the process. However, it gets better with time; I don¡¯t even feel any pain now.¡±


    Ariel nodded her head, but her mind was still stuck on the fact that he had mentioned his parents. He had never mentioned his parents since she knew him. In fact, none of them here ever mentioned their parents.


    Hell, she thought they only became wolves when they were young.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to pry, but where are your parents? You have never mentioned them.¡± The silence she got was a sign that she shouldn¡¯t have asked at all, and she shifted in her chair.


    An awkward silence developed between them, and Ariel was at a loss for what to say. Her mouth opened to apologize, but Kane beat her to it. ¡°And yet you are doing the opposite of what you said, but my parents arete. They died in an attack when I was younger.¡±


    Ariel couldn¡¯t help but feel the sense of sadness that enveloped her as she heard it, but it exined why he does some things that he does. ¡°Is that why you built this mansion-to help people like you and me?¡±


    ¡°Not exactly, I¡­¡± Kane began, but the lightbulb went off his head, and he was nodding. ¡°Yes, I guess so.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel nodded more to herself. Apart from the fact that he can change into a wolf at his will, he wasn¡¯t so bad. ¡°That mean there are others like you, living around us humans?¡± Ariel tasted the words in her mouth, not sure if they were the right words to ssify her kind, ¡°that we know nothing of.¡±


    ¡°Yes, there are several wolf packs scattered around the world, unknown to humans. We like to keep our identity hidden.¡±


    ¡°And you guys are doing a good job at it. Except for some strange quirks, I would never have known. I wonder if there are other species that I don¡¯t know of.¡±


    ¡°There is a lot that you know nothing of, and it is better to keep it that way. Would you like to see my wolf?¡±


    Ariel was taken back beyond words, and her eyes slowly opened and closed as she tried to process what he had just said.


    ¡°Uhm, Kane, just because we are sitting together and talking about this doesn¡¯t mean I am still cool with all this stuff. The truth is, you still freak me out, and I don¡¯t think I can deal with you turning into a wolf.¡±


    A cloud passed through Kane¡¯s face, and his jaw tightened as he ground his teeth on each other. Max, on the other hand, flopped on his spot, his ears dropping in sadness.


    No rejection hurts more than this.


    ¡°I see.¡± Kane murmured, but he wasn¡¯t seeing anything; instead, he stood up, stretching his full length and looming over her. ¡°I would have loved to stay and chat, but I have a ton of work to do. Goodbye.¡±


    Ariel watched his muscr back as it rippled with every step he took, even though he was wearing a shirt. She was tempted to run to him and smooth the crease on his forehead, but she held herself.


    She had a right to her opinion, and not even Kane would change that.


    The door closed with a bang, and Ariel jumped a little, startled by the sound. She looked at the ce he had just left, feeling his absence more than she would care to admit, and she released a sigh.


    ¡°I hope I am doing the right thing.¡±


    Ariel spent the next day confined to her room, although she epted the food that came around. There was no need to starve herself anymore.


    If they wanted to do away with her, they would have done so since and that was the only reassurance she was holding on to.


    Apart from the man in charge of the food, her door was locked to everyone else; even when Toby came knocking, demanding to talk to her, she paid a deaf ear to him.


    She needed to ease herself to the fact that these are the people she was going to be staying with for as long as it took for her to get a job and that they were part animals.


    She had been using up her time in istion to learn more about their species-just anything that would convince her that it wasn¡¯t bad to fall in love with a werewolf.


    It was on the fourth day that Ariel finally got her answer.


    It had urred to her that this was the way they were born and they couldn¡¯t change it, and maybe because her order of wolfsbane had arrived, she was more confident.


    But she was dashing out of her room, and she was walking towards his office, her eyes only on him.


    ¡°I am ready to see your wolf.¡±

 Chapter 21

    ¡°I am ready to see your wolf.¡±


    The silence that enveloped the room after Ariel spoke out was enough to tell her that they were not the only ones in the room.


    She looked around her; about three pairs of eyes were trained on her, and she wanted nothing but to sink to the floor.


    ¡°Oh shit, sorry about that; I had no idea that¡­ I was just¡­¡± Ariel gestures towards the door, words failing toe out in the moment she needed them.


    ¡°It is alright; I wille for you.¡± Kane was almost melting at her cuteness, and he was having trouble preventing his smile. He had heard her footsteps even before she came in, and he had been wondering what she hade to do.


    Hell, Ariel had been isting herself from the world, and suddenly she was announcing that she wanted to see his wolf.


    Max was beside him with joy, barely able to hold himself, and it took all of him to peel his eyes off his mate and focus on the reason that brought him here.


    Toby and Mason shared a knowing look, and they looked at their friend. ¡°It is alright; I know you are no longer interested in the talk.¡± Toby said, wiggling his eyebrows.


    ¡°You have our permission.¡± Mason chipped in, shaking his head.


    Kane scrunched his face into a frown as he looked at them, and he was shaking his head. ¡°I don¡¯t think I need permission from you both to do anything. But yeah, thank you.¡± And he was dashing out of the room before they could say anything again.


    Toby watched his alpha run out the door, and he shook his head slowly, wiping the imaginary tears from his face. ¡°Ha, young love. I remember back in the day.¡± Mason gave him a sharp look, squinting his eyes.


    ¡°I heard that, and both of you should get out of my office!¡± Kane yelled from the corridor, and they both shared a look, smiling.


    Toby was the first to stand up, and he rose to his full length, stretching his limbs, while his mouth opened in a yawn. ¡°Let me get something in my stomach before I swallow a whale whole.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Mason watched him go, closing the door behind him.


    ***


    Meanwhile, Ariel stood against her door, beating herself up for her little slip-up. She should have known it was bad timing, yet she carried herself there.


    The knock on the door startled her, and she was almost jumping out of her skin. The rich fragrance in the air reminded her of only one person, and she closed her eyes, sniffing it like her favorite drug.


    ¡°Kane?¡±


    ¡°May Ie in?¡± Ariel was rushing to her dresser mirror, staring at her reflection. Suddenly, her nose was too big, and her eyes were etched with dark circles and tiny breakouts forming on her forehead. ¡°Ariel?¡±


    ¡°A minute.¡± She nced at her room, kicking the pile of clothes she had thrown on the floor under her bed, and she took another look to make sure everything was in order. Satisfied with the look, she was rushing to the door, and just at thest minute, she smothered her clothes and ran her hands through her hair. ¡°Hey Kane.¡± She greeted him with a wide smile as she opened the door.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± Kane breathed her name like it was the air he was breathing. ¡°You are here.¡±


    ¡°I mean, it is my room, so I will be here, but yeah, you cane in.¡± Kane entered her room, and he couldn¡¯t help it. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, taking in his mate¡¯s scent and letting it envelope him.


    Her scent filled his nostrils and his lungs, releasing dopamine and working its effect like weeds, and he slowly released the air. ¡°Yeah, I can see.¡±


    ¡°Yea.¡± They stood awkwardly by the side, and Kane¡¯s attention was drawn to the silver jewelry she had on. He could perceive the pungent smell of wolfbane in her pocket, and his lips parted in a smile.


    She wasn¡¯t exactly trusting of them. It was a good thing, though, because he was seconds from devouring her.


    ¡°You said something about seeing my wolf.¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Ariel shrugged, swirling a strand of her hair in her hand. ¡°I figured out it was time I learned of the beast, so yeah.¡±


    ¡°You are not over the beast thing? We are just wolves, and we could be quite friendly. Sometimes.¡± Kane added it as an afterthought.


    ¡°I will be the judge of that. I already saw a pictorial representation on the, and I refuse to associate that with friendly in the way sentence.¡±


    Kane released a small sigh: ¡°Do you always believe everything you see on the inte?¡± Ariel had no words for this, so she just remained quiet. ¡°If you are ready, we could go now.¡±


    ¡°Yea sure. Lead the way.¡± Ariel let him lead the way and followed him behind, making sure she was some steps behind him. In case he was going to try anything, she could see iting and spray him with the concoction she had made.


    As they made their way down, Ariel couldn¡¯t help but see the pack in a new light. Their coordination was something to be studied, and she didn¡¯t fail to notice the way they lowered their gaze when they saw Kane and the low mumbling of Alpha.


    It was all fascinating to her.


    They moved like a structured group, everyoneden with their own role, and she had a newfound respect for Kane.


    ¡°How did you manage to build this, and how do you have all these people listening to you and doing what you say?¡± It was all confusing to her; she had once been involved in school politics, and she knew how difficult it was to lead a group of people.


    Yet this was a man leading adults, some even older than him, and everything was going well.


    ¡°We move in packs, and in this pack, I am the alpha. They trust me to protect and provide for them, and in turn, I earn their respect, plus the pack dabbles in some business that fetches us enough ie to survive.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, the distributionpany, right? Howe I have never heard of it?¡± Ariel queried him.


    ¡°There is no way you could have heard of it; it is only for werewolves.¡±


    Somehow, as they walked, Ariel had quickened his step to be by his side, and they walked side by side. Ariel was a panting mess as she descended thest flight of stairs, and Kane hadn¡¯t even worked up a sweat. ¡°This is unfair; why don¡¯t you have elevators?¡± She whined as she hunched over, trying to catch her breath.


    The firm hands on her back were sending a jolt of electricity through her, and she jerked into a standing position. She looked at the culprit, her eyes slowly opening and closing as if to say, ¡®did you just feel that?¡¯ but his expression was neutral, and she dropped it.


    ¡°We are wolves; there is no need for it, but I will get one specially installed for you. We are here.¡± Kane said in one breath, and Ariel squinted her eyes as she looked at him.


    Why was he so nonchnt, as if he hadn¡¯t just promised to change everything for her?


    She ignored it and ran after Kane, the grass whipping her as she ran across them. They stood in the middle of the garden, and everything hit her-the earthy smell of the grass, the morning dew, the insect chirping as they hopped from one ce to another, but more importantly, the musky scent of this man beside her.


    ¡°So¡­ Kane!.¡± Ariel¡¯s voice rose to a shrill pitch as the man pulled his jeans down. ¡°What are you trying to do? We are in public, and anyone could see us.¡±


    ¡°We could take it inside, if you want.¡± The man teased, wriggling his eyebrows while his jeans kept falling lower to his knees, but she couldn¡¯t bring herself to look away.


    ¡°Yea.¡± She shook her head as she realized what she said. ¡°I mean, no, just stop.¡± She held out her hands, blocking the image in front of her.


    Kane burst out into a rich, robustugh that had her insides melting and her ovaries singing. ¡°Easy, I am not trying to seduce you. I just need to get undressed to shift, or else I will ruin my clothes.


    Ariel almost facepalmed; obviously, that was what he was doing, but why was she angry that it wasn¡¯t the former? She did the only reasonable thing she could think of and angled her body away from him, giving him privacy.


    That was the worst torture ever.


    Ariel¡¯s breath hitched with every snap of the button, but she held on, shutting her eyes closed, or else she would be tempted to peek.


    Her heart skipped a breath as she felt his breath on his neck. ¡°You can look now.¡±Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Ariel opened one eye, just to confirm that the coast was clear, and she opened both eyes fully, just in time to witness the true beauty of man.

 Chapter 22

    In one moment, a man stood in front of her, blessed by Adonis himself and kissed by the goddess. Ariel¡¯s eyes dipped appreciatively down his body, the ripped stomach from hours of working out painted in a delicious tan that made her want to lick it thoroughly.


    Her eyes lowered painfully from those well-toned ridges, and they continued dipping down to the v of his waist.


    That was the sluttiest thing a man could ever possess.


    Ariel stared unashamedly as the V dipped down to the bottom, revealing tiny tufts of hair, but to her disappointment, his huge hands covered the main prize with his hands.


    Her eyes flew upwards to meet him, about to protest for disrupting her view, but the gaze in his eye had her swallowing the saliva that had pooled in her mouth.


    And just like that, the change happened.


    If she had blinked in that moment, she was sure she would have missed it-the fluid breaking of his bones, the way he fell to his knees, his head bowed as if worshipping Mother Nature, flesh giving way to fur, and in the ce of the human was a wolf.


    Ariel clutched the spray bottle in her pocket, her breath hitching as she watched the transformation he was undergoing.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    She had seen werewolves when she looked them up in the search engines, their fangs jutting out from their lips and spittle dripping all over the ce, but she wasn¡¯t prepared to see this sandy brown wolf, the color of the beach with a little spot of white like they had sshed paint on him.


    The wolf was like any normal-looking one, only this one was taller and bigger than anything she had ever seen. She would know because she had encountered a wolf when she went camping in Australia. Although they were a rare sighting in the country, there was something about this one in front of her that seemed different.


    Maybe it was the brown of his eyes that looked so simr to Kane¡¯s own or the intelligence that sparked in them, but she had no doubt that this was Kane.


    And dare she say he looked cute?


    The wolf moved closer to her, his paw hitting the soft earth as he got nearer, and she raised her hands out, putting some distance between them.


    ¡°Wait, just stop.¡± She was crazy to think that the wolf actually heard her, and he halted in his step. ¡°Am I crazy, or can you hear me?¡±


    Ariel watched the beast as he raised his huge head and lowered it for a nod, and her mouth hung open. ¡°It is official. I am going crazy!¡±


    Maybe she was really going crazy because the wolf¡¯s mouth was open and his tongue rolled out; the corners of his mouth just widened a bit to reveal a wolfy grin.


    ¡°Wait, are youughing at me?¡± She asked, still in shock, and the wolf shook his head, signifying a no, and Ariel ran her fingers across her hair rather aggressively.


    Why was it even surprising to her that the wolf could hear her? If a human being could transform into a wolf, it was obvious he was going to be able to hear.


    It was supposed to be gruesome, but somehow it was magical, and Ariel found herself inching closer to him.


    She had an unshakable reassurance that he wasn¡¯t going to hurt her, hence the reason she was going to be brave and do it. Ariel watched as the wolf stood still, as if he knew of her intent, and he allowed her toe close until she was just within arm¡¯s length.


    She stretched out her hands, gingerly cing them on his wolf, her pupils widening just a quarter as she ran them through the fine hair. It was surprising how soft his fur was and how her hands sank inside them.


    She couldn¡¯t help it; she moved closer, no longer afraid of the wolf, and she focused on scratching between his ears.


    ¡°It is not so bad.¡± She thought to herself as she saw his tongue out and his eyes closed, obviously enjoying the scratches.


    Ariel didn¡¯t know how long she had been at it, but the chipping of the insect had be quiet, the world going still as if trying to give them privacy.


    ¡°I think that is enough ear scratches for you, but I will admit, you are not scary at all.¡±


    Max was almostughing as he heard his mate. If only she knew the truth-how men scampered before him, how he drove terror into the minds of the pack as they heard his name. The blood of his enemies ran cold at the mention of his name.


    But that was one part of him she would never find out.


    Ariel looked on as the wolf dropped to his stomach, but he was wagging his tail continuously and tilting his head upward.


    ¡°You want to y?¡± She asked, trying to understand him, but he shook his massive head, and he was at a loss. ¡°Wait, don¡¯t tell me¡­ No, I am not doing that. No.¡± Ariel protested, shaking her head vehemently, that Max was afraid it would fall off.


    She may befortable with petting him for a few seconds-okay, maybe a few minutes-but that was where it ended. No, she was not going to get on his back and ride him.


    But it was the image of a naked Kane lying on the floor with her on top of him, riding him, that she was thinking of.


    ¡°No.¡± She yelled out, shaking her head to remove whatever indecent thoughts were still guing her.


    You need to focus, Ariel.


    This was his territory, and he could carry her far away from him, and no amount of wolfsbane could save her.


    She heard a low ¡®humph¡¯ from the wolf, which she thought was a sigh, and he rested his head on his paw.


    ¡°Are you going to stay here?¡± The wolf made no movements, but instead he continued resting his head on his paw and watching nature unfold around him.


    ¡°Fine.¡± Ariel sighed, and she went closer to him, lowering herself on the floor close to him. She was hesitant at first, but she leaned towards him, resting her head on his stomach.


    She felt his rumbling within her; the sensation was oddly calming, and she settled in to watch nature with him, at peace with herself.


    Somehow the peace and gentle breeze were luring her, and she was finding it difficult to keep her eyes open. Unable to hold it any longer, she closed her eyes, sumbing to sleep.


    ***


    The muscles that dug into her chin were a stark contrast to the soft fur she hadid her head on. She shifted in her sleep, her face hitting a limp cocoon, and Ariel was jolting in her sleep.


    ¡°What the¡­ Kane?¡± She yelled, jumping to her feet as she saw the muscr man under her. It wouldn¡¯t be so bad if she was just sleeping on him.


    But the fact that he was naked! Stark naked! Like the day he was born naked, with nothing in between.


    ¡°What the hell, Kane?¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± The sleepy head murmured in a sleepden voice that, if she wasn¡¯t so annoyed, she would have found it so hot.


    ¡°Why are you under me? And more importantly, why are you naked?¡± Her voice rose up in a shrill, and she nced down, the limp cock resting on his stomach, and he made an effort to cover it. ¡°Get some clothes or something.¡± She yelled, peeling her eyes away rather painfully to give him privacy.


    ¡°Are you dressed yet?¡± Ariel asked, slightly turning to confirm. If only she could just¡­


    ¡°Toby is bringing my clothes.¡±


    ¡°How did you contact him?¡± She asked, turning around but focusing only on his face.


    ¡°We have a thing called a mind link; I canmunicate with any of the pack members.¡± Ariel nodded her head, lowering her eyes to steal a peek.


    But the son of a gun covered it with his hands, denying her the opportunity.


    The footsteps approaching her was enough for her to peel her eyes off him, and she looked at the intruder. ¡°I guess she knows the truth.¡±


    ¡°Yes, she does.¡±


    ¡°How did she take it?¡± Toby asked, throwing the clothes towards his alpha, and Kane caught it with one hand, pulling the shirt over his head.


    ¡°I guess she was calm.¡±


    ¡°Hmm mmm.¡± Ariel cleared her throat, looking from one man to another, a frown etched across her face. ¡°She is right here.¡±

 Chapter 23

    ¡°I still refuse to believe you are a werewolf.¡± Ariel told Toby as they sat on one of the sofas in the living room. She was well aware of the pair of eyes boring holes into her skin, although now for a different reason, but she could care less.


    ¡°Why?¡± Toby asked; his voice drowned out as he took a gulp from the juice carton, and Ariel looked on, her face twitching in disgust.


    She made a mental note to herself never to drink from any open carton.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know; you are just so carefree and so friendly, quite unlike the people in this house, and honestly, I can¡¯t even believe you are the war general of something.¡±


    Toby shook his head, a tiny lip on his lips, but he was relieved that he wasn¡¯t going to be pretending with her anymore. ¡°It is called being a gamma, but yeah, I understand you. Being a wolf is just part of who I am, just like being a human. It doesn¡¯t change anything about me.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel nodded her head. If she was being honest, they weren¡¯t so bad. If Toby was a werewolf and he could be himself, there was no reason she shouldn¡¯t give him a chance. ¡°How did all this even happen-the whole pack, Alpha, Beta, and all that stuff?¡±


    ¡°Kane should be the best person in a position to tell you.¡± Toby mused, and Ariel¡¯s lips pursed in a pout.


    ¡°Well, he isn¡¯t here, and I am dying to know. Do you guys fight for the position, or is it handled to you, and how did you even know who gets to be who?¡± With each question, Ariel was shifting out of her chair, her eyes wide as curiosity overtook her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t even know the answer to all this.¡±


    ¡°Toby?¡± Ariel whined, jutting out her lips in a pout, but Toby took one look at her, and he was shaking his head.


    ¡°You know that look doesn¡¯t work on me, right?¡± Ariel gave no reply; instead, she shifted inside her seat. ¡°But I could get some books for you on werewolf history, and it should help you understand us better.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Ariel looked up at him, her eyes gleaming in excitement. ¡°Thank you so much.¡±


    ¡°Yea. I will have to go now,¡± he nced at his watch as he stood up. ¡°I¡¯ve got things to do.¡±


    ***


    It wasn¡¯t exactly easy, adjusting to the fact that all the people living in the mansion with her could potentially kill her, but as hours rolled into days, Ariel found her guard slowly dropping around them.


    Each passing day only made her realize they were as much human as she was and nothing was going to change about that, and also because Toby had reassured her with any shadow of doubt that they were not cannibalistic.


    Nor do they find any pleasure in eating her; that has put her weary heart to rest.


    Ariel slung her gym mat over her arm, her eyes glued to her phone, as she made her way to the training room. Kane had been too busy to continue their training; it was left to her to pick up where she had started.


    She should have listened to her instincts when they told her to run, but she held the door knob, pushing the door open.


    The creaking of the door drew the attention of the upant, and all 100 pairs of eyes were drawn to her. Okay, maybe they weren¡¯t up to a hundred, but it felt like it.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I thought it was free.¡± She said this to the upants of the room. Her eyes scanned their faces, noting that they were only women.


    Ariel stood at the door, waiting for their response, but they barely paid her heed; instead, they all turned away and continued with what they were doing.


    ¡°Okay. Rude.¡± Ariel murmured under her breath, well aware of their sensitive ears, but she couldn¡¯t care. She took a deep breath, trying to steady her weary heart, and she ventured into the lion¡¯s den.


    ¡°Remember the instruction; you keep fighting until someone loses.¡± The woman in front, who she assumed was the instructor, said, and they all nodded their heads. ¡°Good, now fight.¡±


    She blew the whistle, and it all happened in a twinkling of an eye. The two contenders crashed into each other with a force that rivaled elephants in a fight, and she flinched, closing her eyes to escape the horrors.


    But the loud cheers from the spectators had her eyes opening wide and her mouth hanging open.


    Neither of the women had even acknowledged what was going on; instead, they were at it, rushing each other with such swiftness and agility that she had never known-a battle of fist and fury, and Ariel wondered if she had stumbled into a mad house.


    If she thought that the females were soft, she was in the wrong because there was nothing soft about them-not in this moment.


    It was bloody, with teeth flying off and the sickening sound of bones crunching, but she couldn¡¯t peel her eyes off them, even though she was seconds away from fainting.


    There was something beautiful about the violence that appealed to the animalistic nature in her.


    Her hands flew to her mouth as one of the contenders grabbed her opponent¡¯s arm, twisting it so much that the bones snapped from their hinges and protruded out of the skin. The white of the flesh had her swaying even as tiny beads of sweat clung to her forehead.


    It was only then that the woman tapped out, too delirious in pain to even scream out.


    The woman who had been moderating the fight came up and held the winner¡¯s arm, raising it up even as the cheers got louder. ¡°I proim Mabel the winner.¡± The screams got even louder and more crazy, and Ariel was sure she had entered a madhouse.


    Her eyes found a trash can lying around, and she was running towards it, throwing up her breakfast like a missile. She had not eaten anything, and it was only stomach acid.


    ¡°Here.¡± A hand came to her vision, holding a bottle of water, and she grabbed it with greedy hands, gulping a mouthful and gargling it to get rid of the horrible aftertaste.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel straightened up to look at her helper, but the only thing she was drawn to was her blue-colored hair, chopped so low and haphazard that she was afraid a kid had been ying to dress up with her hair.


    ¡°I know it is horrible; I was trying out a new style, but unfortunately it wasn¡¯t as I envisioned it.¡± Thedy said, running her hands through her hair, a wistful expression in her eyes.


    ¡°I am sorry; I didn¡¯t mean to.¡±


    ¡°I heard you have been training with the alpha. You can give it a shot.¡± Thedy interrupted her, looking towards the fight arena.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I can call it trainingpared to this, but yeah, I have been practicing.¡±


    ¡°Then you should give it a try. We are all about inclusivity in the pack.¡± The woman pressed on, moving closer to her, her lips in a wide smile that was more creepy than nice.¡±


    ¡°I am not really sure.¡± Ariel nced at the battle scene where ady was getting pummeled, and she shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t think I can take any of you.¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°It is fine. We have people that are on your level, and they would go easy on you. The purpose of this is to learn, not necessarily to get bloodied.¡± The screams reaching her were an indication that they were definitely getting bloodied, but when had she ever been reasonable?


    ¡°Alright.¡± The way the woman¡¯s eyes lit up as Ariel agreed should be a telltale that it wasn¡¯t going to end well, but she could be adamant about something.


    ¡°I am fucked; I am going to die.¡± The words were ringing in her head like an rm clock, but her name was called up, and every thought of running away flew from her mind.


    ¡°Alright, fighters, take your position.¡± Ariel widened her stance as Kane had taught her, and she held up her fist. ¡°Now fight.¡±


    As the first punchnded squarely on her cheeks, whipping her head in the opposite direction, Ariel knew she had made a terrible decision.


    ***


    ¡°Kane.¡± Ariel called out weakly as she received another kick on her back. She was curled up, trying to protect her stomach, but the kicks continued, and in that unconscious state, she wondered why she had agreed in the first ce. ¡°Kane!¡±


    She was giving up; she knew it. There was only so much a human body could take, and she had reached her limit.


    Hell, she could see Kane riding towards her in a chariot, like her knight in shining armor, and she managed a small smile.


    Ariel whined as her hands held her, cradling her to their bodies, and she shifted towards the familiar warmth, but the voice that thundered was anything but warm.


    ¡°Who did this to you?¡±

 Chapter 24

    Kane had juste back from a scouting meeting with his beta, and he was dead beat. The pack had been increasing rapidly to the point that the packhouse could no longer contain them, and he had toe up with a solution. Fast.


    They were a rogue pack; hence, their pack was in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by thick forest, and isted from the main pack.


    But Kane wanted a change.


    The istion had been affecting a lot of his packmates, especially in the area of finding their mates, and he wanted to do better. He was their alpha, and it came with a lot of responsibilities.


    He had heard of a betternd just east of the former moonlight pack, and he had gone there to inquire. He had already written to the alpha king about his decision, and with or without his approval, he was going to take thend.


    Kane copsed on his sofa, resting his head on the armrest, his eyes slowly closing as he tried to take a quick nap, but all he could think of was Ariel.


    It was a little cliche, but he was happy that she knew the truth about himself and that he no longer had to hide his nature from her.


    ¡®You know there is still a lot you are holding back.¡¯ Max reminded him, but Kane chose to ignore his words.


    ¡®Stop bothering me, Max; what she doesn¡¯t know won¡¯t kill her.¡¯


    ¡®Alright, if you say so, but when ites back to bite you, I will be sure to tell you that I told you so.¡¯


    ¡®I don¡¯t care. Just let me be.¡¯


    ¡°Fine.¡± Max huffed, and he was breaking the connection.


    Kane shifted on the sofa, stretching his long limbs so he could have enough room. His eyes were already blinking, and he was trying but failing to keep himself awake.


    He finally sumbed to his flesh, closing his eyes for a few minutes before he resumed his duty, but even in a state of rest, all he could see was Ariel.


    In his dream, she was wearing a sundress and running in the meadow, looking as radiant as the sun, and his smile grew wide as he saw her.


    Kane opened his arms wide, waiting for her embrace, but the sun got eaten up by darkness, and she stumbled on a stone, falling to her feet.


    ¡°Kane.¡± Ariel cried out, and he was abandoning everything and racing towards her. He was about to reach her when he woke up from his sleep.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± Kane called out as he raised his head. He was having difficulty separating reality from dreand-the dream had been so vivid, and the way she cried out his name had him seeking her out.


    They had no bond because she had lost her wolf, but there was a certain unease he was feeling, and no matter what he did, he couldn¡¯t shake off that feeling.


    ¡°It is fine; it is just a dream; I was worrying over nothing.¡± He tried to reassure himself as he stood up, dragging himself to his desk.


    But the feeling rested on his head like a cloud, and when he couldn¡¯t bear it, he picked up his phone.


    Kane looked at the screen as he tried reaching Ariel¡¯s phone, but as the previous time, there was no response, and his worry only seemed to climb.


    He tried the second option.


    Toby had been her unofficial guide, and he should know where she is. But Toby¡¯s vague response was all he needed to get him out of the chair and running out of his room.


    ¡°I think something is wrong.¡± Max said, prancing around his cage, and Kane fought the urge to roll his eyes.


    ¡®You don¡¯t say.¡¯ He held his hands in front of Ariel¡¯s door and knocked twice. He tried again when he got no response, and he was opening the door.


    A quick survey let him know that she wasn¡¯t in her room and that there was only one ce he could think of, yet why did he have a sinking feeling that something was wrong?


    Kane was racing downstairs, barely acknowledging the greetings from his packmates. He only had one focus, and until he had seen her, he couldn¡¯t afford to rest.


    He got to the ground floor where the training room was located, and the first thing that greeted him was the metallic smell of blood that cut through his nose, so much so that he could almost taste it.


    However, that was not the reason he was running to the training room and almost knocking the door down.


    It was the fact that he could perceive his mate¡¯s blood intertwined with it, and he couldn¡¯t think. His searching eyes were all over the ce, seeking his mate, and his mind went nk as he saw her lying on the floor, a crumbled mess.


    Kane had never felt such anger coursing through his blood-anger so much that it fueled his animalistic side. He didn¡¯t even know when he was on them, one hand wrapping the woman¡¯s neck.


    She had dared put her hands on his mate, and there was nothing more honorable than her death.


    ¡°Kane.¡± The voice of his angel called to him weakly, and he was abandoning everything-throwing thedy like a rag doll on the floor-and rushing to her.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± He could barely hear her heartbeat; the usual fierce lub dub sound was now a slow, mournful drumbeat. He couldn¡¯t even move past how bloodied she was. Her cheeks were an ugly mess of battered skin, and he was almost dropping everything to deal with who had dared to hurt his mate like this.


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel¡¯s whines of difort had him pulling her closer, all thought of revenge vanishing from his mind.


    ¡°I am here, Ariel. I am here.¡± He cradled her like he would a baby. It was the only thing holding his anger that was barely holding on to a thread.


    Kane took several deep breaths, trying to calm himself before he looked up to meet the culprit¡¯s face. A gasp ran through the crowd as they met his eyes, and he inhaled, perceiving their fear-a pleasant aphrodisiac.


    Yes, they should be scared. Very sacred.


    Kane ate their fear like food; their quivering lips and their shaky pupils were a delight for him.


    ¡°Who did this to her?¡± He thundered in a voice that had everyone in the room falling down just from the sheer magnitude of it. ¡°I said who did this.¡±


    The patheticdy came towards him, dragging herself forward on her knees, and Kane was fighting the urge to wrap his hands around her neck, tightening it gradually until she lost her lifeline.


    But the door pushed open, and Mason and Toby entered the room, their sights on their alpha. ¡°Kane, don¡¯t do it.¡±


    They had both felt their murderous intent in the bond, and they knew how dangerous Kane could be in that moment, and that was the reason they were racing to where his strength was the strongest.


    ¡°Focus on Ariel; she needs you now.¡± Toby begged, trying to avoid as much bloodshed as possible. He took one look at Ariel, and he was almost barfing.


    She was in a very horrible state; she was barely breathing, and he felt sympathy for whoever had caused her this.


    Kane was never going to let it go.


    ¡°Come on, you need to get her to the clinic; she is losing consciousness.¡± Mason said, cing his hands on his shoulder tofort him.


    It seemed to have registered in his head that with the more time he dyed, his mate was seconds away from her ancestors, and he stood up gently so as not to hurt her.


    ¡°Take them all to the dungeons; I will decide their punishment ording to the gravity of their offense.¡± Kane barked in a voice that left no argument, and he was walking out of the door before he could get a response.


    ¡°Denise, be at the clinic; I am bringing my mate.¡± Kane said in the mindlink, and he was marching towards the clinic.


    His aura was so strong that anyone who met him had no choice but to lower their head, acknowledging the power within.


    In fact, everyone made it a point to keep away from him, or else they would incur his wrath.


    Kane kicked down the door as he got to the clinic, and Denise was already here, her whiteb coat covering her clothes.


    ¡°Oh my!¡± Denise eximed as she saw the lifeless bundle in his arms. ¡°What happened to her?¡± The look Kane shot her was enough to make her shut up. ¡°This way, please.¡±


    ¡°Please, I need her to be fine.¡± Kane pleaded as he ced her down, his voice a few seconds from breaking.


    ¡°I will suggest you excuse us, Alpha, so I can¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t even think of it; I am staying here, and that is the end of the conversation. I suggest you start saving her because if she goes, I will make sure you follow her.¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.

 Chapter 25

    Ariel whined from the pain that had engulfed her entire body. She tried to focus on anything but the pain, but it was easier said than done. It was too hurtful to speak, and she could only manage incoherent words.


    She heard the bed squeak from pressure, and a face was in her line of vision. She could recognize that sharp jawline, and she couldn¡¯t help the relief she felt as she saw him.


    ¡°Kane.¡±


    ¡°Ariel.¡± Kane croaked out as he looked at his mate. His words were choked up by the different feelings bubbling in me, but one stood out of them all.


    Relieve.


    ¡°Kane, w-water.¡± Ariel managed to get out, weakly pointing to her throat. It was drier than the Sahara and as coarse as sandpaper.


    She watched as Kane directed the straw to her mouth, and she opened it, taking little sips of the cold liquid. It was amazing how water could be so powerful because her tongue loosened and she could think well.


    ¡°Where am I?¡±


    ¡°You are at the clinic, love. You were beaten up in such bad shape that you were losing consciousness, and I had to bring you here.¡± With each word he spoke, his anger increased in fold, climbing upwards to the point of esction.


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Ariel?¡± Kane held her hands gingerly, ncing at the healing bruise. He had shifted into his wolf and licked her wounds. As gross as it was, the saliva of an alpha wolf contains powerful chemicals that could heal. ¡°You don¡¯t remember?¡±


    Kane didn¡¯t trust himself to exin how she was lying down on the bed without having the urge to end the lives of those who had left her in that state.


    ¡°I-¡± Ariel was about to deny it, but the picture began to y in her head, and she was flinging with each punch she took to her face. ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°Do you remember now?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I do.¡± Ariel nodded her head the best way she could without hurting herself. ¡°I wanted to train, but they were fighting, and I decided to join them. I didn¡¯t know it would get so intense.¡±


    Kane¡¯s fist tightened against himself, and a huff of air left his nose.


    How could she not understand the magnitude of her actions?


    ¡°Why would you do that, Ariel? I already told you we are werewolves. Do you not understand what it means? We are violent and have crazy fighting skills. For fuck sakes, Ariel, you are just a human, and even a baby wolf could kill you!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know it would get to this point!¡± Ariel raised her voice in defense, but it came out as a feeble protest.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± Kane got up from his chair, his feet pounding on the marble as he paced about the room. His fingers were in his hair, running through it, and Ariel was afraid he would pull some strands out. ¡°Don¡¯t you get it? You almost lost your life, and you would have been in worse shape than this if I hadn¡¯te.¡±


    ¡°I know better now, and I promise not to do anything that will put myself at risk again.¡±


    ¡°Oh baby.¡± Kane burst out in sarcasticughter. ¡°You will not be doing anything for a long time. Just lie down there and rest; I will have the nursee check on you.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Ariel replied, and she watched him go away in a fit of anger. She flinched as the door banged shut, hurting her ears, and she wondered just how hurt she was that Kane was so angry.


    ¡°Fuck, that shit is painful.¡± Ariel whined as she tried to flex her jaw.


    She had no idea she was going to be so battered until the first blownded on her. She was so powerless that she couldn¡¯t throw in a punch.


    Her opponent was a little too fast for her human eyes to catch up with, and she had crazy reflexes. Before she could throw in a punch, she had received about five, and fuck, they were hurtful.


    The creaking of the door as it opened disrupted her thoughts, and Ariel tried to turn to see the intruder. ¡°Hello, Ariel, I am your nurse, Denise. How are you feeling today?¡±


    ¡°I am not sure how I feel, but I just want to get out of here.¡±


    ¡°You will.¡± Denise replied with a warm smile that had Ariel melting. ¡°I am just going to check your vitals, if that is okay.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel murmured, and she turned to the side while the nurse did her thing.


    ¡°Alright, you have pretty much healed from everything; only you still have to heal. I will be cing you on bed rest for two days, and I will continue monitoring your progress.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel looked on as she injected the drip bag, her eyes getting a little blurry. ¡°I don¡¯t know why, but you look familiar. Do I know you from anywhere?¡±


    ¡°I think you are mistaking me for someone else. Excuse me, please.¡± Denise said, and she was running out of the room before Ariel could question her further.


    Ariel tried to rack her brain as to why the smile felt so familiar, but she was met with a stumbling block. She couldn¡¯t even do much because the drug was already working its way through her system, and she was closing her eyes, sumbing to sleep.


    ***Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Ariel shifted in her bed, already getting tired of being confined. The nurse had told her that the bed rest was supposed tost for two days, but Kane didn¡¯t want to hear anything about it.


    Somehow, he had increased the bed rest to a week and had gotten someone to wait on her. At least it was someone she knew, but that doesn¡¯t make it any better.


    ¡°Do you need anything?¡± Liza asked as she came out of the toilet.


    ¡°How about a walk? I promise I won¡¯t do anything reckless.¡± Liza shook her head.


    ¡°I wish I could help you, Ariel, but I can¡¯t go against the alpha; he had given a strict order, and I am to obey it or else I risk getting punished.¡±


    Ariel released a sigh, already feeling the onset of a headache. Liza had exined to her about the alphamand thingies, and she was still trying to wrap her head around the fact that no one could disobey his order.


    ¡°Fine.¡± Ariel huffed, turning to face the wall, until a light bulb shed through her head. ¡°Lest I forget, what happened to women who were training? Kane had decided to y a deaf ear anytime I asked him.¡±


    Liza¡¯s eyes darted from ce to ce, trying to avoid Ariel¡¯s. ¡°I don¡¯t think I can answer that question.¡±


    ¡°I understand. I just want to know if he is going to punish them.¡±


    ¡°He will have to. They knew you were not a werewolf, yet they decided to gang up against you, and you are the alpha¡¯s girl; everyone knows that it is suicide going up against you.¡±


    Nothing was entering her ears as she heard what Liza just said, and she was sitting up straight, her eyebrows raised in question. ¡°Wait, who said I was the alpha¡¯s girl?¡±


    Liza gave a look that she interpreted as ¡®are you serious?¡¯ ¡°Come on, everyone knows that you and the alpha are in a romantic rtionship.¡±


    ¡°Uhm, excuse me? I don¡¯t think so; we have barely exchanged the L words, and he hasn¡¯t even asked me out.¡±


    Liza rolled her eyes, refusing to believe what she had just heard. ¡°I am sorry to say, but you must be dense not to notice that the alpha has the hot for you. He was so worried when he learned of your incident that it took beta and gamma to calm him down.¡±


    Ariel listened with her ears wide open; apparently, this was news for her. They may have shared a kiss before, but that was where it stopped. The man didn¡¯t even acknowledge the kiss.


    ¡°I see. But why me?¡±


    The twodies shared a look, neither of them having a suitable answer to the question.


    ***


    ¡°Kane, please, I need something to upy my time, and this is the only thing I can think of.¡±


    ¡°I will not send you to your death, Ariel. We would think of another hobby for you, not one that involved you getting battered and me going on a rampage.¡±


    ¡°I promise to be careful, Kane, and your pack member knows better now.¡± Ariel pleaded, jutting out her lips in a pout and widening her pupils for the killer puppy eyes, but Kane was as stoic as ever.


    ¡°That is not going to work on me, Ariel. I am not leading you to the ughterhouse.¡±


    ¡°Pleasee?¡± She tried again, and Kane took a nce at her, and he shook his head, his resolve crumpling down.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to get hurt. We are werewolves, and we don¡¯t y by the rules. I can¡¯t control them because of one person.¡± He sighed, but Ariel was relentless.


    ¡°Pleasee.¡±

 Chapter 26

    ¡°Kane!¡± Ariel was seething as she banged his door open. If she wasn¡¯t so angry, she would have agreed that the light blue shirt hugged his muscles so well, giving definition to the well-toned chest, and that in her next life, she was going to be a shirt.


    Focus Ariel, you are supposed to be angry with him.


    Kane slowly tore his gaze from his work, and he raised his head to look at her, a little smile on his face. ¡°Well, hello, darling. You look rather stunning today; how may I help you?¡±


    ¡°What. Did. You. Do?¡± She inched forward with each word, only one thing in mind.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand you, love; I think you need to give me a little context.¡± He was enjoying this way too much.


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me love.¡± Ariel spat out with gritted teeth, her fist tightening beside her.


    The son of a gun!


    He was fucking smiling; did he not realize how serious it was?


    ¡°What did you do to them?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you are saying, Ariel. I suggest you give me something to work with, and I can know for myself what I did.¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°The females. What did you tell them? No,¡± Ariel shook her head, looking for a suitable word. ¡°What did you do to them?¡±


    Kane shrugged his shoulders, his expression returning to its natural poker face. ¡°You said you wanted to train, and despite my reluctance, I let you. I don¡¯t understand what you want again.¡±


    ¡°Ha.¡± Ariel huffed, shaking her head. ¡°You call that training? The purpose of training is to learn, and if they are going to be acting like that with me, how then am I going to learn?¡± Her voice rang out through the room, and Kane¡¯s eyes shut tight, taking a calming breath before he exploded.


    He wasn¡¯t used to being disrespected like this, but Ariel always managed to press all of his buttons since she had arrived, and he had to keep reminding himself that she didn¡¯t understand how their world worked.


    ¡°I have already granted you your wish, and that was to train. Any other things are beyond me.¡± He said with an air of finality, and he was returning to his work.


    ¡°Really?¡± Ariel cocked her eyebrow in surprise, not believing what she had just heard.


    It may seem like she was exaggerating, but was she really?


    She had gone to the training room only after Kane had lectured her on her safety guidelines, and as if it wasn¡¯t enough, he had dropped her off the first day. He hadn¡¯t bothered to enter inside, yet everyone had felt his aura, and they were literally trembling.


    If that was all, Ariel would not have stormed into his office in anger. Of course not. She had no idea what Kane had told them, but everyone avoided her like leprosy, and when they came close, they lowered their heads so much that they were practically kissing the ground.


    She wouldn¡¯t have even minded if that was all, but it hade time to practice, and when she was picked, her opponent continued throwing a weak jab at her that had infuriated her to no end.


    No one wanted to risk Kane¡¯s anger, but, gosh, it was so annoying!


    ¡°Do you have anything to say?¡±


    Ariel pursed her lips as she exhaled warm air through her nose. Kane wasn¡¯t going to back down if she attacked him head-on, so she would have to look for another way.


    ¡°I thought you wanted me to learn?¡± Her voice took on a raspy tone that always makes even the mightiest of men weak, and Kane squinted his eyes-not sure he liked the direction this was going. ¡°I just want to be as strong as every other person in the house so I can defend myself.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to defend yourself, Ariel. I will always be there for you, and as long as you are here, no one will bother you.¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes, fighting the urge to facepalm. She wasn¡¯t going to lie. His words appealed to the ¡®baby girl¡¯ or ¡®princess¡¯ in her, but she didn¡¯t want to keep relying on Prince Charming to save her.


    ¡°I know, and I am grateful for that, but I just want to feel like I belong here. I know that I am not a werewolf, and for the first time, I wished I was. But I just want to be able topete with you guys.


    ¡°Ariel,¡±


    ¡°All I am saying is that let me be treated like them.¡± Her hands unconsciously went to her cheek, a sharp reminder of the treatment she had received, and she was changing her mind. ¡°Maybe not like them, but in a way that is suitable for me and that I could learn.¡±


    Kane released a huff of air through his mouth, and suddenly he felt he had aged an extra 10 years. ¡°I understand; I will speak to them.¡±


    Ariel didn¡¯t know what demon possessed her legs, but she was racing to his side and enveloping him in a hug. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Kane froze as he felt his arms wrapped around him. This wasn¡¯t the first time he had felt her so close, but this was the first time she had ever initiated any contact, and the thoughts had him gripping his desk hard.


    And the fact that he was so close to her that he would perceive the scent of her soap, but nothing could overshadow her scent-the ones that kept him teetering on the edge whenever he was close, or the electricity that sizzled with their contact.


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Kane took a deep breath, letting her fill all of him, rejuvenating every dead cell in him. ¡°You are wee.¡±


    ***


    Ariel copsed on the floor of the training room, her mouth slightly open, as she tried to catch her breath. She was deadbeat; her muscles were aching; she was probably going to be sore for the rest of the day, but the smile refused to leave her lips.


    ¡°Do you want to go another round?¡± The cute face of Liza popped up in her vision, and Ariel wanted to wipe the smile off her face.


    They had been partners in the training, and yet not even one sweat had broken out, omitting her body while she was already knocking on heaven¡¯s door.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I can lift my body up again; I am beat.¡± She groaned, grabbing the bottle of water that Liza was giving her.


    ¡°Hey, you were the one that insisted on it; you don¡¯t have any right to bitch about it.¡±


    That was shutting her up real quick.


    She had practically begged Kane to allow her such training, and if the news reached him that it was too much for her, she knew he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to withdraw her from it all.


    ¡°Yea yea.¡±


    ¡°Come on, the warriors will soon starting.¡± Liza said, stretching her hands to help her to her feet, and Ariel took it willingly.


    Liza only saw her off to her door before she left for hers, and Ariel opened her door, beelining straight to the bathroom. She sighed in bliss as the warm water ran down her body, with it all the grime and sweat.


    She heard a knock just as she turned off the shower, and she was wrapping the towel around her frame anding out.


    It couldn¡¯t be lunch as it wasn¡¯t even noon, so it left one person.


    ¡°Kane, I fancy seeing you here.¡± Ariel clutched the towel a little tighter, afraid that just one word from this man and she would be losing the towel.


    The man took a look at her, his pupil dting in appreciation as he stared at the goddess in front of him. He had almost forgotten the reason he had sought her.


    He cleared his throat, trying to will himself to think of anything other than the water dripping down her body-her very naked body that was only covered by a towel and he tried to focus on the reason he came.


    ¡°What do you say we go on a date?¡±

 Chapter 27

    ¡°Oh lord! Not again!¡± Ariel yelled out for the whole world to hear. Her best friend in the other part of the world was watching her lose control, and as tempting as it was tough at her predicament, she knew that Ariel wouldn¡¯t find it funny.


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t find a dress to wear.¡± Ariel exhaled loudly, her hands flopping down to her side. She had been rummaging through her wardrobe in search of something presentable to wear to her date.


    ¡°Calm down, Ari; the date isn¡¯t till tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°I know, but I need to get a dress now and try it on to know if it is okay, or I will have to go shopping.¡± She picked out a Chanel dress she had gotten to mark her graduation from college, but she was shaking her head. ¡°No, too boring.¡±


    At this point, udia couldn¡¯t resist the urge to roll her eyes. ¡°You are doing too much, Ari. You could show up in sweatpants, and this man will still think you are the most beautiful woman that walked the face of the earth.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know that.¡± She ran her fingers through the dresses, trying to pick a suitable one. ¡°I know I am doing too much, but I am going on a date with someone I like, and I want to make an impression.¡±


    ¡°Fine, but you don¡¯t need to do so much.¡±


    ¡°I can see you don¡¯t want to help me.¡± Ariel grumbled under her breath, loud enough that udia could hear her.


    ¡°Girl, you literally own more than 100 outfits; I don¡¯t even know where to start if I want to help. A little word of advice: you can never go wrong with a ck dress.¡±


    And udia was right.


    ***


    Ariel stood behind her, her ears trained for any iing footsteps. Kane should be here any time, but that was doing little to calm her nerves.


    You will be fine; it is just Kane. She tried to reassure her.


    But that was the problem.


    This was Kane, the man that she was gradually falling for-the man who always put her needs before others, not some random blind date.


    Her heart rate spiked up as she heard the firm footsteps of the man who had been invading her thoughts, and she swallowed hard.


    She smoothed her dress-there was no need to-and she stood waiting for his knock. It went off almost immediately, and she stood there for a few seconds, taking a breath, and she opened the door.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Oh my.¡± Her breath caught in her throat as she was the Prince Charming in front of her. If she had thought the man looked good in his regr clothes, it was nothingpared to how breathtaking he looked in a dress shirt.


    ¡°You like?¡± Kane asked, shing his dazzling smile for her, and she melted like defrosting ice cream.


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel could only nod her head; if she attempted to say what was on her mind, she was sure he would run away with his heels touching the back of his head.


    He was adorned in a ck short-sleeved shirt and dark pants, and he had paired it with a silver ne. Ariel hadn¡¯t said, but she was a sucker for men in nes.


    And seeing one on Kane was making her weak on her knees.


    ¡°You look stunning too.¡± Kane said, and she lowered her gaze, fighting the rush of color to her cheeks. She had been too lost in her admiration to see that Kane was also going through simr issues.


    She had gone for an asymmetrical double-strap fringed Sandro dress, pairing it with a golden essory, and honestly, she felt beautiful.


    ¡°For you.¡± Kane said, producing a bouquet of red roses from behind him, and Ariel¡¯s lips curled up in a smile, not expecting the gesture.


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    This is how you get treated when you date a man. The obnoxious voice in her head reminded her, and she could see reasons.


    She took the flowers, bringing them to her nose, and took a long breath, loving the subtle scent of earth and his perfume. ¡°I will just keep this.¡± She said, and she was going back to her room, cing the bouquet on her desk, before walking back to meet him.


    ¡°Shall we?¡± Kane asked, taking her hands, and she dly ced her palm in his, blushing a storm as he brought it to his lips and gave it a little kiss.


    They floated through the hallways and down the stairs, and Ariel was grateful that no one was around. ¡°Did you tell them to stay inside?¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t sure if you would like the attention, so I asked them to just stay in their rooms, at least until we were gone. Is that okay with you?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it is fine; thank you for looking out for me.¡±


    ¡°Anything for you.¡± They fell intofortable silence as they walked down the stairs until they got outside, where a ck Mercedes was packed and waiting for them.


    Ariel could barely contain her excitement as he opened her door for her, and she entered, sighing in bliss at the feel of the smooth leather.


    Not too longter, Kane was in the driving seat, driving through the tarred road and unconsciously driving her crazy.


    ¡°Why is the pack located so far away from civilization? How do you guys even survive?¡± Ariel voiced out her thoughts, and Kane nced at her for a few seconds before he turned back onto the road.


    ¡°We are werewolves, and our existence is still unknown to humans, and the werewolfmunity is a diverse one; we produce most of the things we use.


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel nodded; only the red rm was ring in her head. They were closed off from the world, which also meant they could get away with any crime theymitted and no one would blink an eye.


    But she ignored all those thoughts and allowed only happy thoughts, looking out the window as the world passed by.


    They stopped in front of a building dimly lit by golden lights, and Ariel sat back on her seat, waiting till he came over to her door and opened it for her.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel shed her pearly white to him, getting out of the car and letting him lead her inside.


    ¡°Mr Miller.¡± A waiter came closer to them, dressed in a signature white shirt and ck pants. ¡°This way, please.¡± The waiter gestured upstairs, leading them to a private room.


    Ariel looked around, expecting to find something else, but there was only a drawing easel facing each other, and there was a bottle of wineying there.


    In the background, a grand piano was stationed, and the yer yed slow jazz, creating a romantic atmosphere.


    ¡°This is a wee surprise.¡± Ariel mused, eyeing the easel. She hadn¡¯t been to a sip and paint because she was horrible at anything that came to the arts-she couldn¡¯t even draw a cup-but for Kane, she would try.


    ¡°I thought dinner was a little too boring, and a sip and paint should do the magic. Is it to your liking? They have a restaurant upstairs, and we could go there instead.¡±


    ¡°No, it is fine; I don¡¯t mind. Like I said, it is a wee change.¡± Her response earned her a smile from Kane, and she couldn¡¯t help the way her heart lurched.


    They sat down, and another waiter came beside them, exining how it worked. They had ced some images in front of them, and they only needed to recreate them.


    ¡°This should be easy.¡± Ariel mused, picking up her brush.


    But a few minutester, she was eating her words. ¡°I am horrible.¡± She whined as she looked at the painting in front of her. You would think there was no way one could fuck up a painting of a horizon, but she had managed to do so.


    Ariel grabbed her nearly empty ss of wine, pouring a generous amount and taking a few sips. She looked at her painting again, at the undting lines and the unblended colors, and she was cringing hard.


    ¡°Let me see what you did.¡± She asked, craning her neck to see Kane¡¯s work. In the course of their date, someone Kane had moved to sit beside-the best decision yet.


    Kane shifted his head at that moment, leaning towards her, and their mouths met for the briefest moment in a peck.


    ¡°Sorry about that.¡± Kane was apologizing as she grew still.


    ¡°No, I liked it.¡± She replied, turning to him with a wide smile, and he leaned in closer until they were just an arm¡¯s distance away.


    ¡°You should like this one better.¡± And he was connecting their lips together.

 Chapter 28

    He was lying.


    She didn¡¯t just like it; she loved it-the feel of his soft lips on hers moving like the waves had her forgetting about the people in the room with them.


    The world seemed to melt away, leaving only them.


    A soft hum escaped her as his hands caressed her neck, sending delicious shivers down her spine. He poured all the love and tenderness into the kiss, and she was floating on the horizon she had painted.


    But it was ending too soon, and his lips left her so painfully that she whined, longing for more.


    Kane noticed her demeanor, and he smiled, his fingersing to trace her lips. ¡°We could continue back at home. If you want.¡± He added as an afterthought, and Ariel averted her eyes, instead focusing it on her painting.


    The thoughts she was having were quite unholy, and they do not belong in this kind of setting.


    ¡°We still have some wine left.¡± She picked up her wine ss, twirling it as a means to disperse the sexual tension between them.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± he gestured to the waiter, and she watched as he whispered something to his ears, and the man walked away. He came back soon, bncing two tes on his hands, and ced them in front of them. ¡°I figured you would be hungry.¡±


    ¡°Starving.¡± She gave him a small smile. ¡°Somehow all that painting has drained me.¡±


    ¡°Is the painting in the room with us? Because I am not sure that can be ssified as one.¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes, a little amused. ¡°Hey, I did my best. It is just unfortunate that a chicken should draw a straighter line than me.¡±


    ¡°It is alright, love. I can be the artistic one in the family, and you would be the pretty damsel.¡± Kane replied offhandedly, twirling the pasta around his fork.


    It was unknown to him that his partner was having a near-cardiac arrest.


    She didn¡¯t know if it was the casual way he called her love or the fact that he was considering starting a family with her, but she couldn¡¯t fight the blush that was crawling up her cheeks.


    ¡°Are you alright? You are getting all red.¡± Kane noted. His piercing brown eyes were a bit darker in the dim light, and they were on her, slowly stripping her of any rational thought.


    ¡°Yeah, it is just the wine.¡± And for effect, she grabbed her ss, downing all of the content in her mouth. She picked up her fork, twirling the pasta in it and bringing it to her mouth.


    Her eyes literally lit up as she tasted the creamy goddess, and she was sighing in bliss.


    ¡°Delicious?¡±


    ¡°This is the best pasta I have ever had, and trust me, I have had a lot.¡± She admitted taking another fork of the creamy goodness.


    ¡°They serve the best pasta, and I knew I had to take you there.¡± Kane said, looking at her with those starry eyes, and she melted. ¡°Open up.¡±


    ¡°W-what.¡± She was almost spewing her food out.


    What did he just say?


    She brought the metal utensil close to her mouth, and she quietly opened it, letting him feed her.


    ¡°What did you think I was saying?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Ariel shook her head, and they continued on their date.


    They finished the food amidst light talks and had some dessert, and sadly, it was time to go home. Ariel was a little reluctant, but she had managed to take a cute shot together with Kane, and she was going to have this frame to show their future children.


    Okay, maybe she was getting way over herself.


    They walked down the stairs hands in hand, their cheeks hurting from smiling, but neither would let go, not with the sparks that were sizzling between them.


    Kane, ever the gentleman, opened the door for her before he took his seat in the driver¡¯s seat, and they began to drive home in peaceful silence, only interrupted by the cool blues ying on the radio.


    ¡°The city is really beautiful at night.¡± Ariel remarked, looking out the windows, and Kane nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Yeah, it is. But I think you are more beautiful.¡±


    Ariel was whipping her head fast to look at him, not sure she had heard him. He may have been calling her beautiful and other endearments, but he had never said it to her.


    ¡°I think you are handsome too.¡± Maybe she had had too much wine, but she was sure she saw his eyes glow a bit fiercer.


    Kane pushed a button, changing the steering to automatic, but his eyes were only on her. ¡°Ariel, I want you to be my girlfriend.¡±


    Girlfriend was too trivial a word for what he felt for the brte beside him. Hell, he could burn this earth for her to show how much he cared.


    But Ariel doesn¡¯t understand their world, and he couldn¡¯t start pressuring her into being a mate and a Luna.


    A girlfriend would have to do-only for the time being.


    Why don¡¯t you tell her she is your mate? Now is the perfect time to let her know. Max reminded him, but he was blocking him out of his mind before he would say something else again.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Ka-¡±


    ¡°Just hear me out. I know we didn¡¯t have a good rtionship back then, but I was quick to realize when you came back that you were the one for me. I do love you, Ariel, and I want you to be mine.¡±


    ¡°I- d-do¡­¡±


    ¡°Shhh.¡± Kane was silencing her before she could say anything else. ¡°I know you may think it is rushed and you are not sure if you have feelings for me, but you don¡¯t need to give me a reply now. I just wanted you to know how I feel.¡±


    Ariel fought the urge to roll her eyes. Men! Why can¡¯t they listen for once?


    ¡°Are you through now? Can I talk?¡±


    ¡°You have the floor.¡±


    ¡°Good. I was going to give you a reply if you weren¡¯t disrupting me. But yes, I love you too, and I want to be your girlfriend.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Kane was a little shocked to hear that. He wasn¡¯t sure how much of the bond Ariel could feel, and he wasn¡¯t even sure she would reciprocate his feelings.


    Are you just dumb or what? Anyone will fall in love with you, most especially our mate. Sometimes I wonder why the moon goddess paired us together. Max sighed, retreating to his space before Kane could say anything.


    ¡°Yes Kane. I love you, and I want to be your girlfriend.¡± Kane couldn¡¯t help the way his lips widened, revealing a lip.


    He leaned towards her, and without giving it a thought, he ced a tiny peck on her cheeks.


    ***


    The happy couple continued their journey home, neither of them saying anything. It was as if any words said would disrupt the romantic atmosphere, and they opted for afortable silence until they got to the pack house.


    Ariel¡¯s skin sizzled from where their bodies were in contact. The wine had made her loose, and so were her urges, but she held them in until they got to the door of her room.


    ¡°I guess our date ends here.¡±


    ¡°Sadly. But I really enjoyed the date. Thank you.¡± She stood on her tiptoes, leaning forward, and gave me a kiss on the lips before running inside her room. ¡°Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! He asked me out!¡± Ariel squealed as shey down in her bed.


    Never in her wildest dream would she think that this was how the night was going to end, but she couldn¡¯t ask for anything else.


    Her hands reached for her phone in her bag, and she picked it up. She was tempted to call udia and narrate all of her experience, but she was changing her mind for a split minute.


    Instead, she scrolled to her photos, looking at the pictures they had taken tomorrow.


    ¡°We look good together, though.¡± She mused, loving the way she was so free with him.


    There was something about this man that triggered her feminine energy, and she couldn¡¯t be happier.


    She couldn¡¯t keep this to herself; she needed to let everyone know that she was his, and she was opening the gram app.


    It wasn¡¯t in her fashion to post any of the men she was dating, but Kane was different, and that was the reason she was selecting some of their pictures and posting them for the whole world to see.


    She was having issues keeping her eyes open; it was like a huge load was weighing them down, and she couldn¡¯t put it off any longer.


    Ariel closed her eyes, finally sumbing to sleep.


    A pounding on the door was rousing her up from her sleep, and Ariel had never hated the fact that she was a light sleeper.


    She released a groan, rolling over and covering her head with her pillow, but the knock was persistent.


    It was obvious that whoever it was had something urgent to say, and that was the only reason she was dragging herself out of bed.


    She opened the door, her eyes only half open for the fear that if she opened them wide, she wouldn¡¯t be able to fall asleep again, but they were opened wide as she saw the person at the door.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting you.¡±


    ¡°What have you done?¡±

 Chapter 29

    ¡°What have you done?¡±


    The man at the door was like nothing she had known; he was seething, his mouth pressed in a thin line, and the worst was that it was all directed towards her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand Toby. What did I do?¡± Ariel¡¯s brain was still jumbled from waking up from sleep before her wake time, and that was the easiest way to get her pissed.


    ¡°Your Instagram.¡±


    ¡°What happened to my Instagram?¡± She peeped my head outside, her eyes scanning the hallways for anyone that may be passing. These werewolf folks are very notorious for eavesdropping, and thest thing she wanted them to know was about their talk.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You posted Kane on your wallst night.¡± He said, and now she became pissed. Ariel slightly tilted her head to the side, her brain still trying to process why that should be the reason he was angry.


    ¡°And if I did, how does that concern you?¡± She folded her arms below her breast, quite aware of how transparent her nightwear is, but she refused to acknowledge it.


    There were mightier issues at hand than if her pink buds were exposed. Toby was the perfect gentleman, and he kept his eyes on her face, never once straying away from it.


    He took a deep breath, not believing he was dealing with this first thing in the morning. He had been scrolling through Instagram when he saw her post, and dear goddess, he almost choked on his tongue.


    He had sent her various messages, persuading her to delete them, but after a few minutes and they were still marked as unread, he knew he had to deal with it himself.


    Kane wasn¡¯t on Instagram or any social media at that, but that doesn¡¯t mean his enemies weren¡¯t, and goddess knows what they would do with this information.


    ¡°You have to delete it, Ariel.¡±


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± Ariel¡¯s voice went up a notch, all traces of sleep vanishing from her eyes. ¡°Why would I delete it?¡±


    ¡°Oh, fuck this.¡± Toby said under his breath, his hands massaging his temples as if he were in pain. This was thest thing he was expecting. ¡°Look, there are some things I can¡¯t say right now, but just delete them, and we could talk.¡±


    ¡°I am sorry, mister, if you don¡¯t give me a good reason why I should delete my post. It is going to stay there forever.¡±


    ¡°Ariel.¡± Toby growled out, his patience running thin the more time they spent arguing. ¡°Why can¡¯t you just listen for once?¡± He said through gritted teeth. His hands were balled up in a fist, and he had never wanted to punch a wall so bad.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you are jealous.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Toby¡¯s mouth hung open at the usation; he wasn¡¯t sure if he was angry that she was being stubborn or the fact that there may be an atom of truth in her words.


    ¡°Oh please.¡± Ariel rolled her eyes, not ready for all this. ¡°I am aware of your little ¡®crush¡¯ on me. I am not dumb, Toby; I have seen how your eyes follow my body whenever we are together, and I am well aware.¡±


    ¡°Ariel, you are mis-¡±


    Ariel held her jaw as if she were in deep thought, tilting her head to the side. ¡°I wonder what Kane would think when his alleged ¡®best friend¡¯ is in love with his girlfriend.¡±


    Each word sent a jab straight to his heart, and he clutched it in his chest, robbing it in a circr motion as if to ease the pain.


    Maybe it was the truth in her words, or the fact that they now had a term for their rtionship, or even the fact that Kane was definitely going to kill him if he learned the truth.


    But he was tongue-tied, his words tangled in his tongue like a knitted rope.


    He had been so rendered speechless that he didn¡¯t see Ariel close the door until he heard the loud bang on his face.


    ¡°Wait Ariel.¡± Toby pounded on the door. He had already wasted so much time, and the goddess knows what the enemies would be nning with it.


    ¡°If you are not ready to exin yourself, I don¡¯t see the need to continue talking. I need to get back to sleep.¡± Ariel yelled from behind the door, and Toby groaned.


    ¡°Fine. Just open the door so we can talk.¡±


    ¡°Spill.¡± Ariel said that as she opened the door, all traces of sleep were wiped off her face.


    ¡°I think you already know who we are. And somehow, like Kane, he has a lot of targets on his back, and given his line of work, there are people that may want to go after him or even you, just to hurt him.¡±


    ¡°And what exactly is he, Toby? I thought he had a distributionpany or the like. Why does he have enemies who want to kill him?¡±


    She should be afraid that she has somehow unknowingly be a target, but none of that could concern her.


    ¡°I am sorry, but I can¡¯t say.¡± Toby lowered his head, avoiding all sorts of eye contact with her. ¡°I think Kane should be the right person to tell you.¡±


    ¡°Now, Toby, let me get this straight with you all. I don¡¯t give a fuck about a target on my back. And until I get the whole truth, I will keep doing whatever I want to do.¡±


    ¡°Ariel, don¡¯t be like this. You are not familiar with our world and how it works. Just delete the post, and this whole thing will be over.¡±


    ¡°I am tired of everyone telling me I don¡¯t know about this world!¡± Her hands flew to the air in wild gestiction. ¡°I am a part of this world now, and I should know everything there is to it. You can¡¯t keep me in the dark and expect me to listen to every whim. I am not like that!¡±


    ¡°Ariel-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t cut me short!¡± She was practically seething, and Toby unconsciously took a step back, not sure he could handle this version of her. ¡°I will repeat this again in case you are hard of hearing. If you are not ready to tell me the truth, don¡¯t ask me anything.¡±


    Bang!


    He was merely inches from the door when it shut, and the additional clicking sounds were enough to tell him that she was going to see through to her word.


    ¡°I should have told Kane from the onset.¡± He whispered to himself, already dreading how he was going to report this to his Alpha when he should have done it first.


    He was thinking it was something he could talk her into doing, but he should have known that Ariel was very set in her ways.


    They fit each other, although a little part of his heart was rather happy with her response.


    It was evident that she wouldn¡¯t be swayed by people-an excellent quality for a Luna-and he had no doubt she would make a great one.


    Now it was time to ry it to Kane.


    ***


    The pounding on the door wasn¡¯t going away anytime soon. Ariel was well aware of the fact, yet a tiny part of her-the sadistic one, probably-wanted to wait it out and see how it would end.


    ¡°Ariel.¡±


    Her breath caught in her throat as she heard the voice, and she was already standing up to open it, but she came to her senses just as she took the second step.


    ¡°I know you were walking towards me; there is no need to stop.¡± Another gasp tore out of her vocal chords. ¡°I am a werewolf, baby. You should know I can hear the ticking of your clock and even the rustling of the papers on your desk.¡±


    Ariel nced at her desk, and true enough, the wind had been rustling the papers on her desk. She hurried to her desk, cing a book over the papers before she got to the door.


    ¡°Kane.¡± She sighed like she had just seen the messiah, and she was beating herself up with her reaction.


    Hell, they just went on a date yesterday, but she couldn¡¯t get enough of him.


    ¡°Ariel.¡± He breathed out her name, and she closed her eyes, allowing his voice to caress her.


    His gaze was a sultry whisper, caressing her skin and leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake. Ariel folded her arm across her body, regretting why she hadn¡¯t bothered with a robe.


    His gaze had the ability to strip her bare, leaving her all hot and bothered, and she closed her legs tightly, embarrassed by her body¡¯s reaction to this male in front of her.


    She saw his nose re as if he were sniffing the air, and for a moment she froze, her cheeks ame as she feared he could smell her body¡¯s response to him.


    Kane cleared his throat, his gaze shifting to her face. ¡°Toby has told me everything.¡±

 Chapter 30

    ¡°Toby has told me everything.¡± Kane confirmed her fears, but he had craftily forgotten (omitted) to add how he had almost strangled Toby when he found out the real truth.


    ¡°Okay?¡± Ariel tightened her arms around her torso, providing a shield for her.


    ¡°May Ie in?¡± Kane asked, and Ariel pursed her lips, not sure she wanted to spend the next few minutes confined in the same room with him, especially with how her hormones were raging.


    ¡°I guess so.¡± She shrugged her shoulders, moving aside and letting him enter inside.


    Just as she suspected, his aura filled the room, leaving no room for any intruder. His scent filled her nose, her brain, and her entire being, clouding her mind until all she could think was him.


    Snap out of it, Ariel. She was trying to will herself not to do something crazy, but it was nearly impossible.


    She was awfully aware that she was ovting, and each cycle came with its own symptoms, but this time, all she wanted was to hump anything that had a cock.


    It has been too long since she felt a man in her, and if not for the stupid rule she had-never to self-pleasure-she would have long relieved herself. She had always seen the act as degrading and would prefer to seek thepany of a man.


    Call her a hypocrite, but that was how she was.


    However, with this male in the room with her, all rational thoughts flew from her head like a feather in the wind.


    ¡°Ariel!¡± Kane¡¯s stern voice was cutting her off, and she looked up to meet his eyes, her knees suddenly weak and barely able to keep her weight all because of this man. ¡°Get a hold of yourself.¡± His voice softened as he spoke, but Ariel¡¯s eyes widened as she realized the implication of his words.


    ¡°W-wait, ca-can y-y-you?¡± She pointed to her nose, unable to get the words out. But Kane understood what she was trying to say, and he decided to save her the trouble.


    ¡°Yes, I can. Please control yourself, as I am having a hard time here.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel whimpered, her brain not processing anything other than the hard. Does that mean he was¡­ ¡°Oh my.¡± The room temperature has suddenly gone up, and she has fanned herself furiously with her hands, unable to keep the blush away.


    ¡°Ariel!¡±


    ¡°Oh my!¡± Ariel moaned, his voice triggering something deep in her. ¡°Kane.¡± Her face was flushed as she breathed out his name. Tiny beads of sweat gathered on her forehead, and she was shifting from feet to feet.


    Is she on¡­? Kane refused to believe the possibility that his mate could be going through what was strictly for wolves. She had lost her wolf a long time ago, and there was no way this could be happening.


    If she was truly going through heat, he should also be affected.


    ¡°Come here.¡± He motioned to her, watching the way she waddled to him. She released a gasp as he touched her skin, and the delicious scent of her musk filled the air.


    Kane took a deep breath, letting it fill all his senses, and he slowly opened her eyes. ¡°Oh fuck.¡± He cursed as he saw Ariel staring at him with those sultry eyes, her lips all plump and red and slightly open.


    She was sending an invitation. It was a dangerous invitation, and the goddess knew it was taking everything in him not to respond to it.


    ¡°Let us get you to bed.¡± Kane took her hand, hissing as the sparks enveloped between them. He ignored the sparks that danced between them, and he led her to the bed.


    Heid her gently on the bed, covering her with her nket, and he stood up to go, but tiny hands clutched his shirt.


    ¡°W-where are you going?¡± There was genuine fear in her eyes, and he considered dropping everything just to stay by her side.


    ¡°I will be right back. I just have to-¡±


    ¡°No, please don¡¯t go.¡± Ariel whined, and her hands clutched his shirt tighter. ¡°Don¡¯t leave me.¡±This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Kane¡¯s chest rose as he took a deep breath, releasing it rather slowly. He was supposed to talk her into deleting the post, but now he was tending to her.


    ¡°Fine.¡± He sat on the bed close to her, and he reached out, holding her hands. ¡°You will be fine.¡±


    Meanwhile, he was already contacting Denise-the pack nurse-through the mind link, informing her of what was happening to her mate.


    ¡®Do you think she is going through heat?¡¯ Denise asked while flipping through the book of remedies.


    ¡®I don¡¯t know. Just get her something that would put her to sleep, and we could discuss the issue better. I will be in her room.¡¯


    ¡°Yeah, alpha,¡± Denise replied, and the connection was gone.


    Kane¡¯s hands were in his mate¡¯s hair, strolling gently and loving how smooth and silky her hair was. Her eyes were closed, but her breathing was still normal-an indication that she was not asleep.


    ¡°Ariel?¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± She groaned, opening her eyes slightly but being unable to focus them.


    ¡°Where is your phone?¡± Kane asked, taking a risk. He knew she would be too out of it to take note of what he was doing, yet he was dreading when she finally came to herself and wondered how she would react.


    ¡°It is nothing I can¡¯t handle.¡± Kane reassured himself.


    ¡°Pillow.¡± Ariel mumbled, unable to keep her eyes focused. She finally settled on closing them.


    Kane¡¯s hands were under her pillow, searching for the electronic device, and he was smiling as he picked it up and entered her pin.


    Don¡¯t ask how he knew it, but there was nothing about Ariel that he didn¡¯t know.


    He went straight for the annoying app; her post was the first thing he saw as he entered the app.


    ¡°Goddess, just how popr is she?¡± Kane eximed as he watched the number of likes keep increasing. It was currently at 6 thousand plus, and he feared how many of them were his enemies.


    He wasted no time deleting the post, and only then could he breathe freely.


    Kane was beating himself up for not owning any social media ounts. If he had, he would have noticed it right away and dealt with it, and this would have been a thing of the past. He made a mental note to ask one of the tech guys in the pack to track down the post and delete it.


    His ears pricked as he heard the approaching footsteps, and he slid the phone back under the pillow, standing up and walking towards the door before Ariel would notice.


    ¡°The drugs should subside whatever is going on in her body and put her to sleep. Whenever you are free, we could discuss what could be wrong with her.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel¡¯s whimpers could be heard even from the hallway, and Kane was already flying to her side, leaving Denise to shut the door.


    He had grabbed a bottle of water on his way, and the bed sank as he sat on it, cradling her head towards him. ¡°Can you open up for me?¡± Kane whispered in her ears, and he was almost choking on his saliva as she opened her legs. ¡°N-no, baby, I mean your mouth.¡±


    Her mouth opened in a little ¡®O¡¯, but it was enough for him to ce the tablet on her tongue and a little water. ¡°You can swallow now.¡±


    He watched as her throat bobbed, swallowing the content, and only then was he satisfied.


    The effect was almost instantaneous; he noticed the drop in her temperature and her flushed skin returning to its healthy glow.


    Her breathing had returned to normal, although it was getting slower as she drifted to dreand.


    ¡°Rest your head, love; I will be there when you wake up.¡± It was as if Ariel was waiting for that word, and with the prompt, her eyes shut tight on her way to dreand.


    Kane watched his beautiful mate and the soft rise and fall of her chest as she inhaled and exhaled, and he was baffled at whatever demon had possessed her.


    He leaned towards her, nting a kiss on her temple, and with a promise to return, he left for Denise.


    He had to find out what was wrong and a possible solution in case it became a regr urrence.

 Chapter 31

    Ariel groggily opened her eyes, blinking at the haze that had been preventing her from opening them. A deep frown was set on her face, her brain working at full power as she tried to recall how she got into the position.


    Her eyeszily focused on the intricate details of the ceiling before they shifted to another part of the room and settled there.


    She sat up on her bed, a terrible mistake on her part, as she was struck with a terrible headache. Ariel clutched her head in pain, gently lowering herself back to the bed.


    Her hands were under her pillow, sweeping under it as she looked for her phone. There werepses in her memory; she couldn¡¯t even recall how she got here, and the phone should help.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Oh shit!¡± She murmured under her breath as she held the phone in her hands, the coldness startling her. She pressed the power button, but after several attempts and the nk screen being all she could see, she was searching for a power outlet.


    ¡°Ariel.¡± Kane¡¯s call came as he opened the door, and she was almost sighing in relief.


    ¡°Thank God you are here. Can you help me get my charger? I think I left it on the desk.¡± She attempted to sit up again, but Kane was by her side in an instance, and her brows gathered like a converging circle.


    She could have sworn he was just at the door. How the hell did he teleport to her side?


    ¡°Take it easy, love; you shouldn¡¯t be stressing yourself,¡± Kane chided her in a soft voice, overflowing with love.. His hands wrapped around her neck, gently guiding her back to the bed and tucking her into the nkets.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Ariel asked, still trying to make sense of all that was happening around her. ¡°Why am I still in bed, and-¡± She nced at the clock, and she was almost jumping out of bed. ¡°I amte for training.¡±


    But Kane held her hands before she jumped out of bed. ¡°You have been out of it, and I don¡¯t think you will be able to go for any training yet. Just rest your head.¡±


    ¡°Hmm, okay.¡± Ariel allowed him toy her back on the bed, but she was still unsettled. ¡°What happened to me?¡±


    ¡°Nothing really, but we feared you wereing down with a fever.¡±


    ¡°Fever?¡± Ariel touched her forehead with the back of her palm, her mouth curving downward in a frown. ¡°I feel perfectly fine.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I had the pack nursee treat you.¡±


    ¡°I see, thank you.¡± They stayed in afortable silence; Ariel fidgeting as she realized just how close he was to her. She could feel his gaze on her, burning holes through her skin, and she swallowed the saliva that had pooled in her throat.


    Ariel shifted her gaze to the bed-anything that wasn¡¯t him would do-her eyesnding on her phone, and she picked it up, suddenly remembering the conversation she had had with Toby the day before.


    Or was it today?


    The timeline was somewhat jumbled in her mind, but she was very sure that Toby hade to her and rudely demanded that she delete her post.


    ¡°You were going to tell me something?¡±


    You remembered?¡± Ariel squinted her eyes as she looked at him, his behavior a little suspicious. In fact, all their behavior has been questionable.


    ¡°Of course I do, or are you wishing I didn¡¯t remember?¡± She inched closer with each word until she could feel the warm air on her face as he breathed out. ¡°Is there something you are hiding that you don¡¯t want me to know?¡±


    ¡°Not at all.¡± Kane gave her a tight-lipped smile while racking his brain, thinking of how he could get her to forget.


    ¡°Toby told me you posted our pictures together.¡± Kane started cautiously, afraid he might spook her, but Ariel had long caught him in his game, and she had no time to y the game.


    ¡°I see you have your little minions doing your work for you. If he had told you that, he should have also told you that I refused.¡±


    ¡°He was just concerned about me and the pack atrge. It is a dangerous world. We live here, Ariel, nothingpared to yours, and we have enemies all around that are seeking ways to destroy us.¡±


    ¡°And I ask again. What have you done to warrant such treatment?¡± She said each word slowly, not backing down on this anytime soon.


    She was well aware that some shady things had been going on, but she had yet to uncover them, and today may just seem to be the day.


    Kane took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. ¡°Ariel.¡± She looked up at the way she had folded her arms and her lips in a thin line, and he knew there was no way she was backing down. ¡°As you know, ours is a rogue pack, and the werewolves are not happy with the fact that we are thriving, and they have been trying every means to destroy us.¡±


    ¡°Hmm mmm.¡± Ariel gave him a nod, prompting him to continue.


    ¡°They could be anywhere, lurking among us, on the inte, just literally anywhere. I am just trying to protect you in every way I can, Ari. I love you so much to lose you.¡±


    ¡°Aww.¡± Ariel was melting at his sudden confession of love, and she leaned closer until their lips were touching, and she kissed it.


    It was short and sweet, but enough to convey her feelings towards him.


    ¡°I love you too, Kane.¡±


    Ariel watched as his lips curled up, the smile spreading from his lips all the way to his smile. ¡°I love you too, baby.¡± He joined their lips together, meeting each other in a soft caress thatsted a little too long to be considered a peck. ¡°So¡­¡±


    ¡°Fine, I will delete it.¡± Ariel rolled her eyes, unable to believe she had given up so easily. ¡°You should have exined this earlier, and it would have saved us the stress.¡± She reprimanded him, and he nodded.


    ¡°I know better now.¡± Ariel picked up her phone from where she had dropped it earlier, and she was swiping to the app, but Kane held her hand, preventing her from using it.


    Ariel looked up to meet his gaze, giving him the look. ¡°You may want to not do that.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Ariel¡¯s attention was turned towards him, watching his every expression.


    ¡°I may have already deleted it.¡±


    Ariel said no words; instead, she clicked on the app, looking for the post, but true to his words, it was nowhere to be found.


    ¡°Get out!¡± The calm in her voice startled Kane, and he stretched for her hand, but she invaded it, pping it away.


    ¡°Ariel?¡±


    ¡°Get out!¡± Her back was turned against him, refusing to see his face. Kane stood up, the look on her face telling him that she was serious.


    ¡°Ariel, I was just trying to protect us.¡±


    ¡°You had no right, Kane! You had no right!¡±

 Chapter 32

    ¡°Ariel?¡± A feminine voice was screaming at her while they ran as they tried to evade the falling blocks. Her sight was distorted by the debris and dust that clouded the air. ¡°Ariel?¡± The screams were getting loud and guttural, and she was torn between rescuing herself or answering the call.


    ¡°What?¡± She yelled at the person. She shielded her face, barely opening her eyes as sand particles flew to her face.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t go; stay with me.¡± The voice cried out in a sorrowful tone that tugged at her heart strings.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Ariel yelled back at the voice; the manner in which the person spoke had a hint of familiarity. ¡°I aming.¡±


    Ariel began to run towards the voice, throwing her limbs out in a bid to reach the person. But the closer she ran towards the person, the farther they seemed to be, until it was just a figment of her imagination and she was standing in a dark room all alone.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± This time it was a male voice, and she froze. There was a familiarity to it that had goosebumps breaking out of her skin. She could still hear the faint sound of gunfire and the screams that filled the entire room with every gun that went off.


    But she ignored everything that was happening around her, and she was running towards the voice, only this time getting closer to the source.


    Ariel finally arrived at the scene, maneuvering through the falling debris, and she kneeled down beside a man, or what was left of the man.


    His face was an ugly crisscross of ws and bloody wounds that wouldn¡¯t heal. One of his eyes was missing, and the socket was a mangled mess that had her barfing.


    His one good eye had swollen to the point that it could barely open, but somehow he could sense she was there, and he reached out to her.


    ¡°Ariel?¡±


    ¡°Dad?¡± The words were forced out of her vocal cords-a muscle memory-even though she had no recollection of them. His eye opened at the word, and she stared at his icy blue eyes, oddly simr to hers.


    This time, she cried out as she saw his state. Arge rock had crushed his lower body up to his knees; there was no way she could get him out of there.


    Then the craziest thing happened.


    It all happened in a twinkling of an eye. The man produced a de from his pocket, the weapon glinting from the ray of light that had escaped through the fallen wall.


    With a sudden, jerky motion, the de was embedded deep in the left part of his chest. Her ears pricked as she heard the de pass through the fleshy tissue that should be no doubt his heart, and Ariel looked on, unable to fathom what she had just seen.


    She was trying to process the fact that her ¡®father¡¯ had finished himself off when she saw the deing towards her, and the knife found its way into her heart, piercing it through until she was choking on her own blood.


    Ariel gasped aloud, her eyes wide with shock and her breath escaping like a faint rattle. Her hands reached gingerly, wrapping them around the iron steel as blood kept pumping at an rming rate.


    She managed to raise her head up, her eyes connecting with simr, icy blue ones that had her bloody heart lurching. It clicked in her head that this may be a rtive, a closely rted family, and she opened her mouth, screaming out the words.


    ¡°Dad?¡±


    ¡°Dad?¡± Ariel jolted upright, her heart racing like a wolf animal, and her lips were slightly opened as she gasped for air.


    Her hands flew to her chest, clutching it tight for any sign of injury. A little sigh left her lips as she confirmed that it was just a dream-a vivid one at that.


    Sweat clung to her body like second skin, molding the dress to her body.


    She squinted her eyes as she looked around the room, her eyes still trying to adjust to the darkness. Ariel reached for her bedsidemp, and she turned on themp, her eyes blinking as they tried to adjust to the sudden ray of light.


    Her breathing had returned to normal, and she was a bit clear headed, but she couldn¡¯t make out the dream she just had until her door banged open and in walked her savior, looking every hit like a knight in shining armor.


    ¡°Kane?¡± The confusion could be heard in her voice as she looked at her lover. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I heard you screaming, and I had toe and check on you. What is wrong?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes squinted in the dim light as she looked at him. He was dressed in only a free short, and as she looked closely, she could notice the pendulum dangling on its free will.


    ¡°I-I had a n-nightmare.¡± She was struggling to form the words in her mouth. Her throat was dry, and she was having issues forming the right words in her mind.


    ¡°What happened?¡± The bed sank from Kane¡¯s weight, and he reached for her, cuddling her towards his body.


    Ariel melted into his embrace, all the noise shutting down as he quieted the storm raging in her mind. ¡°What happened? You can talk to me.¡±


    ¡°My dad.¡± Ariel whispered, closing her eyes as she was lost in the throes of memory. She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn¡¯t notice how Kane had gone still, frozen like a statue.


    ¡°What happened to him?¡± Kane could only whisper out his fears, his mind racing as he tried to think of the possible ways that Ariel could have learned of his involvement in his death.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I was in a house, no no.¡± She shook her head, the details getting clearer as she thought of it. ¡°It was a battlefield, and my dad was lying on the floor, worse for wear.¡± She sniffed, and Kane cradled her close to his body, letting his scent fill her.


    ¡°It is alright.¡± He whispered into her ears, trying to console her, stroking her hair gently.


    ¡°No, it is not okay.¡± She broke out of his embrace, tears brimming out of her eyes as she faced him. ¡°He killed himself! In my front!¡± The trail of tears made its way down her face, her eyes bright red.


    ¡°Shhh.¡± Kane reached for her hands, closing hisrge ones in all and pouring love into their bond so she could feel it. ¡°It is fine; it is just a dream.¡±


    A smile threatened to leave his lips, but he held himself back. Ariel wouldn¡¯t find it funny that he was finding pleasure in her difort, but Kane was too happy that she didn¡¯t know the whole truth.


    He will tell her the truth, but not now.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know that,¡± Ariel snapped, sniffing loudly as a trickle of catarrh tried to make its way down her nose. ¡°I can feel it deep inside me; he is my father.¡±


    ¡°It is alright, baby; it will be fine. I could help you look into it.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Her eyes were wide open as she looked at him with hope.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Kane replied, unable to meet her eyes. He clutched his chest, rubbing it gently to try to relieve the pain.


    Was this how it felt to be guilty?


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She hugged him tightly, nestling her head on his body.


    It suddenly clicked in a part of her brain that they were not exactly on good terms, and she moved away from him, cradling her arms around her body as she mourned the loss of hisfort.


    ¡°Ariel? Don¡¯t be like this. I was just concerned about you.¡± Ariel pursed her lips, not wanting to hear anything from him. ¡°Baby.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t baby me. I shouldn¡¯t even be talking to you.¡± She shrugged off his hold on her arms, turning to face the wall.


    ¡°Why are you being stubborn? I was doing this for your safety and for us! And I will not apologize for that.¡± There was a finality to his words, but Ariel wasn¡¯t appreciating the tone he used.


    ¡°Then get out.¡± She yelled, pointing to the door. ¡°I can¡¯t be with someone who is too proud to apologize for his wrongs.¡±


    Kane took a deep breath, wondering how this took a turn for the worst, but he wasn¡¯t going to be the one to back down.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    He stood up from the bed, the furniture protesting his departure, and he looked at his mate.


    ¡°Fine.¡±

 Chapter 33

    Ariel flinched as the door shut, the sound startling her. It was a struggle to remain on the bed when all she wanted to do was run to meet him and beg him to stay.


    But he needed to learn.


    She tried to assure herself that she was doing the right thing, but why did it feel like the wrong decision? He may be the alpha over everyone here, but he wasn¡¯t her alpha.


    They were just dating, and he couldn¡¯t treat her however he wanted. If everyone fears him here or is afraid to call out his bullshit, she would be the odd one out.


    With that determination, Ariel lowered herself to the bed, draping the nket over her body, and she stretched her hand, reaching for her phone.


    She squinted as the bright light from the phone startled her, but her eyes slowly adjusted, and she checked the time. It was still some hours until dawn, but she was too afraid to close her eyes.


    She couldn¡¯t shake the eerie feeling she got, and something told her there was more to see than she knew. She ended up staring at the ceiling and counting the lines while waiting for the clock to go faster.


    ¡°Why so slow?¡± Ariel whined as she turned on her phone, and only seven minutes had passed. If she continued like this, it would take eternity before she would see the first crack of dawn.


    She settled into her bed again, turning her pillow to the other side and reducing the room temperature. She shut her eyes tight, conjuring all forms of happy thoughts to help her fall asleep faster.


    She liked to daydream of happy moments or sometimes about her future before she went to sleep, but right now, all she could think of was Kane, and she was opening her eyes.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Nope, that won¡¯t do.


    Ariel shifted on the bed again, folding herself into a little ball, and she tried again, forcing her eyes closed. This time she thought about her date with Kane, the loving way he looked at her, and how in love he was with her.


    ¡°Fuck it.¡± She yelled, throwing the covers off her body, and she stood up, marching to the kitchen to get something in her stomach. Somehow, all that running in the dream had made her hungry.


    She grabbed the pack of fruit loops, pouring some into her bowl, and she grabbed the milk carton from the fridge, turning a generous amount until the cereal was floating on top of the milk.


    She nodded to herself in satisfaction as she looked at her handiwork before carrying her cereal bowl to her desk, and she sat down, turning on herptop.


    If the sleep wasn¡¯t going toe, it was better if she used the time to do something productive. It was high time she got a job and got money to leave the ce altogether.


    Maybe then Kane would realize how much of an asshole he was if she was gone.


    She picked up her spoons, scooping the milky treat into her mouth, but the first spoon had her brain melting.


    ¡°Brain freeze.¡± Ariel howled, but that didn¡¯t stop her from taking another spoonful of the cereal. Her fingers were poised on the keypad, and she began to type the website udia had sent to her.


    Right now, she didn¡¯t care if the job was halfway across the world. She was going to take it if it meant she would be away from such a narcissistic man.


    How hard is it to apologize?


    It still baffled her that he had refused to do what would have quelled the fight a long time ago, and no matter what happened, she wasn¡¯t going to be the first to yield.


    After minutes of searching, Ariel had managed to get a juicy offer, and she didn¡¯t even need to go far. It was in the same city as hers. She was only going to look for a means of transportation.


    Her pride wasn¡¯t going to allow her to ask Kane for a car among the humorous fleet she saw in the garage. She was going to have to learn the subway or bus schedule around her.


    She had managed to find three more job offers rting to her course of study, and she applied for them all, whistling as she ate her cereal.


    She had spent hours searching for a job and applying, and when she looked up, the first crack of dawn was in the sky.


    Ariel nced at her phone, tapping on the screen, and it lit up, disying the time. It was about a few minutes past five, a little too earlypared to her usual wake time, but there was no way she was going back to bed.


    Instead, she got dressed in a tracksuit and a big T-shirt, and she was heading straight to the gym.


    ¡°Oh my.¡± She heard a familiar voice gasp as she entered instead, and Ariel whipped her head to the side where Liza was going at the punching bag. ¡°What happened to you?¡± Liza¡¯s eyes were as round as a saucer as she regarded her friend.


    Ariel squinted her eyes, her brain stillgging behind from theck of sleep. ¡°I don¡¯t understand. What is wrong with me?¡± She walked towards her and took her ce on the running bike.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know; you just looked like someone who hadn¡¯t gotten decent sleep for years.¡±


    A yawn tore out of Ariel¡¯s mouth, and she rubbed her eyeszily. ¡°That is because I haven¡¯t gotten any decent sleep. Maybe if I overworked my body, I would be able to fall asleep.¡±


    ***


    After a cruel day of hard work at the gym and basically nothing else, she had literally spent the rest of the day avoiding Kane, a feat that was quite easier than she thought.


    He was also avoiding her, and he had stayed confined in his office. Although there were a lot of times she was tempted to break the door open and demand that he speak to her.


    This was the first time they were having issues since they started dating, and she didn¡¯t know how to feel about it. It was a little thing that they should have developed to this stage, but s, there they were.


    Ariel was cooped up in her room for the rest of the day, asionally checking her mail for any response. She had also gone house hunting and had managed to find a small studio in the heart of the city.


    If Kane was going to continue being childish, she was going to leave him.


    Ariel sat on the bed, another yawn leaving her as sheid down on the pillow. She was physically and mentally exhausted, and all she wanted was a good night¡¯s rest.


    She closed her eyes, sleep finding her easily, and she was snoring lightly as she drifted into the dreand.


    ***


    Ariel could recognize the scene before her, and like before, she heard the screams of the young woman calling out to her.


    She was already running towards the scream before she could process it, and just like before, the voice was getting away from her as she ran towards it.


    A cold realization dawned on her as she observed her environment. This was merely a rey of all that happened the previous night, and there was nothing she would do about it.


    She was merely a participant in the show.


    It was no surprise when she heard her ¡®dad¡¯s¡¯ voice beckoning to her, and she was walking towards the source like she was being dragged by an invisible rope.


    ¡°No.¡± Ariel protested, nting her legs firmly on the ground to avoid being swayed. She knew how it was going to y out, and she wasn¡¯t ready to go through that anymore. ¡°Help! Someone, help.¡± Ariel screamed out, not ready to go through all of this.


    However, her voice couldn¡¯t be heard.


    Ariel closed her eyes as she got to her supposed ¡®father¡¯. She shut her eyes, aware of how the next scene was going to y, and she wasn¡¯t ready to go through it. She flinched as the soft flesh gave way, even as the de pierced through his body.


    She knew how the next scene was going to y, but this time she was ready. She inhaled a lot of air and opened her mouth, releasing a blood curdling scream that sent chills to the bone marrow.


    Ariel woke up with a start, her heart pounding behind her ribcage while sweat poured from her body at an rming rate. This time she didn¡¯t give it any thought before she was fleeing from her room, her foot pounding on the floor as she ran through the hallway.


    She found herself in front of Kane¡¯s door, and she tried the knob, grateful when the door gave way. The room was as dark as the night, and she had a hard time adjusting to it, but she could recognize the figure on the bed.


    Kane sat up on the bed, his eyes wide open as he recognized the intruder. ¡°Ariel.¡± Her mind was racing as he thought of every possible reason why she should be in his room, but her voice was breaking his thoughts.


    ¡°Can I sleep here, please?¡±

 Chapter 34

    ¡°Can I sleep here, please?¡± Ariel asked in a soft voice, afraid that Kane would turn her down. But that was one fear that could never materialize.


    However, Kane took some seconds to reply, only because he was still trying to process his thoughts, and Ariel took his silence for rejection. ¡°I promise I will not disturb you. I just had a horrible dream, and I don¡¯t think I can sleep in my room for now. You were the only one I could think of, hence the reason I am here.¡± The words were pouring out of her mouth like a flowing tap.


    Kane, however, was beside himself with joy, unable to contain himself as he heard his mate¡¯s request, and he chuckled, hisughter reaching his mate¡¯s ears.


    Ariel scrunched her face in a frown, holding the nket tighter as she braved herself for a rejection.


    ¡°Of course, darling, you don¡¯t need any reason to be here. You are wee anytime.¡±


    Ariel melted from his kind words, and her lips tugged upwards, revealing a small smile. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Kane watched as she came towards her, looking much like a lost sheep.


    Ariel hurried to the bed, lowering herself onto it. Sheid down still, her head facing the ceiling. This was the first time they were actually lying close to each other, and she didn¡¯t know what to make of it.


    One thing was sure, they were only going to sleep, nothing else.


    ¡°You can rx, Ariel; I am not going to eat you in your sleep, if that is what you are worried about.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel turned to face him, her eyes wide open. It wouldn¡¯t be a bad idea if he ate her, though.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    It has been too long since she was eaten out, and now she can barely get decent thoughts around him. One would think she was always a horndog.


    ¡°Are youfortable like that, or do you need me to help you with anything else?¡±


    ¡°It is fine; your bed is nice.¡± Ariel almost facepalmed as she heard what came out of her mouth. What the hell was that? She took her nket to cover herself, trying to hide her embarrassment, but Kane stopped her.


    ¡°I think my nket would be morefortable.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Ariel murmured, agreeing easily. I mean, what more could she say?


    They settled into afortable silence, and Ariel shut her eyes, the peaceful environment luring her to sleep.


    ¡°I am sorry for what I did and what I said to you.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Her eyes flew open at the admission, not sure she had just heard him. Maybe her ears were ying tricks with her.


    Kane slid his arms under her, pulling her closer. ¡°I should have told you the truth from the onset, and we would have avoided all this, but I just want to apologize for everything. Will you forgive me?¡± Kane pleaded, nuzzling his mouth close to her body, but she invaded it, her mouth set in a pout.


    ¡°That was really rude, though. You shouldn¡¯t have touched my phone without permission, and when I asked, you should have apologized.¡±


    ¡°I know, baby, I know. It is just that I am an alpha, and as cocky as it sounds, it is a big deal. I don¡¯t really apologize; I don¡¯t even think I have. You are the first person I am apologizing to.¡±


    ¡°Err, do you want me to p for you or give you a medal?¡± Ariel asked, looking at him through hershes, and Kane shook his head, amused.


    ¡°You are quite funny, darling. But I know I was wrong, and I am apologizing now. Forgive me.¡± He leaned closer to her, littering kisses on her face, until she squirmed from his hold.


    ¡°E, you haven¡¯t even brushed your teeth.¡± She shifted, trying to invade his touch, but he held her tighter, peppering kisses all over her.


    ¡°I won¡¯t stop until you yield.¡± Kaneughed even as he continued kissing her, this time inching closer to her breast.


    ¡°Fine.¡± Ariel shrieked, unable to contain herughter again. ¡°You are forgiven.¡±


    Kane raised his head to look at her, his eyebrow raised in question. ¡°No, that wasn¡¯t from your heart. You will have to say, I, Ariel, forgive my love Kane for all his misdoings.¡±


    She rested her head on her palm as she looked at him. ¡°Really? Are you a child or what?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I have to hear it to know you have forgiven me. Else¡­¡± Kane¡¯s fingers found the side of her stomach. Ariel didn¡¯t know how he found out she was trickling there, but she burst out inughter as he began to trickle her.


    ¡°Fine.¡± She whizzed from under him. ¡°No more, you win.¡± Kane¡¯s lips widened, a smug smile on his face. ¡°The beautiful Ariel forgives her love, Kane, for all his misdoings.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, baby.¡± He smiled, nting a kiss on her corbone, and they settled well on the bed. ¡°Let us go to bed; it is stillte, and we need to wake up on time.¡±


    ¡°Yea.¡±


    Ariel fell asleep in Kane¡¯s warm embrace, and that was the best sleep she had ever had in a long time.


    ***


    Ariel woke up to a rather lonely bed-no surprise there; Kane was probably the busiest person she knew; hence, it was justified-the sun shining brightly on her face, the birds chirping sweetly in their trees, or maybe it was just her imagination.


    She shook her limb in a full stretch, a wide smile on her face. His bed was the mostfortable she had ever slept on, and she never wanted to leave it again.


    She reluctantly left the bed, her eyes catching the bright neon stick note on the nightstand. As usual, her curiosity won over, and she picked it up.


    ¡®Hey baby, I believe you had a good rest. You look so beautiful in your sleep that I was afraid to wake you up. I figured out you might be hungry, so I made breakfast for you. Be careful; I may have added a bit of a love portion. Kane.¡¯


    A soft blush crept up her neck, painting her face with a gentle warmth as she stared at the beautiful penmanship. She read the letter again and again until she could recite it offhand.


    Who knew Kane could be so romantic?


    She hopped all the way to his kitchen, and she returned back, bncing the tray of breakfast made with love in her hands.


    And just for show, she took a picture of the tray and sent it to Kane with the caption, ¡®I will eat it in love.¡¯


    I guess this rtionship thing isn¡¯t so bad. Ariel mused as she took a bite of the pancake.


    Maybe it was because it was Kane, but that was the best breakfast she had ever had.


    ***


    Ariel made her way to the training room, her feet light on the ground as she walked.


    Today was going to be a good day; she could feel it in her bones. Or maybe not¡­


    ¡°I hate her so much; she is such a whore, a fucking whore. She is so pathetic that she seduced my alpha, and now she is acting all high and mighty¡­¡±


    Ariel didn¡¯t need a soothsayer to tell her that they were talking about her. She was grateful for the fact that the training room had a transparent door, and she could see thedy that was yapping her mouth.


    Ariel opened the door gently, white with rage, but she held on, letting it fuel her as she marched towards the person.


    Thwack!


    Her palm connected to thedy¡¯s cheeks squarely, the sound echoing through the room and driving fear in the hearts of everyone that stood there.


    Thedy held her face in disbelief, unable to fathom what had just happened, but Ariel¡¯s didn¡¯t give her any breathing space.


    ¡°What did you call me?¡±


    The yapper was tempted to say something in retaliation, but she was well aware of what Kane would do, and she swallowed her words. ¡°Nothing,¡±


    Thwack!


    ¡°Say it to my face!¡±


    There was no response from thedy, and Ariel struck the reddened cheek with a resounding p, not caring for the pain it caused her.


    ¡°I thought you were a werewolf. You should have a good sense of smell, and you should know when he did fuck me.¡±


    Thwack!


    This time, she put all her strength into it, and itnded with a sickening smack. So hard that thedy¡¯s head was snapping back with the force.


    ¡°I know you don¡¯t like me, but I can assure you that Kane will never like you.¡± Ariel said each word to her face slowly, taunting her. ¡°You can do whatever you like, but you will NEVER GET HIM!¡±


    And that was the straw that broke the camel¡¯s back.

 Chapter 35

    Ariel didn¡¯t see the open fisting; if she had, she would have done everything to avoid it. But it was toote.


    The woman¡¯s hand connected to her face with the force of a lightning bolt striking her cheeks without warning, and Ariel¡¯s head jerked back from the impact, her ears ringing from the force.


    A gasp echoed throughout the crowd; their mouths hung open and their eyes wide open as they watched the event unfold. No one had expected it, not even Ariel.


    If Ariel had thought that her hands hurt from pping a werewolf, it was nothingpared to the sting of the p from a fully grown wolf.


    ¡°Fuck! She cried out from the pain.


    The pain was a burning sensation, like a fire igniting on her skin and sending a red signal through all her nerve cells. Ariel pressed her palm to her cheeks, trying to provide a cooling sensation to wash over the pain, but it was almost fruitless.


    She felt a surge of shock and disbelief coursing through her blood, but the p had awakened a deep well of emotions within her, with one very prominent.


    Revenge.


    A tiny part of her brain already knew that this was what was going to happen if she continued taunting thedy, and now that it had, she wasn¡¯t going to let it slide.


    It was time to teach them who they were actually messing with. Werewolf or not, no one was going to disrespect her in this pack again.


    Thedy, whose name Ariel didn¡¯t know or even cared to know, could sense the change in the atmosphere, and she snarled, her teeth bloody from the ps, but she wore them proudly.


    ¡°Are you sure you want to do that, human?¡± The woman scoffed, spitting out the human like a sour word, but Ariel wasn¡¯t fazed.


    She had encountered bullies before, and the first thing they would always do was demean you and bring you down with their words.


    It was all a waste of time, no matter what she said, Ariel wasn¡¯t going to back down.


    ¡°Bertha!¡± Thedy in charge of the training walked towards them, trying to disperse the tension. ¡°Don¡¯t try what I think you want to do. She is the Alpha¡¯s girl, and you don¡¯t want to incur the wrath of the Alpha.¡±


    Ariel would haveughed if her cheeks weren¡¯t so hurt. Of course, it was only someone with such a nasty character that would be called Bertha.


    ¡°I don¡¯t give a fuck!¡± Bertha refuted, shaking off the hands that were trying to lead her away. ¡°The alpha hasn¡¯t announced her as his mate, and until he does, she means nothing. Nothing but a filthy human.¡±


    ¡°Bertha!¡± The women echoed their shock, although more than a few of them nodded their heads in agreement with what she was saying, but they weren¡¯t brave enough to talk.


    ¡°It is fine.¡± Ariel said to the woman who was trying to diffuse the fight.


    ¡°But..¡± She looked at Ariel and briefly nced at the door, and Ariel nodded, getting her message. It wasn¡¯t like they wanted to help her; they were just afraid of what Kane would do.


    ¡°It is fine; I will speak to Kane about it and ensure that no one here is punished for whatever happens in this room.¡±


    A loud hiss interrupted her before she could continue her statement. ¡°There she goes, getting all cocky because she is the alpha¡¯s whore.¡±


    Ariel had no words, because there was a little truth in it, but that was the one thing she wanted to stop. She knew that they were always going to associate her with Kane, and while that was good, she wanted to earn their respect in her own way.


    That was why she had to do this.


    ¡°Fine,e at me. I will teach you why you never mess with Bertha!¡± Bertha sneered, spittle flying from her mouth, and Ariel shifted a few distances before theynded on her face.


    Ariel brought her left foot forward, getting into the stance that she had been practicing. They circled each other like threatened animals, each one observing their opponent. The air was charged from the tension, but amidst all this, Ariel was surprisingly clearheaded.


    She shut her eyes close, shutting behind everything in the room, but she could feel the electricity already charging in her.


    She could feel Kane behind her, whispering words of inspiration. and she let that fuel her.


    ¡°Focus Ariel; there is no way you can beat her; she is stronger and faster than you, but you can throw in a good fight and injure her.¡± Ariel nodded her head, understanding his words as a simple sentence.


    Fight dirty.


    Fighting dirty was the only advantage she had over Bertha. Ariel looked at thedy, her shoulders were puffed up in an air of arrogance that she was dying to knock off.


    Without warning, Ariel charged towards Bertha, hitting her legs with the soles of her feet, and she smiled, satisfied, as it sent Bertha tumbling over.


    Ariel had noticed the limp immediately when she saw her, although she had tried to cover it. But she noticed how Bertha was leaning toward her right side.


    Ariel didn¡¯t give her any breathing space, and she was over her, stomping on the injured foot repeatedly, her screams of protest urging her on.


    For a brief second, udia shed her mind, and she wondered what her friend would think if she saw her like this.


    ¡°Bitch!¡± Bertha screamed,nding a deadly blow on her leg that had Ariel weak on the knees. ¡°You bitch, I will kill you.¡±


    Ariel was no match for her as Bertha wed her legs, dragging her down until her head met the floor hard in a sickening crunch.


    ¡°Ahhhh.¡± Ariel screamed out of her lungs as the pain exploded in her head. She was sure she was going to have a concussionter, but she ignored it and focused on putting the woman in her ce.


    Ariel tightened her fingers into a fist and raised it up, bringing it down with great force to her stomach. Even she flinched as she heard the sound it made on impact, and she gagged, her breakfast traveling up her throat.


    She brought her fist back up, bringing it down to hit her stomach again, but Bertha already saw iting this time and dodged it, rolling to the other side.


    All that happened so fast that she couldn¡¯t stop her momentum, and she watched with horror as her fist made contact with the marble.


    ¡°Shhhh.¡± Ariel hissed in pain, afraid that if she shouted, she was going to end up crying.


    She had no time to process it because Bertha had wrapped her hands around her hair, and she dragged it with all her strength, and Ariel was sure she was pulling some out of their roots.


    ¡°You bitch!¡± Bertha dragged her hair hard, bending her neck so she could look at her. ¡°I have been taking it easy on you because you are a human, but I can see you don¡¯t care. Prepare to meet your maker.¡±


    ¡°Fuck you!.¡± Ariel yelled, wing her hands out of her hair, but Bertha¡¯s grip was unmoving.


    Ariel should have realized that the bitch had been toying with her from the onset, but she had gotten Bertha angry, and she was sure she was actually going to meet her maker today.


    Ariel intensified her effort, wing her hands and even biting the sweaty flesh with her teeth. She didn¡¯t care if it was going to cost her hair; she needed to be free from this crazy maniac.


    She couldn¡¯t exin the fear that came over her as she saw the crazed look on her face, and she knew Bertha wasn¡¯t going to rest until her blood was all over the floor.


    But who was she kidding?


    Bertha was a werewolf, a wolf on a mission to kill, and there was nothing she could do about it.


    Ariel could only close her eyes, saying a short prayer under her breath as she epted her fate.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Maybe she could finally meet her parents this time.


    She didn¡¯t feel any pain as Bertha struck her head on the marble, bringing her chapter to a close.

 Chapter 36

    ¡°We need to startying ambushes now. You know the Alpha King would rather resign before he attends to our request. There is no need to wait when we could just start something.¡± Toby argued, shifting out of his seat.


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Kane nodded, absentmindedly. His mind was not on anything they were saying. Physically, he may be in his office, but mentally, he was still in his room,ying down and cuddling with his mate.


    It was a struggle getting out of bed and leaving her all alone. He could still remember how she clung to him, refusing to let go, and it took all of him to pry her hands off him.


    Goddess, she was so beautiful in her sleep.


    ¡°Are you even listening to what we are saying?¡± Mason asked, his eyes trained on his alpha.


    ¡°Of course, you were talking about invading thend.¡± Kane replied, and Mason fought the urge to roll his eyes.


    ¡°We finished talking about that long ago. If you are too preupied, we coulde back whenever you are free.¡± Toby said, preparing to rise to his feet.


    ¡°No, it is nothing. I will write to the alpha king again, and if he refuses, I will take action.¡±


    ¡°Why are you sucking up to him? We are obviously stronger than the pathetic people he calls warriors, and we could take them down if we wanted to. People will only think you are weak if you keep writing to him.¡±


    ¡°Mason!¡± Kane¡¯s eye shed red, his canine jutting out from his gum. ¡°If you still want to use that mouth, I suggest you watch what you say.¡±


    ¡°I am sorry, Alpha; I didn¡¯t mean any harm.¡± Mason apologized, lowering his head to show submission.


    ¡°I understand we are rogues, but we mustn¡¯t behave like feral ones roaming about in the woods. The one reason the king hasn¡¯t ordered our assassination is because we are organized and cultured, and that is not weakness. We are still governed by the king, and his words are final.¡±


    ¡°Maybe we should take a breather, gentlemen.¡± Toby suggested inserting himself in between them before it turned into a bloodbath.


    Mason was smart to take the hint, and he was standing up and escaping from the door before Kane would deal with his disrespect.


    ¡°So¡­ how is Ariel?¡± Toby asked, trying to disperse the tension that was still hanging in the air, and that did it. Kane broke into a small smile, his shoulders instantly rxing.


    ¡°She is fine; we are actually doing well.¡±


    ¡°That is good to hear; I was almost sure our friendship was over.¡±


    ¡°It is fine. I have sorted everything out, and I can assure you that she is not angry with you. I am actually thinking of telling her the truth.¡±


    ¡°It is high time she learned the-¡± Toby hadn¡¯t finished his sentence before Kane stood up, like they had lit a fire under his ass. ¡°What is wrong?¡±


    Kane didn¡¯t say a word; instead, he was rushing out of his office. He had a gut feeling that something was wrong, and after what happened thest time, he wasn¡¯t going to wait around to be right.


    He allowed his feet to lead him, and somehow they led him straight to the training room.


    No surprise there.


    If everything turned out fine, he would make sure she never stepped on her legs inside this room.


    Kane pushed the door open, and, goddess, he wasn¡¯t prepared for the sight that greeted him. The stench of blood hung in the air, so heavy and metallic that it clung to everything, and he gagged.


    Kane looked down to see the source of the smell, and therey his mate, lifeless on the floor, her dress the same red color he hade to hate.


    Red


    It was all he could see.


    Red


    It was all he could breathe, his nose ring as he took in the sinful stench. His eyes darkened almost instantly, fingernails extending into ws as Max tookplete control over his body, and the wolf only had one thing on his mind.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Blood.


    Max moved like a leopard on the hunt, stalking his prey. His eyes were trained on the female who had dareid her hands on her mate, and he vowed that it was going to be herst day on earth.


    Bertha could feel it in her ones, the winds whispering to her that it was going to be herst day on earth, and she sank to her knees, her neck bent so low that they almost kissed the earth. Her entire form was trembling, her wolf almost shutting herself, her organs refusing to perform their functions, and a little trickle of urine left her.


    ¡°Forgive me, Alpha; it was a mistake. I didn¡¯t know-¡± Her words were muffled as he grabbed her neck, his ws piercing through the throat and blood jutting out of the hole.


    She deserves a slow, painful death for even daring toy hands on his mate, but he would be generous enough and end her miserable life fast so he could attend to his mate.


    ¡°Plea-¡± Her attempt was feeble because Max increased the pressure on her neck, and her flesh slowly caved in from the pressure.


    Her neck exploded, spraying bits of flesh and blood around the surrounding people. Her head flew off her body, rolling on the floor until it stopped in front of a female, and she was gagging, throwing up all her stomach acid at the sight.


    A wave of fear passed through the crowd, and they were lowering themselves to the floor, unable to withstand the alpha¡¯s power.


    It had the worst effect on the omega¡¯s present, and they were shivering, their bodies breaking out into goosebumps.


    The alpha wolf cast his eyes around the crowd, his red eyes sniffing out anyone who bore ill-will towards his mate.


    A female was daring enough, and she looked up, her eyending on her alpha. Max didn¡¯t give her time to process it before he was marching towards her, giving her a simr fate as Bertha.


    Only this time, her innards were scattered on the floor, a tangled mess of intestines for all the world to see.


    The alpha wolf¡¯s eyes zoned on the next victim; he could recall that she was the one who had firstid hands on his mate and had known that she had the hots for Kane.


    Max was marching towards her, but Toby barged into the room, throwing off the alpha wolf before he would get to his next victim.


    ¡°Toby!¡± Max roared his displeasure, angry that he had disrupted his hunt.


    ¡°You need toe back to your senses. Your mate is hurt and dying, and she needs you.¡±


    Max only needed to hear that his mate was dying, and the bloodlust cleared from his eyes. He looked at his mate, still lying in the pool of her own blood, and he was running towards her.


    Max picked her up in bridal style, ignoring the way shey limp in his hands, and he turned to look at them. With his eyes still trained on them, he leaned down, his canine piercing into Ariel¡¯s throat.


    Not enough to mark her, but deep enough for his scent to seep into her and to let everyone know she was his. He slowly left her neck, licking off the blood that had spilled from his mouth, and he looked at them.


    ¡°I would assume I haven¡¯t been clear on what this human means to me, but I will say it to everyone¡¯s benefit. Ariel is my mate, and you will ord her every respect you will to a Luna, regardless of whether she is a human or not. Hurting her is equivalent to hurting me, and it won¡¯t be treated lightly.¡±


    ¡°Yes alpha.¡±


    ¡°In light of that, everyone still breathing in this room will each hunt for a boar.¡± A gasp rang through the room as they learned of their punishment, and even Toby felt pity for them. The boar was one of the toughest animals to hunt, and they were scarce during this season. ¡°Starting now, you will go into the forest and hunt a boar, and only then can you return. That is, if you don¡¯t get killed first.¡± Max gave them a bloody smile, drinking up their fear like water.


    It was surely a suicide mission, but they wouldn¡¯t dare disobey him.


    ¡°Yes alpha.¡±


    ¡°Good, now clean this shit up and get out of my pack.¡±

 Chapter 37

    Ariel was floating in and out of consciousness. It was a sort of out-of-body experience; her spirit was floating in the air, but her body was still on the bed.


    She tried to shift in bed, a very bad idea, as pain red up in her body, robbing her of every rational thought. She couldn¡¯t even scream out her pain because it hurt to even open her mouth.


    She could only whine from the displeasure, but she felt firm hands on her, brushing her hair and whispering sweet words of kindness to her.


    The voice lured her to sleep, but in that near-half-sleep state, she heard a growl.


    ¡°Never again, never again!¡± The man was vibrating beside her, his voice barely coherent from the anger that wasced in it.


    Ariel didn¡¯t know what to make of it because she felt a sharp pain in her neck, like tworge pins entering her, and she cked out, falling deep into the abyss.


    When Ariel woke up, this time she managed to open her time, but it hurt so much that she was closing it back. In fact, everything hurt; even drawing breath was a cautious endeavor.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± The familiar voice called her name, but even responding hurt. ¡°Baby?¡± The voice was coaxing her out of her slumber.


    ¡°Kane?¡±


    ¡°Shh, don¡¯t say anything. You are too hurt to speak; just focus on recovering, and we will talk.¡±


    Shit.


    Ariel tried to put two and two together, and she was almost freezing in fear. If Kane was here with her, it was obvious he had learned what went down.


    What she could believe was a very foolish decision on her part.


    ¡°K-Kane, I-I am¡­¡± She was whizzing, but Kane shut her up before she could get anything out.


    ¡°Like I said already, just focus on recovering. We will have a long talk when you are out of here.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    Yeap, he was angry, and she was really in for a long talk.


    A shy knock on the door interrupted the death gaze Kane was giving her, and she was grateful for the interruption.


    The door opened slightly, and a short buxom woman entered inside, marching straight to her.


    ¡°Hello Ariel, I see you are awake. How do you feel?¡± Ariel was in no mood for a cheerful patronizing voice, no when every part of her body was on fire, but the woman was the one treating her.


    And there was a saying: never be rude to the one who cares for you.


    ¡°Like shit.¡± It was the only word she could manage out without upsetting the demons that were ying football on her head.


    ¡°It is quitemon for people suffering from concussions. You have taken quite a beating that your human body could not handle, but nothing is too much for Denise.¡± She said everything with a smile, and Ariel was sure that she would literally announce the demise of a family member with the same weird smile, and she wanted to punch it from her face.


    ¡°When will she be out of here?¡± Kane asked,ing closer to Denise. ¡°I want her in my room.¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, that will not be possible. Any sudden movement will do more harm than good. It is better that she recuperates here.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Kane nodded, and he was pacing about the room, his boots heavy on the marble as he tried to control himself.


    Seeing his mate lying helpless in bed was still triggering the murderous instinct, and he wanted to go back and kill everyone that was involved in it.


    ¡°This should help with the pain.¡± Denise produced a needle that should have scared Ariel, but a needle prick was a small price to pay for her stubbornness, so she dly epted it, and soon she was floating on her way to dreand.


    ***


    This time, when Ariel came around, the pain had reduced to a rather dull ache that left her surprised. She knew the extent of her injury, and in a normal sense, she should be confined to her bed for more than 2 weeks, yet she could move some parts of her body.


    The curtains were still closed, but the little ray of light that had escaped from the slit told her that it had been some days since she had been confined here.


    She looked up to see that the IV line was still connected to her, slowing pumping medicine and nutrients into her veins.


    Her gaze shifted across the room to the shelves that were almost overflowing with flowers, and it was hard to keep the shock from her face.


    Apart from Kane, she was only close to two other people, yet she could identify more than five bouquets and a lot of get-well-soon notes. She could even spot a chocte bar.


    How do they even know about her?


    It must be the perks of dating the alpha.


    The door opened with force, and Ariel needed no soothsayer to tell her that Kane had just entered the room. His whole presence saturated the air.


    He walked towards her and took his seat beside her. ¡°How are you doing today?¡±


    ¡°Quite better.¡± Ariel replied, even managing to put on a smile; otherwise, he would sniff her difort.


    ¡°Hmm.¡± He nodded to himself, not convinced by her facade. ¡°Do you need anything?¡±


    ¡°No, thank you.¡±


    Shit!


    They were back to being cordial-her worst nightmare yet-and it was better he said whatever he was going to say then to keep her in this choking suspense.


    The couple sat-oneid down, but you get the picture-in a rather ufortable silence. The worst one yet.


    One could literally feel the tension in the air and could even attempt to cut through it. And the asional tapping of his foot on the floor was driving her crazy.


    Ariel could no longer take it anymore, so she was breaking the silence. ¡°Are you angry with me?¡±


    ¡°Is that the question you are asking?¡± The manner in which Kane had asked made her feel stupid, and Ariel wished the earth could be swallowed right now, but she managed to put on a brave face.


    ¡°I think you are angry with me.¡±


    ¡°There you go, Sherlock, one thing you are good at.¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes, already fed up with his attitude. ¡°There is no need to be sarcastic. I was just asking a question.¡±


    ¡°A question? Really?¡± Kane stood up from his seat, his anger unable to contain him anymore. ¡°You are asking if I was angry.¡±


    ¡°A simple yes or no would have done it.¡± Ariel insisted, refusing to back down.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Oh, you are asking if I was angry when I watched my mate lying on the floor, a little between life and death. May I add that this is not the first time?¡± Sarcasm was literally dripping from his words, and Ariel flinched, his words cutting her deep.


    ¡°I had to do it.¡± She said it in a small voice, picking at the lint on her dress.


    ¡°There was nothing you should have done. Only a stupid human would go against a werewolf in the hopes of winning. Have you forgotten what I taught you?¡± Now Kane was shouting, and Ariel was sure they could hear his voice from outside. ¡°If you had essed the situation, you should have known it was suicide and backed down!¡±


    ¡°They were calling me names!¡± Ariel retorted, her voice rising to meet his pitch.


    ¡°Are you a child? What are you trying to prove?¡± Kane balled his fingers in a fist, his body shaking so much with anger. ¡°I have told you how much you mean to me and what I feel about you. Why do you care what some people think?¡±


    Ariel had nothing to say; instead, she lowered her head. ¡°I am sorry.¡±


    ¡°Sorry wouldn¡¯t take back the time, but I know what will.¡±


    ¡°What are you-?¡± A crazy thought came to her mind, and Ariel shook her head. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    ¡°No more training for you; it is canceled.¡±


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°If you are looking for ways to upy yourself, I will get a human job for you. Somewhere, I can be sure you wouldn¡¯t try to kill yourself.¡±


    ¡°Kane.¡± Ariel whined, unable to believe what you had just said, but the alpha had no ns of changing his mind.


    ¡°In fact, you are grounded!¡±


    And he was walking out of the room.

 Chapter 38

    ¡°I see Kane has hired you to be the babysitter.¡± Ariel eyed her friend as she came closer to her.


    ¡°I can¡¯t really call myself a babysitter, but the alpha had requested I stay with you, so yeah, maybe I am one.¡±


    ¡°Haaa.¡± Ariel sighed, shaking her head. ¡°Kane is just doing too much; I don¡¯t need a babysitter!¡±


    ¡°I have no say in this; I am only doing what I was asked to.¡± Liza said, raising her hands up on defense. ¡°Anyways, do you need anything?¡±


    ¡°You could take me outside?¡± Ariel was practically giving her the puppy eyes.


    ¡°Anything apart from that.¡± Liza nced at her friend, her lips turning down in a frown as she saw her face. ¡°You know those don¡¯t work on me, right?¡±


    ¡°Haaa.¡± Ariel released a sigh. ¡°I am bored.¡± She groaned out her displeasure, but Liza could care less. She was just here to do the bidding of her alpha.¡±


    ¡°We could Netflix and chill if you want.¡± Liza picked up the remote of the TV, turning it on, beforeing to sit in the empty space close to her. ¡°How are you doing, though? I am sorry; I had no idea what was going on. I would have done something if I knew earlier.¡±


    ¡°It is alright.¡± Ariel waved her off before she started feeling guilty. ¡°It was my fault, but I am getting better. Have you seen Kane, though?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t seen the alpha today. He only mind linked me about your condition and asked that I go watch you.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel nodded her head slightly, trying to blink back the tears that were making their way down her eyes. For the past two days, Kane hasn¡¯t bothered with her-no checkups, no calls. She understood he was angry and busy, but a call would have done the trick.


    And Ariel was too stubborn to be the first to break. After all, he had been the first person to walk away from her life; why should she call him first?


    ¡°Are you hungry?¡± Liza¡¯s voice interrupted her thoughts.


    ¡°I am fine; the nurse made oats when she came around, and I don¡¯t think I can stomach anything else.¡± Ariel replied and nodded her head. She was on her phone, typing at it, while Ariel continued staring into space. ¡°By the way, do you know what happened to the woman that did this to me?¡±


    Liza froze, not sure she would be breaching the rules if she talked. ¡°I am sorry; I don¡¯t think I can tell you.¡±


    ¡°It is fine; I understand.¡± There was a moment of silence between them. ¡°He killed her right.¡±


    ¡°I-I can-¡±


    ¡°It is fine; I know he did.¡±


    ¡°I am sorry about that. It is just that we are werewolves, and there are some rules that govern us. Bertha had broken one of the important rules, and Kane had to take care of it, or they would continue disrespecting him.¡± Liza didn¡¯t know why she spoke up, but she knew she had to defend her alpha.


    ¡°Honestly, it is fine; I understand he had to do it.¡± Ariel actually meant it. She had been terrified and disgusted when she learned the truth.


    She, who was afraid of blood, was in love with a cold killer. But the more time she spent in bed, she had time to think it through, and she was somewhat grateful for him.


    She had no doubt that Kane would always have her back whenever things went wrong, but that doesn¡¯t mean it was legal.


    A little part of her was still guilty because she had practically led the woman to her death.


    ¡°What happened to the other women that were in the room? I heard some rumors flying.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I should be telling you this.¡± Liza gave her a tight-lipped smile, ncing at the door.


    ¡°Please, I promise no one will know that you told me anything. I have just been dying to know. There is no entertainment here, and it is only gossip that can keep me going.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Liza nced at the door, and they returned to Ariel. ¡°Fine. The alpha asked them all to hunt.¡±


    ¡°Hunt?¡± Ariel would have burst outughing if her stomach hadn¡¯t hurt so bad. ¡°How is that a punishment?¡±


    ¡°The boar is actually one of the hardest animals to hunt around here, and they can¡¯te back until-¡±


    ¡°Kane!¡± Ariel practically lit up as the intruder came in the door, theplete opposite of her counterpart, who was frozen to the bed.


    Liza had received strict warnings from Kane not to tell Ariel what had happened, and she had broken all of them.


    ¡°Alpha.¡± Liza was out of bed in a split second, and she bowed her head. ¡°I am sorry.¡±


    ¡°Get out.¡±This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes alpha.¡± Liza was fleeing for her life, leaving only two of them.


    ¡°Could you be any harsher? You shouldn¡¯t have talked to her like that. What happened to the magic words?¡±


    Kane gave her a look that was stripping her bare, his eyes still on her as he took his seat on the only chair in her room.


    ¡°How are you doing?¡± He grumbled under his breath, but Ariel was having none of that.


    ¡°If you had bothered to check up on me, you would have known.¡± She tried to fold her arms, but the drip still connected to her veins prevented her from doing so.


    Kane couldn¡¯t be bothered by her words, so he continued with his question. ¡°Have you gotten anything to eat, or do you need anything?¡±


    ¡°Why are you here? Why do you even bother? I thought you hated me.¡± Ariel huffed, turning to face the wall.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous, Ari; I would never hate you.¡± She melted a little bit when he called her pet name, but she had to remain strong.


    ¡°Really? Is that why you are justing to see me now?¡± She turned to face him, her lips jutting forward in a pout.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be like this. I had every right to get angry. I can¡¯t keep watching my mate get herself killed, and I wasn¡¯t exactly happy with you.¡±


    ¡°I am sorry.¡± Ariel murmured under her breath.


    ¡°Excuse me, I don¡¯t think I can hear you.¡±


    ¡°Sorry?¡± This time it was lower than before, and Kane held his ears, leaning close to her.


    ¡°I think you would have to be louder. I can¡¯t hear you.¡±


    ¡°I said I was sorry, okay! I was just trying to prove something-that there was no need-and I made you worry over me. I should have known better.¡±


    Kane took a deep breath, and he slowly released it, his hands reaching to hold her. ¡°I understand why you had to do it, but you have to know that you are a human. It is not an insult, but you can never be like us; instead ofpeting with them, focus on your strength and harness it.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel nodded her head, a few stray tears leaking from her eyes.


    ¡°And I understand that it was partially my fault. You must have been bored out of your mind to consider killing yourself.¡±


    Ariel gave him a sharp look, ¡°Not funny at all.¡±


    ¡°Anyways, I got a job-an actual human job-that would be upying your time. When you get better, we can go check it out and see if it is to your liking.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Ariel¡¯s upper lips tugged in a smile, and she lit up like the sky during the 4th of July.


    ¡°Yea.¡± Kane nodded, his frown melting into a smile.


    ¡°Thank you so much. I love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you too, baby.¡± Kane leaned down, nting a sweet kiss on her lips.

 Chapter 39

    Ariel stood in front of the mirror, dressed in a navy blue suit that had been tailored to her body. She turned from side to side, checking the fitting on her, and she nodded her head in satisfaction, happy with what she was seeing.


    The suit had cost an arm and leg; it had to fit her. She had wanted to make a good impression on her first day of work, and that was why she had dragged Liza to go shopping with her and had opted for the suit.


    She could hear Kane¡¯s foot steps on the marble as he came out of the bedroom, and she turned to see him dressed in only a towel that was hanging too low on his waist for her liking.


    Ariel eyed her lover with a naughty gleam, her eyes roaming about his body appreciatively, and she strutted towards him, making sure she swayed her hips. ¡°What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Perfect.¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes, not in any way amused. ¡°You didn¡¯t even look at me.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to look at you to know that you are a beautiful baby. I know you are one.¡± Kane moved closer to her, wrapping his arms around her waist and drawing her closer.


    ¡°Kane, you will get my suit all wet.¡± She shrieked, but she was very excited inwardly.


    ¡°Who cares? You can always dry it or change into another dress.¡± He leaned closer until his mouth was close to her ears, and he whispered. ¡°You are the most beautiful female I have everid eyes on.¡±


    Ariel melted like defrosted ice cream, and she couldn¡¯t stop the smile from escaping her lips. ¡°And you, my king, are the most handsome.¡±


    Kane¡¯s lips widened in a smile, and he leaned down, pressing a kiss on her temples. ¡°Alright, go get dressed. It is your first day of work, and you need to leave a good impression.¡±


    ¡°Hey, I was doing just that before you came. You were the one that distracted me.¡± Ariel said, walking back to the dresser to fix her mane of hair.


    She didn¡¯t like doing much to her hair, but today was her first day of work, and she wanted to look as professional as ever, and what screams professional more than a slicked-high ponytail?


    It may give her a few bald spots and a split headache, but it should be worth it.


    Right?


    Ariel looked at her reflection in the mirror, eyeing her new look. ¡°I think I may have used too much gel.¡± Sheined, turning to face Kane, but you could imagine her surprise when she saw her lover, all dressed in a dress shirt and pants.


    ¡°Uhmm, what is going on? I thought you had some work to do.¡±


    ¡°It can wait; right now, I need to know that my baby is settled on her first day at work.¡±


    Ariel shook her head. ¡°I know you are trying to be romantic and all, but I can take care of myself today. Have you forgotten that you actually shipped me to school on the other side of the world, and I survived? Besides, no one has their lover following them to work.¡±


    Kane walked closer to her until they were only a hair¡¯s length, and he leaned down until he was practically in her face.


    ¡°I am not anyone; I am Kane, and I want to take you home. You don¡¯t have to worry; I won¡¯t go in; I will just drop you outside.¡±


    ¡°Hmm mm. If you say so.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t even know the ce; how did you expect to find it?¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes, and she stood on her tiptoes, giving him a little kiss. ¡°Okay, smarty pants, you can take me to work, but only today.¡±


    ¡°If you want to kiss me, you have to kiss me well.¡± Kane grumbled, and he held her head in his hands, melding their lips together.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Ariel sighed, slightly out of breath from their shared kiss. ¡°Oh my, I am going to bete. Can you help me grab my ck shoe from the rack?


    ¡°Uhmm, which one?¡± Kane asked, confusion written all over his face as he stood in front of the shoe rack that held more than 10 pairs of ck shoes.


    ¡°The ck stilettos.¡±


    ¡°Stilettos?¡± His eyes narrowed at the numerous pairs in front of him.


    ¡°Arghh.¡± Ariel groaned, shoving all her makeup products in her bag. ¡°The ck-covered one with pointy heels.¡±


    ¡°You should have exined better.¡±


    ¡°Just grab it and let us go.¡± Ariel yelled, the tension getting to her. She had woken up early to prepare because she hated working under pressure, but somehow she was going to bete.


    So much for making a good first impression.


    ¡°Yes, my love.¡± Kane smiled, walking towards the door and waiting for his mate.


    Their rtionship has been going so smoothly for some days now that he has been wondering if it was a dream. He had never bothered with a female before or even looked twice at one, but here he was, waiting for one with her shoes in his hand.


    Kane was all smiles as they walked down the stairs hand in hand, his packmates acknowledging them. He imagined this was how it was going to be when she became Luna, and his shoulder puffed up a little with pride.


    They got to the garage, and they entered the Mercedes, Kane taking the wheel, and soon they were driving through the tarred road. ¡°Just how rich are you guys? The garage literally had a different assortment of cars.¡±


    Kane burst out into richughter, his shoulders vibrating as heughed. ¡°There is no need to stress your head about that; just rest assured that you would never have to suffer.¡±Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    ¡°Oh my,¡± Ariel squealed in excitement, her eyes lighting up in joy. ¡°I think that is the next best thing. I love you.¡±


    Kane nced at his mate, and he shook his head, his lips hurting from smiling.


    He knew he would kill anyone who dared to hurt her.


    ¡°We are here.¡±


    ¡°Oh my,¡± Ariel gasped as she saw the magnificent building. ¡°How did you do this?¡±


    ¡°I have my ways. Now you go there and ask for Mr. Marcus; he will help you.¡±


    ¡°Alright, thank you.¡± Ariel leaned closer to him, giving him a peck on the lips. ¡°I will meet you at home.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know how to locate home yet; I will be here to pick you up when it is time.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Ariel yelled, running towards the entrance.


    ***


    ¡°How was work?¡± Kane asked as Ariel entered inside, but she released a little sigh, her shoulders sagging.


    ¡°I am not sure. It is quite demanding.¡± Ariel had thought they were just going to show her the ropes and orientation, but boy, she had been wrong.


    ¡°Here.¡± Kane and handed her a food box. ¡°I¡¯ve got you something to celebrate your first day at work.¡±


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have.¡± Ariel took the bag from him, and she looked inside, taking out the bento cake and ice cream.


    ¡®Congrattions on your first day¡¯ was boldly written on the cake, and Ariel was swooning. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ***


    ¡°Baby?¡± Ariel shifted in her bed, clutching her nkets tighter. ¡°You need to wake up; otherwise, you will bete for work.¡±


    Ariel frowned as she heard that, but she reluctantly dragged herself out of bed, a deep frown settling on her face. There was nothing she hated more than waking up early.


    ¡°Fine, I am up.¡±


    She dragged herself to the bathroom, and after some minutes, she was back in the room, trying to decide what to wear.


    After a week of continuous work, the excitement had pretty much died down. She hated the fact that she had to wake up early, and she barely saw Kane during the day. All these were taking all of her will to go to work.


    ¡°Are you sure you are fine?¡± Kane asked, his eyes not leaving his mate.


    ¡°Yea.¡±


    ¡°You know you could always quit if you wanted. I promise I will not hold it against you.¡±


    ¡°No, I will not quit.¡± Ariel shook her head gently as she put on her shoes, opting for a t shoe. ¡°I have to see it through. I want this job, and I will do everything to keep it.¡±


    ¡°Alright, if you say so, but the offer still stands. I don¡¯t want you to be miserable because of a job.¡±


    ¡°I know you mean well, but I want this. Thank you.¡± She picked up her bag, blowing him a kiss, and she was out of the room.


    Ariel was only able tost for a week more.


    She was undoing her button as she came home from work, tugging on the shirt as it refused to give way when Kane entered inside.


    Kane had spoiled her to a fault, and he would have to take responsibility.


    ¡°I quit.¡±

 Chapter 40

    ¡°I have to go, baby.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Ariel whined, hugging her mate tighter, afraid he would escape her hold. ¡°Do you have to do this?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I do. I already exined to you that it is part of defending the pack, and as the alpha, I have to lead by example.¡±


    ¡°But do you really have to? What am I going to be doing all by myself when you are gone?¡±


    ¡°You would have been going to work if you hadn¡¯t quit.¡±


    Ariel groaned, not ready to hear that. ¡°I already exined to you why I couldn¡¯t do that. Besides, you were the one who was insisting I quit.¡± Ariel used him, and Kane shrugged his shoulders.


    She had been very excited when she first started the work, but after a week, she had been quick to realize that that kind of life wasn¡¯t for her.


    Waking up every day was never for her. She was a baby girl, true and true.


    ¡°Only because you were alwaysining that it was too much work. I don¡¯t like seeing you in pain or miserable.¡± Kane said, stroking her chin softly.


    ¡°I know.¡± Ariel replied in a soft voice.


    ¡°I could call Liza for you; she will be happy to stay with you.¡±


    Ariel shook her head. ¡°It is okay; I don¡¯t want to be a burden. I can stay by myself; I could declutter my wardrobe or do something else.¡± At the mention of decluttering, they both looked at the overflowing wardrobe, and Kane knew it was going to be impossible.


    The only reason Ariel decluttered was to make way for more clothing, but who was he to talk?


    ¡°That is a good idea, babe; you can always donate the ones you don¡¯t need.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel nodded her head, trying to prevent the tears from dropping from her eyes. She has gotten so used to seeing Kane around, and this was the first time she would be sending him out. ¡°I love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you too, baby.¡± Kane replied, leaning down to connect their lips. Their lips had only met for the briefest of kisses when they heard the knock on the door, and Kane groaned.


    ¡°I know; you should go. They are waiting for you.¡± Ariel was saying, but her actions betrayed her as she gripped his arms stronger, refusing to let go.


    ¡°I promise I will be back, baby.¡± Kane reassured her, and this time he gave her a kiss on her temple before he was moving towards the door.


    Ariel followed behind him like a dutiful mate, and the door opened to reveal his beta and gamma, all wearing serious faces.


    ¡°We are good to go alpha.¡± Toby spoke, and Ariel couldn¡¯t even recognize the man in front of her. Gone were the smiles and friendliness, and in their ce were the eyes that had a deadly glint.


    ¡°I promise I will be back.¡± Kane reassured her again. He had never contemted a mission before, but right now, he was willing to risk everything if it meant that she would be happy.


    ¡°Hmm mmm.¡± Ariel mumbled under her breath, afraid that when she opened her mouth, she would ask him to stay.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    She watched with teary eyes as they walked away from her, praying it wouldn¡¯t be thest time she saw them. Liza had told her how it could go on-that sometimes they wouldn¡¯t be back for days, and when they came back, they were always a few warriors short.


    Ariel looked up to the sky, saying a few words to the moon goddess. She had no religion, but they all believed in the moon goddess, and it was only right that she prayed to her to ensure their safety.


    She felt a little peace in her heart as she went back inside the room, flopping down on her bed and closing her eyes.


    She had woken up quite early to help Kane prepare for his journey, and now she had to make up for the lost time.


    ***


    When Ariel woke up, it was to a slight headache, red eyes, drool dripping down her mouth, and questioning her existence-all evidence of a good nap.


    She reached for her phone, about to call her mate, but was painfully reminded that he had told her that they don¡¯t use any devices, and she flopped on the bed, all the energy draining from her.


    Ariel clutched her stomach in pain, her internal rm clock reminding her that she hadn¡¯t had anything to eat. She stood up, walking towards his kitchen, grateful for the fact that he had a personal kitchen.


    She wasn¡¯t sure she was ready to face anyone now.


    She had seen some potatoes around, and the only thing she could think of was fried fries and crispy fried chicken.


    After a gruesome hour of prepping the meal, she sat down on the sofa, eating her lunch and staring at her phone.


    But as she finished her meal, she stared into a space with nothing to do; Netflix couldn¡¯t even solve the way she was feeling.


    Ariel spent the remaining hour on her phone, hopping from one app to another, looking for something to distract her.


    The sun had long set, and she looked out the window as darkness enveloped the earth. It was obvious they wouldn¡¯t being back home tonight; Liza had warned her about the possibility.


    She had to do something. She was Kane¡¯s girl, and it may not be anything, but her presence couldfort the people remaining.


    Ariel was standing up from the bed, and she was marching down the stairs to themon room, stopping a few times to catch her breath.


    She was definitely going to tell Kane about an elevator when he came back (If hees back), an ugly voice rears its head, but she¡¯s shutting it down and dismissing the thought.


    She got to themon room, and her foot halted in the air as she heardughtering from the room. She peeped into the room to see women sitting around the TV,ughing and eating.


    Ariel swallowed the lump that had formed in her throat, and for a moment, she was contemting leaving them. From theirughter, it was obvious they were having fun without her.


    ¡°It is fine, Ariel; we already know you are at the door; you cane in.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Her mouth opened in surprise, forgetting that they could hear everything. ¡°Yea.¡± She dusted off the lint that may have settled on her dress, and she entered inside to see about 20 women sitting around with bowls of popcorn. ¡°Hello.¡± Ariel waved at them, suddenly shy from all the attention she was receiving.


    ¡°Wee. Don¡¯t be angry; we didn¡¯t call you; we weren¡¯t sure you would love to hang out with us since you are always in your room, and we wouldn¡¯t want you to get angry or else the Alpha may take it upon us.¡±


    ¡°Jessica!¡± One of the older females yelled at her, but she shrugged her shoulders, not at all sorry for her words.


    ¡°It is fine; I understand. I think I should apologize for that. We are obviously different species, and I know there is bound to be friction, but I am very friendly, and I would like to be your friend.¡±


    The females looked around themselves, and Ariel suspected they were saying something in the mindlink, hopefully nothing bad.


    ¡°Of course, you are wee, Luna. Someone get her a bowl of popcorn and a smoothie.¡±


    Ariel smiled at the request, settling into her seat well. ¡°What is the asion? Is someone pregnant or what?¡±


    Thedies shared a look between themselves, and they all burst intoughter. Ariel shifted in her chair, not sure she liked theughter.


    ¡°Sorry about that, but no one is pregnant. We usually gather like this whenever the warriors go out. It is safer this way and moreforting.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel nodded in agreement, dipping her hands into the bowl and scooping some of the salty, sweet toasted corn into her mouth.


    ¡°We would like to apologize.¡± One of the women began, and she could remember her as one of the women from her training. ¡°Honestly, we had a bias against you because you were a human and all that, and I would like to apologize.¡±


    ¡°Yes, we are sorry.¡± Different voices echoed the response, and Ariel looked up, her eyes red with unshed tears.


    ¡°Thank you for the honesty; I ept your apology, and I would like us to be friends.¡±


    ¡°Of course, we are very pleased to be considered your friends. The truth is, we were jealous of you, and¡­


    ¡°Jessica!¡± The woman interrupted Jessica before she could spill any more secrets.


    Ariel¡¯s shoulders shook as sheughed. She was already aware of that fact, but she ignored it.


    ¡°Anyways, so how did you all meet your partners?¡±

 Chapter 41

    ¡°So, how did you meet your partner?¡± Ariel asked, throwing the question open to the crowd.


    ¡°I think most of us had simr experiences, but my own is the absolute best.¡± Jessica dered, standing up, just because she loved being dramatic.


    ¡°Show off. It is because she bagged a handsome mate despite her ugliness, and she is not going to let us rest.¡± Liza said, rolling her eyes, and Ariel barked into a shortugh in her hands.


    ¡°Let us hear your love story then.¡±


    ¡°Fine, so I was a young wolf, enjoying the human world only because I was running away from home. I was already past the age of getting a partner, and my dad had threatened to marry me off to a man who had lost his mate. Anyways, I went to the woods to change, and I met the rogue pack on their usual hunt.¡±


    ¡°Ohhhh.¡± Everyone cooed, including Ariel.


    ¡°Anyways, I was happy to see my mate, but I was still skeptical about following him home because we all know how the rogue pack is, and I don¡¯t think I wanted to be living like some poor person, hopping from ce to ce.¡± They all giggle, nodding their heads in agreement, although Ariel couldn¡¯t rte much.


    She had no idea werewolves even existed then.


    ¡°Anyways,¡± Jessica gave her hair a dramatic flip, cing her hands on her hips. ¡°He shifted into his human form, and goddess, I was gagged. He is such a fine piece of man with the cock to back it up.¡± Her eyes widened with each word, and she was practically salivating.


    ¡°Oh my!¡± The smoothie Ariel had been sipping spluttered from her mouth, she had not been expecting her blunt answer. Ariel flushed red from her words as she tried to imagine Kane¡¯s junk, but it was alling out nk.


    ¡°Anyways, of course I had to check if everything was working and in the right condition. We did it right there in the forest, and goddess, it was mind-blowing. I was literally screaming the whole forest down.¡± Jessica sighed, her eyes turning back as she remembered the moment. ¡°Anyways, the next day I volunteered to follow him home, there was no way I was leaving that cock alone.¡±


    Everyone burst out intoughter, shaking their heads. ¡°Sorry about that; we can be a little blunt.¡± A slenderdy with a bob cut apologized, and Ariel shook her head.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    ¡°It is fine.¡± She didn¡¯t want them to think she was a prude when she was the opposite of that.


    However, it was surreal to think that they haven¡¯t passed the stage of making out since they started dating. Maybe he doesn¡¯t find her attractive.


    Anotherdy began to talk about her experience, but Ariel drowned out their voices in her head, her mind still reeling from the fact that they hadn¡¯t consummated their rtionship.


    Maybe he doesn¡¯t find her sexually attractive.


    ¡°Ariel?¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel answered absentmindedly. She looked up, and everyone¡¯s eyes were on her, waiting for her reply. ¡°Sorry, I didn¡¯t get what you said.¡±


    ¡°We were asking about your experience with the alpha; how did you two meet, or was it because of his sexual prowess?¡± One asked, wriggling her eyebrow in mischievousness.


    ¡°No need; I don¡¯t think she and the Alpha have gotten to that stage yet.¡± Another provided, shifting the air dramatically, and Ariel shifted in her seat, not sure she liked being the center of attention now.


    ¡°I-I. W-we.¡± The words couldn¡¯te out of her mouth, no matter how hard she willed them. Honestly, there was nothing to say since they were right.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think we need to know about our alpha¡¯s sexual life. She doesn¡¯t need to share if she doesn¡¯t want to.¡± Thedy from early spoke,ing to her rescue. ¡°Who else wants to share anything?¡±


    Ariel rxed back in her seat, hearing as they shared their love story and drawingfort from one another. She sighed wistfully, hugging the nket closer even as she took a sip of the smoothie.


    The grandfather clock in themon room struck 10, and suddenly everywhere got quiet, everyone weary from talking.


    ¡°It seems like they wouldn¡¯t be back today; I suggest we all sleep in themon room in case of anything.¡± Denise spoke, and everyone nodded.


    The sofas were pushed back to make way for the different sleeping bags that were arranged on the floor. nkets were also piled up high at the sides, along with bottles of water, and Ariel couldn¡¯t miss the shining glint of the knives that had been arranged in strategic ces.


    The women all stood; their eyes turned to Ariel, and she suspected that they were waiting for her. She took the edge of the makeshift bed, curling herself up to make space for others.


    But Liza came to her, whispering in her ears. ¡°You are sort of the leader here, and it is better you sleep in the middle, so we could all sleep around you.¡±


    ¡°Ohh.¡± Ariel¡¯s mouth opened in a silent ¡®O¡¯, and she rolled over to the middle. It was like they had been waiting for the signal because they were swamped on her,ying on the bed and cuddling her.


    ¡°Sorry, we are big on cuddling. We like sleeping in piles if possible because it is calming.¡± Another provided, exining her thoughts, and she nodded her head.


    Liza was lying next to her, and she held thedy in her arms, cuddling her into her bosom. She wasn¡¯t going to lie; she felt a sense of peace wash down her body, and Ariel closed her eyes, settling to sleep.


    ¡°Goodnight.¡± She whispered in a low voice, but the wind carried her voice, and they all chorused goodnight in return, and they were soon fast asleep.


    Ariel was the first to wake up, only because it was the first time she was sleeping without Kane and everything felt so strange.


    She was in a tangled mess of limbs, and when she shifted, a stray boob that had been removed from the tank top was in her face, and it took some pushing to be free from them.


    Ariel picked up the phone that she had left on the table, her lips in a downward pout as she couldn¡¯t find any messages from Kane.


    ¡°They will be fine.¡± A voice whispered from the floor, and she whipped her head to see Denise just waking up from sleep.


    ¡°I know; I have just never experienced something like this, and I don¡¯t know how to feel.¡±


    ¡°Come on, let me get you coffee, and we can talk.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Ariel maneuvered her way through the piles of sleeping bodies and made her way to the kitchen with Denise hot on her heels.


    A few minutester, the woman was handing her a cup of freshly brewed coffee, and Ariel inhaled the steam, already loving the smell of toasted coffee beans.


    ¡°This is good.¡± Ariel nodded as she took a sip, and Denise shrugged.


    ¡°It is a secret recipe.¡± Denise grabbed the loaves of fresh bread and ced them on the counter. ¡°Can you make French toast?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°Good, we need to feed the pack. I assume they will be hungry when they wake up. I should fry the bacon, and you should make the toast.¡±


    ¡°Sounds good.¡± The women worked together with asional small talks to fill up the silence, and little by little, women trickled into the kitchen to help in the cooking process.


    The kitchen was big enough to contain more than 10 people simultaneously cooking, and there was a division ofbor.


    Three of them were in charge of making the toast; another was on the sausage; another was helping Denise with the bacon strips; and the rest were cutting up fruits and making the hot beverages.


    They all piled up the food on the dining table, a first for Ariel. She didn¡¯t even think they had a dining room. She took her seat on the right-hand side of Kane¡¯s chair, and the rest sat down only after she had taken her seat.


    Same with food; they only bit into their meal after she had bitten into hers. She was quick to observe that they followed a hierarchy, and since Kane wasn¡¯t here, she was going to be the next inmand.


    The rest of the day was a normal day. There was no training; instead, they all gathered in themon room, talking andughing.


    And when the evening came, they gathered back in a pile and slept till the next day. This had continued on for more than 3 days, and Ariel was at her breaking point.


    She could barely lead herself, and she had to lead these women. She needed Kane to be here with her, and this time, she promised never to let him go.


    It was already the sixth day, and everyone was at their wit¡¯ end; apparently, this was the longest the men had been gone for, and everyone was feeling their presence.


    Theughter and talks had reduced drastically, and most were even finding it difficult to eat.


    Ariel nced at her phone for the umpteenth time, and she released a sigh. She was curled up with the other women, their eyes glued to the TV, although none of them was watching.


    Their eyes and ears were all trained for the door, listening for any noise or movement.


    It happened when ady ran up to Ariel, her head bent as she tried to catch her breath, and she whispered the words of hope.


    ¡°They are back.¡±

 Chapter 42

    That singr sentence set up a series of reactions, and the air became charged, everyone suddenly bing energized. Thedies were on their feet, running towards the door.


    Partner or no partner, they were just happy to see their packmates back.


    Ariel took the lead, racing to the door and throwing it wide open. She saw Kane first; actually, he was the only one she could see, and she was racing towards him as fast as her legs could carry her.


    ¡°Kane!¡± She screamed as she got near him, and she jumped onto him, hugging him tight. ¡°You are here; you are alive.¡±


    ¡°Yes, baby, I am back.¡± Kane said, his voice a little tight with emotion. Ariel had mistakenly dug into one of the numerous injuries he had sustained during the hunt, but he couldn¡¯t mind; she was just excited to see him, and so was he.


    As she heard his voice, Ariel couldn¡¯t stop the onught of tears that came to her eyes. ¡°I have missed you so much.¡± She sobbed into his shoulder.


    ¡°I have missed you too, baby.¡± Kane said, leaning closer so his nose could meet her neck and sniffing her scent, letting it fill his nose.


    Thest few days have been hell without her, and he was just d he was back.


    ¡°Come on, baby, let us go inside.¡± Kane said, trying to ease her hold on him, but she shook her head, refusing to part ways with him.


    ¡°No, I am not letting you go.¡±


    ¡°Come on, baby, I am all bloody, and I need to change.¡± The sight of blood should have scared Ariel away, but her love for her mate was stronger than her hemophobia, and she held him even closer.


    Kane released a sigh, and he looked around him, everyone in one sort of embrace or another. ¡®Freshen up and rest; we will be having a party to celebrate our victory.¡¯ Kane said in the mindlink, and there were replies of ¡®yes, alpha,¡¯ before he closed the link, focusing on his mate.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to our room.¡± Kane tried again, but Ariel refused to bulge, so he had to carry her all the way to their room. ¡°Alright, baby, you need to release me so I can wash the blood off my clothes.¡±


    Ariel reluctantly left his embrace and allowed him to go to the bathroom, while she sat on the edge of the bed, waiting anxiously for his return.


    She was on her feet as she heard the water go off, and she was in front of the bathroom door, ready to receive him as he came out.


    ¡°Kane.¡±


    ¡°Ariel.¡± His face lit up in a smile as he saw his mate, and she swooned, unable to stop the smile from her face.


    Now that he had washed the blood off his body, she could see lingering scars scattered all over his body, like drawings. ¡°What happened to you? You have injuries all over.¡± She queried him, concern leaking in her voice as she took a closer look at him.


    ¡°It was tougher than we had expected, but luckily we didn¡¯t lose anyone.¡± Kane sighed, moving to the wardrobe to grab a pair of shorts and wear them.


    ¡°I am happy to hear that.¡±


    ¡°Come here.¡± Kane motioned to her, and Ariel wasted no time running towards him. ¡°I have missed you.¡± Kane whispered into her hair, hugging her tightly.


    ¡°Me too, baby; I have missed you so much.¡± Ariel whispered, looking at him through hershes. Their lips drew closer, as if maized by an irresistible force, and they met in a sweet fusion.


    It was soft but intense, with his lips caressing hers and lighting a me in her heart. Her hands encircled his neck, and his wrapped around her waist, drawing her closer.


    ¡°Mmm.¡± A soft moan escaped from Ariel as he squeezed her ass, kneading the flesh in his hands. She shifted even closer as he grounded his crotch on her, and her eyes rolled in bliss.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± Kane cursed as he left her lips, and not so longter they heard a knock on the door.


    ¡°Alpha.¡± The female voice called, and Ariel was rolling her eyes, angry at the disruption.


    ¡°It is Denise; she would want to check my injuries. Should I let her in?¡±


    Ariel nced at his sides, where the reddish skin stuck out like a sore thumb. She had noticed how he flinched whenever she put pressure on him, and that was the only reason she agreed. ¡°Sure, I think you need her.¡±


    ¡°You maye in, Denise.¡± The door opened, and Denise came in, clutching her first aid box like her life depended on it.


    ¡°I would like to check your wounds, Alpha. Please lie on your back.¡± Kane did as she said, and Ariel was nearby, watching the whole process like a mother hen.


    She watched as Denise crushed some herbs, rubbing the juices into his wounds, and she cleaned up all of his cuts.


    ¡°This should help the wounds heal faster. Thankfully, you didn¡¯t sustain many injuries or any life-threatening ones, and everything should be gone tomorrow. Meanwhile, take a lot of fluids and avoid straining yourself for some time.¡±


    ¡°Yes nurse.¡± Kane smiled, giving her a salute, and he sat as she went out. ¡°Come here.¡± Ariel wasted no time, and she went into his embrace, cuddling herself to his side.


    Theyid on the bed, engaging in small talks, until they both dozed off in each other¡¯s arms. It was one of the best sleeps they had had yet.


    But as usual, an alpha can never know true rest because a pounding on the door was waking them up. ¡°Your presence is needed downstairs, Alpha; the party has started.¡±


    ¡°Party,¡± Ariel stirred in her sleep, the noise waking her up.


    ¡°Yeah, we always have a party after a sessful hunt. Come on, you would like it.¡±


    ¡°I see, is there a dress code, or is this okay?¡± Ariel nced at her shorts, not sure if they were appropriate enough.


    ¡°Anything is fine; they will be too drunk to notice it anyway.¡±


    Ariel nced at her shorts again, deciding to trust his judgment, and she stood up, racing to the bathroom to ssh water on her face.


    She ran a brush through her hair and applied her lipgloss. The least she could do was look presentable.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± Kane asked, and Ariel nodded her head, running to take his hands and allowing him to lead her downstairs.


    Themon room was already vibrating from the music, and Ariel bobbed her hair to the familiar rhythm. They opened the doors that led outside and were greeted with loud cheers.


    Someone had handed a ss to them, and only a little sniff of the strong alcohol stench told Ariel that this was more than she could handle.


    The men parted ways with them until they got to the middle of the gathering, and a hush fell on the crowd as they saw their alpha standing, and they all watched on, waiting to hear him speak.


    Kane cleared his throat to gain their attention, but he didn¡¯t need to, as they were already enthralled by him and waiting for him to speak.


    ¡°We have gathered today to honor your bravery, your strength, and your unwavering dedication to the growth of this pack. You have all fought bravely, and I have never been more proud of leading this pack. Now we make a toast.¡± Kane raised his ss. ¡°To victory!¡±


    ¡°To victory!¡± The men roared, raising their ss of beer, and as it came back, they were emptying it in their mouths.


    A roar went through the crowd as the music got louder, and everyone jumped and danced to the rhythm. The alpha and his mate weren¡¯t left out either.


    Maybe it was the drink or the music that was sting through the speakers, but there was an undeniable sexual tension between the couples, and it was affecting the pack.


    Ariel ground her ass on his crotch, loving the feel of his hard-on on her. She was aware that they were in an open space and anyone could see her, yet there was something sinful and erotic about knowing that she was getting wet down there with all these people around her.


    ¡°What do you say we take this upstairs?¡± Kane breathed in her ears, a mischievous glint in his eyes, and Ariel smiled, her lid half closed in lust.


    ¡°Yes daddy.¡±Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.

 Chapter 43

    It was a struggle for the couples to keep their hands to themselves as they tried to make their way upstairs; the word was trying, but they were failing miserably at it.


    Their lips were glued to each other, kissing like their lives depended on it, and their hands were all over each other, caressing and fondling.


    Ariel let out a smallugh as she saw how frustrated Kane had be, trying to get them to his room without tripping on his way.


    ¡°You should have gotten an elevator.¡± She teased him.


    Kane smiled as he looked down on her, unable to resist the pouty lips, and he kissed them. ¡°I never knew how much I needed it until now. But I promise to make one avable soon.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait.¡± Ariel whispered seductively in his ear, nipping at his earlobe, and Kane shivered.


    The ears were one of the most sensitive ces in a wolf¡¯s body, along with the neck and the genitals, and right now, Ariel was stimting everywhere, and he wasn¡¯t sure he could handle it.


    ¡°We are almost there.¡± Kane cautioned her as she pressed her body against him, crushing her breast on his chest.


    His hands wrapped around her waist to steady her as he took thest flight of stairs, and they both released a sigh of relief as they got in front of his door.


    ¡°Kane, I need you.¡± Ariel moaned, looking at him from the top of hershes and giving him those sexy eyes he was unable to resist.


    ¡°Me too, love, me too.¡± He breathed out as he threw the door open, closing it with a force that threatened to remove it from its hinges, and he turned on the light. ¡°Are you drunk?¡± Kane asked before he would be too driven by lust to remember.


    He may be horny, but he would never take a drunk female or a female without her will.


    ¡°No.¡± Ariel shook her head, afraid that if she didn¡¯t talk soon, Kane was going to leave her all high and dry. ¡°I only took a mouthful of the drink; I don¡¯t think it can get me drunk.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so too.¡± Kane was all smiles as he came towards her, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her in. ¡°You look so beautiful in this dress.¡±


    ¡°It is just shorts and a T-shirt.¡±


    ¡°I know, but you still look good in it, and that is how you are going to look good taking my cock.¡±


    ¡°Kane!¡± Ariel gasped, partially in shock and partly because it was oddly hot. Kane hardly ever talks dirty to her, and hearing it for the first time was triggering something in her.


    Kane chuckled, his hands going under her shirt. ¡°Why are you acting shocked? I know you like it when I talk dirty to you. I can smell just how wet you are for me, how much you need me.¡± He smirked, turning his nose to the air and taking a dramatic sniff.


    ¡°Shit!¡± Ariel gasped, closing her legs tight. She should have known that she was in a household of people with very sensitive noses, and there was no way to hide.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to hide love; I love it. You smell ready, and I can¡¯t wait to fill you up.¡± Kane whispered to her neck, blowing warm air on her skin that had her shivering.


    Ariel angled her head to the side, giving him more ess. She was wriggling and squirming under him as he littered wet and sloppy kisses all over her.


    His hands weren¡¯t left out, as they were all over her body, caressing her soft skin. ¡°I want it off.¡± He whispered, tugging on the hem of her shirt, and Ariel nodded her head,plying with his wishes.


    He helped her take her shirt off, throwing it in a forgotten part of the room that she could care less about.


    Ariel wasn¡¯t a virgin, but she was cowering from his gaze. His hungry eyes raked over her figure, drinking her up, and the way his pupils dted made her know that he was enjoying this too much.


    That was enough to give her confidence, and she held her short, pulling it down until she was left in only her underwear.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Nothing fancy, of course, just some cotton pants, and luckily she had matched her bra in the same ck half-cut bra that was a little too tight for her, and her boobs were spilling all over.


    ¡°Perfection.¡± Kane sighed, his mouth slightly opening as hot air escaped from it. ¡°Everything about you is perfect.¡±


    Their lips collided again with such intensity that Ariel was shivering in her underwear. Kane¡¯s hands were all over her, roaming through every curve and contour as if he were trying to memorize her body in his mind.


    ¡°I want it off.¡± Ariel whispered in a husky voice, her lips all red and swollen from the kisses. Her hands were on his shirt, pulling it over his head with his help, of course.


    Kane helped her with his belt, undoing them and letting his pants fall down; only his bulge was stopping it. ¡°I think I need a little help.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes lit up with joy as she held his pants, pulling them down and making sure her fingers grazed his hard-on. ¡°Why is it so hard to remove?¡± She whined, stressing the word, just because she wanted to mess with him.


    Ariel pressed her hands on his body, feeling the soft ridges of his abs and trailing them down his body until it got to that dangerous V line that always had her guessing more.


    She was still admiring the adonis in front of her when the sps of her bra gave way and her breast descended to its natural state.


    Kane¡¯s eyes lit up with interest, and he reached out a hand gingerly, cupping her breast, loving the smooth and soft skin, just like everything about her.


    The pink nipple stood out, flushed just like her lips, and he watched entranced as they tightened to a hard nub. He couldn¡¯t help himself; he reached down, covering her nipples with his mouth.


    ¡°Lordd¡­¡± Ariel breathed out, throwing her head back in a moan. She was ovting, and while each month was different, she was particrly horny.


    All her nerves were on fire, and it was only Kane who could give her the relief she needed.


    Kane took a long sniff as the smell of her arousal saturated the air. The heady smell was dangerous to him, and his boxers tightened around him as he grew harder.


    He sucked on her breast with loud, sloppy kisses, making sure the nipples were all wet and asionally nipping them, while he ground his hard-on on her, seeking relief that only she could provide.


    ¡°Kaneee.¡± Ariel moaned, her fingers tangled in his hair, gripping them hard; otherwise, she was afraid she would fall.


    Kane¡¯s arm tightened around her waist, bringing her impossibly closer, his hips grinding against her in a mad frenzy.


    Pre-cum leaked from his cock, staining his boxers, and they stuck to him, but he couldn¡¯t care, not from the pleasure that was clouding his brain.


    His mouth left her breast, and a string of saliva followed his mouth. A mischievous smile came to his lips as he saw his handiwork and nodded his head, proud.


    Kane didn¡¯t give her any time to rest before he moved to the other twin, giving her simr treatment, and as usual, Ariel was a moaning mess.


    One of her legs was wound around him, and her body bent back so he could have better ess to her breast.


    When he left the breast, she was a panting mess, her mouth slightly opened as she tried to catch her breath, and Kane¡¯s fingers caressed her lips.


    ¡°I love your lips, so full and soft. I can¡¯t help but wonder how it would look taking my cock.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s breath hitched high as she heard him, and she took her lips in between her teeth, nibbling on them as she imagined the scene he had just nted in her head.


    Her eyes dipped down to his cock, which had been straining in his boxers, and she gulped.


    Kane must have read her line of thought because he took a step backwards so she could see him properly, and he held his boxer, pulling it down painfully slowly to Ariel¡¯s liking. All the while, his eyes were on her, drinking up her reaction to his cock.


    Kane fisted his cock in his hands, teasing her. He walked backwards until his legs hit the bed, and he sat down, spreading his legs while motioning to her.


    ¡°Come here.¡±

 Chapter 44

    ¡°Come here.¡±


    Ariel gave him a sultry gaze with her lips between her teeth, and she bit them seductively. She held the tip of her panties, and she was pulling them down, still maintaining eye contact with him.


    She was going to give him the taste of his own medicine, just like he made her watch while he was undressing.


    Ariel looked at him as he looked at her, taking in the sharp intake of his breath as he stared at her naked flesh.


    ¡°Beautiful.¡± Kane didn¡¯t know when the words left his lips, but Ariel heard them, and she was flushing red, stalling in her action.


    She managed to get the pants off her, throwing them away, and she stood in the room, naked as the day she was born.


    ¡°Come here.¡± Kane motioned to her again, and this time she smiled, swaying her hips as she threw her legs in front of each other, walking towards him.


    Ariel stood in front of him, and Kane leaned forward, his tongue touching her skin and licking a trail up. His hands wrapped around her waist, and he brought her down to sit on his thigh.


    Kane was on her, kissing every inch of her body and worshipping it with his tongue. He would kiss, lick, and suck ording to how it pleased him, and all that was leaving Ariel a moaning mess on top of him.


    There was nothing she could do; she could only drag his hair and whine, begging him for more. She shivered hard, a tingle going through her body as she felt his canine on her body, grazing her skin, but not hard enough to break it.


    Ariel wasn¡¯t left out; her hands roamed about his body, marking her ownership and making sure all her scent was on him.


    She couldn¡¯t stop the juices that were flowing from her; couldn¡¯t stop her natural body reaction to this male in front of her.


    Kane¡¯s fingers caressed her thighs, inching dangerously to her other regions, but she weed it, widening her legs so he could have better ess to them.


    She closed her eyes, trying to steel herself, but nothing could prepare her for the onught of pleasure that racked her entire being as Kane caressed her bundle of nerves.


    Her clit tingled with the foreign touch, and it responded to his touch, coating his finger with more slickness. Ariel shivered as she felt his warm breath on her neck, even as his fingers rubbed on her clitoral area.


    ¡°Nnnghh.¡± She would barely murmur any incoherent words; her eyes were barely focused.


    Ariel was never one for self-pleasure, no matter how tempting it was, and girl had been on a dry spell for years.


    Kane¡¯s finger was a drop of water in her desert, and it was quickly swallowed up, demanding more.


    ¡°More.¡± Ariel demanded, rubbing herself on his finger. His pace was too slow and too torturous for her, and she was sure she would faint if he didn¡¯t hearken to her. ¡°More Kane.¡±


    ¡°Shhh, you can take this.¡± Kane whispered against her skin, rubbing her clit with the same slow, torturous pace, but contrary to her words, she was getting wetter and wetter, her arousal saturating the whole room.


    ¡°K-Kane, I-I¡­¡± The words refused toe out as his wet mouth enveloped her breast, biting her nipples. Ariel was crazy with lust, and she was grinding her cunt on his finger, desperately chasing her orgasm.


    ¡°Yea, K-Kane. Don¡¯t stop, I-I.¡± Her words were swallowed as Kane took her lips, kissing her with everything he had, and she could only squirm on his thigh.


    The pleasure was already building to the point that she would do anything to release it. It had been boiling, and the lid was so close to falling over, and Lord, she wanted more.


    ¡°More, Kane, more; I want you to fuck me!¡±


    ¡°Shhh,¡± Kane said, shutting her up and biting her skin. ¡°You can¡¯t make demands; just shut up and take it like a good girl.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel mewled on top of him, her hips moving back and forth as she sought her release. But Kane could be so adamant; his fingers were still rubbing on her clit, focusing on that little bud of pleasure.


    ¡°Oh yes¡­¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes were closed, her hands digging into his skin, and her mouth opened slightly as warm air escaped from it. ¡°Yesss¡­¡±


    And Kane stopped his motion.


    Ariel¡¯s eyes flew open almost immediately as she stopped, and her thighs shook violently, the aftermath of a halted orgasm. ¡°What did you do that for?¡± She was out of breath as she spoke.


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Hepped at his finger,pletely devouring the one that was once in her. ¡°Delicious.¡±


    Ariel flushed red at his words, not sure how to react. She cleared her throat, trying to disperse the thick sexual tension that hung in the air.


    Before she could think much about it, Kane had turned them around, and she was on her back,pletely bare to him.


    Her eyes followed him, watching him as he drank her figure, and she widened her legs more, letting him see just how wet she was.


    ¡°I need you, Kane; can you see how ready I am for you? How wet am I for you? I am ready to take your cock, baby.¡±


    ¡°Ariel !¡± Kane groaned aloud, her dirty talk sending tingles down his body. His cock twitched at her words, cum leaking from the head.


    If he tried to enter her now, he was sure he was going tobust.


    He had had so many ns for today, and one of them was to lick her so badly that she couldn¡¯t even remember her name, but all that was going to have to wait.


    He needed to have his mate, and he needed to have her now.


    ¡°Your wish is mymand, love.¡± Kane grabbed a pillow, cing it under her hips, his mouth so close to her clit that he couldn¡¯t help himself. He took a long sniff of her. ¡°You smell so good.¡±


    And just for effect, he flicked his tongue on her bud,pping at her essence.


    ¡°Kane!¡± Ariel whined, not sure she could handle anything else withoutbusting.


    ¡°Shhh. I will give you what you want.¡± Kane fisted his cock in his hands, giving it a few pumps, and he leaned down, slowly entering into her.


    ¡°Fuckk!¡± Kane was in euphoria, in high heaven, as her body gave way for him. She was everything he had imagined, and moreover, she was warm, tight, and so incredibly wet that he entered into her so smoothly.


    Kane stilled, holding himself above her as he got to the end of her canal. His cock was pulsating inside her, and he knew he would burst soon.


    ¡°I need a minute,¡± Kane breathed out in his ear, barely able to hold himself. ¡°It is the first time I am inside a woman, and fuck¡­¡± His words were cut short as Ariel squeezed her vaginal muscles around him.


    Who knew all that kegel exercise woulde through for her some day?


    ¡°You are driving me crazy, baby.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Ariel said, her lips curving upward in a naughty smile. A fine sheen of sweat covered her forehead despite the cold air that was blowing across the room. She brought her mouth closer to his ears, whispering the words. ¡°I want you to fuck you crazy.¡±


    Kane¡¯s eyes shed gold, a dangerous glint in those pupils, and he smiled, removing his cock from her until only the tip was in, and he slowly pushed it into her, granting her her wishes.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 45

    Ariel slowly opened her eyes, a huge smile spreading on her face as she stretched her limb. The soft morning light had escaped from the window blinds, and they cast a golden glow on her face, but she didn¡¯t seem to mind.


    Her mouth opened in a content yawn, and she stretched her body, the nket falling off her body and the cool air caressing her skin, reminding her that she had slept without her clothes.


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± The sheets beside her ruffled, and she turned to see a mass of ck hair, tussled and tangled from sleep. Warm hands wrapped around her torso, pulling her closer, and she sighed in bliss at the familiar sparks.


    ¡°Good morning, love.¡± She greeted him cheerfully.


    ¡°Morning.¡± Kane mumbled in a husky, sleepden voice, and she closed her eyes, letting his voice caress her. ¡°How was your night?¡±


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t much of a night.¡± Ariel whispered in a teasing voice, and she leaned closer, just enough for her lips to press on his temples for a kiss. They had been busy for most of the night, going at it like horny bunnies, and they didn¡¯t stop until they had exhausted all of their strength and essence.


    ¡°Are you sore?¡± Kane asked, concern written all over his face as he looked at her. His eyes were darting all over her body, looking for any injury he may have inflicted on her.


    ¡°No, I am fine. Yesterday was wonderful.¡± Ariel reassured him because she was sure he would go into overdrive if she didn¡¯t, and Kane nodded his head in agreement.


    He tightened his hold on her, digging his nose into the groove of her shoulder and sniffing her. ¡°You were wonderful and so receptive. I could keep cumming inside if I wasn¡¯t so exhausted.¡±


    ¡°Kane.¡± Ariel ducked her head, unable to fight the blush that was spreading on her face.


    ¡°I love you too.¡± He nuzzled his face against his neck, and he released a content sigh. ¡°Let us get some shut eyes, it is too early to be awake.¡±


    ¡°Uhmm, I don¡¯t think so.¡± Ariel reached for her phone on the nightstand, and she tapped on the screen. ¡°Mister, it is past seven; don¡¯t you have some work to do?¡±


    ¡°Surely, even the alpha deserves to sleep in. Today is a good day, and I would like to sleep beside you. Is that too much to ask?¡±


    ¡°No, I think you deserve it.¡±


    ¡°Good. Now get some sleep because you are going to be very busy tonight.¡± Kane said, cuddling her to himself.


    ¡°Okay daddy.¡±


    ***


    When Ariel woke up the next time, it was to an empty bed and the scent of fried eggs saturating the room. She stood up, rubbing her eyes to get rid of the sleep, and followed the scent of the eggs to the kitchen, as would a zombie with a human.


    ¡°What are you cooking?¡± Ariel mumbled against his back, wrapping her hands around his torso and holding him tight.


    ¡°I figure you would be hungry, and I am making hashbrown and eggs.¡± Kane provided, and Ariel stole one of the hash browns and took a bite.


    ¡°It is really good; who knew you could cook?¡±


    ¡°It was an essential skill for me to learn; otherwise, I risk getting poisoned if I don¡¯t learn how to. Toby is a horrible cook, and Mason is not better. Could you get the coffee?¡± Kane asked, gesturing to the counter.


    ¡°Sure.¡± She helped him ce the food on the stool, and they sat together, eating quietly.


    ¡°Lest I forget, I heard you say it was your first time when you were entering me, and it got me curious. Is that really your first time?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± It was crazy to think that it was Kane who was the virgin out of them. He was every woman¡¯s walking wet dream, and he could have anyone he wanted. Why abstinence?


    ¡°What do you mean, why? It was my choice.¡±


    ¡°I know, it is just crazy to think that you are in your mid-twenties and you are a virgin. Beside the fact that you are werewolves, I heard you guys are driven by your urges, and you could have anyone you want. Why?¡±


    Ariel looked up to see him as she got no response from Kane; the deadly silence was an indication that she may have overstepped her boundaries.


    ¡°Sorry about that.¡± She apologized in a low voice and continued picking up her food.


    Great! She has ruined the moment with her loud mouth and nonsense curiosity, and she would have to endure the awkward breakfast.


    ¡°I am not driven by my urges, and I have been too focused on building my pack to care for some females. I have you now, and that is all that matters.¡± Kane spoke, his words having an air of finality that indicated the topic was over.


    Although the reason he hadn¡¯t bothered with any female was because he already knew who his mate was, he wasn¡¯t ever going to tell her that.


    They finished eating their food, and Kane packed it up, washing it in the sink, and storing it back.


    ¡°I want to take my bath; would you like to join me?¡±


    Ariel looked at him, startled. She had thought he was angry with her, and here he was, inviting her for a shower.


    ¡°Of course.¡± There was no way she was going to reject the offer.


    Sadly, the shower was just, as it said, a shower. Kane was alreadyte for his day¡¯s job, and there was no time for a quickie; he had only helped her wash her body, focusing a little too much on her breast, but who was she toin?


    They came out of the shower and got dressed, with Kane in a brown dress shirt and ck pants. Ariel walked towards her wardrobe, selecting a light brown shirt and leaving.


    ¡°Matching outfits?¡± Kane teased her as he nced her way, and she shrugged her shoulders.


    ¡°I want everyone to know that I am yours.¡±


    ¡°Trust me, love; they can smell me in you.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Her eyes widened a fraction, a little mortified, and Kaneughed.


    ¡°I will see youter in the evening.¡± He gave her a kiss on the forehead, squeezing her ass, and he left through the door.


    Ariel continued with her dress up, running a brush through her hair as she stared at her reflection, and a crazy idea came to her mind.


    If she cut her hair low, what would Kane think?


    She was throwing that thought out the moment it came. Her hair takes a long time to grow, and the joke was too expensive to try.


    Ariel looked at her reflection again in the mirror, and she nodded her head in satisfaction before leaving the room.


    She had nothing to do, so she could either join the females in preparing lunch or stay and chat. She was already rounding up the first flight of stairs when she met Toby on the way.


    ¡°Toby.¡± Ariel couldn¡¯t describe the joy she felt as she saw her first friend in the pack, and without thinking about it, she was jumping on him, hugging you tightly.


    ¡°Ariel, at least someone seems eager to see me.¡±


    ¡°Of course, I was looking for you throughout the party, but I couldn¡¯t find you. I am d you are okay.¡±


    ¡°Of course I will be. How are you doing?¡± Toby sniffed the air, and he wriggled his eyebrows. ¡°You don¡¯t need to tell me; I can tell you are very fine.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, can you actually¡­¡± Ariel refused to say the words, mortified beyond belief. She had dowsed herself in a shitload of perfume, but even that was powerless with them.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    ¡°Yeah, I guess congrattions are in order.¡± He smiled sheepishly, and Ariel shook her head.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think it is something to be congratted for, but thank you.¡±


    ¡°I would love to stay and chat, but Kane would have my head if I waste.¡±


    ¡°Sure, I wouldn¡¯t want to keep you waiting. We can catch up whenever you are free.¡±


    ¡°Yea.¡± Toby called, already halfway through the next flight of stairs, taking it two at a time, and Ariel shook her head, amused, but she continued on her journey.


    The sighting of the familiar smalldy drew her to the kitchen, where she met Liza along with some women washing up the tes.


    ¡°Luna.¡± Liza lowered her head as Ariel came to her. Luna? That was new, but she was too excited, and she didn¡¯t think much about it.


    ¡°Can I help with anything?¡±


    ¡°Sure?¡±


    Ariel joined them in cleaning the tes, but she couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling of being watched. She turned towards the directions, and true to her words, a talldy stood, her eyes narrowed in slit, her face set in a deep scowl that mar her beautiful face, and it was all directed to her.


    ¡°Do you know thedy that is giving me the death stare?¡± Ariel whispered to Liza, but thetter shook her head.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so, but I believe she came with the warriors.¡±


    ¡°Oh, because she is looking at me like I stole her man, and oh, she is walking towards me.¡±


    ¡°Hello,¡± Ariel shed her professional smile, which always left people dazzled. ¡°Do I know you?¡±


    ¡°You whore, what were you doing with my mate?¡±

 Chapter 46

    ¡°You whore, what were you doing with my mate?¡±


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± Ariel eyed the neer, but she still maintained a distance from her. She had learned her lesson, and she wasn¡¯t going to engage in any girl¡¯s fight, especially with a werewolf.


    ¡°What were you doing with Toby?¡±


    ¡°Toby?¡± Ariel broke out into a shortugh. ¡°I think you are mistaken; we are just friends, and I am with the alpha.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care; stay away from Toby, or else you wouldn¡¯t like what I would do.¡± Thedy bared her teeth, showing her canine in a bid to scare her, but it takes a lot to scare Ariel, and she watched as the woman left.


    ¡°What was that about?¡± Ariel turned to the crowd that had gathered to witness the showdown, and they all shrugged.


    ¡°I think she is Toby¡¯s mate.¡± Ady spoke,ing to stand in front of her. ¡°She is new here, and she doesn¡¯t know much about us. She must have smelled the gamma¡¯s scent on you and thought you were together.¡±


    ¡°That is messed up. Why would Toby have to choose her out of everyone? It was obvious she didn¡¯t want to be here.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t have a choice about who-¡± Thedy stopped talking as a different voice hushed in the mindlink.


    ¡°You were going to say something.¡±


    ¡°No. Toby could have really liked her, and he didn¡¯t want to lose her.¡± She replied, and Ariel shrugged.


    ¡°Who am I to go against the ways of love?¡±This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She continued helping them in the kitchen and even helped to prepare lunch, taking some for herself and Kane. But she was already bored out of her mind, and with nothing to do, she decided to take some lunch to Kane.


    If he wasn¡¯t so busy, they could stay and chat.


    She packed his lunch in a thermos, cutting up some fruit for him and arranging it in a cute bag she had seen, and she was walking to meet him.


    She stood in front of the door and reached up, connecting her knuckles with the door and hitting it. When no answer was forting, she prepared herself to knock again when she heard his voice.


    ¡°What?¡± The coldness of his reply startled her, rendering her speechless, but she regained herself.


    ¡°I brought lunch.¡± Ariel replied, and she tried the door handle, pushing it in, but it wouldn¡¯t budge.


    ¡°There will be no need for that. I am busy right now.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Ariel deted like a punctured balloon, and she stood there waiting for his footsteps. But she heard none, and she turned her back, dragging her feet back to her room.


    With nothing to do, Ariel could only hop from one app to another on her phone.


    She should have stayed with her job.


    Hell, everyone had a job they were doing here, but she was only leeching on them for free, and it was not settling well with her.


    It was in that position that she slept off, her back t on the bed and her phone on her stomach. She only shifted when she felt hands on her, tapping her.


    ¡°Ariel?¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± She groaned, turning to curl herself on the bed.


    ¡°I am back.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± She couldn¡¯t care to stand up, as she was still reeling from the fact that he had ignored her earlier today.


    He couldn¡¯t even open the door.


    She raised her head to look at him, and he was whistling happily as he changed into his clothes, and she got even more angry.


    Was he not going to address his behavior earlier?


    A few minutes in, Kane was seated on the sofa, eating the meal she had earlier packed for him, his eyes glued to his iPad, and the anger continued bubbling in her, threatening to spill.


    She wouldn¡¯t take it any longer; she needed to leave.


    ¡°Excuse me, please.¡± She stood up and was walking out the door before he could stop her.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to find my mate.¡± She remained still as she heard the voice of one of their packmates. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to meet someone with that instant connection and chemistry. Goddess knows that I am tired of this life; I just want a man to sweep me off my feet and love me unconditionally.¡±


    ¡°Girl, don¡¯t put your hopes high. I have heard of mates that reject the bond, and you don¡¯t want to experience that.¡±


    ¡°I know, but the rejection is like one in a thousand or even ten thousand. I am allowed to dream.¡± The blonde sighed, and they all nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Do you think Ariel is the alpha¡¯s mate?¡± Her breath hitched up as she heard her name, and she was leaning as close as she could without getting caught.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so; the alpha can¡¯t even wear her mark. Honestly, the alpha is too good; he doesn¡¯t want to tell her because he is afraid it would break her heart.¡±


    Ariel stood there, frozen in disbelief at what she had just heard, and the word kept echoing in her head. She made a u-turn, heading back to her room, and she sat up on her bed, pulling out her phone and searching for what mates meant.


    She had always thought it was just a word for your partner-a short form of soulmate. She had admitted that she found it romantic whenever she heard them refer to their partners as mates, but never in her entire life did she know it held more meaning.


    ¡°Be calm; I will not overreact.¡± Ariel was saying to herself as she looked up on the search engine. ¡°No, no,¡± Ariel yelled, her eyes moving from left to right, but none were giving her what she wasted.


    She attached the keyword werewolf to it, holding her breath as it loaded, and the first meaning she saw had her eyes bulging out, and she swallowed the saliva that had pooled in her mouth, trying to keep calm.


    She cleared her throat as she began to read out loud. ¡°Mate. A predestined partner for a werewolf, selected by the moon goddess, it is characterized by an irresistible pull towards each other, sparks whenever they touch, and good sexual chemistry.¡±


    As Ariel read each line, it felt like she was reading her doom.


    Why the hell did no one think to tell her about mates? Not even the person she was sleeping with or the ones she called her friends?


    Her finger tightened into a fist as different scenarios began to run through her head, and she began topare their rtionship.


    She wasn¡¯t even from the moon goddess; there was no way thedy was going to predestine someone for her, so that was off the list.


    Irresistible pull? She found him attractive, but she wasn¡¯t sure it could be talk or an irresistible pull, so that was also off the list.


    She had never felt sparks whenever they touched, but they had good sexual chemistry; however, it was one out of four, and it led to a ring conclusion.


    She wasn¡¯t his mate, but it only seems to beg the question.


    Who was his mate?


    Was he toying with her until he found his mate? It all made sense now; that was why he was still a virgin. He was keeping himself for his mate, but someone else-she-came to the picture, and he couldn¡¯t control himself.


    The fucker.


    He had the guts to y with her heart. Giving her fake promises while his heart belonged to another?


    She wasn¡¯t going to let that happen.


    ¡°Kane!¡±


    She was bouncing off to his office, meeting or no meeting; he was going to tell her the truth or she was going to force it out of him.


    ¡°Kane!¡± She pushed the door open, and thankfully it gave way, and she stormed it, seeing him on his desk.


    She was frozen for a moment, his sweet smile dazzling her, but she shook her head, focusing on the goal at hand.


    ¡°How dare you call me your love, promising me sweet nothing when you know you have a mate somewhere? How dare you lie to me?¡±

 Chapter 47

    ¡°How dare you lie to me?¡±


    Ariel¡¯s fingers were balled in a fist, and her eyes narrowed as she focused on the object of her ire. Her eyes still held unshed tears that threatened to spill, but she held herself.


    She would never give him the joy of seeing her in such a state.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand. What is going on?¡± Kane blinked slowly, trying to make sense of the scene in front of him.


    Ariel looked at his confused face, and the rage in her only seemed to grow. Why was he acting like he was innocent?


    ¡°Are you really going to sit there and pretend like you don¡¯t know what I am talking about? Why did you even fall for me? You knew there was someone for you, yet you allowed me to believe a lie until I was trapped in it. What is your aim? Huh? Answer me?¡±


    Kane ran his fingers through his hair, not sure he could deal with this right now. They have been having issues with the Alpha King, and ording to rumors, his pack was likely going to be under attack.


    He had been trying to pull all the strings he had, and thest thing he needed was Ariel nagging at him for something he had no idea about.


    He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath to calm him down, and when he opened them, he focused them on Ariel. ¡°If you are not going to talk to me like a civilized person, I suggest you get out.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s gasp was the only thing he could hear, and her eyes widened to the point where it was almost impossible to believe her ear.


    ¡°You are impossible.¡± She was fuming as she wagged her finger at him. ¡°You made me believe a lie, and you made me fall in love with you, but you didn¡¯t think to tell me that you had a mate out there.¡±This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°Ariel, you are¡­¡±


    ¡°I am not done talking.¡± Ariel yelled, wagging her fingers at him. ¡°How dare you lie to me? What would happen to me when you met your mate? You are going to throw me away after you have used me? I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    And with that, she was storming out of his office, making sure to bang the door hard.


    It would give her satisfaction if the door actually copsed.


    Ariel stormed out of the house in anger, happy that she didn¡¯t see anyone she knew. She didn¡¯t think she could do well without wanting to shout at them.


    She went out through the back, running through the meadow, her feet pounding the soft earth with fierce intensity. The wind whipped through her hair as she ran, but she didn¡¯t relent until she got in front of a huge tree, and she copsed under it, her head bowed between her thighs.


    She felt like a fool.


    No, she was a fool.


    She had fallen for a lie because she was so desperate for a man to love her, and now that it was ending, she didn¡¯t know what to do.


    Now that she was a little clearheaded, she could remember sometimes when some pack members slipped and referred to her as his mate.


    Was it actually true?


    Maybe she would have waited and listened to him.


    Ariel gave it some thought, and she was shaking her head. ¡°No, it was impossible,¡±


    There was no way she could be his mate; she didn¡¯t tick any of the boxes ording to what she had seen, and even if she was, he should have said something.


    It was a thing of joy, a thing to be proud of, and he wasn¡¯t going to hide it, except it wasn¡¯t true.


    Does that mean they were all in it?


    ¡°Argghhh!¡± Ariel yelled as the thought roamed through her mind. She couldn¡¯t imagine the pack that she hade to see as hers and her friends could actually do such heinous things to her, and this time, the tears flowed freely.


    ¡°I hate him.¡± She sniffed, cleaning the tears with the back of her palm.


    She didn¡¯t even know which one hurt. The fact that he lied to her, or the fact that there was someone else for him and he would have no choice but to love that person unconditionally?


    Ariel clutched her chest, rubbing it to soothe the heartbreak.


    Who knew love could hurt like this?


    ***


    Kane stared at the door, flinching from the loud bang. He was still surprised that the door was still attached to its hinges after all it had been through a lot.


    Which brought him to the problem at hand.


    How did she know that they were mates, and more importantly, how much did she know?


    He had been afraid to say anything else; he would say more than she knew and end up jeopardizing their rtionship.


    Had she learned the whole truth? He couldn¡¯t help but wonder, but he was shaking his head as the thought came to him.


    If she knew the real truth, her reaction would be much worse; probably his blood would have been in her hand.


    But he had to be sure. ¡°Did you tell Ariel anything more about us being mates?¡± He asked Toby in the mind link.


    ¡°No, I didn¡¯t say anything. Did she find out?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how she found out, but she did, and I am not sure how much she knows.¡±


    ¡°Oh, sucks to be you. I have to go now; I already have my hands full with a difficult task.¡±


    ¡°Good luck with that.¡±


    Kane tried everyone he knew who was close to his mate, but they all had the same response. They didn¡¯t tell her anything.


    So he wondered how she got to know.


    ¡®You idiot, our mate needs you no more than ever, and you are worrying about useless things.¡¯ Max snapped, annoyed with his human counterpart, and Kane was getting into action.


    He stopped, letting his nose lead him to her. Ariel didn¡¯t have a scent yet, but his scent had mixed enough with her that he could track her there.


    He walked through the back door, and he could see his mate leaning on one of the trees, and her head was bent on her knees.


    He moved closer to her, walking quietly so as not to startle her. The faint scent of salt reached his nose, an indication that she had been crying.


    ¡°Ariel.¡± He tapped her shoulders gently, but the action startled her, and she jerked up, alert and ready to rain. ¡°It is fine; it is me.¡±


    ¡°Kane, what the hell? You startled me.¡± Ariel yelled as she woke up, and Kane couldn¡¯t ignore how red her eyes were, no doubt from crying.


    ¡°Sorry about that.¡±


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Her voice was tight with anger, and she lowered her head back to the ground. She wasn¡¯t sure she could face him now.


    ¡°I need to clear up some things; I haven¡¯t been exactly truthful.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t say.¡± Ariel rolled her eyes. ¡°Honestly, you disgust me. Just get out; I don¡¯t think I can stand you.¡± She demanded it, turning her face away from him.


    ¡°Just hear me out, okay?¡±


    ¡°What more do you have to say? I am not going to sit here and continue hearing you lie to me. If you don¡¯t want to leave, I will do that.¡± Ariel was fuming as she stood up, and she made to leave, but Kane held her hand.


    ¡°Would you listen to me?¡±


    ¡°I refuse to hear what a liar has to say. Now if you don¡¯t unhand me, I am going to scream bloody murder.¡±


    ¡°Ariel.¡±


    ¡°I am going to count to five. One, two, three¡­¡±


    ¡°You are my mate.¡±


    ¡°Four¡­ w-wait, w-what?¡±


    ¡°You are my mate, Ariel.¡±

 Chapter 48

    ¡°You are my mate, Ariel.¡±


    The words were ringing in her ears nonstop, like the annoying 5 a. m. rm, and she was frozen to the spot, finding it hard to process what she had just heard.


    ¡°Haha, very funny. I know you are saying all this to make me stay, but it is not going to work. I am over this, Kane.¡±


    ¡°Ariel, listen to me. You are my mate!¡±


    Ariel shook her head, as if trying to shake the words off her body. ¡°I refused to believe it; you are lying. If I were really your mate, you would never hide such a thing from me. That would have been the first thing you said when you met me.¡± She sniffed, clearing her voice before she continued. ¡°I know you are trying to lessen the blow for me, but it is fine; I can take it; I am a big girl.¡±


    ¡°Ariel, you are not listening to me. You are my mate! Only you could ignite such a fire in me. Only you can calm the raging storm in my head. Don¡¯t you feel the sparks whenever we touch? Can¡¯t you feel the way your body yearns for me?¡± Kane ran his fingers on her arm, and Ariel drew a sharp breath, slowly releasing it as the electricity developed between them.


    Ariel closed her eyes as the sensation continued to build. ¡°You are lying; it is all fake. You have used one of your werewolf powers to bewitch me, get into my head, and confuse me. I refused to believe that.¡±


    ¡°Ariel!¡± Kane yelled, taking her head in his hands and letting their lips collide. There was nothing soft in the ways he kissed her, asserting his dominance over her even through his lips.


    He bit her bottom lips, earning her a gasp, and he took advantage of it, gaining entrance to her mouth, and their tongues danced with a hungry passion, entwining like mes licking at the air.


    ¡°Kane.¡± Ariel gasped, her hands reaching up to coil around his neck. mes danced around them, the sparks flying from wherever their skins met, and Ariel couldn¡¯t get enough.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She wed at his shirt, seeking desperately to get rid of it so she could feel his body against her, but his chuckles reached her ears, and they slowly parted.


    She was a mess, her shirt falling off her shoulders, her lips all red and plump and glistening with saliva, and Kane¡¯s eyes zoned on the soft swell of her breast, rising and falling as she tried to catch her breath.


    Shit.


    Ariel ran her hand through her hair as she tried to catch her breath, her cheeks stained red with embarrassment. She was supposed to be mad at him, yet she was sucking lips with the enemy.


    ¡°Do you believe me now?¡±


    ¡°I-I d-d¡­¡± Ariel was finding it difficult to get the words out.


    ¡°Shhh, I understand; it is all new.¡± Kane said, bringing his finger to shush her, but Ariel pped his hands away.


    ¡°Fine, I believe you, but that doesn¡¯t excuse the fact that you have been hiding it from me all along. Do you know how foolish I feel right now?¡±


    ¡°I should apologize for that. You were already overwhelmed with the whole werewolf thing, and I didn¡¯t want to confuse you with us being mates.¡±


    ¡°But that doesn¡¯t excuse the fact that you lie.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t lie, love; I didn¡¯t just tell you. If I had, you may have beenpelled to love me even against your will, and I don¡¯t want that for you. I love you so much to take your choice away from you.¡±


    ¡°I know, but it doesn¡¯t excuse the fact.¡±


    ¡°That is why I am apologizing. Come on, let us talk better inside; I am sure there are some spying eyes around.¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡± Ariel allowed him to lead her inside, away from the watchful eyes of the pack, till they got to his office, and he took his seat while she sat on the visitor¡¯s seat. ¡°Now I want you to exin everything I have to know about being a werewolf and your mate. I don¡¯t want to be ignorant of everything that is going on.¡±


    ¡°You already know that we are werewolves, and we change at will. We have been ordained a partner from birth, which we call a mate. And for me, you are the one.¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes at his words. ¡°And you didn¡¯t deem it necessary to tell the one that was made for you?¡±


    ¡°I already exined that I wasn¡¯t sure how your reaction was going to be, and I didn¡¯t want to love bomb you with all that information. I wanted you to love me because you do, not because a bond is asking you to.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel shrugged. He had a point there. ¡°Anyways, go on.¡±


    ¡°The mate of an alpha is called Luna, and she, together with the alpha, leads the pack. She could also be a link between the people and her mate.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t understand. Why did it have to be me? I am not even a wolf, and I don¡¯t know how yourmunity works, not even about leading a pack. I can¡¯t even feel the bond between us; how do I know you are just not lying?¡±


    ¡°I would never lie to you, Ariel. I understand you are a human, and you may not be able to feel everything I can feel for you. But you know deep in your heart that I am telling the truth; you can feel that this thing we have for each other is unnatural.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel grumbled under her breath. ¡°But you shouldn¡¯t have lied to me.¡±


    ¡°I know love, and I apologize.¡±


    ¡°Fine, if you have something to say to me, just say it now. I don¡¯t want to be finding out things about myself or you from others.¡±


    Kane gave it to him, and he shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t think so. You are caught up with everything.¡±


    ¡°Fine. I am choosing to believe you. But if I find out that you should have told me something or purposely withheld information from me, it is over. There is nothing I hate more than liars.¡±


    ¡°I understand. You can rest assured that everything I am telling you is the truth.¡± Kane¡¯s sweet smile seemed to put her weary mind at ease, and she melted.


    ¡°Alright, I think you are busy, so I will leave you to it.¡± Ariel walked out of his office, this time closing the door gently, and she headed downstairs to get dinner.


    Somehow all that talking and shouting had made her hungry, and she needed something more than a snack to fill her up.


    She was taking the next flight of stairs when she heard voices raised in argument and she stilled.


    ¡°Why are you so stubborn?¡± She heard a voice that was no doubt Toby¡¯s.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t ask toe here; you brought me here without my will, and I will continue protesting until you let me be.¡± The female argued back, so loudly that her voice could be heard through the hallway and even the next floor.


    ¡°When will you ever get it that I will never let you go? What is going to happen to our bond?¡± Toby yelled back, matching her energy, and Ariel frowned.


    It seems like there was trouble in paradise.


    ¡°I don¡¯t give a fuck about a stupid bond. I never wanted a mate. I was perfectly content with living in my pack until I grew old and died.


    Their conversation came to an abrupt stop as they heard the crunch of Ariel¡¯s feet. ¡°Ariel.¡±


    ¡°Heeyyyy.¡± Ariel gave a tight-lipped smile, embarrassed that she had been caught eavesdropping. ¡°Is everything alright?¡±


    ¡°It is none of your business, bitch. Get out!¡±


    ¡°Maddie!¡± Toby yelled at his mate, but the female couldn¡¯t care less. ¡°I am sorry about that, Ariel. Excuse us, please.¡±


    Ariel shook her head as she watched the couple leave, although one was quite unwilling, and Toby had to drag his female with him.


    At least her mate wants her.

 Chapter 49

    After her run-in with the non-so couple, Ariel wasn¡¯t sure she had it in her to be friendly or social with anyone, and that was the reason she was making a u-turn and heading back to her room.


    She couldn¡¯t help but lean in closer as she passed through Toby¡¯s floor, and true to her suspicions, she could hear his mate screaming on top of her voice, and she was cringing.


    Now that she understood the concept behind mates, she could understand why Toby was reluctant to let her go. Thedy was literally his soulmate-the only one for him.


    If he let her go, there was no guarantee he would see her again, and who even lets their soulmates go?


    She hoped that they would resolve it sooner; if not, she would try and extend a hand of friendship to his mate.


    It may help their rtionship if they were friends.


    Ariel heaved a sigh of relief as she saw the sturdy brown door of Kane¡¯s room-well, it is now theirs-and she entered, shutting the door behind herself.


    She dragged herself to the bed, not bothering to change her clothes or even her shoes for the indoor one; instead, she let her mind roam.


    And for the first time, she thought of her parents.


    She wondered if she looked like them, if she had actually known them, or if they had dumped her by the roadside the minute she was in this world.


    Yet she wondered if they were alive somewhere and had no idea that their daughter was married to a very powerful werewolf and that she had grown into a young woman.


    No matter how she tried, she couldn¡¯t remember anything about her parents. It was like a nk wall, and no matter what, she couldn¡¯t even conjure their faces.


    It was hard to miss someone you had no recollection of, but she hoped that if they were still alive, they would miss her.


    She was in that state when the door creaked, and it opened slowly to reveal Kane. Ariel didn¡¯t even move, even when he came closer, and the bed sank from its weight.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Kane asked, already sensing something was wrong.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Ariel managed a smile, shifting to look at him. ¡°How are you doing? You are home early.¡±


    ¡°I decided to take the day off to be with you, but that hasn¡¯t answered my question.¡± Kane shifted closer towards her, his hands reaching to stroke her head, and Ariel found herself leaning towards his touch voluntarily.


    There was just something about him that calmed all of the raging demons in her, and she released a soft sigh.


    ¡°What has you deep in thought?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Ariel¡¯s shoulders slumped as she released hot air from her mouth, but her skin prickled from his gaze, and she raised her eyes to look at him. ¡°I was just thinking about my parents.¡±


    ¡°What about them?¡± Ariel didn¡¯t notice the way he had gone still, holding his breath as he waited for her reply.


    ¡°Nothing really; I was just thinking about them and wondering how they were holding up. That is, if they are alive.¡±


    ¡°Huh, I guess they are okay wherever they are. You don¡¯t need to bother yourself about that.¡±


    ¡°I know that, but I am still curious about them. Lest I forget, how did you say you met me? I wasn¡¯t sure you had exined it before, and it could help me look for my parents if they are still alive.¡±


    ¡°Uhm¡­¡± Kane was aware of the blue set of eyes watching him and taking note of his reaction, so he knew he had to be careful and think fast. ¡°I met them on my way home; you were lying beside your parents, and they were both dead.¡±


    That was the only thing Kane could think of, and looking at it, it wasn¡¯t exactly a lie, but Ariel was looking beyond that.


    ¡°Where exactly did you say you met them?¡± Ariel shifts closer, looking at him straight in the eyes, and Kane shifts from her gaze. ¡°Isn¡¯t it strange that you found two people lying dead on the road? Why killed them? Surely you must be curious.¡±


    ¡°I admit I was curious, but I heard the cries of the cutest person, and all I could think of was making sure you were alright. As insensitive as it was, they were already dead, and there was nothing I could do that would bring them back.¡±


    ¡°That was insensitive, but you are right, they are gone. I am probably stressing over nothing.¡±


    ¡°It is fine,¡± Kane said, resuming stroking her head. ¡°You have every right to be curious, but there is no need to dwell on the past; you can¡¯t change it; you can only focus on making the future better.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. Thank you.¡±


    ¡°Anything for you, love.¡± Kane pressed a kiss in the middle of her head, even as he silently offered a prayer, hoping she didn¡¯t find out the truth.


    ***


    Ariel woke up the next morning, stretching her limb as her mouth opened in a loud yawn. She rubbed the sleep from her eyes as she dragged her feet to the bathroom, the event of yesterday long forgotten.


    As usual, Kane wasn¡¯t in the room, but she needed the peace to calm her head. She finished up with the bathroom and headed to the mini kitchen, where a hot pot of coffee was already brewed and waiting for her.


    A smile lit up her face as she read out the note attached to it, and she released a content sigh. It was going to be a good day; she could feel it.


    And true to her words, on her way downstairs, she was met with a beehive of activity-men walking about with bright yellow helmets as they inspected the hallway-and only one thought came to mind.


    They were going to install an elevator.


    Ariel¡¯s joy knew no bounds at the discovery, but she kept it to herself and continued her journey downstairs, beelining straight to the kitchen as the aroma of freshly prepared pancakes hit her.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Hello.¡± She called thedy who was cooking a storm, but thedy ignored her and continued her work. Ariel¡¯s eyes zoned in on the figure, recognizing her as Toby¡¯s mate, and she remembered their horrible first encounter and was backing out.


    But the word ¡®Luna¡¯ was ying in her front, and now that she understood what they meant, she knew she had to step up.


    ¡°Hello, you must be Toby¡¯s mate, Maddie. I am Ariel the Luna, and it is my pleasure to make your acquaintance.¡±


    ¡°Arghh.¡± Thedy sighed, turning to face her with ming brown eyes. ¡°If someone is tantly ignoring you, it means they don¡¯t want to talk. I assume you, being a human, would know better about these rights.¡±


    ¡°Uhm, sorry. I was just trying to be friendly considering you are Toby¡¯s mate and we are friends.¡±


    Thedy moved closer to Ariel, towering above her and ring at her. If it were possible, she knew thedy would probably breathe fire on her.


    ¡°Let me make this clear once and for all. I am not Toby¡¯s mate, and if you know what is good for you, you will stay away from him.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t even¡­¡±


    ¡°Stay away from him.¡± Maddie snared, and she turned to go, taking the entire te of pancakes.


    Ariel looked at the retreating figure, not sure what she found annoying more-her annoying character or the fact that she took away the pancakes she had been craving.

 Chapter 50

    For the next few days, Ariel had made it a point to be very far away from Maddie-as far as they could be in the same house. It was obvious thedy hated this ce, and she wasn¡¯t going to add to her stress.


    She had confronted Toby on the issue, and she hadn¡¯t expected the answer he had given her. It happened when she was on her way out, and she bumped into Toby.


    ¡°I think your mate hates me.¡± Ariel was telling him, but Toby had broken into a shortugh, which had instantly vanished as he saw the look on her face.


    ¡°Why do you say so?¡±


    ¡°Apart from the fact that she has expressed this several times, she also has a crazy notion that there is something romantic going on between us.¡±


    ¡°It is just typical Maddie, but it is nothing personal. She hates everyone, and this ce is not helping either.¡±


    Ariel nodded her head, although she wasn¡¯t sure she could understand what he was trying to say. ¡°How can I help? I understand I am the Luna now, and the pack¡¯s concern is my concern, and I would like us to be friends.¡±


    ¡°Ohhh¡­ Someone is a little excited about their role. See you being the Luna.¡± Toby was hyping her up.


    ¡°What can I say?¡± Ariel shrugged, a smug smile on her lips. ¡°I try my best. That is beside the point, though; how can I help?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think any of us can help Maddie now. She is still vexed that she had toe here, and it is best we leave her alone. She wille to it on her own.¡±


    Ariel nodded her head, again not understanding anything. ¡°I am sorry if I am too nosey, but why is she vexed? Surely having a mate is a good thing.¡±


    ¡°Not to everyone.¡± Toby leaned closer, until his mouth was almost close to her ear. ¡°You see, Maddie was one of the contenders for the alpha position in her pack, but thew requires the female to follow the males to their pack, and Maddie is bound by thew. She wasn¡¯t exactly happy to leave her position, and it would take a lot of time for her to get used to it.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Ariel¡¯s mouth opened slightly as it became clearer to her. ¡°I thought only males could be alpha.¡±


    ¡°It was once an only male affair, but the world is changing now; females could be alpha, as long as they are capable.¡±


    ¡°I understand Maddie¡¯s frustration now. I still wish I could get close to her.¡±


    ¡°Ariel.¡± Toby rested his hands on her shoulders. ¡°I understand you have good intentions towards her, but in Maddie¡¯s case, it is best she is left alone. Excuse me. Kane needs me.¡±


    ***


    Ariel was walking down the hallway to theundry room, dragging a week worth of dirty clothes into theundry basket. Between her and Kane¡¯s, the basket was always full every week.


    Who even decides to have aundry room so far away?Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    She was still dragging her feet grudgingly when she heard raised voicesing from Kane¡¯s office, and as usual, curiosity won over, and she stood still, listening to the voices.


    ¡°Why?¡± It was Kane; there was no mistaking that voice.


    ¡°I am only telling you because we have been together and I consider you a friend. But I am tired of being a rogue, and the Alpha King has assured me a ce in his pack. It would be foolish to turn it down.¡± She thought she heard what Toby said.


    No, it wasn¡¯t Toby. There was a coldness in the voice, and she could only guess one person.


    Mason.


    The man gave her the hives, and she would often go out of her way to avoid him.


    ¡°What happened to loyalty?¡± The tremble in Kane¡¯s voice had her shifting closer to the door.


    ¡°Someone is at the door.¡± Mason¡¯s voice stopped her in her tracks, and she stood still, not even taking a breath for fear they could hear her breathing.


    ¡°Ariel?¡±


    ¡°Hey Kane, I was just passing by to do someundry. I promise I wasn¡¯t listening to anything.¡± Ariel was saying, and she was already taking to her heels before they coulde out of the door.


    She only stopped when she got to the door of theundry room, and she opened it, grateful they didn¡¯t have to share the room with others.


    She pondered what she had just heard as she sorted out the clothes, but she eventually ignored it. Kane was going to tell her if he deemed it important.


    If he didn¡¯t, she was going to count it as one of the things he was hiding from her and confront it when necessary.


    But she didn¡¯t have to worry about it; that was the first thing Kane was telling her as he came inside.


    ¡°Mason has decided to leave the pack.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Ariel cocked an eyebrow, tucking her arms into each other.


    ¡°I am sure you heard a little of what he said.¡± Ariel opened her mouth to protest, but one look from Kane shut her up. ¡°The Alpha King has sent him an offer, and apparently he can¡¯t refuse it.¡±


    ¡°That is bullshit! What happened to loyalty?¡± They shared a look at her choice of words, and they both smiled. ¡°A simple no would have done the trick, but it is obvious he is no longer interested in staying here.¡±


    ¡°You are right, and I don¡¯t think it would do us any good if I forced him to stay. He had already told me beforehand, and I have no choice but to let go.¡±


    ¡°What is going to happen to the beta¡¯s position? It can¡¯t remain vacant for too long.¡±


    ¡°It will have to be for now until I find a suitable recement.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Kane nced at his mate, and he was shaking his head. ¡°I know that look, you are about to suggest something I would not agree with.¡±


    ¡°Just hear me out. How about we make Maddie the beta? You know her right; she is Toby¡¯s mate, and he told me she was a contender for the alpha¡¯s position. Surely she will be very suited for the post.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that is a good idea, love.¡±


    ¡°You haven¡¯t even thought about it; she will be a perfect addition to the pack, and she could warm up to us.¡±


    ¡°Ariel.¡±


    ¡°For her to be considered a werewolf contender, it means she is very strong, and that is one asset you need.¡±


    ¡°Ariel, a woman cannot be¡­¡±


    But Ariel wasn¡¯t listening. ¡°Surely, you are all for women¡¯s rights. It would be the perfect opportunity to showcase it.¡±


    ¡°Ariel!¡± His firm voice startled her, and she looked up at him, slowly blinking her eyes. ¡°Maddie is not going to be the beta, and this is no longer up for discussion. Goodnight.¡±

 Chapter 51

    ¡°Do you have to go?¡± Ariel whined as she helped Kane pack a bag for his journey-or would she call it a satchel?


    ¡°We have gone over this, and it is very necessary that I go. And I am also scouting for a beta.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know why you are against the idea of making Maddie the beta. I am sure she will do a good job.¡± Ariel rolled her eyes.


    ¡°We have been over this love. Maddie is not going to be the beta, and I don¡¯t want us to have an issue over this. Besides, I am not only scouting for a beta; there are some things I need to do too.¡±


    ¡°But why?¡± Ariel sighed, jutting her lips out in a pout and widening her eyes to give those puppy eyes, but Kane took one look at her, and he shook his head.


    ¡°You know those don¡¯t work for me again?¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes, angry that her tactics couldn¡¯t work for him any longer. ¡°What will happen to us now?¡±


    ¡°This isn¡¯t our first rodeo, Ariel, and this trip is actually important. We need money to maintain the pack andplete the new project that is ongoing. I need to take this trip.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Ariel grumbled under her breath. She wished she could hide him inside her blouse and never let him go. She couldn¡¯t shake the eerie feeling she had since he told her he was going out on a mission, and it wasn¡¯t going away.


    No matter how she tried to dissuade Kane, the man was bent on going. She loves a man who is sure of what he wants, but damn, they could be annoying.


    ¡°At least give me a smile; I am not going to die.¡±


    ¡°I thought we had enough money.¡±


    ¡°Maintaining a pack is a continuous job, and no matter how much we have, it can never be enough. Feeding, living expenses, and stipend.¡±


    ¡°Wait, you actually give everyone stipends?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes were literally bulging out. She thought she only got it as a perk of being the alpha¡¯s girl.


    ¡°Well yes. Not everyone has a regr job, and I am the Alpha; it is my duty to ensure that the pack is properly cared for.¡±


    ¡°Wow.¡± Her respect for Kane grew even more. She had been a whiny bitch all this time while he was bncing the weight of everyone¡¯s problems on his neck. ¡°I think I am through.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel nced at the small bag she had packed for him, wondering how it was going to sustain him for the days he would be away.


    ¡°Are you sure this will be okay for your travel?¡± She eyed the bag in distaste.


    ¡°It is more than enough. It is not a vacation. Meanwhile, I have talked to Maddie, and she has promised to be on her best behavior. I will be leaving the pack in your hands, and I know you can lead them well. Everything you will need is avable, and thedies will work together with you to keep the pack.¡±


    ¡°I see you already have everything nned.¡± There was a bitterness in her voice, angry that he had done all this behind her but still somewhat happy that he had tried to make the job easier for her. ¡°I will miss you.¡± She said in a small voice.


    ¡°Cheer up, I will being back soon, and we could¡­¡± His eye gleamed, and he stared into space as he received a message from the mind link. ¡°They are all ready and waiting for us. We have to go.¡±


    Ariel grudgingly stood up while fighting everything in her not to just take his hands and disappear somewhere safe. She held his hands firmly as they walked out of the room, the warmth between them a reminder that he was going to be back soon.


    The pack was deadly quiet, arge contrast from the usual buzz of the pack, and as they walked down the stairs, Ariel gripped his hand tightly.


    ¡°It will be fine.¡± Kane reassured her for what would be the umpteenth time.


    They made their way down, their shoes heavy on the stairs, until they got to the bottom of the stairs and headed towards the door.


    Kane opened the door, and they went outside, where all the pack had gathered. Everyone was in some sort of embrace, whispering words offort and saying theirst goodbyes.


    Ariel let her eyes scan through the people she wasing to ept as family, and her eyes watered a little. But the amusing thing that caught her eye was seeing Maddie cuddle up with Toby by the side.


    No matter how she tried to deny it, the bond was bringing them close, and a little smile was on her lips.


    A hush fell through the gathering as Kane cleared his throat, and they all fastened their eyes on him-well, on both of them since she was standing beside him.


    Ariel shifted a little, finding the attention a little nerve-racking, but Kane stood in front of her, and he began to speak.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°You are all aware of our mission, and in that light, I will be leaving the pack in the capable hands of my mate. She is Luna, and she will be in charge, and in that sense, whatever she says goes. Disrespecting her is disrespecting me, and it should not be taken lightly. I expect maximum cooperation from everyone until we are back. Is that clear?¡±


    ¡°Yes Alpha.¡±


    ¡°Mmm.¡± Kane nodded his head as he cast his gaze through the crowd. ¡°Good. I will leave the pack in your capable hands. Goodbye.¡±


    Ariel was choked up with words as she looked at him, and Kane was drawing towards her as he saw the look on her face.


    ¡°I promise I will be back, and maybe we could go out on a date.¡±


    ¡°I will hold you to your promise, and I will be looking forward to it.¡±


    ¡°I will miss you.¡± Kane said as he lowered his head to connect their lips together. ¡°I love you.¡± He whispered against her lips.


    Ariel could only mumble her reply, her voice betraying her. She slowly parted from him, her eyes blurring with unshed tears.


    It was with that blurry vision that she saw him off to the gate, her eyes puffy and red. It was as if somehow her senses had dulled with his departure, and he had taken everything she had with him, leaving just a shadow of herself.


    Ariel ignored the rest of the crowd, and she headed straight to their room. She was ashamed to admit it, but she couldn¡¯t be the Luna they needed.


    Right now, she just wanted to curl up on Kane¡¯s side of the bed and immerse herself in his scent.


    And that was all she did.


    Somehow, this departure hit her more than she could bear it, and for the days that followed their departure, she was confined to their room, surviving purely on Kane¡¯s scent and the food Liza would bring.


    It was on the third day that she came to her senses, and she stood up from the bed, washing up and heading downstairs.


    Theughtering from themon room startled her, and on closer inspection, all the women were huddled in the chair, cracking their ribs over some si.


    Shame hung on her head, like a halo on an angel, as she lowered her head as she passed by them.


    Kane had left her in charge, and it was her duty to make sure they were fine, yet she had been sulking in her room, acting like it was the end of the world while the others had moved on.


    ¡°Hey Luna.¡± It was Liza¡¯s cheerful smile that stopped her in her tracks, and she went towards them.


    ¡°She is alive!¡± Another one eximed, and Ariel tried to hide the red in her cheeks.


    ¡°Heydies.¡± Ariel smiled, taking up one of the empty seats and reaching for a handful of popcorn. Within minutes, she was sucked into the si, and that was how the day had gone by.


    Each day melted into the next, day turning to night, night to day, and Ariel had fully assumed the role of Luna. Kane was right; she was just worried over nothing. The days were going to fly by, and they would be home before she could think of it.


    Or so she had thought.


    They had been rxing, ying a game of monopoly, and as usual, Ariel was winning. She was a beast in the game, and herpetitive spirit always red up.


    Maddie was at the corner, antisocial as ever, sipping from her cup when she was jerking off from her seat. ¡°Ladies, I think¡­¡±


    BOOM!

 Chapter 52

    Maddie had been training for an alpha; well, she obviously had the skill it took to be considered one, and all her training had been centered on being alert.


    It was not surprising that she was the first to notice the strange happenings around the mansion. She has been trained to rely on her senses more than anything.


    That was why, when her ears prickled from the rustle of the leaves far away, she knew that trouble was looming.


    But it was toote; no sooner as she stood up to alert them of the impending doom, the explosive device struck the wall with a loud thud before detonating.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Screams went off as the st ripped through the air, shattering windows and sending shards of ss raining down inside the room.


    ¡°Ariel!¡± Voices yelled for their Luna, but it was drowned out by the noise of another explosion, urring almost simultaneously. The sound of the detonation echoed through their surroundings, their ears ringing from the sound that followed.


    Ariel stood with wobbly knees, her body bathed in the sand that had been flying about. Her unsteady knees finally gave way as the building¡¯s walls shook, its foundations trembling beneath the force of the explosions, and she copsed to the floor.


    Ariel shut her eyes closed, wrapping her arms around herself and tucking her in a protective covering from the debris that was scattered everywhere.


    Tiny bricks cut off from the main building fell on her, cutting her up, and she was sure that would hurt as hellter, but she couldn¡¯t care. All she was concerned about was making sure she stayed alive.


    ¡°Ariel!¡± She could barely make her name out of the chaos that was going on, but she refused to look up. ¡°Ariel! We need to hide.¡±


    She felt hands grab at her from every angle, pulling her up into a standing position, and when she raised her head, she was met with the worried look of Maddie.


    She had been the worst hit; she was nearest to the door when the explosion happened, and she was covered in little scraps and bruises, but they were already healing right in her eyes.


    ¡°Maddie?¡± Ariel shook her head,ing back to her senses, and she looked around her, scanning the faces of the women around her.


    ¡°We need to hide now; the door is locked, but it is barely holding up, and it wouldn¡¯t take long before they gain ess.¡±


    ¡°Mmmm.¡± Everything was a blur to Ariel; she was still trying to process all that had happened.


    ¡°Liza? Denise? ire? Dinah?¡± Ariel was listing the names of the people she would remember, their safety onlying first to her.


    ¡°Ariel? Are you even listening to me?¡± Maddie was ncing between Ariel and the door. Her ears could pick up their footsteps that were fast approaching here, and it wasn¡¯t going to take long before they got to the door.


    ¡°Liza?¡± Ariel continued, craning her neck as she searched for her pack members.


    ¡°Ariel!¡± Maddie grabbed her by her shoulders, shaking her roughly to juggle her memory. ¡°We need to hide.¡±


    ¡°Hide?¡± Ariel asked like it was a foreign word. ¡°No, I need to be there for the pack; they need me. We need to fight and¡­¡± She staggered from the rumblings, but Maddie was quick to catch her.


    ¡°There is nothing you can do here. I understand that you are the Luna and that you have a responsibility to the pack, but even this is too much for you. No one would fault you for hiding.¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Ariel shook her head so hard that her hair was spraying the sand that had stuck to her. ¡°I need to protect them; I need to¡­¡±


    ¡°Ariel!¡± Maddie¡¯s firm voice cut her. ¡°Look around you. I said, Look!¡±


    Ariel angled her so she could have better ess to the crowd; the air was still cloudy from the dust particles that hung about, and the falling wood and the stones had ruined the beautiful ambiance, but above all, they were fine.


    ¡°We are werewolves; we are stronger and heal faster than you. I am not mincing words when I say you are the weakest here and you will only slow us down; the only thing you can do is to hide.¡± One thing about Maddie was that she was blunt, and Ariel was just learning about it.


    She was cringing with each word she said, but Ariel had to admit there was truth in it.


    Bang!


    The door exploded inward with a deafening bang, and the women all turned mechanical with bated breath as they looked at their downfall.


    ¡°They areing; you need to hide now! Liza, take Luna, and hide.¡± Maddie was already pushing Ariel towards Liza, and thetter grabbed her hands and ran towards God knows where.


    ¡°No, leave me alone; I need to fight.¡± Ariel protested, cking her body so Liza wouldn¡¯t be able to drag her. ¡°I need to help.¡±


    ¡°Ariel! You need to be reasonable now; you are only going to be a nuisance if you go out there and they don¡¯t show mercy to you. We are better off hiding and letting the warriors handle it.¡±


    The shock at which Liza had talked to her shocked her so much that she stood still, trying to process that this was in fact the quiet Liza.


    ¡°Here.¡± Liza was pulling her towards a room she had no idea existed. The stale air was covered with ayer of dust, indicating that it hadn¡¯t been used.


    But that wasn¡¯t even surprising.


    Liza was leading her towards a in wall, and they stopped in front of it. Before Ariel could scold her for bringing them to a dead end, she kicked the wall.


    ¡°Oh my!¡± Ariel didn¡¯t know when she released a gasp, covering her mouth almost immediately. She didn¡¯t have time to recover before Liza pulled her inside, and the wall slid back to its position.


    Ariel was very observant of an underground tunnel, but she has no idea that one has been sitting under her nose. They took the stairs, and with each step they took, the light flickered on, turning off when they were out of sight.


    The stairs led to a dark room, and Ariel clutched Liza a little tighter. The air was damp and stale, quite unlike the room above, and it was heavy with the scent of damp soil and mold.


    Ariel cast her eyes around the dark room, and she swallowed the saliva that had pooled in her mouth. She heard the whooshing of air around her, and she was shielding her face away as the light turned on.


    There was nothing special about the room. The cold gray concrete was a contrast to the marble floor upstairs. Even the walls were unpainted, and the red bricks were very visible.


    It was exactly as it should be-just a room for emergencies, and it had been stocked up with the essential things. She could see, from the corner of her eyes, bottles of water stacked high along with canned food and other edibles that couldst a long time.


    There were mattresses covered with ayer of dust and wooden chairs lying around.


    If it were in another situation, she would have appreciated the thoughtfulness, but right now she was only worried about her packmates upstairs.


    Ariel had never felt so helpless or useless in her life. They were upstairs, fighting for their lives and hers too, and she was running for safety with her tail between her legs.


    Liza must have read her mind because she gently squeezed her hands, and Ariel looked down at the woman she hade to love.


    ¡°What do we do for?¡± The fear was visible in Ariel¡¯s eyes as she looked at Liza, but thetter shrugged, trying but failing to be strong.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. We will just have to pray to the moon goddess and see.

 Chapter 53

    Meanwhile, back upstairs, the battle was just getting started. No sooner had Ariel gone down to hide did they hear another bang on the door and the wooden entrapment burst open, flying off a far range like it was a light board.


    But Maddie was ready.


    She may not have taken this pack as her pack yet, but it was her mate¡¯s pack, and she had a responsibility towards Toby, no matter how much she didn¡¯t want the bond.


    She has been hearing their footsteps, and she counted about seven of them-a huge mistake on their part.


    There was no doubt in her heart that someone had leaked the information that the men had gone away, leaving the women, but they had no idea that the women they had left behind were warriors, save for a few.


    It was going to be an easy win, and Maddie¡¯s lips curled up in a hint of a smile.


    Her blood was already pumping from the adrenaline that was coursing through her system. It had been long since she let out her animalistic side, and she had been wanting to beat up someone.


    Her neck cracked as she twisted it from side to side, and she nced briefly at the women beside her, and they shared a smile.


    It was time to show them why they shouldn¡¯t mess with Maddie.


    Maddie closed her eyes and took a deep breath, inhaling all of the air around her and letting the metallic tang of the blood fuel her passion.


    With all her eyes closed, all her senses were open, and her wolf rushed to the surfaces. Her fingernails lengthened into ws, and her lips slowly parted as her canines extended from her gum.


    There was a deadly air around her and an unnatural calmness as her ears prickled and she grabbed the hands of the man who hade too close.


    It was only the cries of the man who had ventured too deep into the lion¡¯s den that were heard, along with a sickening crunch as his hands twisted in an unnatural way.


    Ariel didn¡¯t give him time to recover as she continued twisting, an animalistic smile making its way to her lips as the scent of blood began to saturate the room and the bone stuck out.


    ¡°You bitch!¡± The man yelled out, spittle flying from his mouth, but Maddie could see through his move, and her fingers were plunging deep into his eyes, plugging out his sockets with her ws.


    The man stumbled and fell on his knees, his head bowed down as blood pooled on the floor before him, and he cried out in a loud voice.


    It was an easy kill; Maddie went for his de in his pocket and was plunging it deep into his heart, twisting it all the way in so that there was no way he was going to survive it.


    She heard a whoosh pass her ears, and she shifted her head, but she was a fraction toote. It was only a tiny sting that was an indication that the de had made contact with her cheeks, but Maddie would never let that mistake happen again.


    Her eyes collided with the culprit, and his pupil widened in recognition of the terror in front of him, but it was toote; his mouth hung open in shock as the knife made contact with his flesh, sinking deep into his heart.


    2 down, five to go.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Maddie looked around her, observing the battle, and she was shaking her head. Whoever had sent the men had greatly underestimated them, and they had sent the least of the warriors.


    They were probably sheltered youths that had lived in their packs and had no knowledge of how tough the outside world could be, and they were no match for the women here.


    Most of them had been rogue at birth or in other circumstances, and they had to do everything it took to survive. The sheltered youths were no match for them, and little by little, they were copsing.


    Maddie stood on the fallen stones, proud and tall, soaking in the atmosphere as their number quickly dwindled. Victory has never felt so easy.


    It was a little disappointing, but it was a good thing.


    It was better if they had an easy victory and no casualties. She may not want to admit it, but she felt a little responsibility towards the pack, and she would do her best to keep it safe until Toby¡¯s return.


    Maddie looked at the women around her, the fallen warriors at their feet, air tainted with blood, but everyone was still standing, and she couldn¡¯t help the smile that came to her lips.


    ¡°We won.¡± She whispered, but the women turned to her, and she repeated it again for their hearing, this time a little louder. ¡°We won!¡±


    ¡°Yeaaaa!¡± The women pumped their hands in the air, Maddie¡¯s words invoking shouts of jubtion and rejoicing from them all.


    But maybe she spoke too soon.


    She heard a faint sound as metal struck the floor, and it erupted in a loud noise even as thick, dense smoke filled the air.


    Maddie cringed at the sound, the continuous ringing disrupting her hearing.


    The air was saturated with a choking, acrid mist, so thick that it made their eyes water, and despite their excellent vision, it was distorted by the thick smoke.


    Maddie had seen this before from her days of fighting; the smoke bomb had been made with werewolves in mind, and it could only mean one thing.


    ¡°Run!¡± Maddie yelled, taking to her heels as she screamed.


    She had gravely underestimated them.


    They had only sent the first batch to ess their strength, and they had their troops already lying and waiting.


    Maddie¡¯s nose red as she sniffed the air; the almost suffocating testosterone and the animalistic growl were indications they had shifted into their wolves.


    ¡°Aahhh.¡± She heard the screams of a female, but they were quickly silenced as a wolf ripped her vocal cord. Another scream could be heard from the far left, and she knew if they didn¡¯t do something, they were all going to die.


    The smoke didn¡¯t seem like it was going to be clearing any moment from now, and it only left one option.


    ¡°Shift!¡±


    Maddie¡¯s change was instant, her body twisting and her bones breaking and realigning as she turned. She weed the change, and soon she was standing on her paws.


    Maddie (now in wolf form) shook her fur, and she was positioned in an attacking stance. In this form, she could see a little better, and the noise had reduced to a loud hiss.


    She saw, from the side of her eyes, a silhouette moving slowly towards her, and Maddie stood still, pretending she couldn¡¯t see or hear.


    When it came too close, she was ready, and she turned, pouncing on the poor, unsuspecting man. She didn¡¯t give him time to react and went for his throat, her canines sinking into it and ripping out his vocal cord.


    Maddie spat out the bloody flesh in front of her, and she raised her paw, bringing it hard to his rib, and it shattered on impact.


    She often loved to torture her victims and drag their deaths for long, but she couldn¡¯t waste time ying with him; instead, she went off his neck, wing it out of his body, and the rest of him fell on the floor like a rag.


    Maddie was moving like she was on autopilot; she had tasted blood, and her wolf wanted more, and more it was going to get.


    She ventured deeper into the smoke, sight or no sight; the scent of the pack members was entirely different from that of the intruders, and she pounced on any suspecting person.


    It was no time for reasoning, just blood.


    Maddie¡¯s fur stood erect as she sensed the man that wasing towards her. The air was charged with every step he took, and there was no doubt he was the leader.


    He wasn¡¯t an alpha, but he was a man whose lips had tasted blood a lot, and he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to kill.


    She knew what she had to do.


    If she killed him, the rest of his followers would lose hope, and the fight would be over.


    She didn¡¯t give him time to think it through before she shed with him, but the wolf had simr intentions as he leaped towards her; she could see the ckness of his eyes and knew it was only one thing that was on his mind.


    Maddie lunged at him with a snarl, her jaw wide open and ready to crash his bones, but the wolf dodged to the side with incredible speed, and he threw his body at her, his weight pushing her to the side.


    Maddie recovered her bnce, and she swiped her ws at him, satisfied as they raked across his chest in a loud tearing sound, but her joy was cut short when the wolf retaliated with a deadly kick on her chest that sent her flying some meters away.


    The smoke had dispersed from the air, and Maddie could see her opponent better. The wolf¡¯s brown fur was matted and had blood dripping from its sides.


    The wolf made to jump, but Maddie saw the opportunity and took it. She leaped on him, and her canines sank into his exposed underbelly.


    The wolf teeth also sunk into her neck, and with each bite, blood dripped from both of them.


    Maddie wasn¡¯t ready to let go, nor was the wolf, but she knew it had to end soon.


    Her teeth mped into his stomach until they met each other, and she tore out his flesh and forcefully freed herself from his hold.


    But it didn¡¯te without a price.


    The wolf was still holding onto her flesh, and it tore out as she ripped herself free, leaving a bloody mess. But Maddie leaped on him, her teeth mping on the soft flesh of his neck, and she dragged it, tearing his neck out of his body, and his remains crumpled on the floor.

 Chapter 54

    Maddie looked down at the crumpled remains of their leader, and she gave an eye signal to the wolves around, and they shifted almost immediately and rounded up all the men, holding a knife to their throats.


    Maddie shifted to her powerful lean frame, not at all ashamed of her skin, but the men turned bright red at her, and they slowly peeled her eyes away from her body.


    Maddie cleared her throat, and she tucked her arms inside herself, standing taller and prouder as she looked at the men. ¡°As you can see, your leader is dead, even though he put up a good fight.¡± And just for effect, Maddie kicked his body, satisfied when it moved a few feet.


    He had long shifted into a human after he kicked the bucket, and if they weren¡¯t enemies, she would have admitted that he was a fine man.


    ¡°You can either turn yourselves in and we will not harm you, or you could continue to prove difficult, and we will not hesitate to cut down on every one of you. Your choice.¡±


    The men all looked at one another; their leader had been sent out of thend of the living, and there was no one else to guide them.


    ¡°You will have to make the choice fast, as there is no time.¡± Maddie nced down at her empty wrist as a sinister smile came to her lips, and she raised her head to meet their eyes. ¡°Or I could choose for you. I am not so good at choosing, though, and I am particrly clumsy.¡± She dragged one of the younger warriors from a female hand and pressed her de into his throat, applying pressure until it broke the skin and the blood leaked down like a faulty tap.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Arghhh¡­¡± Maddie groaned, her handsing up to wipe the blood from her mouth. ¡°I see you don¡¯t want to make any decisions, and I am too hungry to think. It is settled; you are all going to die.¡± She pressed the de harder into his skin, feasting on his frightened cries.


    ¡°W-w-wait, we surrender.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure, because I am sensing a hesitation?¡±


    ¡°We surrender, we promise.¡±


    ¡°Good, you made the right decision.¡± They should have never trusted her. ¡°Ladies. Finish them.¡±


    ¡°W-what¡­¡± Their words were silenced as they met their doom, and Maddie nodded to herself.


    This definitely calls for a celebration.


    ¡°What did you do that for?¡± Denise spoke out, and Maddie shrugged.


    ¡°No reason; it just felt lovely and fun.¡±


    ¡°Fun?¡± Denise inched closer to her, dry trails of blood running along the side of her mouth. ¡°You call unnecessary killing fun? We would have gotten some information from them or even tortured them if they proved unwilling.¡±


    Maddie shrugged her shoulders, and her lips spread in a thin line that annoyed Denise to no end. ¡°It is going to be too stressful trying to get any information from them. I know their kind; they wouldn¡¯t yield, no matter how much you tortured them. They are better off rotting in the earth than upying space.¡±


    ¡°Maddie!¡± Denise¡¯s fingers tightened in a fist, and she turned her re at the culprit.


    ¡°That is enough; you should be thanking me because I just saved your sorry ass. I will not apologize for what I did, and I will personally tell Kane when hees. If you knew it was the right thing to do, why didn¡¯t you speak up?¡± Denise kept quiet. ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°That is not the point.¡± Denise murmured under her breath. She couldn¡¯t tell Maddie that the reason she had been reluctant to speak out was because of the aura that filled the room.


    Maddie was a born leader, and it showed in the way she carried herself, and from the moment she decided to lead the pack, she was untouchable.


    ¡°There is no reason then, so it is settled. We need to look for a way to dispose of their bodies properly.¡± Maddie mused, looking from one warrior to another.


    ¡°We could throw them in the woods.¡± Someone suggested, but Maddie tilted her head slightly to the side as she considered the option, and she was shaking her head.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so; their deaths will be in vain. I have a better idea.¡± Her smile widened as she faced them, and the women took a step backward, not sure they were going to like her idea.


    A few minutester, Maddie was standing in front of the entrance-well, what was once considered the entrance-and she looked up at her handiwork, grinning from ear to ear.


    ¡°I think I am going to puke.¡± One of the warriors nced at the mangled bodies, hanging on a rope tied to the house, and she was rushing to the side, throwing out her lunch.


    Maddie¡¯s facial muscles contorted in a frown as she heard the retching sound, and she shook her head. ¡°This should ease off any invader, at least until Kane returns. I think it is time to fetch your Luna.¡±


    ***


    Ariel clutched the arms of her friend in a tight grip, only their lips moving as they murmured some prayer.


    ¡°I-I t-think someone is cing.¡± Liza managed to stammer out before tucking her head into Ariel¡¯s embrace.


    It was only so much that the poor omega could bear.


    ¡°Who is that?¡± Ariel asked, surprised at the steadiness of her voice, but she knew she had to step up as Luna.


    ¡°I am not sure, but¡­¡± She stiffened as she sniffed the air. ¡°I think I smell blood.¡±


    ¡°Blood?¡± Ariel grew pale at the word, and she swallowed even though her throat was drier than the Sahara. Her grip on the knife that she had managed to snag from the kitchen tightened, and her hands were raised up, ready to strike.


    A chill ran down her spine as the pounding on the stairs got closer, her heart racing like she had just run a marathon even though she had barely moved.


    ¡°Fuck youuuuu!¡± Ariel screamed as she threw the knife blindly, not caring if it hit the target or not, before she took to her heels.


    ¡°It is I, Luna.¡± The voice of her pack member reached her, and she paused in her run, turning to look at her.


    ¡°Louisa?¡± The once-slenderdy with bright blue eyes that always sparkled with a hint of innocence was barely recognizable with blood running down her body.


    ¡°Yes, it is Louisa. We won.¡±


    ¡°Oh my!¡± A gasp left her mouth, and she was running towards thedy, hugging her to her bosom as she got to her, blood and all. ¡°Louisa. You are alive.¡± Ariel tried to sniff the tears in, but they kept running down her eyes.


    Liza joined them in the embrace, and their tears ran freely until they couldn¡¯t any longer, and they parted from each other, cleaning their wet eyes with the back of their palms.


    ¡°What happened to the others? Maddie?¡±


    ¡°They are upstairs, or what is left upstairs. The pack house ispletely ruined.¡±


    ¡°It is okay; as long as we are alive, that is all that matters. Take me to them.¡± Louisa led the way up until they got to the surface, and she could barely contain her shock.


    She could see from the corner of her eyes that Maddie was dishing instructions, and she ran towards her, their bodies colliding with each other as she embraced her.


    ¡°Maddie, you are alive.¡±


    ¡°Tch, like I would die now.¡± She counted to three before she was shrugging Ariel from her hold. ¡°Unhand me.¡±


    ¡°Sorry,¡± Ariel said, giving her a sheepish smile. ¡°I am just happy you are alive. What do we do now?¡± Ariel asked as she surveyed the ruins.


    Maddie shrugged her shoulders. ¡°I don¡¯t know. I guess we just wait for their return.¡±

 Chapter 55

    And wait, they did.


    The first thing they had done was round up the people that had remained. They had lost four women to the fight, and it took everything in Ariel not to puke as she saw their battered bodies.


    They had wrapped them in Saran Wrap, and Ariel monitored them closely as they went out and conducted a proper burial for them.


    They had buried them in the spacious garden in the back yard, and as they lowered them to the ground, Ariel couldn¡¯t help the overflowing tears.


    She had failed her pack and, most especially, Kane.


    How was she going to face him when he came?


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Ariel shivered as she felt a weight on her shoulders, and she turned her head to the side to see Liza squeezing her shoulders. Her eyes were still moist and reddened from all the crying.


    ¡°It will be fine.¡± Liza whispered to her, Luna, trying to give herfort, but even she didn¡¯t believe her words.


    ¡°Luna? Psst, Luna, you have to make a speech.¡± Someone tapped Ariel on her back, and her mouth opened in a silent ¡®O¡¯, and she took two steps forward.


    ¡°Uhmmm, honestly, I don¡¯t know what to say. But I know you all fought bravely until the end, and it is a pity you had to go so soon. I assure you that your legacy will continue to live on, and we will never forget our sacrifice. May you all rest in peace.¡± The speech had been impromptu and as haphazard as it could get; her thoughts were too scattered right now topose something better, and that should do.


    Ariel took a step back and let them lower them into the freshly dug graves, flinching each time they threw a shovel full of sand into their graves.


    But it was all over, and they all filed out of the garden quietly into themon room, or what themon room was.


    Ariel¡¯s eyes swept through the entire length of the room, and she released a ragged breath.


    ¡°What do we do now, Luna?¡±


    ¡°We clean up as best as we can, and we wait for the alpha¡¯s return.¡± She surveyed the site again before she began to dish out instructions on how the cleanup was going to proceed. ¡°Sofia, Emily, Harper, Grace, Penelope, Hazel, Amelia, Mia, and Olivia, you all will be in charge of packing the stones and any heavy lifting to make it easier for cleanup. Maddie will supervise you. And I will be in charge of the cleanup along with the rest of the girls. Any objections?¡±


    Ariel turned her gaze to the women, making sure to look at them eyeball to eyeball, but none could hold her gaze, and she nodded her head. ¡°Good, we start now, and we work, taking breaks every three hours.¡±


    ¡°Yes Luna.¡± They all chorused before heading to their various activities.


    Ariel watched as Maddie took charge of thedies that were under her, directing them on how to start the cleaning up, before she led her group to the storage room to get the material they were going to need for their cleaning.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    They set to work, starting in the kitchen, which was the least affected. Kane had done enough good work on the building that most of it was still standing, even though it had taken multiple hits.


    The clean-up was rather dull and sorrowful; no one made jokes or even tried to lighten the mood. They were all in their thoughts, and Ariel left them to it.


    The three hours rolled by quite quickly, but none of them was willing to take a break. They had all decided to continue cleaning until they no longer had strength, and for once, Ariel didn¡¯tin.


    His thoughts were on Kane, wondering how he was doing and if he was even alive. For the months that she had lived with them, she had believed they were untouchable, but she knew better now.


    ¡°I think we should take a break; it is already dusk, and we must be starving.¡± Ariel looked at the faces of her dejected pack mates, most of them looking like they had had their souls sucked out, and they all nodded mechanically like robots.


    Dinner was nothing fancy, just instant noddles with rich, spicy broth that made her tear up, although she wasn¡¯t sure the tears were only because of the spice.


    They all huddled together in the training room, the next biggest room after themon room, and theyid their sleeping bags together, but none of them could fall asleep for fear that they could be attacked.


    ¡°I was thrown out of my pack when my mate died, and his parents linked his death to mine.¡± A voice rang out in the silence, and everyone turned to look at the owner. ¡°No amount of pleading would make them believe I had no part in his death, and my parents were sucking up to his just because they were our alpha¡¯s. I had no choice but to be a rogue, and that was when I met Kane.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s ears perked up at the mention of Kane, and she became still.


    ¡°Kane¡¯s ways may not exactly be right, but I have seen him pull through even in difficult circumstances, and I decided I was going to follow him wherever. He may not always make the best decision, but he has a reason for it, and it will be revealed very soon.¡±


    Ariel wasn¡¯t sure if the woman had an aim for telling her story, but it felt like she was speaking to her. And for the briefest of moments, their eyes met, and something passed between them.


    ¡°I became a rogue because of my mate. Well, they raided my pack, and I had no choice but to follow them.¡± One by one, the women began to tell their stories in the candlelight; even Maddie had something to say until it got to Ariel¡¯s turn.


    ¡°Luna, you have never mentioned how you got to know the alpha.¡±


    ¡°Honestly, I am not so sure, but Kane rescued me when I was younger. I guess he knew I was his mate, and he sent me out of the country to finish my schooling, and when I came back here, I became his mate.¡± Ariel exined, but she couldn¡¯t shake off the eyes that had been watching her.


    There was some intelligence behind those brown eyes that told her that they probably knew more than she did, and she knew she had to confront them.


    ¡°I am jealous. I have never been to Australia, not even out of the state.¡± Ady¡¯s whine disrupted her thoughts, and Ariel gave the owner of the voice an ¡®are you serious¡¯ face, and she shrugged.


    ¡°Me too. I have never been out of the country.¡±


    ¡°Me too.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so shocked, Luna. Werewolves are very territorial creatures, and they are quite attached to their ce of birth or locality. There is rarely any need to travel out of the country, and many of us haven¡¯t even seen a ne.¡±


    ¡°Ahh, I see.¡±


    With nothing to talk about again, thedies fell silent, and one after the other, they closed their eyes to sleep.


    The next day was no better; they continued from where they had stopped, and this time they cleaned with renewed vigor.


    The sooner they got rid of the blood stains on the floor, the sooner they could move past all that had happened.


    The cleaning took about 3 days, and on the fourth day, themon room was looking somewhat habitable and spotless, except for therge gaping hole where the door used to be. Everything was the same.


    Except the men weren¡¯t back from their hunt.


    ording to the older members of the park, this was the longest they had gone, and with each day that Ariel sat watching the clock, the more she grew worried.


    She had crept up at Maddie on one of those days where she had been sharpening her knife, but thetter didn¡¯t even acknowledge her presence. It had been difficult to get close to her after the invasion, and she had reduced her talking to the bare minimum.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Ariel offered her a smile, but it dropped as she saw the look on Maddie¡¯s face.


    ¡°If Toby doesn¡¯te back in the next two days, I am going to go out and look for him.¡± Maddie left no room for questions because she was already walking out, and Ariel could only stare at her retreating back, wondering if she could follow her.


    The next day, Ariel sat on the stool in the kitchen, sipping her second cup of coffee while clutching her head in pain.


    She needed caffeine in her system.


    The nightmares have resumed in full force, and nothing she did was helpful; right now, it was only Kane that could help.


    She ced her cup on the coaster and lowered her head to the counter, willing herself to go to sleep when she heard her name.


    ¡°Ariel?¡±

 Chapter 56

    ¡°Ariel?¡±


    A voice echoed from the figment of her imagination, and Ariel shook her head, adjusting herself to sleep well.


    She had been thinking of Kane so much that she was imagining his voice.


    She had made a promise to herself that she was never going to let him go when she next saw him, if she saw him.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± The voice was a lot closer than before, and Ariel turned her head in time to see her mate running towards her.


    She didn¡¯t give it any thought as she flung the cup of coffee she had been cradling, and she was running towards him.


    ¡°Kane.¡± Ariel cried out as she collided into him, wrapping her legs around him. The force of her jump made him stagger a little, but Kane was quick to regain his momentum, and he held her tight.


    ¡°Ariel.¡±


    ¡°Kane.¡± Her voice croaked as she called his name, and she wrapped her hands around his neck tight enough to dispel every doubt she had. He was real and in the flesh.¡±You are back.¡± She sighed into his neck, and she angled her face to his neck, taking a long sniff of his scent just to convince herself that it was truly him.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Staying with werewolves had rubbed off on her because she was sniffing him everywhere and she could perceive the stale blood on his skin, the sweat and grime, but underneath thoseyers she could perceive him, his musk that was solely him, and itforted a little part of her.


    ¡°Ariel.¡± Kane was doing the same, his cold nose rubbing the skin of her neck and taking in her scent while his hands rubbed circles on her back.


    She couldn¡¯t help the tears that fell down her eyes; it was a natural reaction, and she closed her eyes, resting her face on the crook of his neck.


    Ariel wasn¡¯t sure how long they stayed in that position, just inhaling each other¡¯s scent and breathing each other in.


    Ariel could pretty much remain in his hold forever, and she would be satisfied, but the loud p of slippers on the stairs distracted them, and they both turned their heads to see Liza running towards them and holding her bouncing boobs in her hand.


    ¡°The m-men have arrived.¡± She said it in one breath, her head bent low as she tried to catch her breath. ¡°Alpha.¡± Liza whipped up her head so fast as she caught the familiar scent, and Ariel could see her body sag in relief.


    ¡°Liza.¡±


    ¡°Alpha, you are back.¡± Ariel reluctantly tangled herself from her mate, and she watched as Kane motioned to her and Liza came closer to him.


    She didn¡¯t know what she was expecting, but she didn¡¯t expect Kane to nuzzle her in his arms as you would a little child.


    The lid containing her jealousy rattled, and her fingers balled into a fist as she looked at their interactions closely.


    Liza¡¯s eyes were closed, and Kane was talking in her ears in low tunes.


    Then it clicked in her head.


    She could remember that he had said something like she was an omega, and they don¡¯t do well alone. They need an alpha to guide them, and she couldn¡¯t imagine how she must have been feeling.


    ¡°I am so selfish.¡± Ariel whispered under her breath. She had never considered how the others were doing without their alphas and mates.


    She should have done a better job as Luna; hell, Kane had left her in charge, but she only managed to whine like a weak bitch.


    The goosebumps on her arms told her that she was being watched, and she looked up, her eyes connecting with Kane, and he shook his hair.


    ¡°Don¡¯t.¡±


    Their little show was disrupted by the various sounds of footstepsing towards them in all directions.


    The warriors ran into the room just as the women came down from the stairs; screams apanied their arrivals.


    It was an excitement galore as everyone hugged, mates holding themselves so tight that Ariel was afraid they would risk strangtion.


    Even the beta wasn¡¯t left out.


    A small smile left her lips as she saw the couple. Maddie had extended her hand for a handshake, but Toby had rejected it and pulled her into his arms, crushing her with his body.


    She didn¡¯t seem to mind, though, given the huge smile on her face.


    Ariel looked at the people she hade to know as family, love swelling in her heart, and she sniffed, the tears slowly leaving her eyes.


    She shivered as she felt a familiar touch on her hand, and she looked up as Kane squeezed her hand.


    ¡°It is alright; I am here now.¡±


    His words were enough to calm the raging storm in her mind, and she leaned towards him, standing on her tiptoes and pressing a kiss on his lips.


    ¡°I love you.¡±


    ¡°I love you, baby.¡±


    ***


    The warriors had quickly settled in, although no one had said anything about what had happened. Instead, they had all gone to freshen up while the women that had been around prepared food for the feast.


    The warriors had brought back some games from their hunt, and they were currently cooking. It was a literal meat party.


    Some of the game had been boiled, some roasted, microwaved, and made into soups. Anything that could be done to meat was done, and the aroma filled the kitchen, making her stomach rumble.


    There wasn¡¯t much for her to do, and as other women had pretty much taken charge of everything, she only helped set the table and transport the drinks and alcohol.


    They all gathered around the table and sat down for their meal, with Kane sitting in the center and Ariel and Toby taking their seats on his right and left, respectively, while the rest followed suit ording to hierarchy.


    The table was filled with the ngs of cutlery and small talks. For the first time in a while, they were all smiling as they ate, and the warriors recounted their fun adventures.


    They had finished their meal, and everyone had a bottle or a ss in their hands, taking little sips of their drinks. Kane tapped his ss with the fork, and everyone turned to meet him.


    ¡°Care to exin why there are dead men in front of my pack and a gaping hole where the door used to be?¡± A cold shiver ran down her spine as she heard the anger in his words, but Ariel knew better; his anger wasn¡¯t directed towards them but towards the action and the perpetrators.


    ¡°We were attacked.¡± Kane nced at his mate, and Ariel gulped. ¡°I think Maddie would be in a better position to exin it.¡±


    ¡°Maddie?¡± Maddie¡¯s eyes narrowed as she looked at Ariel, angry that she had been out on the spot but had no choice but to talk.


    ¡°It happened that¡­¡± Maddie began to recount everything that happened, not failing to describe gruesomely how she killed their leader and hung his remains along with his men outside.


    Kane listened with rapt attention, his jaw clenched and his veins on his neck clearly visible, and every once in a while he nodded to himself, but he never interrupted her until she finished.


    ¡°What do you suggest we do?¡± Ariel asked, angling his neck, to watch him closely. She wanted to reach out and hold his hand, smoothing it, but she wasn¡¯t sure he would appreciate it in this moment.


    ¡°We need to leave.¡±


    ¡°W-what?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes widened as she tried to process what she had just heard.


    ¡°We need to leave.¡±

 Chapter 57

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand. Why should we leave? You all just came back from a hunt, and you have barely settled down. Surely you are not thinking of leaving so soon? When would youe back? What if they attack again?¡± The words gushed out of her mouth like a faulty faucet, and it was only when Kane¡¯s hands reached to squeeze her that she was calming down.


    ¡°You misunderstand me, love. I mean we all need to leave this ce.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡± Ariel shifted in her seat, not used to being called love in the midst of so many people. ¡°Why should we leave? This is our home.¡±


    A little smile came to Kane¡¯s lips at her admission that she had taken the pack as her home, but he shook his head.


    ¡°No, I mean, we will all leave. Our location has beenpromised, and even if we rebuild it, there is no doubt they are going toe back for us. One of the reasons we have been untouchable is also because we are invincible.¡±


    Ariel nodded her head as the picture became clearer, but she couldn¡¯t imagine leaving everything behind and going somewhere strange.


    ¡°I understand your point, but where can we go? There is obviously no pack that would want to house us except you have a ce that could magically amodate us.¡±


    Kane tilted his head to the side, cocking his eyebrow, and Ariel looked at him with squinted eyes. ¡°No, you can¡¯t possibly¡­¡±This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°We have been scouting for a suitable ce for a long time, as the pack has been growing rapidly and we needed a bigger ce that could amodate us all. Our pack hasn¡¯t exactly been child-friendly, given that it is a rogue pack, but a lot of us have been finding our mates and would expect to start raising families. It is only right that we get somece better and more secure.¡±


    ¡°Wow.¡± Ariel didn¡¯t know when the words left her mouth, but her respect for Kane only skyrocketed.


    The man always has a n, even for the unseen future.


    She had never thought about raising a family-a mini version of her and Kane-and the thought wasn¡¯t bad, but he was right.


    They needed a ce that was better and more suitable for a baby.


    ¡°Alright, when are we packing? Oh my gosh, is it immediately?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes widened into a full moon as she looked at him, and she heard a burst ofughter around her.


    ¡°Of course not, darling. We just came back, and we would need to put some things in ce, but it would be sooner than you expect.¡± Kane turned his gaze to the people. ¡°Does anyone have anything else to say?¡±


    Everyone looked at themselves, and they were shaking their heads.


    ¡°Good, I wasn¡¯t even in the mood to answer any questions.¡± The chairs squealed as he stood up. ¡°Now if you would excuse me, I have a lot of catching up to do with my mate.¡±


    Ariel grew bright red from his words, and she turned her face away, trying to evade their watchful eyes, but a squeal was leaving her lips as her mate reached down and carried her.


    ¡°Dennis and Den, you are both in charge of the patrol. No one should call for us till tomorrow because we are going to be very busy.¡±


    ¡°Kane!¡± Ariel pped his shoulder, but the guy knew no shame; instead, he began to walk in the direction of their room.


    ¡°You have no idea how much I have missed you.¡± Kane mused as he took the stairs, his breath barely increasing even with her weight. ¡°I was always thinking about you, how you were faring, and wondering if I would have a chance to hold you again.¡±


    Ariel leaned into his hold, resting her head on his chest, and she closed her eyes, his steady heartbeatforting her.


    ¡°I have missed you so much.¡± She whispered under her breath, but nothing could get past Kane¡¯s sensitive ears, and he lowered himself until his lips were mere inches from her forehead and gave her a quick kiss.


    Kane opened the door, and he was kicking it close with his legs, gently lowering her to the bed. He turned his back to her, his fingers busy with his clothes as he unbuttoned his shirt.


    But he felt a warmth behind him as Ariel hugged him from behind, and he was melting.


    These were the little things he had missed when he was away. Her touch never failed to ignite something in him, and this time, the mes seemed to burn a little brighter.


    ¡°I have missed touching you like this.¡± Ariel said, her voice sinfully low and just too hot for him to handle. She wrapped her hands around his torso, helping him undo his buttons.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to y this game.¡± Kane warned, his eyes following her hands as she continued to trial a little lower, leaving light touches in her wake.


    ¡°And if I want to? What can you do? Are you going to spank me?¡±


    Something in Kane¡¯s body jerked at her words, and he was very sure it wasn¡¯t his hands.


    He turned his body until he was facing her, and he pulled the shirt from his body, flinging it to an unknown part of the room.


    Kane wasted no time in removing his pants until he was left in only his boxer-a ck one, nothing fancy-but Ariel was looking at it like it was her favorite food.


    He could literally see her eyeballs popping out, and his lips tugged upwards in a smile. ¡°Like what you see?¡±


    ¡°Like?¡± Ariel broke into a shortugh, and she shook her head. ¡°Babe, I am in love with everything about you. Especially this.¡± She lowered her hands into his boxers and slowly wrapped her fingers around his length.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± Kane hissed as he felt the warmth around him, his cock jerking as she moved her hands around his length.


    It had been so long since he felt soft hands around him, and only her touch was already making him go crazy with lust.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think it is unfair that I am the only one without clothes?¡± Kane asked, his hands wrapping around her and unzipping the dress until it pooled at her feet.


    He was unhooking her bra, and her underwear followed suit on the floor until she waspletely bare.


    Kane¡¯s breath hitched as he beheld the work of art in front of him, the pink hardened bud calling to him like butterflies to nectar, and he went for it.


    He held the nipple, rolling it between his thumb and his forefingers. ¡°Ahh.¡± Ariel cried out as he applied pressure to the bud, not expecting the pleasure and pain that apanied it.


    ¡°Sensitive, are we?¡± Kane teased her, gently rolling the nipple, and he lowered his head, enveloping her breast in his mouth.


    ¡°You are one to talkahhhh.¡± Ariel closed her eyes, her legs going weak from the pleasure that was coursing within her.


    But she couldn¡¯t lose this battle.


    Her hand was finding its way inside his boxer, wrapping around the familiar warmth, only this time it had grown bigger, and she couldn¡¯t close her fingers around him.


    She swiped at the tip of his cock, using his pre-cum as lube and rubbing it all over his length. She was quick to find the rhythm that made him go crazy, and she moved her fingers slowly along his length.


    They both closed his eyes, losing themselves to the sensation. His suckling was bing louder and sloppier, saliva pooling on the floor between then and her strokes, bolder and sloppier.


    Until¡­


    ¡°Wait.¡± Kane cried out, holding out his hands to put a distance between them. ¡°I need a minute before I burst.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that the aim?¡± There was a hint of a smile on Ariel¡¯s face.


    ¡°I know, but I want to cum in you. I have been saving it for you, and I need you to take everything until you are filled and my cum is dripping out of your cunt.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s eyes rolled back at his words, and she squeezed her thighs together, embarrassed by the amount of juice that gushed out of her in the derivative world.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Her voice was only a whisper.


    ¡°I can¡¯t hear you, love. You will have to use your words; do you want me to fill you up?¡±


    ¡°Yes alpha. I need you to fill me with your cum.¡± Ariel murmured, her gaze on him.


    ¡°Your wish is mymand.¡±

 Chapter 58

    Ariel slowly opened her eyes, her sight still foggy and hazy from waking up. She stretched her limbs and hands, loving the softness of her bed and the cozy warmth of her nket.


    Her skin tingled from her pairs of brown eyes that had been watching her closely, and she looked up to meet his gaze. The culprit¡¯s lips pulled up in a soft smile, and he looked at her with such love that her heart almost exploded.


    ¡°Have you been watching me all this time? Isn¡¯t that the quality of a pervert?¡± Ariel teased him, but she was rushing to his warmth as he motioned to her, snuggling into his warmth.


    ¡°Good morning, beautiful.¡± Kane whispered, nting a kiss at the top of her head. ¡°How was your night?¡±


    ¡°It was perfect,¡± Ariel sighed as the memories ofst night came rushing back. She was sore down there, but deliciously sore, and she wouldn¡¯t have wanted it any other way. ¡°I have missed you so much.¡± Ariel¡¯s voice was barely above a whisper as she spoke, brushing her hair back to see his face better.


    ¡°I missed you too, my love.¡± Kane mused, snuggling into her. ¡°I didn¡¯t think it would take as long as we did.¡±


    ¡°It is fine; you are here, and that is all that matters. Do you have to work today?¡±


    ¡°No, today is strictly for us. We could watch Netflix and chill with some popcorn and white wine. How does that sound? Or we could go out on a fancy date. It is your choice.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel looked at him through hershes as she gave it some thought. ¡°A date wouldn¡¯t be bad, but I don¡¯t think I can bring myself to leave this bed today.¡±


    ¡°It can be arranged.¡± And Kane was standing up, and he hooked his hands around her neck and the back of her knees, and he was carrying her up.


    ¡°Kannee¡­¡± Ariel shrieked in excitement, the sudden movement startling her. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Kane cocked an eyebrow, a hint of a smile escaping from his lips. ¡°What do you think I am doing?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know; you tell me.¡± Her hands circled his neck in a tight grip, not ready to kiss the earth.


    ¡°I am going to have a bath with the most beautiful woman I know, then we would snuggle back in bed and watch Netflix, maybe do a little bit of exploration.¡± There was a deadly glint as he listed out his thoughts, but it only got Ariel excited.


    Kane had turned on the tap, and as the water began to fill the tub, he helped her undress. There wasn¡¯t much there was to it. She had worn his shirt after their sessionst night, and Kane easily slid the shirt over her body, making sure to caress her skin.


    Kane lowered her gently into the tub of warm water, and he entered, taking his ce behind her. The relief was immediate as he felt the knot and the tension loosening as he rxed in the water, and he couldn¡¯t help the sigh that left him.


    The couple sat in silence, letting the warm water work its magic, until Ariel broke the silence. ¡°Have you gotten permission from the alpha king to move to this new ce?¡±


    ¡°It was useless asking him in the first ce. Mason was right; we are rogues, and we shouldn¡¯t be taking orders from them. It is better this way; he doesn¡¯t have to know where we are.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Kane asked, angling his mate so she could face him. ¡°I am sensing some hesitation within you.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know; I don¡¯t just think we are making the right decision. We are literally uprooting everyone from where they are known to somewhere unknown. People don¡¯t do so well with changes.¡±


    ¡°You have forgotten that we are rogues; we are wanderers. We were never meant to settle in a ce.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t expect me to know that.¡± Ariel said under her breath, and she was sure Kane could hear her, but he ignored thement and instead focused on washing her.


    The rest of the bath was a quiet affair, as they were both absorbed in their thoughts. They decided the bath was over when the water began to get cold, and they went to the room, drying themselves clean.


    The couple had worn their clothes, and they went back to bed, cuddling into each other as their gaze was fixated on the screen as thetest series yed.


    Kane had sent someone up with a bowl of popcorn, but their mouths were moving faster than the time they were using to watch the movie, and the once-filled bowl was only a little above a quarter full.


    ¡°Have you given any thoughts about Maddie?¡± Ariel suddenly asked, her focus barely leaving the moving objects on the screen.


    ¡°What about her?¡± Kane asked offhandedly, throwing a handful of the salted popcorn in his mouth. He was rather fixated on the movie-a first for him.


    ¡°Really?¡± Ariel rolled her eyes, annoyed with his attitude. ¡°I was suggesting that you make her the beta in ce of Mason.¡±


    ¡°We have already spoken about this, and I have given you my opinion on the issue and that we should forget about the topic.¡±


    ¡°I know, but that was before the whole incident with the pack.¡± Kane opened his mouth to talk, but Ariel ced a finger on his lips, hushing him. ¡°Just listen to me.¡±


    ¡°Go on.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think anyone is better suited for the position than Maddie; she had shown greatmitment to the pack during thest battle, and I am sure she would risk everything to protect the pack. Plus, she is Toby¡¯s mate, and he would like it; just think about it. It would be the best decision you will make.¡±


    ¡°Are you through?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Ariel mumbled, the words swallowed in her mouth.


    ¡°I have already told you what I think about Maddie, and I don¡¯t care howmitted she is to the pack; she is not going to be the beta.¡±


    ¡°But she fought with¡­¡±


    ¡°She fought with the pack? Is that an excuse to hand over the pack to an enemy? Have you ever considered that it may even be her handiwork? She was once in a pack, and who knows if she had asked them toe to test out our strength?¡±Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think Maddie is like that; she is Toby¡¯s mate; surely she wouldn¡¯t want to destroy his pack.¡±


    ¡°That is the thing about you. You always want to believe everyone has a little good in them. Then you will keep pushing buttons without knowing when to stop. This is not a human world. This is different, and you have to know that. There are wicked people in this world, and the earlier you know that fact, the better your chance of survival.¡±


    ¡°But I was just¡­¡± Kane gave her no chance to defend herself.


    ¡°Have you even asked her if she wanted the position? Have you forgotten she was in the lineup for the potential alpha? Surely it would be an insult to suggest that to such a high-ranking wolf.¡±


    ¡°Kane I¡­¡±


    ¡°I just came back from rather stressful work, and I wanted a day alone with my mate to catch up and make up for the lost hours, but you have managed to ruin the mood, and I don¡¯t think I can¡¯t stay.¡± Kane stood up from the bed, but Ariel reached for his shorts before he could slip from her hands.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    Did he notice the panic in her voice?


    ¡°I think I have some work to do in the office.¡± Kane hissed, removing his shorts from her hold, and he walked out the door.


    Ariel stared at the empty space he had once upied, the scent of his cologne still lingering, and she shook her head.


    ¡°Great!¡±


    She had managed to turn what was supposed to be a romantic movie date into a fight, but was she exactly at fault?


    Surely there must be a reason he was so opposed to Maddie taking over the pack; none of the excuses he had given made sense, and she was going to do everything it takes to find out the truth.

 Chapter 59

    Ariel looked at the space he had once upied, and she let out a loud groan. She should have followed him out, but she was reluctant to do so; hell, he had been the one in the wrong, and she wasn¡¯t going to apologize for something that wasn¡¯t her fault.


    She decided spending the time in her room was enough to pass the time, plus udia helped that it wasn¡¯t so boring.


    Ariel had felt a pang of guilt as she called her best friend. Was she even worthy to bear the title? So much had been going on in her life that she had barely had time to call or even pick up her calls.


    But udia was literally the sweetest ray of sunshine, and she didn¡¯t make trouble with the fact; instead, she had proceeded to give her a breakdown of how chaotic her life had been and, of course, a new boy.


    Was it a udia story if there wasn¡¯t boy trouble?


    The rest of the day went by, and she was confined to her room as she had nothing to do.


    In between waiting for Kane, she had dozed off on the bed and was only waking up when she heard the door creak.


    ¡°Kane?¡± Ariel stirred in her sleep, raising her head up to look at the intruder. ¡°Why are youing back sote?¡± She sniffed the air and was recoiling at the strong stench of alcohol. ¡°Wait, are you drunk?¡±


    ¡°A little. I needed to clear my head for a moment.¡± Ariel sat up, watching him undress until he was only left in his shorts. ¡°I am sorry about what happened earlier. I understand you are concerned about the pack, but Maddie cannot be the beta, and I suggest we justpletely forget about the idea.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I guess so.¡± Ariel had no choice but toply. It was his pack, and he knew more about this world than she did. If he decided that something was good, there is every chance he was right.


    And she didn¡¯t want to drag this fight on any longer. She had missed him so much and was determined to spend every waking hour with him.


    ¡°It is fine; juste to bed; I have missed you.¡± Kane wasted no time before he took his ce beside her, wrapping his arms around her and drawing her close.


    ¡°Hnnn.¡± Ariel sighed in bliss as the familiar scent hit her nose.


    This was home.


    ***


    The next day, preparations began in earnest for their relocation. Kane had wanted them gone as soon as possible before the enemies realized their location, and the fact that there was still arge opening that used to be the entrance wasn¡¯t to their advantage.


    There was nothing for her to do; Kane wouldn¡¯t let her help the pack, not like she could do any better than them.


    The men had been transporting some of the items to the new ce during the course of the week, so there wasn¡¯t much to pack again.


    Ariel was only concerned with packing her one hundred and one clothing items. She was struggling with a suitcase when Kane crept up to her, wrapping his hands around the small of her waist.


    ¡°I thought you had decluttered earlier this month.¡±


    ¡°It was all in vain if I still had to struggle with them.¡± Ariel sighed, looking at the piles of clothes that were still on the bed, not including the clothes in the wardrobe. ¡°When we settle in the new house, I am going to give some clothes out.¡± Kane loosened his hold on her, not believing any word that came out of her mouth. ¡°I promise, this time I will do it.¡±


    ¡°Alright, if you say so.¡±


    ***


    Night fell, and theyid down to sleep. Only Ariel could barely catch a twinkle of sleep; she kept on turning and tossing on her bed, willing sleep toe, but it had long taken flight.


    It wasn¡¯t until the first crack of dawn that she managed to close her eyes, but that was futile because she was waking up and preparing for the trip.


    All of their things had been packed, and it was only to transport the humans that remained. Her suitcases had been loaded into the car, and she walked down with Kane hand in hand as they went downstairs.


    The pack had already gathered outside, whispering in groups, but it was easy to spot the look of despair in their faces.


    At least she wasn¡¯t the only one who was opposed to the idea of moving. There was nothing they could do about it, though; the alpha words always stand.


    They came out of the building, and Kane began to give instructions on how they would be moving. She was with Kane, obviously, and whatever remained would be in the trunk and the back seat.


    Ariel entered the car, and she took onest look at the house she hade to love. She hadughed, cried, and been beaten in this ce, but above all, she had learned.


    She wondered what the future looked like for them in this new ce, but one thing was sure.


    As long as she had Kane with her, she could brave any storm.


    ***


    The road trip was going smoothly except for the asional bumps on the road, and Kane had tried to disperse the gloomy air with music.


    ¡°You would like the ce.¡± Kane reassured her for the umpteenth time. The once bubbling Ariel had grown cold, and she sank into her chair, content with watching the world pass by.


    ¡°I know, but it would only take some time to get used to.¡± Ariel noted, and they fell into silence-afortable one, though.


    She had used up all her energy packing, and right now, she was drained. She reached for the lever under her seat and pulled it up, and her chair reclined to a more rxing position.


    Ariel settled into her new position, and she closed her eyes, letting the rich voice of the bad singer lure her to sleep.


    ¡°Ari? We are home.¡± Kane whispered, tapping her shoulders gently. The moving must have taken a toll on her because she had slept throughout the journey, and as the creep that he was, he had been staring at her all throughout.


    Kane had been alternating between staring at his mate and the road. The moon goddess wouldn¡¯t be happy to know he had met her early because he couldn¡¯t focus on the road.


    But would you me him?


    Ariel looked so beautiful while she slept, her lips closed in a pout, that he just wanted to kiss her silly.


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel stirred in her sleep, slowly blinking her eyes open. ¡°Are we there yet?¡±


    ¡°We just arrived. I would have carried you inside, but I am sure you would want to enjoy the view.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel murmured, her brain still trying to process what was happening. But Kane came out of the car, and he opened her car door, holding her hand to help her out.


    ¡°Wee to your new home, love.¡±


    Ariel looked at the building that would be her new home, and her mouth opened in a silent gasp. ¡°Oh my!¡±This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    They had arrived at the house in the evening, and all they could make out was the lighting out of numerous windows.


    Thepound was big enough to house a tennis court just as you entered through the gate and a sportsplex for various sports. A meandering stone path led to the front door, nked on the sides by colorful flowers in bloom.


    Just by the side was colored y equipment suitable for a yground, and Ariel was in awe. Kane hadn¡¯t been lying when he said this pack was going to be child-friendly, and she could just imagine their children growing up in this environment along with their peers.


    ¡°What do you think?¡±


    ¡°You really outdid yourself with this one, love. I had never expected this.¡±


    ¡°I have been nning this for years because of you, and I wanted it to be perfect.¡± Kane bragged, a smug look on his face.


    ¡°Wait, you already knew I was your mate even before I left for Australia?¡± Ariel asked, her hands on her hips.


    ¡°I meant my mate was going toe soon, and I wanted it to be perfect for her. Anyway,e look at our room; I made sure it was to your liking.¡±


    ¡°I already know it is going to be perfect. Nothing passes by you. But I will humor you.¡± Ariel was all smiles as she allowed Kane to lead her inside, quite sure that everything was going to work out well.


    If only she knew.

 Chapter 60

    Ariel had been quick to settle into her new house and her new role, and this time, she had been seeing Kane more often than usual.


    Not that she wasining.


    It was the full moon, and the pack was already gearing up in preparation. Ariel had read that the full moon always had a drug-like effect on werewolves, and she would be experiencing it for the first time.


    There have been several full moons since she came, but Ariel has never noticed anything out of the ordinary. Either they were too good at pretending or she had slept too early to notice, but today was going to be the day.


    Her skin tingled in excitement as she helped them prepare lunch, and one could hear the whispers of gossip floating around. Most of them had opted for rare steak, but others wanted theirs a little cooked with some sides, and Ariel decided to help with the process.


    They had been preparing a lot of food because after the hunt, they would get so hungry, and sometimes if they weren¡¯t lucky enough to catch a game, steak would do.


    ¡°Are you ready for tonight, Luna?¡± Whitney chirped happily as she kneaded the dough. She was a new addition to the pack, and the overly cheerfuldy was a delight to watch.


    ¡°Tonight? I don¡¯t think I should join in the hunt, but I could always stay somewhere safe and watch.¡± Kane had told her they could be a little aggressive during that time and had warned her not toe too close.


    Theughter from the kitchen startled her, and a deep frown settled on her face. ¡°Did I say something wrong?¡±Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Oh no,¡± Whitney shook her head vehemently, her loose curls bouncing around. Sometimes the girl had too much energy, or it could be the effect of the full moon. ¡°As you know, today is the full moon, and all our senses are heightened, and the urges are stronger. I was only saying you should be prepared because of the alpha.¡±


    ¡°Ohh.¡± The tips of her ears flushed from all the attention, and she cleared her throat, pretending something had caught in her throat.


    ¡°Now that it is in the open, it seems a little inappropriate. Forgive me, Luna.¡±


    ¡°It is alright.¡± Ariel said, waving her off, and they fell into silence as they continued working. ¡°What color is your wolf, Whitney?¡± Ariel asked, trying to break the tension that had settled.


    ¡°Uhmm, white?¡± Whitney replied, a little confused.


    ¡°I would be sure to look out for you when I am watching you.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Her eyes literally sparkled like the Fourth of July. ¡°I will be sure to put on a show for you if I am still in the right senses. I always get high during that period.¡± Her voice trailed in excitement as she seemed to recall the moment.


    The meal preparation hadsted well into the evening, and Ariel had been so beat that she had dragged herself to her room after work and sat on the sofa waiting for her mate.


    Their room was bigger than the old one and had enough amenities to be self-sufficient. The kitchen was much bigger-with the addition of a mini bar and dining room, it could literally be a suite.


    Ariel had sat on the sofa, her gaze fixed on her phone screen as she continued swiping through it. She had been taken by a new app, and the ridiculous challenges some of the users were engaging in were enough entertainment.


    But it was only so much her body could take, and she was dozing on the sofa, the phone long forgotten on her stomach.


    ***


    ¡°Kaneee!!¡± Ariel yelled, screaming her lungs out, as she was woken up from yet another vivid dream.


    It was like always, and it would always start with her father and someone she thought to be her father lying on the floor in the pool of her blood, and it would end up with her running for her life.


    Ariel sat on the sofa, her brain twirling as she tried to piece everything together. Nothing was making sense, and now it was bing something regr.


    Maybe her father was trying to pass a message to her?


    Her chest rose and fell as she tried to catch her breath, her forehead glistening with sweat. She looked up at the wall where the grandfather clock hung, which had been ticking, and she was almost jumping out of her skin.


    She had slept for hours!


    Ariel was jumping out of the sofa and running out of the room. If she had missed the whole show, she wasn¡¯t going to forgive herself, nor would she forgive Kane.


    Why the hell had he not woken her up?


    She was going to have a word with him if she missed it, but first she had to see for herself. Ariel quickened her footsteps, and as she got closer to the balcony, she heard what was no doubt howling, and she sighed in relief.


    She ran to her balcony, holding her swinging boobs. Yea, she had forgotten a bra in her hurry.


    Ariel sat on one of the empty seats that had been scattered around. Her gaze was on the view in front of her, and her breath caught in her throat.


    It was beautiful, for theck of better words.


    Just overlooking the packhouse were bungalows scattered around the area. Kane had mentioned he had built it in case the people in the pack wanted to start a family, and families needed their space.


    But after the houses, there was a long stretch of well-manicuredwn nked on the sides by trees that made it suitable for hunting.


    It was there they had gathered, howling to the moon.


    It wasn¡¯t hard to spot Kane; he was the biggest among them all, and he stood tall in the front, his ck fur shining a little brighter from the light of the full moon.


    He could tell she was around and watching him because he looked up, and no matter how far they were, Ariel was sure their eyes collided, and she gave her a nod before he continued his howls.


    Somehow, Ariel could make out some of her packmates. Some of their human features had spilled into their wolf sides. Maddie was the next biggest after Kane, as she was a potential alpha, and Toby was by her side.


    One of the warriors, who was a natural blonde in human form, had brown fur, but they were so light they could pass off as blonde.


    And, of course, the white wolves. They were three in number, yet Ariel could tell which was Whitney, and she waved to her, keeping her promise, even though thetter was too drunk on the moon¡¯s influence to notice.


    ¡°Luna.¡±


    ¡°Zora, I had no idea you were in the pack.¡± Ariel eximed as she saw the pregnantdy waddling toward her.


    She and her mate had taken the responsibility to start a family, and Ariel had never been more excited. Although she had been a little scared when she heard that werewolf pregnancies were faster than normal,.


    Little scared?


    She was almost shitting her pants as she heard it, but she was quick to calm down. There was nothing normal about their species; the earlier she learned, the better.


    ¡°How are you doing? How is the pregnancying longer?¡± Ariel helped her to her seat, and thedy handed a cup to her.


    ¡°I juiced some pineapples, and I figured you would be interested. And yes, I could sniff you around, and I am fine. Thanks for asking.¡±


    Ariel chuckled, but she epted the cold drink and took a sip from it, taking a long sip.


    ¡°Just how I like it. Thank you.¡± The drink had activated her happy hormone, and a wide smile was on her lips.


    They both sat down, talking about the pack, while Zora spilled secrets about different packs, and Ariel was all ears, sipping and listening to gossip.


    She enjoyed the full moon in her own way, and she couldn¡¯t be happier.

 Chapter 61

    The full moon hade and gone, the effect it had bought had subsided, and the pack had gone back to their normal routine.


    All except for Ariel.


    Since they stepped into the new house, she had been haunted by a horrible dream, and falling asleep had begun to look like a chore for her.


    The sleeping pills Kane had brought for her had been doing their job, but oftentimes she would wake up at night, her night dress soaked with sweat, and she wouldy awake until the crack of dawn.


    Sometimes, Kane would join in on her watch, but other times, he was too tired after working throughout the day and went back to sleep shortly.


    And today was no exception.


    Kane had promised to take her to see a seer if it persists till the weekend; apparently, those things exist in this world.


    Ariel folded herself into a ball, theforting warmth of Kane beside her reassuring her. She tried to stay awake, but she could barely keep her eyes open, and it didn¡¯t take her so long to fall asleep.


    Only it was short-lived.


    ***


    ¡°Ahhhh..¡± Ariel yelled her lungs out, her scream so powerful that it could wake the dead, and her sleeping partner stirred in his sleep, her screams waking him.


    ¡°Ari, what is wrong?¡± Kane mumbled, concern dripping in his sleepden voice. His hands reached for the nightstand, and he turned on themp. The golden glow illuminated the dark room, and he turned to face his mate. ¡°Another bad dream?¡±


    Ariel¡¯s mouth opened slightly, her breathing out in short pants. ¡°I guess.¡±


    ¡°You guess?¡± The confusion was thick in his voice. Kane was worried sick about his mate; she had barely been getting any sleep, and neither had he. ¡°Is it the same dream?¡± He asked, his voice still hoarse from sleep or theck of it.


    He had resolved in his mind that if this continued, he would have to tell her the truth. It was no doubt a sign from the goddess, and he would be foolish not to heed hermands.


    ¡°No. This was different.¡±


    The dream hadn¡¯t been as terrifying as usual, but the experience had been so real that goosebumps rose in her arms.


    ¡°Tell me what happened.¡± Kane asked, shifting closer to her so she could drawfort from him.


    Ariel had been running in the woods from Lord knows what, but she was sure she was on the run, and she couldn¡¯t remember why.


    It was at night because she could remember that the moonlight was the only source of light for her as she moved through the woods. She had been running until she copsed on the floor from exhaustion.


    Every part of her body was aching, and her mouth was dried, as she had been running for hours and needed water to quench her taste.


    Ariel couldn¡¯t remember what had triggered it, but it had started as an intense pain in her stomach. She had ignored it, dismissing it as hunger pangs; instead, she hadid on her back, watching the night sky.


    But she doubled up in pain as it blossomed in her midsection, the intensity increasing with every breath she took.


    Ariel had clutched the grass in her hands, looking for something-anything-to ease the pain that she was experiencing.


    Someone must think it was fun to carve her insides out, and every cell in her burned.


    Then it stopped.


    The pain had vanished like the wind, and she had released a breath of relief, d it was all over, although she was still confused about everything.


    Then it happened again; the pain came back in all its fury, and Ariel went down on all four, her hands wing her stomach for relief.


    But all to no avail.


    Instead, the pain continued to spread, licking every inch of her body. Her mouth had opened in a scream, but none was forting, and she was quick to realize that she was trapped.


    She was trapped in this unending pain when she heard a bone snap in her body.


    Ariel wasn¡¯t sure which part of her body it was; she hadn¡¯t studied anatomy, but the rest of her bones began to break in rapid session, leaving her no chance to fight back the pain.


    She was lost in the throes of her pain, her body aligning and realigning as she was torn apart from the inside. Then it was all calm.


    The experience was an out-of-body one; she was herself, yet not in her body, and as she looked down, she was met with a gray-colored paw for feet.


    And this time, all hell broke loose.


    Ariel had opened her mouth, mustering all the strength in her into the screams, and she was screaming her lungs out, and that was when she woke up.


    ¡°That is crazy.¡± Kane mused as he finished listening to her story. His hands shook beside him, and his mouth had gone dry.


    He had to tell her the truth now; otherwise, if she found out, it would be more deadly. Kane opened his mouth to talk, but somehow the words were lost in the sea of his thoughts, and nothing wasing.


    Thankfully, Ariel beat him to it. The poor thing was so traumatized by the dream that she wasn¡¯t taking note of her surroundings.


    ¡°Do you know what is happening to me?¡± Ariel asked, her voice shaking despite how strong she appeared to be.


    She looked down at her feet, wriggling them under the nket. It was a crazy thought, but she had to be sure she hadn¡¯t grown a paw overnight.


    Kane drew her close, cuddling her to his body. ¡°I wish I had an idea of what was troubling you; I would have helped. But I will continue to look for a solution.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Ariel was relieved, but her voice was devoid of warmth. ¡°But what exactly does this dream mean? Does it mean I will be a werewolf someday? Was I a werewolf before, or were my parents werewolves? It has to be one or the other.¡±


    ¡°I am not sure, darling. I didn¡¯t meet your parents, and they are dead now. There is no way we can reach them and ask. Come on, it is still night, and we need to get enough sleep if we want to function properly tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Ariel allowed Kane to lower her to the bed, and she closed her eyes, feeling safe in his warm embrace, and this time she fell asleep till the next morning.


    ***


    Ariel woke up to an empty bed. No surprises there; she had already gotten used to the fact that she wouldn¡¯t be spending her waking moment with Kane.


    But she didn¡¯t mind today; she needed the space to think about what the next line of action would be.


    Kane knew something; she had been having doubts about it before, but now she knew better.


    He must have been thinking she was dumb, but she couldn¡¯t miss the way he had avoided her gaze when she talked about her parents or how his hands shook beside him.


    This was Kane; the man would never lower his gaze for anybody except when something was wrong or he was guilty.


    She had to ask someone else, Ariel thought as she took a bite from the dry ass bread, not even bothering with butter or jam.


    Kane was off the list, and Toby wouldn¡¯t say anything.


    That leaves only one person.


    Ariel scrubbed her enamel hard, gargling her mouth with water as she finished, and she sshed water on her face before she was marching outside her room.


    She headed downstairs to the infirmary.


    The pack clinic was much bigger than before, with more bed space, and they had more nurses and even a doctor.


    If there was anyone who could help her, it had to be her. The woman had been in the pack since its inception, and she should know whatever Kane knows.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Ariel sighted her afar off, leaning over Nora and checking her vitals. The women were all smiling as they talked in low tunes, and Ariel¡¯s heart bubbled with joy despite theck of any in her heart.


    ¡°Hey Luna, what brings you to the infirmary?¡± Nora was the first to see her, and she waved her over, but Ariel gave her a tight-lipped smile.


    ¡°I came to check on you and see how you were doing.¡± Ariel replied, her smile genuine this time. She stood beside Nora, engaging in small talk, until she was through with her routine test, and Ariel pulled the other woman to the side.


    ¡°I need your help.¡±

 Chapter 62

    Denise was the right choice.


    The woman was one of the backbones of the pack, and if there was anything to know, she could be the one to know.


    She just had to be it.


    ¡°Well, hello, Ariel; I wasn¡¯t expecting you here.¡± The woman said with a smile. Even in her old age, she still looks good, and Ariel was shocked to learn that she was approaching sixty.


    ¡°I know, but I need your help, Denise, and I think you are the only one that can help me.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. Alright. You can wait inside my office; let me tidy up some things, and I will be with you shortly.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Ariel excused her as Denise continued attending to her patients, and she went into her office. It was nothing special, just a small room with chairs and tables arranged like one would during a consultation.


    She sat on the visitor¡¯s chair, ncing around the room. There was a bold chart of human and werewolf anatomy on the wall and some other basic health information.


    Just a typical office.


    Ariel took out her phone, looking for a solution herself before Denise woulde.


    She had to get to the root of this thing.


    Fortunately for her, Denise didn¡¯t take so long, and the door opened as she entered. The woman took her seat in her normal position, and she stared at Ariel.


    ¡°How can I help you?¡± Denise asked, although she had a little hint as to what it could be.


    ¡°I need your help, Denise, and I believe you are the only one that could help.¡±


    ¡°Alright, go on.¡±


    ¡°So, it all started when¡­¡± Ariel began to narrate everything that had been happening to her-the dream and, of course, her thoughts on it-and all this while she was looking at her every reaction for any signs that would give it away.


    ¡°I see.¡± Denise said, nodding her head slowly.


    ¡°I know you have an idea of what is going on, and I need to know. I am literally going crazy, and I don¡¯t think I have had a good night¡¯s sleep since forever. Please, anything you know would be beneficial.¡±


    ¡°I wish I could help you, Luna, but there is nothing I can do. I know nothing of such.¡±


    ¡°Please, this is my life, Denise, and if there is anything I need to know, please tell me.¡±


    ¡°I am sorry, but I can¡¯t help you, Ariel.¡± Denise replied, not changing her stance anytime soon. She would never go against her alpha.


    ¡°Alright, I appreciate the help. Thank you.¡± Ariel said in a low voice, and the chair creaked as she shifted it backwards to stand up.


    If she had known that Denise wouldn¡¯t be a help, she wouldn¡¯t have bothered her, as she had wasted precious time she would have used to research.


    ¡°I am always happy to help Luna.¡± Denise said, and Ariel was sure she could detect the sarcasm in them, but she ignored it and made for the door.


    She held the door knob, about to open it, when Denise¡¯s voice stopped her. ¡°Ariel?¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± Ariel whipped her head back to look at her, desperation written all over her face.


    ¡°I may not be able to help you, but if you look within yourself, you will find the answers you are looking for.¡±


    ¡°Oh Kay?¡± Ariel trailed off, hoping her voice didn¡¯t convey how confused she was. ¡°Thank you.¡± It was obvious the woman was going to be no help, but she didn¡¯t have to y with her like that.


    This was a serious issue.


    ¡°You could also check the library; you may just find what you are looking for.¡±


    The library!


    Ariel wanted to smack herself silly; why didn¡¯t she realize that the library would contain all of the answers to her questions? If she wanted to know anything about pack history, the library would obviously be the best ce to start.


    She said her thanks, and she was racing in the direction of the library, all thoughts of sleep vanishing from her eyes.


    Ariel had thought that she could get some shut-eye after the rejection and probably continue with the search tomorrow, but with this new piece of information, the sleep wolf has to wait.


    She raced down the hallway, and lucky for her, the library was on the same floor as the infirmary.


    ¡°Luna,¡± the voice of the librarian, startled her as she opened the door; she hadn¡¯t been expecting anyone inside.


    ¡°Hello a¡­¡±


    ¡°Aaron, how may I help you?¡±


    ¡°I need some books on pack history.¡±


    ¡°Pack history?¡± The man stared nkly at her. I guess it is not everyday that peoplee asking for pack history.


    ¡°Yes. Considering the fact that I am a human and the Luna, I have to learn the pack histories. No great leader can learn without knowing its history.¡±


    ¡°That is really thoughtful of you, Luna, and I would be happy to help. You can make yourselffortable, and I will fetch the books. Any particr preference?¡±


    Ariel looked around the library; the walls and aisle were lined with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, and there were soft velvet sofas arranged in the corner for reading.


    ¡°Not really, just books about 710 years ago about pack history. Bring as many as you can find; the more, the merrier, right?¡± Ariel gave him a sweet smile that she knew people could barely resist and that the man was practically melting beside her.


    ¡°Of course, Luna, anything for you.¡± Aaron went deeper into the heart of the library, and Ariel took to looking around.


    It would help if she got them herself, but she wasn¡¯t even a few minutes into her search when she heard him calling.


    ¡°Here.¡± She replied, making her way to the checkout point.


    ¡°I have everything you might need.¡± He said, dropping the book on the desk, a wide smile on his face.


    ¡°That is so lovely.¡± Arielplimented him, and it was so nice to watch him light up. ¡°I will be taking it all, thank you.¡± She picked up the books, cuddling them to her bosom.Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Shit!


    She had underestimated how heavy the books were; there were about seven big books in there.


    ¡°I could help you carry it upstairs if you don¡¯t mind.¡±


    ¡°It is alright; I can manage. Thank you.¡± Ariel hurried out of the library before Kane would somehow find out she was there or the man would call her back.


    They had an elevator in this new pack, so transporting the books wasn¡¯t going to be so difficult.


    Ariel set the book on the dining table and poured herself some cereal. She took a spoonful of the milky cereal, but her eyes never left the book.


    She flipped through the pages, looking for anything that mentioned her issue or shed light on her origin. It was crazy because she is a human, yet she was looking for her origin in their words.


    But she had a gut feeling there was something that would interest her or that could exin why she kept on having those mysterious dreams.


    Ariel kept flipping the pages of the book until it got to thest page, yet she couldn¡¯t find the answers she was looking for. Yes, she learned more about the pack than she would have known, but nothing was bringing her close to getting answers to her questions.


    And so it continued, day in and day out. Ariel was pouring into different books, but it was all futile, and she was beginning to lose hope.


    Arielid on the bed one of those days, frustrated by the stagnant progress in her search. She closed her eyes to get some shut eyes, and her phone vibrated on her stomach.


    Ariel picked up her phone, bringing it closer to her face for the facial recognition to capture her, and noticed another pop up on her phone screen.


    She was skeptical about opening it, all too aware of the various phishing messages and sites that could be embedded in that message, but you would never know if you didn¡¯t open it.


    Ariel clicked on the icon and tapped on thetest message, only to see a single sentence.


    ¡°Moonlight pack.¡±

 Chapter 63

    ¡°Moonlight pack.¡± That was all the message had read and nothing else.


    What was she supposed to do with just the name? Was she supposed to look it up or what? And the fact that the message was from an unknown number didn¡¯t sit well with her.


    Ariel copied the message and pasted it on the search engine, waiting with baited breath as it loaded the answers. But what was she expecting?


    The inte was pretty useless when it came to finding things in their world, and she wasn¡¯t even fazed when none of the results were what she wanted, and she released a frustrated sigh.


    Ariel nced at the books on her bed, and she picked one up, going through the list of packs that had been mentioned.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    But there was no mention of the moonlight pack.


    Frustrated, Ariel pushed the book down, and she realized toote as the door fell down that it was not her property and she couldn¡¯t handle it anyway she liked.


    ¡°Shit!¡± Ariel cursed, reaching for the book almost immediately. She picked it up, surveying the damage, but she was relieved that no harm hade to it, and she clutched it closer to her bosom, hugging it tight. ¡°I am sorry I threw you away; I was just angry and frustrated that I wasn¡¯t getting the answer I wanted.¡±


    Wait, was she actually talking to a book?


    She must have gone crazy. In fact, all of this was crazy, and she couldn¡¯t wait to get to the bottom of it.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± She froze as she heard Kane¡¯s voice at the door, and she looked up, seeing the door knob twist.


    Kane was entering inside, and she only had a little time to discard the books.


    ¡°Kane.¡± Ariel called in an overly cheerful voice. ¡°You are back?¡± She asked, hoping he couldn¡¯t detect the fear in her voice.


    ¡°I came to see how you were faring; how are you doing? Were you able to get some rest?¡±


    ¡°I guess I am fine; I was able to get some shut eyester, but I got tired and decided toy my head to rest.¡±


    ¡°That is fine.¡± The mattress sank from his weight as he sat down beside her, and Ariel would have weed it if she wasn¡¯t trying to hide something.


    ¡°Are you sure it is alright to leave what you were doing ande to me?¡±


    Kane shook his head, his shoulder vibrating as heughed. ¡°Of course it is okay; I came to check on my mate. Who is going to scold me for doing that?¡±


    ¡°Haha, I know, right?¡± Ariel almost facepalmed as she heard her fake assughter, but Kane seemed to think it was genuine.


    ¡°And I also brought some tea for you. I heard it has the ability to calm the mind and help you sleep better. I could brew it for you if you wish.¡±


    ¡°Oh no. There is no need for that; I just woke up, and I would like to remain awake for the rest of the day.¡± Ariel replied, hoping she was able to convince him enough to leave it. Kane could be very persuasive, and it was hard to resist him.


    ¡°It must be tiring to spend the day in the room all alone. I know I promised you a proper date when this is all over.¡± Kane shifted closer, taking her hands in his and gently stroking them. ¡°But it seems more and more things are hindering us, and I apologize for that.¡±


    ¡°I understand; there are a lot of things to deal with, but I will always be here, and we could always go on a thousand dates.¡±


    Her words melted Kane¡¯s heart, and he looked at her with a loving gaze. ¡°I love you, baby.¡±


    ¡°I love you too.¡± Ariel closed her eyes, angling her head in anticipation of the kiss, and he didn¡¯t disappoint. The man¡¯s kiss was as soft as always, firm against her lips but not too rough, and her fingers were tangled in his hair as she kissed him back with everything she had.


    ¡°Have you had lunch?¡± Kane asked, his voice still hoarse from sucking her lips.


    ¡°Lunch?¡± The concept was foreign to her. She had been so absorbed in finding out the truth that she had forgotten all about food.


    But now that he had reminded her, she could feel the hunger pangs resurrecting from wherever they had been, and she clutched her stomach in pain.


    ¡°From the dy, I guess not. Good thing I brought us lunch.¡± Kane said, producing a basket of hot meals. He had made a stop in the pack¡¯s kitchen, and lucky for him, they had just finished preparing chicken noddle soup, and he knew he had to coop one for his mate.


    ¡°Kannee.¡± Ariel whined, jutting her lips forward in a pout, grateful for his kindness.


    Now she felt bad for doubting him.


    The guy was only concerned about her well-being; there was no reason he would do something that would jeopardize their rtionship. ¡°I think we would need an extra bowl and spoon, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Kane burst into sheepishughter, and he stood up, walking towards the kitchen to get the utensils, while Ariel produced the books she had hidden under the nket and threw them deep under the bed.


    Kane came back, and he dished the meal into the china, scooping some of the broth and blowing on it before transferring it to her mouth.


    It was definitely the best food experience.


    But it ended too soon, and he had to leave.


    ¡°You coulde with me to the office and help me out if you are too bored.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Ariel perked up at the offer; this was the first time he was asking her to help in his office, but she remembered the books that were lying on the cold floor, and she was deting. ¡°I will have to pass on your offer; I need to catch up with my sleep.¡±


    ¡°Alright, love. Sleep well.¡± He leaned down for a kiss on her forehead, and he stood up, going towards the door.


    Ariel gave him some minutes to be sure he had left the door before she stood up and locked the door. Thest thing she wanted was for Kane to catch her while she was still investigating.


    She picked up the books she had been reading and continued her search. But nothing was about the moonlight pack.


    Did the pack even exist?


    She had gone through every book she brought, but she got little or no information about the pack.


    However, she picked up thest book with a little difficulty. It was heavier than the rest, and she was sure it would contain whatever information she was looking for.


    She prayed it did.


    Ariel flipped through the pages to find the content, and there it was, boldly written in ck ink.


    ¡®The moonlight pack¡¯


    Ariel couldn¡¯t describe how she was feeling right now; the butterflies that were fluttering in her stomach would make one think she had won a lottery.


    This was it-the answers she had been looking for.


    She only had to flip to page five hundred and thirty-nine, and she would get her answers.


    Her fingers shook as she flipped through the pages, reciting the page number like a mantra. Her heartbeat was increasing with every breath she took.


    Until she got to the page¡­

 Chapter 64

    Until she got to the page¡­


    Only it wasn¡¯t there.


    Yeap, it was literally nk. Ariel had gotten to the five hundred and thirty-seventh page, and she had flipped it a tad too fast, eager to get to her desired number, but there was nothing there.


    And so was the other page number that followed it.


    ¡°W-what the¡­¡± Ariel stuttered, trying to describe what she was feeling. Was it disappointment or anger?


    She peeped closer into the book, looking for any signs, and on close inspection, she could see that the pages had been carefully ripped off so as not to make it obvious.


    But who would dare do such a thing?


    There was no doubt that there was someone in this pack who knew of the moonlight pack, but they didn¡¯t want her to know about it, and the thoughts gave her anxiety.


    But she could not be discouraged; it was obvious there was something they had to hide, and she was determined to get to the bottom of it.


    Ariel picked up the books, holding them close to her bosom, and she went out the door, heading for the library. She entered the elevator, and she rested her head on the wall as it began to descend.


    What could they be hiding that they didn¡¯t want her to know? What happened in the moonlight pack, and most importantly, who was the person who sent her the message?


    There was no doubt that this person would know a lot and should be in the best position to tell her the truth.


    She had to look for the person.


    Ariel wasing out of the elevator as itnded, and she headed straight for the library, mumbling words in response to the greetings of people that passed her.


    She pushed open the door to the library and saw the librarian, his nose deep into a book in his hand. ¡°Aaron.¡±


    ¡°Luna, you are back so fast. Have you finished reading everything?¡± Aaron asked, standing up to meet her.


    ¡°Yes, but I can¡¯t find the information I want.¡±


    ¡°Information? You havee to the right ce. Pray, tell me what you need help finding, and I will help with your search.¡±


    She observed the man in front of her; there was no doubt that he was loyal to Kane, and he would sell her off in a heartbeat if it ever came to it.


    But she needed his help, and it would be better if he knew.


    ¡°What do you know about the moonlight pack?¡±


    ¡°Moonlight pack?¡± Aaron titled his head to the side, slowly stroking his goatee, and he shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t think I have heard of the pack before. Is there anything you need to find out about it in particr?¡±


    ¡°Uhmm, you see, I had a friend who was in the pack, but she lost her way, and she has been trying to find her way back. She couldn¡¯t get any information from the, obviously, and I have resorted to helping her.¡±


    ¡°Alright?¡±


    ¡°Help me to help her, Aaron. Let us help her reconnect to her family and to her origin.¡± Ariel put out the most puppy face she could muster; surely he couldn¡¯t resist the deadlybo.


    Just as she predicted, he was unable to resist her, and he nodded his head.


    ¡°Of course, Luna. I am always ready to help. You can make yourselffortable, and I will bring whatever information I can find about the pack.¡± Aaron replied, gesturing to the sofa just beside the window.


    ¡°It is fine; I would prefer to join in the search; two heads, they say, are better than one.¡± Ariel shed him a smile, and he was melting before her.


    The young man could barely resist her; he, just like others, had been caught in her webs, and it was going to be hard for him to be free.


    ¡°You would take the east wing, and I would take the west wing. How does that sound?¡± Ariel suggested.


    ¡°Anything you decide is fine with me, Luna. I will take the east side,¡± Aaron said, and he walked towards his assigned wing.


    Ariel didn¡¯t waste time, and she began her search, looking for anything that contained what she wanted.


    She would pick up a book, flip through some pages, and drop it down with a frustrated sigh. And that was how it continued as she went through the entire row of the book shelf.


    None of them contained any meaningful thing about the moonlight pack, and the ones that contained it had wither been erased or the entire page was missing, and her suspicion only seemed to grow.


    At this point, it was obvious it wasn¡¯t a coincidence, and there was no need to continue searching for it. Besides, Kane would be back soon, and she didn¡¯t want him to begin to suspect something so soon, and¡­


    ¡°Luna! I have found it.¡± Aaron¡¯s voice disrupted her thoughts, and Ariel couldn¡¯t help the gasp that left her throat. She was rushing towards the sound of the voice.


    ¡°Aaron.¡±


    ¡°Here.¡± Ariel hurried towards where he was, and he was holding the book in his hands.


    ¡°I have found it, Luna.¡± He was smiling brightly as he produced the book and handed it to her.


    Ariel held the book carefully as she walked over to a table nearby, and she ced the book on the table gently. Her life literally depended on it, and she wouldn¡¯t allow any harm toe to it.


    A thinyer of dust covered the hard bind-a velvety brown color that had begun to fade, but none of that concerned her.


    ¡®The Legend of the Moonlight Pack¡¯ was boldly written on the cover, and Ariel opened the book, holding her breath unconsciously.


    She flipped to the content page, and it had everything she had wanted to know, and she couldn¡¯t help the excitement that was fluttering in her stomach.


    She flipped the page to the first chapter, and her eyebrow twitched as she beheld what was inside:


    Empty.


    Ariel flipped to the next page and the page after, and after and after and after¡­


    But it was the same result.


    All of the pages were empty.


    Strange.


    This couldn¡¯t be a coincidence again; coincidence was when it happened twice, but every attempt for her to get close to the truth had been thwarted. There was no doubt that this was nned work.


    ¡°What can you make of this, Aaron?¡±


    ¡°I am not sure; I didn¡¯t even know a sure book existed, and I don¡¯t think it is possible to produce a nk book unless it was premeditated.¡±


    Just as she had thought. ¡°What can we do?¡±


    ¡°I could try to ess it from our database; surely it can¡¯t be nk.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Sure, follow me, please.¡± Aaron said, and Ariel followed behind as he went back to his desk. Hope was resurrecting back into her, and her eyes were fixed on theptop as he searched.


    ¡°Nothing. This is strange; there is no entry for this book in the library.¡±


    Ariel couldn¡¯t be fazed by the disappointment again.


    ¡°I could try logging into the general database; they would surely have it.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel couldn¡¯t have hope again; she knew how it was going to end, and she wasn¡¯t surprised when the book was locked for consumption.


    ¡°This is strange; we may be rogues, but we always have ess to the general library, and all the books are free.¡± The poor boy had worry lines etched on his forehead, and Ariel shook her head.


    ¡°It is fine, Aaron. Thank you for your help. I would take my leave now.¡±


    ¡°There is one more thing we could try. The search engine could find something useful there.¡±


    ¡°There is no need; I have done that several times, and it was futile.¡±


    ¡°Not the normal search engine, of course. We have a different search engine from the one humans use.¡±


    Of course they would have theirs, but why did anybody think to tell her about it?


    It didn¡¯t matter anymore.


    She was going to get to the bottom of this with or without their help, which is why she wasn¡¯t surprised that they couldn¡¯t find anything about the pack.


    ¡°It is alright, Aaron. Thank you for your effort.¡± Ariel sighed, and she walked out of the library, dragging her feet back to her room.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Unfortunately, Kane was already in the rooms, and he was undressing when she came inside. She had spent so much time looking for information that she didn¡¯t realize the time had passed.


    ¡°Where have you been? I was worried about you and was about to begin the search for you.¡±


    ¡°I am fine; I was just tired of staying in the room, and I decided to go for a stroll; somehow I found myself in the library. I am so beat now, and I need rest.¡± She didn¡¯t wait for Kane¡¯s response before she was dumping herself on the bed and folding into a ball.


    It was obvious she was going to get any information on the pack; she would just have to find the sender of the message.

 Chapter 65

    Ariel was at it the next day, and this time she was determined to find out who the fuck the sender of the message was. Lucky for her, udia had dabbled into tech by the side, and it was going to make her work easier.


    Ariel had opted for a call; it would reach her faster, but she nced at the wall clock, and she knew it would be impossible.


    They were in different time zones, and udia would be fast asleep by this time. The woman loved her sleep more than anything, and Ariel just resorted to typing it out.


    She knew udia would be enraged and too eager to help her if she mentioned that the man was a stalker, and she made sure to include it.


    Ariel looked at the message she had typed and nodded in satisfaction. There was no way udia wasn¡¯t going to help, and until then, she was going to continue her search.


    She had searched the inte, but there was no harm in trying it again; only this time, she was going to make sure she exhausted the search.


    As usual, Ariel typed in the keyword, and nothing useful came up, but this time she moved to the next page, scrolling through it and moving on to the next page when it didn¡¯t contain what she needed.


    She was a woman on a mission, and she wasn¡¯t going to stop until she got what she wanted. But she had begun to lose hope after the fifth page, and there was nothing of worth there.


    Reluctantly, she clicked on the next page, and you wouldn¡¯t believe her shock when the first article was on the bloody massacre of the moonlight pack.


    Ariel immediately sat up on her bed, bringing the screen closer to her face.


    Yeap, it was right there; she hasn¡¯t misread it; it definitely talked about the massacre of the Moonlight Pack.


    The link was as sketchy as hell; it was literally a warning that it would be a hacker¡¯s den, but right now Ariel had thrown all caution to the wind.


    She needed to find the truth.


    Only the voice in her head was telling her that the price of knowing the truth was something she couldn¡¯t handle.


    Regardless of the fact, she clicked on the site, the page taking a tad bit longer to open, as if giving her more time to back out of her stupid ideas, but she waited with shallow breath.


    The site finally loaded, and she began to read through, her heart pounding with each sentence she read.


    Hell, she didn¡¯t know of them, but why did she feel such anger as she read about them?


    The article had been informative but still vague; it only talked about the massacre of the pack by a group unknown; it didn¡¯t even mention the name of the alpha involved; and at the end, there was a picture of the pack.


    Ariel scrolled further to the next picture, and what she saw had her flinging her phone away.


    What the fuck?!


    Goosebumps, the size of a tiny pimple, broke out in her arm, and her hair on her body stood.


    Luckily, the phone hadnded on the bed, and she picked it up, looking at the picture, and it was the same thing.


    It was a picture of thete Alpha-alpha of the moonlight pack-and as they locked eyes together, she knew it was her father. If the fact that the brown hair, a simr shade of cocoa, wasn¡¯t a dead giveaway, the fact that this was the man that had been appearing to her in the dream was the telltale.


    Or the fact that she would remember the scene that the picture was taken from.


    This had been the scene that had been guing her memory and haunting her in dreand, and she was frozen in shock.


    What exactly would she make of this? Was this strange man her father, and¡­ She covered her mouth as a gasp escaped her.


    If this man was her father, does that mean she was a werewolf?


    Ariel¡¯s head was swimming with a lot of thoughts, and she just wanted to pull her hair and scream. All this was making no sense, yet somehow it was making sense, and she didn¡¯t know what to think of it.


    Luckily, her phone vibrated in her hands as a call came through, and udia¡¯s name was sying across the screen, distracting her from reality.


    ¡°udia!¡± Her voice was unintentionally raised as she answered the call.


    ¡°Are you alright? You sound like you have been chased by a bull.¡±


    ¡°I am fine, thank you. Have you seen my message, and more importantly, why are you awake by this time?¡± udia was never an early riser, no matter what was happening.


    The girl could literally sleep through a storm, not like she was any better herself.


    ¡°Hey, I may have turned a new leaf.¡± udia protested, and Ariel was sure she was rolling her eyes, and that little familiarity made a smilee to her face. ¡°Anyways, I couldn¡¯t sleep, and I have been looking for something to upy me, and luckily I saw your message on time. Why didn¡¯t you tell me you had a stalker?¡± udia was going to blow up any minute from now, and she had to distract her.


    ¡°Do you have any information on him? Have you been able to track him?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, about that..¡± she hissed as she trailed off, and Ariel could tell it wasn¡¯t good news. ¡°I tried every fucking means, but dude is too smart. It was a fucking dead end. I think he knows we were unto him.¡±


    It was definitely bad if udia was dropping so many f-bombs in a sentence.


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°I am so sorry I failed you, but I will continue trying even on my death bed; this fucker is never going scot-free.¡±


    ¡°I have no doubt that you would do that, and maybe you could stop pulling your hair.¡±


    ¡°Haha, you got me.¡± They engaged in a little chit chat before Ariel decided she wanted to continue on her search.


    ¡°I will call youter, udia; I have something urgent to do.¡±


    As soon as the call disconnected, Ariel stood up from the bed and went straight to her side of the wardrobe, lowering herself to the floor and pulling the lower drawer open. She pushed aside the other stationery and picked up a book and a pen, then went back to the desk and began to write down everything she knew about her situation.


    If what she had read was true, then the man in the article was her father, and apparently he was an alpha. That automatically makes her a werewolf and an alpha¡¯s daughter, or whatever the hell alpha¡¯s daughter¡¯s were called.


    But something wasn¡¯t adding up.


    What happens to all the ¡®powers¡¯ they possess? Was it possible that it had skipped her?


    Or was she so traumatized by the events that happened that she had managed to shut down that part of herself?


    Was it even possible?Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    All these questions were swimming in her head, yet there was no reasonable answer to any of them.


    Someone had to know something, and everything was pointing to Kane.


    She would have to confront him.


    Her phone screen lit up as the message notification came, and she reached for it.


    ¡°I know you have been trying to reach me, but don¡¯t bother; it is a dead end, and you tell your little friend to stop her feeble attempt to hack myputer or else I would take my revenge.¡±


    Ariel almostughed as she saw the text. The person had probably spent so much time in their mom¡¯s basement, and this was the meanest threat they coulde up with.


    But this person also knew a lot, and she had to y her part.


    Ariel read the message again, and she was ignoring it; instead, sheposed her own. ¡°Who are you?¡± She hit the blue arrow and waited for a reply, but a few minutes passed, and it was obvious he didn¡¯t like the question asked, so she tried again.


    ¡°What do you know about me? I need to know the truth. I have been in the dark for so long, and I can¡¯t continue any longer.¡±


    The continuous tapping of her foot was the only fact that he was taking an antagonizing time to reply, and she had already given up.


    If he wasn¡¯t going to be of help, he could go fuck himself.


    Or she, whatever gender they were.


    But a single notification was changing her mind.


    ¡°I will call you tomorrow by 10, and I will tell you the whole truth.¡±

 Chapter 66

    Could the day go by any slower? Ariel groaned as she checked the time for the umpteenth time, and barely an hour had passed. How was she supposed to wait another 20 hours? The time was crawling, like it had taken up the spirit of a sloth.


    Was he trying to kill her?


    She wouldn¡¯t deny that she didn¡¯t like the idea, but right now, there was nothing she could do about it, but she knew what she had to do.


    Minutester, Ariel was on the phone with udia, asking for her help.


    The n was simple: udia would somehow find a way to connect to their phones together, and as the call was ongoing, she was going to be tracking the man.


    If everything works perfectly, Ariel would be leaving with the right information about her birth and his information.


    It all seems too easy, and she hopes it happens like that.


    But when she woke up the next day and Kane was still lying beside her, she knew nothing wasn¡¯t going to go as nned.


    Apparently, he had been pushing himself too far and had broken down; it was nothing major, though. He had developed a headache and needed bed rest.


    But Ariel was torn.


    She nced at the wall clock, and it was already twenty minutes past the hour of 9, yet Kane was still lying on the bed in his freaking pajamas.


    ¡°Is there anything I can do to help?¡± Ariel asked her mate, who was still on the bed, and his eyes shut tight. ¡°Water? aspirin?  food?¡±  Her voice lowered in concern.


    Was she a bad mate for wanting him to go?


    ¡°No, I think I will be fine. I just need some shut eyes.¡± He groaned, turning to his side.


    ¡°Sorry, baby.¡± Ariel leaned in and ced a kiss on his forehead before she rolled over to the edge, cing her feet on the floor, and stood up.


    She padded to the bathroom, stopping in front of the wall mirror, and peeped at her reflection. Her skin had a healthy flush to it-evidence of a healthy sex life-although dark circles surrounded her eyes as a result of little to no sleep.


    She bent over the sink and sshed water on her face several times before she dried it off with her towel, her mind running through ways she could get Kane out of the house without being too oblivious.


    But how was she going to do that?


    Ariel pondered this thought as she went back to the room, but you could imagine her surprise when she saw her mate struggling with his buttons.


    ¡°Hm, where are you going? I thought you were not so strong.¡± The worry was heavilyced in her voice; even though she wanted him gone, she still needed him to be well.


    ¡°Toby just called and said that something had happened, and I need to be in the office.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure you will be okay?¡± Ariel called after him, but he was already gone.


    ¡°That was easy.¡± Ariel mused, and she was moving around the room, arranging the bed, and putting things in order.


    She nced at the clock, and this time it was just 5 minutes past the time, and she was hurrying to the table. She sent a message to udia to be sure she was ready, and she grabbed her note and pen, ready to take down whatever she heard, although she was still going to record the call.


    She wasn¡¯t going to leave any stone unturned.


    It was ten on the dot, and Ariel sat rigidly on the chair, her feet tapping continuously on the cold floor and her hand poised on the phone, waiting for the familiar ringtone.


    ¡°Come on.¡± She whispered under her breath; it was already 7 minutes past, and the phone was still cold to the touch. ¡°Come on, stranger,e on.¡± She was practically begging.


    He had promised he was going to help; he couldn¡¯t back her on her promise now.


    It was more than 20 minutes now, and not even a beep, and she was getting dejected.


    She should have known it was a scam.


    ¡°Ahhh.¡± Ariel groaned dejectedly, the chair creaking as she dragged it back. She dumped her body on the bed rather udylike, her arms eagle spread, and her eyes focused on the ceiling yet not seeing anything.


    Her eyes fluttered shut, her chest rising as she sucked in arge breath, and she slowly exhaled.


    But she was opening her eyes and jumping out of bed as her phone red out, disrupting the quiet air. Her heart was pounding behind her ribs as she nced at the caller.


    It was him.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Ariel spoke on the phone a little enthusiastically, and she was beating herself up as soon as the world left her mouth.


    ¡°Are you ready for this?¡± The distorted voice spoke through the mouthpiece, not even acknowledging her greeting.


    But what was she expecting? She sobered up almost immediately, her mood turning sour. ¡°Just spill, okay; I am not in the mood for any of your games.¡±


    ¡°I suggest you sit back because it is going to be a long one.¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes, but she listened to his advice, and she sat back as he began to talk.


    And Ariel listened to all he had to say, her mouth slightly opening in shock.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe you.¡± She whispered as he finished pouring out everything he knew.


    He told her everything-her lineage, her parents, what had happened to her pack, and the fact that she had lost her memory.


    A dark chuckle could be heard from the speaker, and Ariel pulled the phone away, just to be sure he was still the same person on the phone.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°Why are youughing? What is so funny?¡±


    ¡°For a pretty girl, you are a little dumb. But I guess it is alright; you already have a mate. Anyway, if you think I am lying, you could always ask your mate; he should know better.¡± The way the person spat out the mate suggests an internal beef between the two.


    Does Kane know about this person?


    The faintest hint of a scowl yed on her lips, and she squinted her eyes in confusion. ¡°I don¡¯t understand. What has Kane got to do with this?¡±


    ¡°Are you really that dense that you don¡¯t know your mate was at the forefront of the massacre?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡± Ariel gulped, little beads of perspiration forming on her forehead.


    ¡°Are you so dumb that you don¡¯t know that destroying the moonlight pack was Kane¡¯s mission? He killed your parents, hun.¡±


    The darkughter sounded in her ears-the cackling like those evil witches you would see in cartoons-and she knew thatughter was going to haunt her.


    ¡°You are a liar, a big, fat liar.¡± Even hereback was weak, because somehow she could tell he was telling the truth, but she refused to wrap her mind around it.


    Instead, hisughter continued to disrupt the tranquility of the room, sending chills down her spine, and she removed the phone, throwing it to the far end of the room.


    Yet hisughter still haunts her.


    Her eyes skidded away from the room, and she stared at the window, watching the hill that overlooks the manor, the butterfly that hade too close to the window, and the scent of fresh air, taking it all in.


    Ariel didn¡¯t know how long she had stayed in that position, frozen in that position until the door slowly opened and she was wrapped in the male scent.


    It was so overwhelming that it enveloped the whole room, announcing its owner.


    ¡°Hey baby? How are you doing?¡± Kane asked, leaning down to give her a kiss, but she invaded his touch, and she slowly stood up, her movement reminding her of a rusty robot. ¡°What is wrong?¡± His gaze ran over her figure.


    Ariel looked into his eyes, looking for any sign of remorse, but none was forting, and she dropped the bombshell.


    ¡°Who is Alpha John?¡±

 Chapter 67

    ¡°Who is Alpha John?¡±


    The ring rm went off in Kane¡¯s head, the name triggering something he had thought he had buried in his past. He looked at his mate; the zing fire in her eyes was all directed at him, and he didn¡¯t know what to think. ¡°I don¡¯t understand what, babe. What is going on?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t take me for a fool, Kane; I said, Who is Alpha John?¡± Ariel thundered, her fingers squeezed into a fist. She badly wanted to punch something right now, and all that came to her mind was his face.


    She had never considered herself to be violent, but maybe it had always been in her.


    ¡°Look, Ariel, I don¡¯t understand what is going on here, but I suggest you rx and take a step back. I just came back, and thest thing I want is to be bombarded.¡± Kane replied, his voice more raised than usual. He had decided to take the defensive role, hoping it would help. ¡°Come on.¡± He made to grab her, but she pped his hands away.


    ¡°Don¡¯t fucking touch me! Just answer the damn question!¡± Ariel yelled, spittle flying from her mouth.


    Kane¡¯s eyes were trained on his mate; his eyes squinted as he observed her little disy, and he couldn¡¯t help but wonder, Just how much did she know?


    He couldn¡¯t screw this up, because whatever he said or did was going to determine how their rtionship was going to be. He had two options: he could either pretend he had no idea and deny it, or he could tell the truth. After all, the truth would set you free.


    But he had no idea the extent to which she knew, and he had to pick the option that would favor him. Kane took a deep breath before he began to talk.


    ¡°I have no idea what you are talking about, babe. I don¡¯t know who the hell Alpha John is or what got into you tonight. I just want toe back to a peaceful home and a loving mate; is that too much to ask?¡±


    Ariel regarded the man before her, seeing him in a new light, and she shook her head. A wave of disappointment washed over her like a cold shower.


    ¡°You liar!¡± Ariel sneered with gritted teeth. Her eyes zed with unbridled fury as she red at him, her hands clenched into fists at her sides. ¡°You liaarrr!¡± She screamed out in rage, and they were all directed towards him.


    ¡°Ariel, I can exin; please calm down; I can exin.¡± Kane yelled, trying to drive home his point, but Ariel was shaking her head, refusing to let him get into her head.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your fucking exnation; how could you lie to me? How could you look at me in my fucking face and lie to me? You im to love me, you fucked me, and yet you sleep peacefully knowing you killed my parents?¡±


    Kane shifted ufortably under her gaze, cringing from every sentence she directed at him, her words cutting him down like a sharpened knife.


    The pain in her voice was something he couldn¡¯t bear, and he tried to reach towards her, but she shifted for his touch like he was leprous, her eyes daring him toe closer.


    ¡°I can exin, baby; it is not what you think.¡±


    ¡°Exin?¡± Ariel¡¯sughter was cold and menacing, sending evil chills down his spine. He had never seen his mate like this, and it was offsetting to think that he was the one who had made her like that. ¡°What more do you have to exin that you couldn¡¯t exin for the past months that I have been with you? What more lie do you have to concoct this time?¡±


    Kane took a step forward, his arms outstretched in a cating gesture. ¡°I wanted to tell you, Ari; I wanted nothing more than to tell you, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t!¡± Ariel ced her hands in front of her, putting a distance between them. ¡°You have the right to call me that name again. No right.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°I am sorry, Ariel; I am truly sorry. I have been wanting to tell you, but I couldn¡¯t find a suitable time to tell you. I don¡¯t know how much you know, but you can¡¯t believe everything you hear. Some of them are lies.¡±


    ¡°What more can you exin, Kane? You murdered my parents in cold blood, and you took me away from them? That you somehow managed to wipe my memories, and I have no recollection of when I was a werewolf, that in your wickedness you sent me out of the country because you couldn¡¯t stand to be with me, and when I came back, you pretended you were such a saint and made me fall for you?¡±


    Kane¡¯s face was twisted in a mixture of guilt and desperation, and his fingers ran through his hair, almost pulling them from their roots. ¡°Ariel, I-¡±


    ¡°Just shut up!¡± Ariel¡¯s voice rose in a shout, her anger a deadly venom. ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear anything from you, Kane; your voice disgusts me.¡±


    Kane closed his eyes at her words, blinking back the traitorous tears that were threatening to spill. Somehow, her words always had a way of breaking him. ¡°Ariel, stop. Please. I love you.¡±


    ¡°Love?¡± The surprise could be heard in her voice, and she broke off into a sinisterughter that broke something in him. ¡°Is this what you call love? If this is love, I don¡¯t think I want to be part of it.¡±


    ¡°Ariel, I was just trying to protect you. I never thought it would linger on like this. Everything I did was for you and our future.¡±


    ¡°I am tired of hearing your annoying voice, Kane; I can¡¯t stand it any longer. I am tired of this; it is all over.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you mean, Ariel; we can fix this.¡±


    ¡°There is nothing to fix again, Kane; it is over. I hate you.¡± Ariel sniffed, her eyes red with unshed tears. It was a surprise she hadn¡¯t burst into tears; the former Ariel would have been bursting her eyes out, wailing, but she would never give him the satisfaction of seeing her tears.


    ¡°Ariel.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s eyes shed with pure hatred, and Kane could have sworn he saw her eyes sh golden for a second. ¡°I¡¯ll never forgive you for this, Kane. Never.¡± And with that, she was running out of the room, ignoring his shouts for her.


    She ran, tears running down her eyes, as she went down the flight of stairs. She was grateful for the cold night that had kept most of the packmates in their rooms, and none would see their Luna breakdown.


    Was she even their Luna?


    Who knows if he lied about that too?


    Did he even love her? Because you don¡¯t do this to someone you love.


    Ariel let the anger fuel her as she pumped her limbs faster. The faster she got out of this house, the faster she would get back to her sanity.


    She needed to leave this ce.


    It was only when Ariel had left the pack house, widening her stance and huddled over, that she tried to catch her breath.


    Now what?


    She had run out of the house, but what now?


    She literally had no idea where she was, and even if she was going to run, where would she run?


    Her eyes flitted around thepound, and theynded at the fleet of cars, sitting pretty in the garage, and Ariel wasted no time running towards one of the cars.


    She eyed the ck Mercedes lustfully, and she moved towards it, praying it was unlocked.


    The goddess must be on her side, because she tried the handle and the car opened. She made to go in, but a hand gripped her wrist firmly, preventing her.


    Ariel turned to look at the culprit, and there stood her archenemy in flesh. She eyed her in distaste, but she lowered her eyes to the parcel in her hands, and her lips were turned in a frown.


    ¡°Maddie?¡±

 Chapter 68

    ¡°Maddie?¡± Ariel looked at the female in front of her, wondering just why she was here. Her eyes lowered to the parcel she was holding, and Ariel eyed it in distaste.


    Was she thinking of going with her?


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°What do you think I am doing here?¡± Maddie eyed her in simr distaste, not caring for her red eyes or the snort almost dripping out of her nose.


    ¡°Look, this is the worst time for a fight, Maddie. I already told you I have nothing to do with your mate; I have my own mate¡­¡±Ariel paused at her words, not sure Kane was worthy of being called her mate, but before she could continue, Maddie had beaten her to it.


    ¡°I came to give you this.¡± Maddie said, stretching out her hands and handing her a little brown box.


    ¡°What is that?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyebrows knitted in confusion as she eyed the package, her hands refusing to move from her side.


    ¡°Just take it; you will need it.¡± Maddie moved closer, dumping the package in her hand, and she took a step back. ¡°I heard you and Kane fiasco.¡±


    ¡°Ohhh.¡± Ariel¡¯s mouth was wide open in realization, the tips of her ears turning red as shame took hold of her. Just how many people have heard of their shouts?


    How could she have forgotten that she lived in a house where all their senses were heightened and they weren¡¯t exactly quiet?


    ¡°Well, you already heard, and I don¡¯t think you are here enough to stop me.¡±


    ¡°Oh no, never. I don¡¯t exactly like you, but I understand what it means to be in your position, and while I hate to admit it, I know Toby will be happy to know that I did something.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel replied genuinely.


    ¡°There is a phone, some cash, and just some essentials that I think you will need inside the box. It may not be much, but it should go a long way.¡±


    ¡°I thought you hated me.¡± It was a miracle her voice didn¡¯t croak as she began to talk. After what she had just been through, Maddie showing her any bit of kindness was thest thing she expected.


    ¡°Again, I may not be a fan, but I am not heartless, and I suggest you get going before Kane decides toe for you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much, Maddie; I will never forget your kindness.¡± Ariel whispered with so much emotion, gripping her hand tightly, but Maddie could only endure it for long before she shrugged her hands off.


    ¡°Keep going north, and you will be out of here.¡± That was all she said before she turned her back, and she was walking briskly into the packhouse.


    Ariel looked at her retreating back for a little longer before it clicked in her head that if she wanted to get a head start, she would have to be on her way.


    She lowered herself into the car and took a deep breath, the scent of the leather interior bringing a smile to her face.


    She held the wheel with unsteady hands. It It had been a while since she was behind a steering wheel, but she could still remember how it functioned, so she grabbed the keys and pressed the button, watching the car roar back to life.


    ¡°Yeap baby.¡± Ariel screamed despite the internal turmoil in her; nothing beat the sound of a good car, and right now, this car was hers.


    She took the wheels, driving the tarred path until she got to the gigantic metal gate, where the guardsy in wait.


    ¡°Luna?¡± They failed to conceal their shock as they saw her.


    She could imagine their surprise, though; she had never seen the need to go out of the pack as everything she needed was provided for her.


    ¡°The alpha said to open the gate.¡± Ariel knew that they wouldn¡¯t dare to disobey Kane, but they still shared skeptical looks until eventually the gate opened and she was driving out of the gate with such speed in case they decided to stop her.


    It wasn¡¯t until she was a good distance away from the pack that she could breathe well. The road ahead was a smooth, tarred road, and Ariel turned on autopilot as she rxed in her seat.


    She grabbed the parcel she had dumped on the passenger seat, and she tore it apart, eager to see what she had packed.


    And true to her words, there were some bundles of a $100 bill, a phone, a knife, and a few changes of clothes-basically, the essentials, just as she had mentioned, but the thoughts brought tears to her eyes.


    Ariel had run out of the house blindly in her anger, and she had forgotten to carry anything with her, not even a debit card.


    Her pride would never let her go back to the room, and she had wondered how she would survive without anything, but Maddie had given her a fighting chance.


    Now all that was left was revenge.


    Immediately after she got to the human town and settled down, she was going to devise a revenge n.


    Kane wasn¡¯t going scot-free.


    He had caused her so much untold pain. He lied to her, thinking she was going to remain dumb, but jokes on him.


    Ariel continued on the path Maddie had described for her, but it had been an hour now, and she was losing hope. Apart from the tarred road, it was justrge stretches of forest that continued for so long.


    Seeing only the bright greenery was making her ufortable and nauseous. Who knew which pack she was crossing? They could be Kane¡¯s enemies and decide toe for her.


    She fingered her silver ne, d it had never crossed her mind to take it off. If she managed to make it to the humanmunity, she was going to have to order another batch of wolfsbane.


    And so, Ariel continued the journey, but her mind kept wandering to Kane, and she hoped secretly that the guilt was killing her.


    She would never forgive him.


    ***


    Ariel couldn¡¯t tell her how long she had been on this path, but she was beginning to get tired; her arms hurt from all the driving; it was a struggle trying to keep her eyes open; and yet another yawn tore from her lips.


    She was tired.


    She needed food, maybe some shut eyes, and a ce to stay. It was tempting to stop the car somewhere and take a quick nap.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    But she could be inside an enemy camp, and who knows what they will do when they get to her?


    Instead, she continued on, cranking the volume of the radio very loud, hoping the music was going to prevent her from falling asleep.


    But after several miles, hope was a thing of the past, and she was sure Maddie had led her to a dead end.


    She should have never trusted her.


    Her dder had been stretched to the limit, and she was sure that if she didn¡¯t stop to empty it, she was going tobust.


    But she continued driving, her left hands massaging her lower stomach while pleading with her body to hold on. She had sighted a clearing in front, and she stopped the car and came down.


    In her pockets were a wad of cash, a phone, and a car key, and she clutched the knife in her hands. If anyonees too close, they will feel the brunt of her knife.


    She found a somewhat secure ce, and she lowered herself, releasing all the contents of her dder and her searching eyes all over the ce.


    She couldn¡¯t take any chances.


    She was almost through when she heard the howls a little distance from where she was.


    ¡°It is fine; it is just a figment of your imagination.¡± She tried to reassure herself, but she was sure they could hear her heart pounding.


    As if mocking her, she heard another howl, and this time it was closer than before, and she didn¡¯t think anything before she took to her heels.


    She was sure her feet were touching the back of her head, but she had no care for the world. She couldn¡¯t allow herself to be captured.


    Ariel ran for her life, the initial fatigue giving way as the adrenaline rush took over. However, in her blind run, she couldn¡¯t make sense of her environment, and she stumbled into a tree.


    No.


    A tree couldn¡¯t be this warm; she was sure she felt what was a dog¡¯s ear or a wolf, and she didn¡¯t think twice.


    She gathered all the air in her lungs, and she screamed.


    ¡°Aaaahhhhhh¡­¡±


    ¡°Maddie?¡± Ariel looked at the female in front of her, wondering just why she was here. Her eyes lowered to the parcel she was holding, and Ariel eyed it in distaste.


    Was she thinking of going with her?


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°What do you think I am doing here?¡± Maddie eyed her in simr distaste, not caring for her red eyes or the snort almost dripping out of her nose.


    ¡°Look, this is the worst time for a fight, Maddie. I already told you I have nothing to do with your mate; I have my own mate¡­¡±Ariel paused at her words, not sure Kane was worthy of being called her mate, but before she could continue, Maddie had beaten her to it.


    ¡°I came to give you this.¡± Maddie said, stretching out her hands and handing her a little brown box.


    ¡°What is that?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyebrows knitted in confusion as she eyed the package, her hands refusing to move from her side.


    ¡°Just take it; you will need it.¡± Maddie moved closer, dumping the package in her hand, and she took a step back. ¡°I heard you and Kane fiasco.¡±


    ¡°Ohhh.¡± Ariel¡¯s mouth was wide open in realization, the tips of her ears turning red as shame took hold of her. Just how many people have heard of their shouts?


    How could she have forgotten that she lived in a house where all their senses were heightened and they weren¡¯t exactly quiet?


    ¡°Well, you already heard, and I don¡¯t think you are here enough to stop me.¡±


    ¡°Oh no, never. I don¡¯t exactly like you, but I understand what it means to be in your position, and while I hate to admit it, I know Toby will be happy to know that I did something.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel replied genuinely.


    ¡°There is a phone, some cash, and just some essentials that I think you will need inside the box. It may not be much, but it should go a long way.¡±


    ¡°I thought you hated me.¡± It was a miracle her voice didn¡¯t croak as she began to talk. After what she had just been through, Maddie showing her any bit of kindness was thest thing she expected.


    ¡°Again, I may not be a fan, but I am not heartless, and I suggest you get going before Kane decides toe for you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much, Maddie; I will never forget your kindness.¡± Ariel whispered with so much emotion, gripping her hand tightly, but Maddie could only endure it for long before she shrugged her hands off.


    ¡°Keep going north, and you will be out of here.¡± That was all she said before she turned her back, and she was walking briskly into the packhouse.


    Ariel looked at her retreating back for a little longer before it clicked in her head that if she wanted to get a head start, she would have to be on her way.


    She lowered herself into the car and took a deep breath, the scent of the leather interior bringing a smile to her face.


    She held the wheel with unsteady hands. It It had been a while since she was behind a steering wheel, but she could still remember how it functioned, so she grabbed the keys and pressed the button, watching the car roar back to life.


    ¡°Yeap baby.¡± Ariel screamed despite the internal turmoil in her; nothing beat the sound of a good car, and right now, this car was hers.


    She took the wheels, driving the tarred path until she got to the gigantic metal gate, where the guardsy in wait.


    ¡°Luna?¡± They failed to conceal their shock as they saw her.


    She could imagine their surprise, though; she had never seen the need to go out of the pack as everything she needed was provided for her.


    ¡°The alpha said to open the gate.¡± Ariel knew that they wouldn¡¯t dare to disobey Kane, but they still shared skeptical looks until eventually the gate opened and she was driving out of the gate with such speed in case they decided to stop her.


    It wasn¡¯t until she was a good distance away from the pack that she could breathe well. The road ahead was a smooth, tarred road, and Ariel turned on autopilot as she rxed in her seat.


    She grabbed the parcel she had dumped on the passenger seat, and she tore it apart, eager to see what she had packed.


    And true to her words, there were some bundles of a $100 bill, a phone, a knife, and a few changes of clothes-basically, the essentials, just as she had mentioned, but the thoughts brought tears to her eyes.


    Ariel had run out of the house blindly in her anger, and she had forgotten to carry anything with her, not even a debit card.


    Her pride would never let her go back to the room, and she had wondered how she would survive without anything, but Maddie had given her a fighting chance.


    Now all that was left was revenge.


    Immediately after she got to the human town and settled down, she was going to devise a revenge n.


    Kane wasn¡¯t going scot-free.


    He had caused her so much untold pain. He lied to her, thinking she was going to remain dumb, but jokes on him.


    Ariel continued on the path Maddie had described for her, but it had been an hour now, and she was losing hope. Apart from the tarred road, it was justrge stretches of forest that continued for so long.


    Seeing only the bright greenery was making her ufortable and nauseous. Who knew which pack she was crossing? They could be Kane¡¯s enemies and decide toe for her.


    She fingered her silver ne, d it had never crossed her mind to take it off. If she managed to make it to the humanmunity, she was going to have to order another batch of wolfsbane.


    And so, Ariel continued the journey, but her mind kept wandering to Kane, and she hoped secretly that the guilt was killing her.


    She would never forgive him.


    ***


    Ariel couldn¡¯t tell her how long she had been on this path, but she was beginning to get tired; her arms hurt from all the driving; it was a struggle trying to keep her eyes open; and yet another yawn tore from her lips.


    She was tired.


    She needed food, maybe some shut eyes, and a ce to stay. It was tempting to stop the car somewhere and take a quick nap.


    But she could be inside an enemy camp, and who knows what they will do when they get to her?


    Instead, she continued on, cranking the volume of the radio very loud, hoping the music was going to prevent her from falling asleep.


    But after several miles, hope was a thing of the past, and she was sure Maddie had led her to a dead end.


    She should have never trusted her.


    Her dder had been stretched to the limit, and she was sure that if she didn¡¯t stop to empty it, she was going tobust.


    But she continued driving, her left hands massaging her lower stomach while pleading with her body to hold on. She had sighted a clearing in front, and she stopped the car and came down.


    In her pockets were a wad of cash, a phone, and a car key, and she clutched the knife in her hands. If anyonees too close, they will feel the brunt of her knife.


    She found a somewhat secure ce, and she lowered herself, releasing all the contents of her dder and her searching eyes all over the ce.


    She couldn¡¯t take any chances.


    She was almost through when she heard the howls a little distance from where she was.


    ¡°It is fine; it is just a figment of your imagination.¡± She tried to reassure herself, but she was sure they could hear her heart pounding.


    As if mocking her, she heard another howl, and this time it was closer than before, and she didn¡¯t think anything before she took to her heels.


    She was sure her feet were touching the back of her head, but she had no care for the world. She couldn¡¯t allow herself to be captured.


    Ariel ran for her life, the initial fatigue giving way as the adrenaline rush took over. However, in her blind run, she couldn¡¯t make sense of her environment, and she stumbled into a tree.


    No.


    A tree couldn¡¯t be this warm; she was sure she felt what was a dog¡¯s ear or a wolf, and she didn¡¯t think twice.


    She gathered all the air in her lungs, and she screamed.


    ¡°Aaaahhhhhh¡­¡±


    ¡°Maddie?¡± Ariel looked at the female in front of her, wondering just why she was here. Her eyes lowered to the parcel she was holding, and Ariel eyed it in distaste.


    Was she thinking of going with her?


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°What do you think I am doing here?¡± Maddie eyed her in simr distaste, not caring for her red eyes or the snort almost dripping out of her nose.


    ¡°Look, this is the worst time for a fight, Maddie. I already told you I have nothing to do with your mate; I have my own mate¡­¡±Ariel paused at her words, not sure Kane was worthy of being called her mate, but before she could continue, Maddie had beaten her to it.


    ¡°I came to give you this.¡± Maddie said, stretching out her hands and handing her a little brown box.


    ¡°What is that?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyebrows knitted in confusion as she eyed the package, her hands refusing to move from her side.


    ¡°Just take it; you will need it.¡± Maddie moved closer, dumping the package in her hand, and she took a step back. ¡°I heard you and Kane fiasco.¡±


    ¡°Ohhh.¡± Ariel¡¯s mouth was wide open in realization, the tips of her ears turning red as shame took hold of her. Just how many people have heard of their shouts?


    How could she have forgotten that she lived in a house where all their senses were heightened and they weren¡¯t exactly quiet?


    ¡°Well, you already heard, and I don¡¯t think you are here enough to stop me.¡±


    ¡°Oh no, never. I don¡¯t exactly like you, but I understand what it means to be in your position, and while I hate to admit it, I know Toby will be happy to know that I did something.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel replied genuinely.


    ¡°There is a phone, some cash, and just some essentials that I think you will need inside the box. It may not be much, but it should go a long way.¡±


    ¡°I thought you hated me.¡± It was a miracle her voice didn¡¯t croak as she began to talk. After what she had just been through, Maddie showing her any bit of kindness was thest thing she expected.


    ¡°Again, I may not be a fan, but I am not heartless, and I suggest you get going before Kane decides toe for you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much, Maddie; I will never forget your kindness.¡± Ariel whispered with so much emotion, gripping her hand tightly, but Maddie could only endure it for long before she shrugged her hands off.


    ¡°Keep going north, and you will be out of here.¡± That was all she said before she turned her back, and she was walking briskly into the packhouse.


    Ariel looked at her retreating back for a little longer before it clicked in her head that if she wanted to get a head start, she would have to be on her way.


    She lowered herself into the car and took a deep breath, the scent of the leather interior bringing a smile to her face.


    She held the wheel with unsteady hands. It It had been a while since she was behind a steering wheel, but she could still remember how it functioned, so she grabbed the keys and pressed the button, watching the car roar back to life.


    ¡°Yeap baby.¡± Ariel screamed despite the internal turmoil in her; nothing beat the sound of a good car, and right now, this car was hers.


    She took the wheels, driving the tarred path until she got to the gigantic metal gate, where the guardsy in wait.


    ¡°Luna?¡± They failed to conceal their shock as they saw her.


    She could imagine their surprise, though; she had never seen the need to go out of the pack as everything she needed was provided for her.


    ¡°The alpha said to open the gate.¡± Ariel knew that they wouldn¡¯t dare to disobey Kane, but they still shared skeptical looks until eventually the gate opened and she was driving out of the gate with such speed in case they decided to stop her.


    It wasn¡¯t until she was a good distance away from the pack that she could breathe well. The road ahead was a smooth, tarred road, and Ariel turned on autopilot as she rxed in her seat.


    She grabbed the parcel she had dumped on the passenger seat, and she tore it apart, eager to see what she had packed.


    And true to her words, there were some bundles of a $100 bill, a phone, a knife, and a few changes of clothes-basically, the essentials, just as she had mentioned, but the thoughts brought tears to her eyes.


    Ariel had run out of the house blindly in her anger, and she had forgotten to carry anything with her, not even a debit card.


    Her pride would never let her go back to the room, and she had wondered how she would survive without anything, but Maddie had given her a fighting chance.


    Now all that was left was revenge.


    Immediately after she got to the human town and settled down, she was going to devise a revenge n.


    Kane wasn¡¯t going scot-free.


    He had caused her so much untold pain. He lied to her, thinking she was going to remain dumb, but jokes on him.


    Ariel continued on the path Maddie had described for her, but it had been an hour now, and she was losing hope. Apart from the tarred road, it was justrge stretches of forest that continued for so long.


    Seeing only the bright greenery was making her ufortable and nauseous. Who knew which pack she was crossing? They could be Kane¡¯s enemies and decide toe for her.


    She fingered her silver ne, d it had never crossed her mind to take it off. If she managed to make it to the humanmunity, she was going to have to order another batch of wolfsbane.


    And so, Ariel continued the journey, but her mind kept wandering to Kane, and she hoped secretly that the guilt was killing her.


    She would never forgive him.


    ***


    Ariel couldn¡¯t tell her how long she had been on this path, but she was beginning to get tired; her arms hurt from all the driving; it was a struggle trying to keep her eyes open; and yet another yawn tore from her lips.


    She was tired.


    She needed food, maybe some shut eyes, and a ce to stay. It was tempting to stop the car somewhere and take a quick nap.


    But she could be inside an enemy camp, and who knows what they will do when they get to her?


    Instead, she continued on, cranking the volume of the radio very loud, hoping the music was going to prevent her from falling asleep.


    But after several miles, hope was a thing of the past, and she was sure Maddie had led her to a dead end.


    She should have never trusted her.


    Her dder had been stretched to the limit, and she was sure that if she didn¡¯t stop to empty it, she was going tobust.


    But she continued driving, her left hands massaging her lower stomach while pleading with her body to hold on. She had sighted a clearing in front, and she stopped the car and came down.


    In her pockets were a wad of cash, a phone, and a car key, and she clutched the knife in her hands. If anyonees too close, they will feel the brunt of her knife.


    She found a somewhat secure ce, and she lowered herself, releasing all the contents of her dder and her searching eyes all over the ce.


    She couldn¡¯t take any chances.


    She was almost through when she heard the howls a little distance from where she was.


    ¡°It is fine; it is just a figment of your imagination.¡± She tried to reassure herself, but she was sure they could hear her heart pounding.


    As if mocking her, she heard another howl, and this time it was closer than before, and she didn¡¯t think anything before she took to her heels.


    She was sure her feet were touching the back of her head, but she had no care for the world. She couldn¡¯t allow herself to be captured.


    Ariel ran for her life, the initial fatigue giving way as the adrenaline rush took over. However, in her blind run, she couldn¡¯t make sense of her environment, and she stumbled into a tree.


    No.


    A tree couldn¡¯t be this warm; she was sure she felt what was a dog¡¯s ear or a wolf, and she didn¡¯t think twice.


    She gathered all the air in her lungs, and she screamed.


    ¡°Aaaahhhhhh¡­¡±


    ¡°Maddie?¡± Ariel looked at the female in front of her, wondering just why she was here. Her eyes lowered to the parcel she was holding, and Ariel eyed it in distaste.


    Was she thinking of going with her?


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°What do you think I am doing here?¡± Maddie eyed her in simr distaste, not caring for her red eyes or the snort almost dripping out of her nose.


    ¡°Look, this is the worst time for a fight, Maddie. I already told you I have nothing to do with your mate; I have my own mate¡­¡±Ariel paused at her words, not sure Kane was worthy of being called her mate, but before she could continue, Maddie had beaten her to it.


    ¡°I came to give you this.¡± Maddie said, stretching out her hands and handing her a little brown box.


    ¡°What is that?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyebrows knitted in confusion as she eyed the package, her hands refusing to move from her side.


    ¡°Just take it; you will need it.¡± Maddie moved closer, dumping the package in her hand, and she took a step back. ¡°I heard you and Kane fiasco.¡±


    ¡°Ohhh.¡± Ariel¡¯s mouth was wide open in realization, the tips of her ears turning red as shame took hold of her. Just how many people have heard of their shouts?


    How could she have forgotten that she lived in a house where all their senses were heightened and they weren¡¯t exactly quiet?


    ¡°Well, you already heard, and I don¡¯t think you are here enough to stop me.¡±


    ¡°Oh no, never. I don¡¯t exactly like you, but I understand what it means to be in your position, and while I hate to admit it, I know Toby will be happy to know that I did something.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel replied genuinely.


    ¡°There is a phone, some cash, and just some essentials that I think you will need inside the box. It may not be much, but it should go a long way.¡±


    ¡°I thought you hated me.¡± It was a miracle her voice didn¡¯t croak as she began to talk. After what she had just been through, Maddie showing her any bit of kindness was thest thing she expected.


    ¡°Again, I may not be a fan, but I am not heartless, and I suggest you get going before Kane decides toe for you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much, Maddie; I will never forget your kindness.¡± Ariel whispered with so much emotion, gripping her hand tightly, but Maddie could only endure it for long before she shrugged her hands off.


    ¡°Keep going north, and you will be out of here.¡± That was all she said before she turned her back, and she was walking briskly into the packhouse.


    Ariel looked at her retreating back for a little longer before it clicked in her head that if she wanted to get a head start, she would have to be on her way.


    She lowered herself into the car and took a deep breath, the scent of the leather interior bringing a smile to her face.


    She held the wheel with unsteady hands. It It had been a while since she was behind a steering wheel, but she could still remember how it functioned, so she grabbed the keys and pressed the button, watching the car roar back to life.


    ¡°Yeap baby.¡± Ariel screamed despite the internal turmoil in her; nothing beat the sound of a good car, and right now, this car was hers.


    She took the wheels, driving the tarred path until she got to the gigantic metal gate, where the guardsy in wait.


    ¡°Luna?¡± They failed to conceal their shock as they saw her.


    She could imagine their surprise, though; she had never seen the need to go out of the pack as everything she needed was provided for her.


    ¡°The alpha said to open the gate.¡± Ariel knew that they wouldn¡¯t dare to disobey Kane, but they still shared skeptical looks until eventually the gate opened and she was driving out of the gate with such speed in case they decided to stop her.


    It wasn¡¯t until she was a good distance away from the pack that she could breathe well. The road ahead was a smooth, tarred road, and Ariel turned on autopilot as she rxed in her seat.


    She grabbed the parcel she had dumped on the passenger seat, and she tore it apart, eager to see what she had packed.


    And true to her words, there were some bundles of a $100 bill, a phone, a knife, and a few changes of clothes-basically, the essentials, just as she had mentioned, but the thoughts brought tears to her eyes.


    Ariel had run out of the house blindly in her anger, and she had forgotten to carry anything with her, not even a debit card.


    Her pride would never let her go back to the room, and she had wondered how she would survive without anything, but Maddie had given her a fighting chance.


    Now all that was left was revenge.


    Immediately after she got to the human town and settled down, she was going to devise a revenge n.


    Kane wasn¡¯t going scot-free.


    He had caused her so much untold pain. He lied to her, thinking she was going to remain dumb, but jokes on him.


    Ariel continued on the path Maddie had described for her, but it had been an hour now, and she was losing hope. Apart from the tarred road, it was justrge stretches of forest that continued for so long.


    Seeing only the bright greenery was making her ufortable and nauseous. Who knew which pack she was crossing? They could be Kane¡¯s enemies and decide toe for her.


    She fingered her silver ne, d it had never crossed her mind to take it off. If she managed to make it to the humanmunity, she was going to have to order another batch of wolfsbane.


    And so, Ariel continued the journey, but her mind kept wandering to Kane, and she hoped secretly that the guilt was killing her.


    She would never forgive him.


    ***


    Ariel couldn¡¯t tell her how long she had been on this path, but she was beginning to get tired; her arms hurt from all the driving; it was a struggle trying to keep her eyes open; and yet another yawn tore from her lips.


    She was tired.


    She needed food, maybe some shut eyes, and a ce to stay. It was tempting to stop the car somewhere and take a quick nap.


    But she could be inside an enemy camp, and who knows what they will do when they get to her?


    Instead, she continued on, cranking the volume of the radio very loud, hoping the music was going to prevent her from falling asleep.


    But after several miles, hope was a thing of the past, and she was sure Maddie had led her to a dead end.


    She should have never trusted her.


    Her dder had been stretched to the limit, and she was sure that if she didn¡¯t stop to empty it, she was going tobust.


    But she continued driving, her left hands massaging her lower stomach while pleading with her body to hold on. She had sighted a clearing in front, and she stopped the car and came down.


    In her pockets were a wad of cash, a phone, and a car key, and she clutched the knife in her hands. If anyonees too close, they will feel the brunt of her knife.


    She found a somewhat secure ce, and she lowered herself, releasing all the contents of her dder and her searching eyes all over the ce.


    She couldn¡¯t take any chances.


    She was almost through when she heard the howls a little distance from where she was.


    ¡°It is fine; it is just a figment of your imagination.¡± She tried to reassure herself, but she was sure they could hear her heart pounding.


    As if mocking her, she heard another howl, and this time it was closer than before, and she didn¡¯t think anything before she took to her heels.


    She was sure her feet were touching the back of her head, but she had no care for the world. She couldn¡¯t allow herself to be captured.


    Ariel ran for her life, the initial fatigue giving way as the adrenaline rush took over. However, in her blind run, she couldn¡¯t make sense of her environment, and she stumbled into a tree.


    No.


    A tree couldn¡¯t be this warm; she was sure she felt what was a dog¡¯s ear or a wolf, and she didn¡¯t think twice.


    She gathered all the air in her lungs, and she screamed.


    ¡°Aaaahhhhhh¡­¡±


    ¡°Maddie?¡± Ariel looked at the female in front of her, wondering just why she was here. Her eyes lowered to the parcel she was holding, and Ariel eyed it in distaste.


    Was she thinking of going with her?


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°What do you think I am doing here?¡± Maddie eyed her in simr distaste, not caring for her red eyes or the snort almost dripping out of her nose.


    ¡°Look, this is the worst time for a fight, Maddie. I already told you I have nothing to do with your mate; I have my own mate¡­¡±Ariel paused at her words, not sure Kane was worthy of being called her mate, but before she could continue, Maddie had beaten her to it.


    ¡°I came to give you this.¡± Maddie said, stretching out her hands and handing her a little brown box.


    ¡°What is that?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyebrows knitted in confusion as she eyed the package, her hands refusing to move from her side.


    ¡°Just take it; you will need it.¡± Maddie moved closer, dumping the package in her hand, and she took a step back. ¡°I heard you and Kane fiasco.¡±


    ¡°Ohhh.¡± Ariel¡¯s mouth was wide open in realization, the tips of her ears turning red as shame took hold of her. Just how many people have heard of their shouts?


    How could she have forgotten that she lived in a house where all their senses were heightened and they weren¡¯t exactly quiet?


    ¡°Well, you already heard, and I don¡¯t think you are here enough to stop me.¡±


    ¡°Oh no, never. I don¡¯t exactly like you, but I understand what it means to be in your position, and while I hate to admit it, I know Toby will be happy to know that I did something.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel replied genuinely.


    ¡°There is a phone, some cash, and just some essentials that I think you will need inside the box. It may not be much, but it should go a long way.¡±


    ¡°I thought you hated me.¡± It was a miracle her voice didn¡¯t croak as she began to talk. After what she had just been through, Maddie showing her any bit of kindness was thest thing she expected.


    ¡°Again, I may not be a fan, but I am not heartless, and I suggest you get going before Kane decides toe for you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much, Maddie; I will never forget your kindness.¡± Ariel whispered with so much emotion, gripping her hand tightly, but Maddie could only endure it for long before she shrugged her hands off.


    ¡°Keep going north, and you will be out of here.¡± That was all she said before she turned her back, and she was walking briskly into the packhouse.


    Ariel looked at her retreating back for a little longer before it clicked in her head that if she wanted to get a head start, she would have to be on her way.


    She lowered herself into the car and took a deep breath, the scent of the leather interior bringing a smile to her face.


    She held the wheel with unsteady hands. It It had been a while since she was behind a steering wheel, but she could still remember how it functioned, so she grabbed the keys and pressed the button, watching the car roar back to life.


    ¡°Yeap baby.¡± Ariel screamed despite the internal turmoil in her; nothing beat the sound of a good car, and right now, this car was hers.


    She took the wheels, driving the tarred path until she got to the gigantic metal gate, where the guardsy in wait.


    ¡°Luna?¡± They failed to conceal their shock as they saw her.


    She could imagine their surprise, though; she had never seen the need to go out of the pack as everything she needed was provided for her.


    ¡°The alpha said to open the gate.¡± Ariel knew that they wouldn¡¯t dare to disobey Kane, but they still shared skeptical looks until eventually the gate opened and she was driving out of the gate with such speed in case they decided to stop her.


    It wasn¡¯t until she was a good distance away from the pack that she could breathe well. The road ahead was a smooth, tarred road, and Ariel turned on autopilot as she rxed in her seat.


    She grabbed the parcel she had dumped on the passenger seat, and she tore it apart, eager to see what she had packed.


    And true to her words, there were some bundles of a $100 bill, a phone, a knife, and a few changes of clothes-basically, the essentials, just as she had mentioned, but the thoughts brought tears to her eyes.


    Ariel had run out of the house blindly in her anger, and she had forgotten to carry anything with her, not even a debit card.


    Her pride would never let her go back to the room, and she had wondered how she would survive without anything, but Maddie had given her a fighting chance.


    Now all that was left was revenge.


    Immediately after she got to the human town and settled down, she was going to devise a revenge n.


    Kane wasn¡¯t going scot-free.


    He had caused her so much untold pain. He lied to her, thinking she was going to remain dumb, but jokes on him.


    Ariel continued on the path Maddie had described for her, but it had been an hour now, and she was losing hope. Apart from the tarred road, it was justrge stretches of forest that continued for so long.


    Seeing only the bright greenery was making her ufortable and nauseous. Who knew which pack she was crossing? They could be Kane¡¯s enemies and decide toe for her.


    She fingered her silver ne, d it had never crossed her mind to take it off. If she managed to make it to the humanmunity, she was going to have to order another batch of wolfsbane.


    And so, Ariel continued the journey, but her mind kept wandering to Kane, and she hoped secretly that the guilt was killing her.


    She would never forgive him.


    ***


    Ariel couldn¡¯t tell her how long she had been on this path, but she was beginning to get tired; her arms hurt from all the driving; it was a struggle trying to keep her eyes open; and yet another yawn tore from her lips.


    She was tired.


    She needed food, maybe some shut eyes, and a ce to stay. It was tempting to stop the car somewhere and take a quick nap.


    But she could be inside an enemy camp, and who knows what they will do when they get to her?


    Instead, she continued on, cranking the volume of the radio very loud, hoping the music was going to prevent her from falling asleep.


    But after several miles, hope was a thing of the past, and she was sure Maddie had led her to a dead end.


    She should have never trusted her.


    Her dder had been stretched to the limit, and she was sure that if she didn¡¯t stop to empty it, she was going tobust.


    But she continued driving, her left hands massaging her lower stomach while pleading with her body to hold on. She had sighted a clearing in front, and she stopped the car and came down.


    In her pockets were a wad of cash, a phone, and a car key, and she clutched the knife in her hands. If anyonees too close, they will feel the brunt of her knife.


    She found a somewhat secure ce, and she lowered herself, releasing all the contents of her dder and her searching eyes all over the ce.


    She couldn¡¯t take any chances.


    She was almost through when she heard the howls a little distance from where she was.


    ¡°It is fine; it is just a figment of your imagination.¡± She tried to reassure herself, but she was sure they could hear her heart pounding.


    As if mocking her, she heard another howl, and this time it was closer than before, and she didn¡¯t think anything before she took to her heels.


    She was sure her feet were touching the back of her head, but she had no care for the world. She couldn¡¯t allow herself to be captured.


    Ariel ran for her life, the initial fatigue giving way as the adrenaline rush took over. However, in her blind run, she couldn¡¯t make sense of her environment, and she stumbled into a tree.


    No.


    A tree couldn¡¯t be this warm; she was sure she felt what was a dog¡¯s ear or a wolf, and she didn¡¯t think twice.


    She gathered all the air in her lungs, and she screamed.


    ¡°Aaaahhhhhh¡­¡±

 Chapter 69

    ¡°Aaaahhhhhh¡­¡± Ariel screamed for her life; so paralyzed was she in her fear that she had forgotten she had a weapon in her hands.


    How could she be so foolish to venture so close to the enemy?


    ¡°Hey, easy chick, I was just trying to help.¡± The scratchy baritone voice of the man cut her off. He sounded like he didn¡¯t get enough water to drink, and the thought frightened her.


    Was he thinking of drinking her blood?


    Ariel slowly peeled her eyes open, and she looked at the scene in front of her, not sure she could make sense of it.


    The sun had long since gone to rest, and it was only the light from the moon and the security light nearby that lit their path.


    Her vision blurred for a second as she adjusted to the darkness, and when she could see, there was nothing particrly odd about the men in front of her, but she could not take chances.


    If there was anything she had learned from staying with werewolves, it was to always expect the unexpected.


    Ariel braced herself as she observed them, her eyes horning in their weak spots. She had carefully slid the knife behind her so as not to attract attention. ¡°Who are you? Have youe to kill me? Because I promise you it won¡¯t be easy.¡± And she barred her teeth just for effect as she waited for the pain toe.


    Instead, all she heard was boomingughter. The men held their stomachs as theyughed, and Ariel¡¯s lips were turned in a frown.


    Now that she was seeing them clearly, the ¡®wolf¡¯ outfits they had oncked the lush and shiny thick fur she had noticed with Kane, and their ¡®coats¡¯ were some sizes too big.


    It was obvious they weren¡¯t werewolves; theycked the charisma that came with it.


    ¡°I told you the outfit was killer.¡± A teenage girl chirped in happily as she hopped in front of them. She reminded Ariel of a Jaybird. The pin-straight ck hair that moved in the wind was all of her striking features, and the pointy fangs that peeked out of her lips reminded Ariel of something she couldn¡¯t ce her mind to.


    ¡°We don¡¯t mean to scare you; you know it is Halloween and all that, and we were trying to y the part; I guess it worked.¡± The young girl apologized on their behalf, and the other nodded in agreement.


    ¡°It is fine,¡± Ariel reassured them, giving them a tight-lipped smile. She was just d she wasn¡¯t going to be a rogue¡¯s meal. ¡°Where are we?¡±


    ¡°Uhmm,¡± The girl nced at her friends, but they all shook their heads. ¡°We are not so sure; we just came to party.¡±


    With that, they disappeared back into the woods, leaving Ariel all alone, and she stood in the clearing for a second, just trying to take it all in.


    She was truly alone, and her stomach was already beginning to protest its unfed state. The night was fast approaching, and she needed a ce to rest.


    She dragged her weary body back to her car and continued the drive, only this time she was venturing deeper into humannds. It was Halloween, therefore the streets were filled with partygoers in all sorts of dress and undress.


    If she hadn¡¯t been tangled with Kane, she would probably be with them and be partying the night away. Ariel mused sadly.


    She was deep inside town now, and she hailed ady walking by.


    ¡°Hello, sorry to bother you, but do you have an idea of a hotel nearby, somewhere I could just spend a night?¡±


    Thedy regarded her for a second, eyeing her with distaste, and she pointed straight ahead. ¡°Just head forward and use your fucking gps.¡± And she was gone.


    ¡°Rude.¡± Ariel called out to her retreating figure, but she took her advice and picked up her phone. While on the run, she couldn¡¯t get any signal, but it was stronger now.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Bless the heavens for Maddie; the phone had a som inside, and somehow her inte was going through.


    She clicked on the nearest hotel in the search engine, and she began to follow the directions, which led her in front of a three-story building painted with cream and brick blocks decorating the lower half.


    A red letter with the name was the only indication that she was in the right ce, and she drove inside, following the directions of the valet.


    Ariel came out of the car, her legs almost giving way from sitting too long. She took a look at herself, and she was almost recoiling. She was sure she looked tired and dirty from the trip, and honestly, she felt tired.


    With the money Maddie had given her, she had gotten a room where she could stay for the night, and the first thing she had done was run to the shower.


    She had requested food, but it was going to take a little time before they got here so she would be able to take her bath.


    Ariel stood in the shower and turned the knob to the highest she could bear, and she stood there, just letting the water beat down on her.


    And the dam copsed.


    Her throat was choked as an agonizing sob escaped her lips. Her shoulders shook violently as she struggled to contain the emotions that had been building up inside her. Her breath came in ragged gasps, and her voice was barely audible as she whispered a heartbreaking cry.


    She cried for the loss of her parents, for the fact that she could have gotten to know them if it weren¡¯t for her mate, and the tears wereing again.


    Kane¡¯s betrayal had cut so deep into her, leaving deepceration in its wake. She could hardly fathom how she would be able to move on from this fact.


    Ariel¡¯s knees buckled, and she slid down the tiled wall, not caring if her bare ass was on the floor. She bowed her head between her thighs and continued to sob.


    She cried until there was no strength left in her, until the hot water had gone for a somewhat lukewarm one and the banging on the door interrupted her.


    She wrapped the towel around her wrinkled frame, shivering from staying in the water for too long, but she took little steps until she was at the door, and she opened it gently, peeking her head inside.


    ¡°Room service.¡¯ The kind voice of the delivery person said so, and she gave him a sad smile, but she opened the door a little wider and allowed him to wheel the buffet tray inside.


    Ariel sat back on the bed and opened the tray in front of her. The aroma of the food hit her, and she salivated in eagerness. After everything she had been through, she deserved a nice, hot meal, and that was what she was going to get.


    She devoured the meal in seconds, not taking time to savor the taste. She wheeled it outside as soon as she was through, and she went back to her bed, curling herself into a ball.


    It was the first time in a while she would be sleeping by herself, and she wasn¡¯t sure she liked it.


    Her mind drifted to Kane naturally, wondering how he was sleeping now that the cat was let out of the bag.


    Knowing the monster, he would be sleeping peacefully.


    The stress of the day was already getting to her, and she couldn¡¯t hold it any longer. Her eyes fluttered closed as she sumbed to sleep, and secondster she was snoring lightly from the exhaustion.


    The sleepsted for more than 10 hours, and it wasn¡¯t until noon that Ariel was dragging herself out of bed and down the stairs.


    She had a lot of things to do today.


    First, she was going to need an apartment to stay in, wherever she was. It was time to dust out her certificate and get a job, but she had no certificate to dust, and if that didn¡¯t work, she would have to sell the car.


    There was a reason she had gone for the expensive one.


    Her first stop was the restaurant for food to hold her stomach, keeping ears for any whispers that concerned what she needed, and after that, she was heading over to the reception.


    If there was anyone who could help her, it had to be one of those bustydies.

 Chapter 70

    ¡°Hellodies,¡± Ariel put on a wide smile as she met thedies, but now that she thought of it, she must havee up as a creep.


    ¡°Hello, can we help you?¡± One of thedies replied, although she barely spared Ariel a nce. She was on her phone, smiling brightly with no care for the world.


    ¡°Yeah, I booked a room here the night before.¡± Ariel exined, hoping it would catch their attention, but none of them would pay any heed to her. ¡°I am new in the area, and I was hoping you knew somewhere I could get an apartment, preferably an affordable one.¡±


    All thedies¡¯ heads snapped up, and they stared at her with a simr icy gaze that gave her goosebumps before they returned their gaze to their phones.


    ¡°Excuse me, I asked a question.¡± Ariel reminded them when seconds had passed and they didn¡¯t answer her question.


    ¡°Excuse me, can¡¯t you read the sign outside? Huh? This is an inn, a ce to stay, and if you don¡¯t like it here, you can take your shit and go.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s mouth hung open at the disrespect. ¡°Excuse me? I only asked a question; you could just politely decline or tell me you had no idea.¡± She hissed in a venomous voice before she left for her room.


    She had forgotten how humans could be so rude, especially as there was no clear-cut hierarchy. She was tempted to give them a low rating, but she walked back to her room, and she dumped herself on the bed.


    ¡°Ahhhh.¡± Ariel screamed in frustration, fisting her hair and pulling it. Who told her that running away was going to be the right decision?


    She had managed to lose everything in one night, and she had no idea how to pick up her life from here.


    It begs the question: What next?


    Ariel rolled to her stomach, nting her face in the white sheets, and continued wallowing in her misery.


    She was too drained to even think of a revenge n.


    For years, she had been sheltered and always cared for, and for the first time in a while, she was truly alone.


    She picked up the phone Maddie had brought for her and scrolled through the content when the phone vibrated in her hands as a message came through.


    ¡°Hey, it¡¯s Maddie; you can reach me via this number in case you need anything.¡±


    And that was all the message had said, yet despite the sorrow in her heart, Ariel managed to smile.


    It was ironic that thedy who wanted nothing to do with her was the one who was helping her. But it gave her a little hope; despite everything that was going on in her life, there was someone who cared, even if they were her archenemy.


    ***


    It was almost time to check out, and Ariel was ready. She had taken a warm shower and had worn the clothes Maddie had packed for her.


    They were nothing too fancy-skinny jeans and a cashmere sweater. They weren¡¯t exactly her favorites, but she couldn¡¯t afford to be too picky.


    She packed all of her belongings in the parcel, the thought bringing tears to her eyes. In the past, her things would barely contain seven suitcases, but now they manage to fill a box.


    Ariel took a final look at the room, and she shook her head before she went outside.


    She had been able to find a parking lot that didn¡¯t charge so much; she had kept her car there with a promise to be back, and she headed for the nearest bar.


    She was going to drink away her sorrows tonight, and tomorrow she could take care of herself.


    Ariel entered the dimly lit bar, the music too loud for her liking, but she couldn¡¯t care about all that. She beelined straight to the front stool and sat down to order a drink.


    ¡°Just give me something a little stronger; I need to forget about my problem.¡± The barman gave her a quick once-over, as if to say he wouldn¡¯t be responsible for whatever happened to her, and Ariel waited as he prepared the drink.


    She took the first sip, and instantly she was cringing.


    What the hell!


    That was the strongest shit she had had in a long time, and the drink continued to burn the path down her throat until it settled in her stomach, but she took another sip and another, slowly drowning in her sorrow.


    ¡°Hey, beautiful, what are you doing drinking alone? Mind if I join you?¡± Ariel looked up at the man who was interrupting her drinking session, and for some reason, the anger didn¡¯te.


    Maybe because he was polite enough to ask, but she shrugged her shoulders. ¡°Sure, you can sit; it is a free world.¡±


    ¡°I will have what she¡¯s having.¡± The man said in a slightly ented voice that Ariel couldn¡¯t pick it up. If she were herself, she knew she would have asked, but right now, she couldn¡¯t care.


    ¡°Wow. Are you trying to kill yourself?¡± The man asked as he took the first sip of his drink.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, I guess.¡± Ariel slurred, her shoulders slumping against her head.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be nosy, but what exactly is wrong? It is not every time you see a youngdy trying to drink herself to death on a Tuesday evening.¡±


    ¡°Ahhh.¡± Ariel released a deep breath, and she nced at him. He was slightly older than she had thought, and his face reminded her of her high school teacher. ¡°I have no ce to go.¡±


    ¡°What happened?¡± He asked out of genuine curiosity.


    ¡°I ran away from my abusive boyfriend, and I didn¡¯t have a chance to take anything with me. Now that I am broke and stranded, I don¡¯t have a ce to stay and¡­¡± Ariel sniffed, and some stray tears came down her eyes.


    She didn¡¯t know how she did it, but as she started talking, the lie continued flowing. Although her conscience pricked her for lying about Kane like that, the murderer deserved it after everything he had done to her.


    ¡°It is alright; it will be fine.¡± The man patted her back awkwardly, not sure what to make of the situation.


    ¡°How can it be fine, I have no ce to go.¡± She continued wailing, knowing full well she was attracting attention, but right now, a girl had to do what she had to do.


    ¡°I can help you.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Immediately, the tears cleared from her eyes, and she regarded the man with bright eyes.


    ¡°Yes. I own a building here, and you are in luck because there is a vacant apartment, and you can stay there for as long as you can. You can pay me when you begin to work.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Ariel sniffed, refusing to believe her luck. It was too good to be true.


    ¡°Of course. It takes a lot of courage for you to leave an abusive rtionship, and I hate seeing pretty girls like you cry.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, thank you so much.¡± Ariel threw herself on the man, hugging him tight.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    The alcohol had cleared from her system, and the smile refused to leave her face. She had spent the rest of the time getting to know the man.


    Apparently he was a big name in the real estate world, and he hade to survey some of his estates here, and he had decided to cool his head.


    They finished their drinks, and he led Ariel to his car, driving them to her new home.


    They stopped in front of a brown door, and he unlocked it, opening the door wide for her to see.


    ¡°Wee to your new home.¡±

 Chapter 71

    Ariel took a look at what would be her ¡®new home¡¯, and it took all in her not to bolt out of the door, screaming.


    ¡°Oh.¡± She hoped the disappointment wasn¡¯t so obvious in her voice as she looked at where she would be for the rest of her life.


    ¡°Come in; don¡¯t be a stranger.¡± The man motioned for her to enter.


    Geez Ariel!


    She hadn¡¯t even bothered to learn his name, and she had followed him home. However, she ced her legs inside the apartment gingerly, not trying to make it obvious that she was repulsed at the very thought.


    She swept all eyes all over the room-the small, rectangr space with ackluster atmosphere. The walls were painted a dull beige color and seemed to close in on her, triggering her ustrophobia.


    A worn-out, ash velvety sofa sat against one wall, its cushions sagging in the middle, and a tiny table with scratched surfaces stood in the middle. And that sums up the furniture in the room.


    ¡°Do you like it?¡± His voice went up a little in excitement, reminding Ariel of a golden retriever, and she had no choice but to nod her head.


    ¡°I guess so. I mean, it would need a little retouching, but it is better than nothing.¡± She mused. There was no need for her to be ungrateful, because, take it or leave it, she was a step closer to being a beggar.


    ¡°Sorry about that; thest tenant left it in a horrible position, and there was no way I could clean it before you came in.¡±


    ¡°It is fine, thank you.¡± Ariel made sure to smile as he looked at her.


    ¡°Good, my work is done here. I would bring some paper for you to sign tomorrow, and it is legally yours. We could go over the payment when you are very financially stable. Just take it easy for now and try to heal.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how to thank you for everything; I am really grateful.¡± Ariel said with a small smile on her lips, but it was quick to turn to a frown. ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± He asked, the lines on his forehead deepening as he frowned, and Ariel squinted her eyes as she observed him.


    She was sure she heard him say something along the lines of ¡®you could go down on your knees, but it would just be her mind ying tricks on her.


    ¡°No, it is fine.¡±


    He stared right into her soul, as if he knew she was lying, but he ignored it. ¡°Are you moving in today?¡±


    ¡°I would assume so, seeing I don¡¯t have anywhere to stay.¡±


    ¡°Right, my bad. Here.¡± He stretched out his hands towards her, holding out a card, and Ariel took it, observing the embroidered paper. ¡°You could always reach out to me in case of an emergency or even if you need someone to talk to.¡±


    ¡°Of course. Thank you.¡± She nced at the sleek white card in her hands; his name was boldly outlined in ck font, and his contact details were written below. ¡°Mr. Wood Smith.¡±


    It took all of her not to burst outughing.


    ¡°Goodnight Ariel.¡±


    ¡°Goodnight.¡± She stood at the door and listened to his footsteps until she could no longer hear them, and she sank to the floor.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    The wooden board made a dull thud as her butt touched it, and she almost broke down.


    Nothing was like how it used to be.


    Even the air was different, and the polluted Georgia air wasn¡¯t doing it for her. There wasn¡¯t even a freaking humidifier!


    Ariel blinked rapidly, trying to will back the tears that had threatened to spill.


    No!


    She couldn¡¯t cry again.


    She reassured herself as she dragged herself to the bed andid back on the bed, not caring for what had been there.


    Right now, Ariel couldn¡¯t care for anything, not when her whole world was crumbling down on her and another world was building.


    She was a freaking werewolf!


    She could turn into a beast under the full moon or even without the full moon.


    Even the thought alone was giving her a headache; she wanted to know more; she needed it for her sanity.


    After being kept in the dark for so long, she needed to know the truth, but right now, there was no way she could go about it.


    Even the man who had been her only hope couldn¡¯t reach her anymore as she had forgotten her phone at the pack.


    How was she going to go from here?


    Hell, she couldn¡¯t even find a good job without her certificate. A certificate that the murderer paid her, she was reminded harshly.


    Ariel released another ragged breath, bringing up her hands to massage her head as she felt the onset of a headacheing.


    She had a lot of questions that needed answers, but the answers were not forting, and it was frustrating for her.


    She closed her eyes and took another breath, letting her eyes wander around the bedroom. The person who had stayed in the ce before had done a horrible job, but it wasn¡¯t like she couldin.


    She rolled on the bed, curling herself into a small ball and hugging herself until she fell asleep.


    The next morning, Ariel was woken up to the sound of a loud pounding on her door, and she stirred in her sleep, rolling over and lying on her stomach, slowly opening her eyes.


    The unfocused eyesnded on the smooth white drywall of the ceiling, and she sucked in a sharp breath at the stark contrast, but the next knock on the door had her dragging her legs towards the door.


    At the rate the person behind the door was going, they could break it.


    Ariel opened the door, a little reckless. She had somehow lost her sense of security consciousness and had forgotten that Kane wouldn¡¯t always be there to protect her.


    Three females made their way inside her apartment, wearing simr ck t-shirts, and they each bnced a few shopping bags in their hands.


    Ariel watched them with curiosity as they walked in as if they owned the ce, and it snapped in her mind. ¡°Hey, what is happening? Who are you guys? I have permission to be here.¡± She was running up to them, grabbing the shopping bags in their hands before they could set them on the floor.


    ¡°Excuse me, I have every right to be here.¡± She protested vehemently, already reaching for her back pocket to take out his card.


    The heavy footsteps on the floorboard stopped her ns, and she nced at the entrance to see the man from yesterday marching towards her, spreading his legs like he owned the ce.


    Well, he actually owned the ce.


    He was talking rather loudly on the phone, his robustughter triggering something she couldn¡¯ty her hands on, but that didn¡¯t stop the intense relief that washed over her.


    She was not ready to be homeless. Again.


    Ariel rushed in front of him, waving her hands to gain his attention, and she smiled when she saw his eyes light up in recognition.


    ¡°Can we do this some other time?¡± She heard him say


    on the phone, and shortly after, he was tucking the phone away.


    ¡°Ariel, it¡¯s so good to see you; you even look more beautiful this morning.¡± He greeted her in an overly cheerful voice that she didn¡¯t seem to agree with, but she managed a small smile.


    ¡°Hello, who are the people?¡±


    ¡°Haha. Straight to business, I see.¡± He burst into a short series ofughter that was instantly wiping off as she didn¡¯t share the same enthusiasm. ¡°I figured you would need some changes of clothes and some things around the house, hence the reason I brought them.¡± He was gesturing to the girls, and they threw a smile her way as if rehearsed and continued with their jobs.¡±Just ignore them; they won¡¯t bother you.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel could only nod, and she watched as they ced the shopping bags on the floor and went out,ing back with even more shopping bags.


    The girls had finished up their trip, and Ariel¡¯s living room was already looking like a shopping spree gone wrong, while the man responsible for all of it was at the corner, watching his handwork with a proud glint in his eyes.


    ¡°Is it to your liking?¡± He asked with an air of aloofness, but such things don¡¯t move her anymore.


    ¡°Why are you doing this?¡±


    ¡°You want to know the truth?¡±


    ¡°Yes, because you just met me yesterday, and you are already doing all this.¡± No man would do all this if he didn¡¯t want to get in your pants.


    ¡°I really like you, Ariel, and I am ready to do anything to make you happy. I understand that this is very sudden, but I am willing to wait, and I am not going to demand anything from you.¡±


    Ariel regarded him with squinted eyes. His poor confession of love sounded like what a middle schooler would say.


    Yet a wise person once said, Use what you have to get what you want, and if this opportunity hadnded in her hands, she would be foolish not to make use of it.


    And probably the fact that it would kill Kane to hear of this, and she wanted to do everything she could to hurt him.

 Chapter 72

    ¡°I can¡¯t fault you for your feelings; as long as you do not try to demand anything from me, I guess it is okay.¡± Ariel shrugged, and the man smiled.


    His mouth opened to say his reply, but the ringing from his phone interrupted them, and he nced at the screen and grimaced. ¡°I would have loved to continue this, but I will have to be on my way now. Let me know if you have any other issues that need solving, and I will send someone to you.¡±


    And he was out of the room, his loud voice echoing throughout the hallway.


    Ariel released a little sigh as he left the room. His cologne still filled the air, and a part of her brain had already gged it as wrong.


    It was the wrong scent.


    Ariel looked around her living area, the room a visual pollution, but she was ignoring the various bags on the floor, hopping on any avable space, and she made her way back to the bedroom, flipping on the bed.


    She clutched her stomach as she felt the first onset of hunger, reminding her that she hadn¡¯t had a proper meal since she left home.


    No, that ce couldn¡¯t be called home.


    But right now, her stomach worms were threatening to burrow their way out of her stomach if she didn¡¯t feed them now.


    Cooking was already out of the question; it would have to be fast food.


    Luckily, UberEats works fine here, and in a few minutes she was tearing into her wings and fries, licking off the sauce in her hand.


    She drank her water andid on the bed, her hands reaching for the phone. She knew it was useless, but she still typed Alpha John in the search bar.


    We hadn¡¯t learned anything new about the case, and it was frustrating her to no end.


    Expect the sketchy link that barely holds any information; there was nothing.


    She scrolled back to her contact; Maddie was the only one on it, and her fingers hovered on the screen, wondering whether to call or not.


    If there was anyone who knew about any Alpha John, there was a chance Maddie would know about him; after all, she had been in the lineup for alphas.


    Surely, pack history was apulsory course.


    Without thinking, she tapped the screen, and her name popped up, but she was canceling it almost immediately, thankful it didn¡¯t go through.


    Ariel had remembered what Kane said about being wary of Maddie. She hated to listen to him, especially after what had happened, but he had thought so, he may have a reason.


    Instead, she tried to set up her Apple ID; for some reason, she had forgotten her password, had no way to ess her mail, and there was absolutely no way she could restore her ount.


    Or she couldn¡¯t begin to think of a way.


    Ariel held her phone in her hands, her hands tightening around it, and she imagined it was Kane. Would it be murder if she wrapped her hands around his neck and squeezed it hard until he was choking on his breath?


    Gosh! She hated him.


    He had used her, iming he loved her, all the while he was touching her with blood-stained hands.


    ¡°I hate you! Fuck you, Kane, fuck you! I hate you so much!¡± Ariel screamed at no one in particr, but she needed something to direct her anger.


    Her fingers balled into fists, and she squeezed them hard, cussing Kane from the depths of her heart.


    ¡°I hate you.¡± Her voice broke down, and a single tear trailed down her eyes.


    Ariel sniffed, sniffing her runny nose, and she pulled herself up, walking towards the bathroom. She stood in front of the sink, her eyes colliding with the mirror, and she was almost recoiling as she saw her reflection.


    She looked horrible.


    And that was even painting it lightly.


    Her eyes were red and puffy, and the skin around them was swollen from crying too much. Her skin was rather pale and mmy, and her cheeks were reddened, and it wasn¡¯t because she was shy.


    Gone was the natural glow she had once emitted, and her sharp and defined features were a thing of the past. In fact, she was a shadow of herself.


    And it was all his fault.


    She managed to drag herself into the shower, and she stood there as the cold water poured on her until she was satisfied that she was clean, and she stepped out of the bathroom, leaving little puddles of water in her wake.


    She padded to the living room naked; the shopping bags were still lying on the floor, and she picked up one of them, rummaging through the items until she saw what she needed.


    She got dressed in a white mini skirt and a brown sweater. She ran her hands through her hair several times, brushing it, and she ran a little lipstick on her lips, loving the instant pop of color.


    She looked at her reflection in the mirror, nodding at herself appreciatively.


    She had managed not to look homeless, and maybe this could help her secure a job. There was no way she could get a high-paying job, seeing as her certificate wasn¡¯t with her, and honestly, she didn¡¯t want to use anything that Kane was involved with.


    She could settle for a waitress or even a barista. She had been told several times that she makes a mean coffee, and the time had finallye for her to prove her worth.


    She ran the lipstick on her lips again, the color a vibrant red that would no doubt draw attention, and she was marching out the door.


    Thanks to science and technology, it wasn¡¯t hard to locate the first bakery shop, and the owner was only too happy to hire her, but Ariel had heard the cost of her wages, and she was taking off.


    ¡°Thank you so much, ma¡¯am. I wasn¡¯t prepared to start today, but I wille by tomorrow if that is what I want.¡± She had said in a polite voice before she bolted out of the door.


    She went further down the street, and this time it was a small-scale restaurant that was in need of a waiter, and while the job seemed like the perfect one, the pay wasn¡¯t just that.


    And on and on it continued, all of them eager to hire her for her beauty, but the pay wasn¡¯t enough to sustain her.


    Hell, what she earned per hour couldn¡¯t even get her brand of body lotion.


    She was too frustrated to think, and the only thing that would help her was shopping; only this time she had to get groceries and some other beauty supplies.


    For the first time in her life, Ariel had to look at the prices of the things she was getting, even opting to go for a cheaper brand as she shopped.


    She hadn¡¯t realized how spoiled and sheltered she had been all her life up until this point, and the thought bothered her as she rolled her cart to the checkpoint.


    ¡°Your total is 367. 89. Card please.¡±


    ¡°I am sorry, I only have cash.¡± Ariel whispered to the woman, but she had already dismissed her from her mind; her gaze focused on the person next to her.


    ¡°We have a strict no-cash policy here; didn¡¯t you read the sign?¡± She red pointedly behind Ariel, and Ariel whipped her head in the direction she had pointed, and sure enough, no cash was written on it.


    ¡°I had no idea. I am actually new to this ce, and I just wanted to get some supplies. Please just this time.¡± She would cry if she had to cry, but there was no way she was leaving without her groceries.


    ¡°I am sorry, but there is nothing I can do. Next person, please.¡±Text ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Please, I only have cash on me; I beg of you.¡± She was already blinking hershes for her, willing the pity tears toe.


    ¡°I suggest you move away from the line, ma¡¯am, so I can attend to other customers; otherwise, I would have the security drag you out.¡±


    ¡°Please, you have to help me, please.¡±


    ¡°Security!¡±


    ¡°Please.¡±


    ¡°Security!¡±


    Ariel was ready to drop to her if that was what it took, but strong hands held her before she could attempt it.


    ¡°It is fine; you can add her bill to mine.¡±

 Chapter 73

    Ariel whipped her head so fast that if she wasn¡¯t careful, she would have had a whish, and she looked at her Savior.


    The alleged savior had on ray-bans even though they were inside a building, so she couldn¡¯t see his eyes, and worst of all, he was putting on a mask, but his hair was well groomed; the ck jet strands that felt on his face indicated that he at least took good care of it, and it pleased a certain part of her.


    ¡°Thank you, but you don¡¯t have to worry; I can take care of it.¡± Ariel made sure to smile brightly. It was only courtesy that she pretended she didn¡¯t want the favor.


    ¡°It is alright; I insist.¡± The man replied, and he faced the cashier. ¡°Please add it to my bill.¡±


    Ariel couldn¡¯t help the sigh that left her lips, grateful that he had insisted. Otherwise, she would have to return everything.


    She turned to the cashier, watching her bag her items with a wide smile on her face, and Ariel frowned. Once in a while, the woman would look at the stranger, blinking her eyes several times and biting her lips.


    ¡°Is there something in your eyes? I think you are blinking a little too much.¡± Ariel whispered as she leaned closer to her, and the woman gave her a nasty look, but she straightened her face and continued her job.


    Ariel stood to the side, holding her bags in her hands as she waited for the man.


    ¡°Thank you for saving my ass back there; I had no idea it was a card-only policy.¡± Ariel said as she fell in line with the man.


    ¡°I understand; you must be new here.¡± Ariel pursed her lips, her head tilting to the side.


    ¡°Oh my gosh, don¡¯t tell me it is so obvious. Is it written on my forehead?¡± And like the dramatic ass she was, she began rubbing the skin of her forehead.


    And she was rewarded with the most beautifulughter-a low chuckle that sent warmth all over her body.


    Until¡­


    ¡°Ouch.¡± She clutched her chest as a sharp pain ripped through her chest. ¡°W-wha.¡± She tried to make sense of what may be happening to her when the smiling image of her mate shed through her mind, but she shook her head, discarding it from her mind.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Was the moon goddess doing this to her because she was admiring something other than her mate?


    Someone who had made her an orphan?


    A loud scream escaped from her lungs as warm hands wrapped around her wrist, and she jerked the hands off as a bolt of electricity shot through her.


    Definitely not the good kind.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± The mysterious man¡¯s face appeared in her vision, and she took a step backward, his presence suddenly too close forfort.


    ¡°Yes, I was just carried away. I think I will be on my way now. Thank you for this again.¡± She turned to go, but he held her back, his firm grip on her hand, and she directed her re to the pale, slender hands that looked like they didn¡¯t see the sun so often.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t touch me.¡±


    ¡°Oh right.¡± He was dropping her hands like they were on fire. ¡°Sorry about that; I only wanted to offer to drop you home; it is not wise carrying those bags around.¡±


    ¡°It is fine; I don¡¯t live so far.¡± Ariel rejected his offer, and she made to go, but his voice stopped her in her tracks.


    ¡°I insist, my mom would scold me if I dare leave ady in need. Come on, I live close by too, just close to the inn.¡±


    ¡°Wait, I live there too.¡±


    ¡°Come on, allow me this favor.¡± He persuaded her, opening the passenger door for her.


    Ariel looked at him, more like his dark lens, as she contemted his offer. He had proved to be a gentleman, and they stayed in the same apartment. It wouldn¡¯t hurt to follow him, and it would save her strength.


    But why couldn¡¯t she get a certain green-eyed man from her mind?


    ¡°What do you say?¡±


    ¡°Fuck it, I aming.¡± She dumped her bags in the back seat, entered inside, and he closed her door before he entered the driver¡¯s seat, and he began to drive her home.


    ¡°When did you move into town?¡±


    ¡°I-¡± Ariel opened her mouth to talk, but something stopped her. ¡°Not so long; I was looking for a change, and this town seemed like the perfect ce. What about you? Why are you here? You don¡¯t look like a native of the town.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm. I would say I came in search of opportunities, and I found them.¡± He nced at her a little too long before returning his gaze to the dashboard.


    ¡°That seems like a logical reason.¡± Ariel shrugged, and they continued their journey.


    The journey came to an end as he stopped in front of their apartment and she got down.


    ¡°Thank you for the ride, stranger.¡±


    ¡°It is Alex.¡± He replied, bncing his bags in his hands, and they entered inside, nodding at the lobby man. They entered the elevator, and she keyed in her floor number and moved back, resting her body on the wall.


    Her floor was one of the top floors, and it was going to take some time before she arrived there. However, they were already halfway through their ascent, and he wasn¡¯t making any attempt to leave, nor had he keyed in his floor number.


    It is alright; I am just paranoid. He woulde down at any moment. Ariel tried to reassure herself while she continued inching slowly away from him.


    If he nned to do something, she would see it on time, and she would dodge it or retaliate.


    Ariel continued watching him, gripping her bags tightly in her hands, while she continued muttering words of affirmation under her breath, although it didn¡¯t seem like it was working.


    The elevator dinging startled her as it arrived at her destination, and she was rushing out the door as it opened, throwing all caution to the wind.


    But he continued to advance towards her, and she increased her pace, but it was as if the more she increased it, the more he seemed to catch up with her.


    Unfortunately for her, all the doors were closed, and even if she screamed, she had little hope that anyone woulde to her aid.


    Instead, she did what she was best at doing.


    Ariel picked up her pace, running as fast as she could, and she didn¡¯t dare turn back.


    She wouldn¡¯t be like those foolish female leads who somehow looked back when they were in danger.


    She could see the familiar brown door, and she ran towards it, but she was stopping in her tracks as a thought came to her.


    If he were indeed a stalker, she would be doing more harm to herself if he knew her door; it only leaves one option.


    She had to confront him.


    Ariel took a deep breath, and she turned to face him, her mouth slightly opening as she tried to catch her breath. It was embarrassing enough that this small run was making her pant like this.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± She demanded, widening her stance in a fighting position. ¡°I said, ¡± Who are you?¡±


    But he continued pushing forward, ignoring her question.


    ¡°Don¡¯te any closer; I may not look like it, but I pack a mean punch, and I promise you I won¡¯t hold back.¡± Ariel threatened him as she continued inching towards the wall.


    He had a muscr build, probably gotten from the gym, and if he was indeed who she thought he was, she had no chance against him.


    ¡°Don¡¯te near me; otherwise, I will scream.¡± She was trying to be brave, but her shaky hands were betraying her.


    Ariel had forgotten how the world could be; there was nothing that came freely, and she braced herself as Alex continued advancing towards her.


    She was going to throw a bag on him, hoping it would distract him, then she would aim a kick at his groin and run away.


    It seemed so easy.


    She took a good look at him, trying to memorize his face, and she screamed as she charged towards him¡­

 Chapter 74

    ¡°I will scream,¡± Ariel threatened him, with the shopping bag already poised tounch at him. ¡°I promise you, I will scream and¡­¡±


    Alex put his hands in his pocket and removed it with a key, and Ariel could only look, open-mouthed, as he opened the door adjacent to hers and entered inside.


    The door shut with a click, and her pupils continued to widen as she stared at the vacant space he had just once upied, putting two and two together.


    There was no way he could ess the house if he wasn¡¯t a resident there or if he was visiting someone. But the boldness with which he had entered the house only told of someone who was a legal upant, and that left only one option.


    He was her neighbor.


    A loud gasp left her lips at the realization, and she pped her mouth with her palm. She had just used her good samaritan of being a stalker.


    ¡°Geez! Why can¡¯t I shut up?¡± She had be too paranoid, afraid that everyone was out to get her, and it wasing to bite her in the ass.


    She had to apologize as soon as possible.


    Ariel took a few steps forward, and she was face-to-face with the simr-looking door. She raised her hand, connecting it to the door, ready to knock, but another thought was stopping her.


    It wouldn¡¯t be wise for her to barge on him now; when the anger was still raging, she would give him time and feign ignorance.


    It always worked every time.


    Ariel reluctantly turned her back against his door and made for hers, making sure to shut it firmly behind herself, and she leaned her frame on the door.


    Geez!


    This wasn¡¯t how she had hoped today would turn out to be, but if she was truthful, he had a fault in it; he didn¡¯t bother to deny her im.


    She shook her head, trying to get rid of the incident from today, and she swept her eyes across the room until theynded on the still-unopened shopping bags.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She marched towards them with purpose, lowering herself to the floor, and sat cross-legged, dragging the bags towards her, to begin the sorting process.


    Mr. Woods had really outdone himself; he had gotten everything she could think of and even gone beyond, she thought as she caught sight of the box of jewelry, but she pushed it aside.


    There was no way she was going to let him gift her that much.


    She may be needy, but she still had ss, and maybe that little part of her still refused to believe Kane was the culprit in her parents deaths.


    Ariel stood up, arranging all of the things she had gotten in their appropriate ces, and she looked at the room, looking a bit more like her.


    She nced at her wristwatch, and her pupils widened. Somehow, two hours had passed, and she couldn¡¯t put it off any longer.


    She had to apologize to her neighbor.


    A few minutester, Ariel was standing in front of his door, wringing her hands behind her. It was horrible enough that she didn¡¯t have anything to bring to him.


    She picked at the lint in her dress as she waited for him to answer the door. But no answer was forting, and she tried again, raising her hand to the door, but it suddenly jerked open, and it was only her fast reflexes that saved her from getting her face nted on the floor.


    ¡°Hey, neighbor, fancy seeing you here.¡±


    Her eyes met with probably one of the most beautiful men she had met-although he couldn¡¯t hold a candle to Kane-his mask had been hidden, his chiseled jawline and well-defined face, and his eyes were a warm brown that was drawing her in.


    Or maybe she was just horny.


    ¡°I live here,¡± he said as a matter of fact, and she gave him a small smile.


    ¡°I just wanted to apologize for my behavior earlier; it was horrible of me to assume something that you were obviously not, and I am sorry.¡±


    ¡°It is fine; I didn¡¯t take any offense; it was rather amusing seeing you get all defensive.¡±


    ¡°Amusing?¡± Her face turned sour immediately, and Alex shook his head.


    ¡°No, I meant, hmm, I¡­ you were just amazing standing up for yourself.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    ¡°Pleasee in.¡± He moved out of the way to make room for her, and she took a step inside, letting her eyes wander around the house.


    There was barely any difference between their rooms; they were both painted with the same dull ash color, and their furniture was already showing signs of old age, but what struck her was theck of amenities in the living room.


    It was much worse than her own; it was like he just moved here recently. If she could recall, he had said he had been here a long time, or was she mistaken?


    ¡°Care for tea?¡±


    ¡°Tea?¡± Her pitch rose higher than she would have liked.


    ¡°I know it is a little strange, but I spent some years in China, and I got used to offering people tea when they came to visit; of course it woulde with biscuits.¡±


    ¡°Oh, okay.¡± He was a little strange, but she could manage it.


    She sat gingerly on the couch, shifting inside to make herselffortable while she waited for him, and he came back not too longter, holding a tray with two ceramic cups and a kettle, and he came to sit beside her.


    He poured some tea in a cup and pushed it towards her, and she took it with thanks.


    ¡°Are you renovating or something?¡± Ariel asked as she skinned around the room, and he gave her a small smile with no hint of teeth.


    ¡°I do work that requires me to travel regrly; I barely stay in any ce for long, hence the minimalist lifestyle.¡± Ariel nodded her head, his exnation making sense. ¡°What about you, stranger? How did you find yourself in this town? You don¡¯t look like one of us.¡±


    Ariel rolled her eyes. ¡°It is a long story, and I don¡¯t want to bore you with all the details.¡±


    ¡°I asked; I don¡¯t care about the boring details.¡±


    ¡°Well, I ran away from my abusive ex, and I thought this town would be a good start. I¡¯m actively searching for a job, and it seems like no one wants to pay me my worth.¡± She sighed, but Alex didn¡¯t seem convinced.


    ¡°Are you sure, though?¡±


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyebrow rose in question. ¡°What are you trying to imply?¡±


    ¡°I apologize if I said something that was wrong, but I am very familiar with things like this, and it is not as it usually is.¡±


    Ariel released a sharp breath as she stood up. ¡°I think I have overstayed my wee. Goodbye.¡±


    ¡°Wait, Ariel,¡± he called after her, standing up to meet her, and he held her wrist before she could open the door.


    Arie directed her re at him, and if looks could kill, he would be six feet under. ¡°Unhand me right now, or else I will scream bloody murder!¡±


    ¡°Right, I am sorry; that came out wrong. Forgive me.¡±


    ¡°Listen here; I don¡¯t know who you are, but you have no right to decide if what I felt was true. You weren¡¯t there when he was hurting me, nor were you there when he threatened me, and you surely don¡¯t have the right to decide if my feelings were true!¡± Her face was red with rage as she snapped.


    She had been looking for an outlet, and now that she had seen it, she just wanted to channel all her frustration into it.


    ¡°I am sorry.¡±


    ¡°You are unbelievable.¡± She blinked rapidly, refusing to break down in front of this stranger.


    ¡°Let me make it better. I know a friend that is actively recruiting, and I could put in a good word for you, and he would be willing to give you a job.¡±


    Ariel eyed him skeptically, even though she was leaping for joy inside. ¡°Are you trying to bribe me? Because I am sorry to disappoint you, but it is not working.¡±


    ¡°Of course not. This is just a sincere apology.¡±


    Ariel took another look at him from the top of hershes, and she sighed. She truly needed the job. ¡°Fine, but they better pay well.¡±


    ¡°Of course, nothing less for a queen.¡±


    ***


    And he was right.


    Somehow Alex had managed to convince the new publishing firm that opened in town that they needed a new secretary, and the pay was massive-almost too good to be true.


    If she was honest, this town had been a blessing for her, and her guidance angel must be working full time. Random strangers have been going the extra mile to help her.


    But who was she toin? She was just a girl.

 Chapter 75

    Ariel couldn¡¯t postpone it any longer; she had tried to fight the itch, but it had gradually be an insatiable hunger until she couldn¡¯t resist it anymore.


    With a sense of defeat, she picked up the portable device and waited with baited breath for the other person on the line to pick up, and for the first time, a warm smile grazed her lips as she heard the voice.


    ¡°Maddie.¡±


    ¡°Ariel, how are you doing?¡± The enthusiasm in Maddie¡¯s voice was rather surprising, but right now, Ariel would take anything.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    She had missed them so much.


    ¡°I am fine; I just wanted to hear from you. How is everyone, Liza, Denise, and Emily? I know we didn¡¯t have a good rtionship in the pack, but it has been nerve-racking to be away from home and¡­ I am sorry; I don¡¯t know what I am saying.¡± She had been too excited and had started rambling, but she didn¡¯t know when she had broken down.


    Hearing Maddie¡¯s voice had triggered something in her-the warmth of a home. Somehow, unconsciously, she had been developing bonds between those people, and she hade to ept them like family.


    But she had been forced to leave them, and it hurts.


    ¡°It is fine; I understand what it means to leave everything you have known for somewhere else, but you will survive. The Ariel I know is a fighter.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Ariel replied, his voice barely beyond a whisper, and the girls remained silent.


    ¡°How is life over there? Do you need anything else? I could always get someone to deliver whatever you need for you.¡±


    ¡°It is fine, Maddie; I am truly okay. I got a job, and it isn¡¯t so bad.¡± Ariel replied, not so fond of leeching off people now.


    But it was ironic since she had been leeching off people since she moved here, but it shouldn¡¯t count since it had been voluntary.


    Right?


    ¡°Toby missed you.¡±


    Ariel froze at the words. She had given herself no time to think of him; she had practically pushed him to the back of her mind.


    She had refused to ept that he was in on the n; that would have broken herpletely. Sometimes ignorance is bliss.


    Toby had been her first friend, even before she got close to Kane, and it hurts to think that he harbored such things behind those smiles.


    ¡°Thank you, Maddie; I will be going now; I have some things to attend to.¡±


    But Maddie continued to talk, acting like she hadn¡¯t heard her. ¡°It would please you to know that Kane is also suffering. He hadn¡¯t had a good night¡¯s sleep since you left. I don¡¯t know what exactly happened between you both, but I think he is sorry.¡±


    ¡°Goodbye Maddie.¡± Ariel wasn¡¯t going to give her the chance to fill her head with nonsense before she was flinging the phone on the bed, sucking a sharp breath as itnded an inch from the edge of the bed.


    She couldn¡¯t afford to lose this phone yet.


    She didn¡¯t want to think of their betrayal; it was only going to hurt deeply. Instead, she was pulling herself from the bed and walking to the woodenpartment that housed her clothes.


    The crisp November air swept across the room, promising a chilling winter, and she donned her long coat, wrapping herself in the warmth.


    She closed the door behind her, ncing across the hallway. She had been dreading a potential encounter with her neighbor, and it seemed like the universe had heard her.


    The man just gave off a weird vibe, and honestly, she was not ready to deal with him.


    Ariel nodded at the lobby man as she came down the elevator and stepped outside the apartment, and almost immediately she was enveloped in its icy embrace that had her shivering.


    Winter was around the corner, and for the first time, she was not looking forward to it.


    She tightened her coat around her frame as she walked down the tarred road, taking the path that led to the parking lot.


    Her car wasn¡¯t hard to spot, and it would continue to remain there until she could find a suitable buyer who wouldn¡¯t demand the necessary credentials.


    Ariel continued down the path, her toes kicking up little rocks as she went, and suddenly she was transported to a childhood memory.


    A younger version of herself came into view, running with wolf abandon in arge clearing, along with other females her age, theirughter and screams filling the air as they chased the ball around.


    Until a voice cut through the moment.


    She turned towards the sound of the voice. There,  a woman stood beckoning to her, and little Ariel raced to meet her, but the sun had chosen to shine brightly that day, her feature lost in the re, and Ariel squinted, desperate for a clear picture.


    She found herself moving towards the mysterious woman, gliding through the fallen grass. The sun was shifting behind her as a cloud was eating it up when¡­


    ¡°Miss.¡± Tiny fingers tugged at her dress, bringing her back to the present, and she was almost cussing them out until she lowered her eyes to meet a set of droopy brown eyes.


    ¡°Hello,¡± Her voice immediately took on the high-pitched ¡®baby voice¡¯. A quick scan around the area told her that her parents weren¡¯t nearby, and her maternal instinct red up. ¡°What are you doing here? Are you lost?¡±


    The girl shook her head, her big boba eyes still fixated on Ariel, and she produced a bouquet of flowers from behind her, pushing it towards Ariel.


    ¡°For me?¡± Ariel asked incredulously, but she took the bouquet, the scent of freshly plucked lilies hitting her nose.


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± The girl nodded her head vehemently, and Ariel¡¯s frown deepened. Her searching eyes scanned around for the sender, but except for the people going about their business, nothing looked out of the ordinary.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    The young girl shrugged her shoulders, bouncing from foot to foot. ¡°cause you are beautiful.¡± She screamed out before she ran away, disappearing the way she had appeared.


    Ariel looked at the retreating figure, making to move to pursue; instead she directed her gaze to the pink lilies in her hand, and she brought them closer to her nose, closing her eyes as she inhaled the face mixture of citrus and honey.


    The scent filled her nose, immediately bringing a smile to her lips, and she opened her eyes.


    This was just what she needed.


    She held the bouquet proudly as she continued her walk, but she couldn¡¯t keep up with the lingering stares she got.


    Apparently, most passersby don¡¯t have a love life and aren¡¯t exactly fond of happy people.


    She dragged her legs back, retracing her steps back home, making sure to hold the bouquet out.


    She got home andid it on the bed, taking her ce beside it, and she let her mind wander.


    Coming to this town was the best decision for her. Things have been going so smoothly for her that it was almost suspicious.


    She keeps on getting help from ces she doesn¡¯t expect it; hell, she could be in the mall and someone would offer to pay for her cart.


    She had thought her job was going to be very stressful, but it was one of the easiest. Her boss rarely came to work, and most of the time she had nothing to do.


    Lunch was also free, and all her co-workers were amazing.


    She had heard people talk about heaven, and she wondered if somehow she hadnded there.


    Americans weren¡¯t so kind, especially considering the state of the economy.


    Ariel wasn¡¯t doubting her face card. She was literally the American definition of beauty, but this was almost excessive.


    Except there was a force behind it.


    There had to be foul y involved. Someone had been monitoring her-someone who didn¡¯t want any harm to happen near her and would prioritize her safety over others.


    Someone who would war with anyone who dares harm her and has the money to ensure her well-being.


    Ariel¡¯s eyes widened more than they had ever before as the staggering truth came to light. It was no favor; it was a man obsessed.


    ¡°Kane!¡±

 Chapter 76

    ¡°Kane!¡±


    The fucking bastard.


    It had to be his doing, because there was no way she was getting all this because she was ¡®pretty¡¯-not like she wasn¡¯t-but it was unusual.


    But that should exin it.


    The random favors that she encountered, like whoever she met, always seemed to meet one of her pressing needs.


    The anger was rekindled, bubbling over with a ferocity that threatened to consume anything and everything, and right now she wishes it would be directed at the man involved.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    Fuck!


    She should have known she could never escape him; she had been doubting him, but this was Kane; the man would always have his way.


    But not this time.


    ¡°Aargh!¡± Ariel growled, her hands clenching into fists as she fantasized about wrapping her fingers around his throat, squeezing tight to release the pent-up fury that bubbled within her.


    You are being irrational; it may not be him. The only voice of reason filled her thoughts, and she inhaled arge gush of air, trying to calm down.


    She couldn¡¯t jump to a conclusion; it could be a coincidence. Ariel concluded, her foot tapping restlessly.


    She marched down to her living room, her determination to confront her neighbor fueling her every step. But as she reached the door, she halted in her step, rethinking the whole idea.


    There was no point in confronting him; if it were true, it would only alert Kane that she knew the truth.


    Ariel turned back to the couch, the soft cushion underneath sinking from her weight as she sat down, but it was short lived as she was springing up almost immediately.


    This time she reached the door and held the knob in her hands, just seconds from opening the door, when her feet grew cold.


    Confronting him wouldn¡¯t do anything.


    You know what? Fuck it, she was going to ask him.


    Ariel stormed out of the house, shutting the door behind her before she could rethink her decision. She walked across the hallway to his rooms, and without thinking, she knocked on the door.


    Her arms were tucked into each other as she waited for his response, and when the door opened, she was met with a sweaty Alex.


    His chest was heaving slightly as he struggled to catch his breath. Sweat had stered his hair to his forehead, creating a damp, disheveled look that would have done something to her if she was interested. Instead, her eyes narrowed as she red at him.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting you here.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± She nodded absentmindedly, still distracted by the toned abs in front of her.


    She had to admit that he was a fine piece of specimen, and he knew it, but that didn¡¯t exin his appearance.


    He had to be working out or jerking off.


    She wasn¡¯t sure which one it was from the flustered look.


    ¡°Pleasee in.¡±


    Ariel gave him a tight-lipped smile, shaking her head. ¡°I am fine here.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Alex stood at the door, waiting for her, and Ariel went along with it, throwing the bomb. ¡°I know Kane sent you here to monitor me.¡±


    ¡°I am not sure I understand what you mean. Who is Kane?¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel nodded her head; that was all she needed to know. He thought he was so good at hiding it, but she caught it in a split second. His eyes had widened from the shock and the sudden reach for his pocket. ¡°Make it clear to him when you see him again that he should fuck off.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know anyone called Kane.¡± Alex called after her, but that was the end of it, as Ariel had already stormed out of his presence, entering the safety of her home.


    Mow that she thought of it; it wasn¡¯t even her home.


    If her suspicions were right, which they were, Kane had been involved in every aspect of her life, and she wouldn¡¯t be surprised to know that he had gotten her the house.


    He had managed to destroy whatever little joy she had been finding here, and like everything he touched, he had ruined it.


    Ariel¡¯s eyes swept the room, burning with an untamed fury as she took in every detail, the familiar space now suffocating.


    She couldn¡¯t stay here anymore.


    The wall had already begun to close in on her, Kane¡¯s presence hanging around her like a halo, and she managed to stand up, dragging her feet towards the wardrobe.


    She dragged the suitcase out, opening it and grabbing whatever item she couldy her hands on, throwing it in as the rage continued to bubble in her mind.


    ¡°Ahhhhh.¡± Ariel yelled aloud as she kicked the suitcase away, ignoring the sharp pain that developed in the area.


    Instead, she threw a menacing re at the poor wardrobe that had done nothing to be on the receiving side, and she exhaled the air into her lungs.


    She would never be truly free from him if she kept on caring about all this-it wasn¡¯t even hers.


    It was time she moved onpletely.


    A few minutester, Ariel stood in her living room, her eyes wandering about the space one final time. She had left everything behind, even the phone that Maddie had gotten her.


    Who knows if she was in league with Kane? Although there was a high possibility that it would never happen, she wasn¡¯t going to take any chances.


    ¡°Goodbye.¡± Ariel whispered under her breath, and she went out of the room, closing the door behind her and making sure not to look back, else she might be tempted to take something along.


    She had only left with a knife, her silver jewelry, and whatever cash she wouldy her hands on. And she made for the parking lot, her eyes almost immediately lighting up as she saw the car.


    Ariel slipped behind the wheel, started the engine, and hit the open road. She had no particr destination in mind-not even a map with her-but she knew she had to get far away from Kane. And she decided to surrender to the unknown, letting it guide her path.


    And so she continued, craning the volume of her radio up and singing with a rather horrible voice.


    She was a free woman, and she was going to behave however she liked.


    She made regr stops at the mall to get something to fuel the bottomless pit she knew as her stomach, but she continued her journey. She didn¡¯t know how long she had been driving, but it was long enough that the sun had set, casting a warm orange glow across the sky.


    Ariel stared at the horizon with a dreamy gaze as she continued to forge on in hopes she would encounter a werewolf pack.


    She had made the decision in the early hours of her journey, and that seemed to be the best idea.


    A pack was one ce he would never look for her, and she was aware of the others hatred for the rogue pack. If she told her sob story, it was bound to be lethal, and they were going to wee her.


    It would also help her learn more about her family and who she is.


    It was just the perfect n, and she had her sight on the lookout for any hidden houses as she drove past the woods.


    ¡°No, no, no.¡± Ariel cried out in frustration, her clenched fist mming against the steering wheel. She nced at the fuel meter, and the indicator, however, was on the empty mark, just like how her life was.


    It was the worst ce it could have happened.


    The sun had already gone down; in its ce, the moon had provided its light, bright enough for her to see the environment, but she wasn¡¯t having it.


    She could better understand why it was not advisable to make decisions when angry.


    Right now, she was in the middle of nowhere, with no phone and no sign of civilization.


    Could her day get any worse?


    However, Ariel wasn¡¯t one to be deterred by such things; she had another means of transportation, and she ventured into the forest.


    ***


    Ariel sprinted through the forest, running like her life depended on it-well, it actually did.


    Who had told her it was a wise decision to venture into the woods? Because she was chased by a pack of actual wolves, or werewolves? She wasn¡¯t going to wait to confirm it.


    She urged her legs to go faster, but she was no match for them, and they were closing in on her faster than she would like.


    In an instant, the pack closed in on her, their  sharp canines snapping at her, and she could only watch as the saliva pooled on their paws.


    Fear wed at her insides as she heard their low grumbles, and she was falling on her knees.


    ¡°Please, I¡­¡±


    Without hesitation, one of the members broke from the circle and pounced on her.


    In that instant she was falling, her head was meeting the ground in a rather dull thud.


    And everything went dark.

 Chapter 77

    Ariel¡¯s eyes fluttered open, and theynded on the white, intricate details of the ceiling above her. She tried to shake off the haze of confusion that had settled on her, trying to pierce the little patches of information floating in her head.


    She couldn¡¯t remember how many times she had cked out and woken up in an unfamiliar environment.


    It was bing the norm, and if she had a dor anytime she cked out, it would be more than five dors. It wasn¡¯t a lot, but it was impressive that it was up to that amount.


    Ariel shifted on the bed, her body sinking deeper into the soft cushion, helping and bringing relief to her back pain. For a moment, her thoughts drifted away, leaving only peace.


    The memories woulde back, and she was sure it wouldn¡¯t be pleasant; she just had to enjoy the little ignorant bliss she was having.


    But the bubble was quick to pop as the door opened, the sharp creak startling her, but she was able topose herself, shutting her eyes close before the neer came nearer.


    ¡°I see you are awake.¡± The nasal voice of a woman spoke, and almost immediately, as if they had been waiting for an outlet, the memories flooded in, like the sh of waves in the sea.


    And she could remember everything clearly.


    She let her gaze wander about the room, taking in every detail. She either had to be in werewolf paradise if they had seeded, but she doubted this was how their paradise looked.


    Which leaves only one option.


    They had taken her in, but she wasn¡¯t sure if it was good or bad, and she wasn¡¯t eager to know. Instead, she shut her eyes tight, deliberately slowing her breath to appear asleep.


    There was no way she could take chances in an unknown ce.


    Thedy hovered over Ariel, her breath fanning her face as she checked her vitals-no doubt she was a nurse.


    Ariel remained still as she listened to the soft scratch of a pen on paper, the nurse scribbling away, but she kept her eyes shut, listening for her movement.


    It was only when she heard the fading footsteps that she was tempted to open her eyes, but the nurse beat her to it.


    ¡°You can open your eyes now; I know you are awake.¡±


    Shit!


    She couldn¡¯t hide anymore, and there she was, thinking she was safe.


    Ariel¡¯s eyes snapped open; the nurse¡¯s face filled her field of vision, certainly too close forfort, and it sent her heart into a frantic spiral.


    ¡°Arrgghhh.¡± A scream tore from her throat, and she pushed the nurse off her face, springing out of bed, but a sharp pain surged through her body,shing across her back, and she groaned in pain as she copsed on the floor.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t advise you to make too much movement; you still suffer from a concussion, and it would be best if you rest your head; the alpha would be here to see you.¡± The nurse said, barely acknowledging her hurt.


    ¡°Alpha?¡±


    If she had heard right, the nurse had mentioned alpha, which means she had seeded. She had gotten to a pack.


    ¡°Yes.¡± The nurse nodded her head, and she stretched out her hands to Ariel, helping her to her feet.


    ¡°The scout rescued you, and as per our rules, the alpha would determine if you would be punished or set free.¡±


    ¡°Rescued?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes narrowed, her eyes knitting together in a deep frown. She was sure she remembered it differently because she had been on the run and they were hot on her heels.


    And she was very sure one of them had attempted to pounce on her, and that was why she had cked out.


    ¡°Yes, kindlyy back. He will be here shortly.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Ariel murmured, but she listened to her andid back, resting her head on the fluffy pillow. As shey on the bed, she began to conjure what she was going to say. If she was going to live, the bargain had to be very strong.


    She had no time to gather her thoughts when the door burst open and a towering man entered. Ariel needed no soothsayer to tell her if he was the alpha; his very presence filled the room, overpowering everything in it. Every cell in her body trembled, and it took everything in her not to bow her head.


    The man leaked power from the way he stumped the earth beneath him, and she was sure every creature scampered just at his name.


    She sneaked a quick look, but their eyes met for a brief moment, and she immediately looked away.


    ¡°Human.¡± The man spat out, his voice dripping with bitter venom, and Ariel had to hold in the smile that threatened to show.


    It was great to see that the hatred for her kind was general.


    Wait, she wasn¡¯t even their kind anymore, or was she? The whole concept was still confusing to her, but she was sure she would get rity here.


    ¡°The name is Ariel.¡± She spat back with equal venom, straightening up in a sitting position, and she raised her head, staring at him head-on.


    She had learned that the best way to unnerve such an individual is to be bold.


    ¡°A cheeky thing, I see.¡± The alpha mused, his facial muscles twitching in annoyance.


    ¡°I believe the term is brave.¡± Ariel retorted, not backing out anytime soon. She was the daughter of an alpha and was mated to one; surely he wasn¡¯t too much for her.


    The alpha titled his head to the side, like he was giving it some thought, and he shook his head. ¡°I would say foolish, but that is not why I am here. I would give you 20 seconds to exin why your head shouldn¡¯t be cut off your body and rolling on the floor.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s surprised gasp filled the room, caught off guard by his bluntness.


    This alpha was different, and if she wanted to survive, she had to be careful.


    ¡°My name is Ariel, as I already mentioned. I am the daughter ofte¡­¡± Her voice wavered at the confession, but she continued on. ¡°The daughter of thete Alpha John of Moonlight Pack and I havee to ask for your help.¡±


    The Alpha forehead creased, the wrinkles like cultivated ridges, and his eyes zed as he stared at her with such hate that she shivered, goosebumps breaking from her skin.


    ¡°Wrong answer. I wasn¡¯t asking what I should do for you, and if I don¡¯t get a suitable answer¡­¡± His words trailed off as his canine jutted out of his gum, and Ariel watched with shaky pupils, but she continued.


    ¡°I am a werewolf-well, not exactly one, but I have been living with humans, and I don¡¯t know my heritage. I need your help in bing what I truly am. I can help out in the pack with whatever is needed, and¡­¡±


    ¡°Why should I let you in my pack?¡± Her barked, his voice a deadly growl, much like that of a predator when he was going after his prey, and Ariel knew she only had one chance before he decided she was useless.


    She thought hard about her answer; hell, her life depended on it, and the smile on the alpha¡¯s face wasn¡¯t exactly helping her.


    It all happened in a twinkling of an eye because one moment she was contemting her answer, the next his hands wrapped around her neck in a tight grip, robbing her of any thoughts and, most importantly, air.


    Ariel struggled on the bed, her hands trying to pry away his fingers, but she had greatly underestimated the strength of an Alpha.


    His hold tightened, and as she continued to struggle to breathe, her mouth opened in a silent scream. She pped at his fingers, desperate for release, but it was to no avail, and in that moment, it came to her.This belongs ? N?velDra/ma.Org.


    ¡°I can help you out with Kane!¡±


    ¡°Kane?¡± The alpha rxed his grip on her, and Ariel gasped, her mouth wide open, as she tookrge gulps of air. ¡°How can you do that?¡±

 Chapter 78

    ¡°How can you do that?¡± The alpha demanded, and Ariel was sure she could see starsing out of his eyes.


    Yup, she had gotten his attention, and she had to maintain it now.


    A surge of confidence coursed through her veins, and her shoulders straightened up. ¡°I used to live in his pack, but I ran away when I found out he killed my parents and¡­¡±


    ¡°No surprise there. Kane¡¯s reputation always precedes him.¡± The alpha interrupted her, and Ariel¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly, trying not to show her annoyance at his action.


    ¡°I know you hate him, and honestly, I hate him more than you can think, but there is not much I can do seeing who I am. However, I have enough information that would be very useful to help you achieve your goal.¡±Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± The alpha stroked his beard, going over the thought, but from the way his eyes had lit up at the idea, she knew he was already sold.


    It was times like this that she had to thank the goddess for having a mate that was wanted by most of the packs. Who knew it would be helpful at such a time?


    ¡°What do you say? And before you reject my offer, remember that you will never get such an opportunity in a long time, and maybe never.¡± Ariel knew she was pushing her luck, but her life was on the line here.


    She had to be bold if she wanted to live.


    ¡°Hmm, I will discuss this with my beta and gamma, and you will be informed of the decision. For now, you can rest up here till we make the decision.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel spoke with a hint of a smile. ¡°I have another request, though.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ***


    Arielid back on the bed, and a gentle smile graced her lips as she was no longer gued by her turmoil.


    Finally, things were looking up for her.


    She swung her legs over the side of the bed, nting her feet firmly on the ground, and she stood up, taking a step forward as she tested the strength of her legs.


    She made it up to three steps before the door opened, and the nurse from earlier barged inside.


    ¡°Hello, I came to show you your room. The alpha had given a space in the pack house.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± That was surprisingly generous of him.


    ¡°Please follow me.¡± She said and she turned her back to her, walking out of the room, not even caring if Ariel was following.


    Ariel quickened her pace, falling into line beside her.


    ¡°The name is Ariel; what is your name?¡± Ariel asked. She figured she would have to make a friend here if she was going to survive this ce.


    It was a foreign ce, and she needed as many allies as she could get.


    Instead, her words were met with stony silence, and the nurse quickened her pace, and it was a struggle for Ariel to keep up with her.


    It was obvious the nurse wasn¡¯t going to answer that question, and she decided to ask another question.


    ¡°What is the name of your pack? I am not exactly versed in pack history, and seeing that I will be here for a long time, it is only right that I know.¡±


    She was met with silence again, and only the echo of their footsteps on the stairs could be heard.


    ¡°The least you could do is just answer my question.¡± Ariel grumbled under her breath, forgetting how sensitive the werewolf¡¯s ears could be.


    If the nurse had heard her, she didn¡¯t pay her any heed, instead they continued to walk in silence until they stopped in front of a brown door, and thedy turned to look at her.


    ¡°Let me get this straight. I don¡¯t know anything about you; you could even be a spy, and I don¡¯t want to reveal any information about my pack to you. I will suggest you refrain from asking me such questions. This will be your room till the alpha doesn¡¯t need you anymore.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, thank you.¡± Ariel murmured her gratitude, even though herst sentence sounded more like a threat.


    ¡°Everything you need is inside, and if you need anything, don¡¯t call. Goodbye.¡±


    Ariel hazed at her departing figure, wondering if she had a permanent stick up her ass. But she couldn¡¯t care; she was just d she wasn¡¯t on the run again.


    She held the doorknob, gently pushed the door open, and entered inside. The brown walls reminded her of a warehouse, and if it weren¡¯t for the size andck of adequate furniture, she would have assumed it was one.


    However, she was rather grateful.


    She was only going to stay here as long as it was necessary, and when it was time, she was going to go home-wherever home was.


    Her eyesnded on the bed, and a basket sat filled with toiletries, and beside it was a change of clothes. She took the basket and headed for the only door that was attached to the room.


    Lucky for her, it turned out to be a bathroom, and she was grateful not to share amon bathroom with the rest of the pack.


    It was bound to be awkward.


    Ariel peeled the dress from her body, and she stood under the shower, letting the cold waters seep into her pores, and she sighed in bliss.


    She took her previous time, washing herself clean, but she was flinching as she rubbed too hard on some bruises.


    There was once a time when things like this would have bothered her. Her body had always been spotless and soft, but now it bears little battle scars and bruises that would take time to heal.


    She allowed herself a moment of weakness and thought about her friends in the pack. She had missed them a lot, even udia.


    She was starting over in a new ce, and honestly, she didn¡¯t know what to do, but she knew she had to survive.


    She stepped out of the shower only when she was satisfied that she had cleaned every inch of her body, and she changed into the clothes that had been set aside for her.


    No sooner had she changed into her clothes and settled in did she hear a knock on the door, and it stunned her momentarily, but she was quick to recover, and she walked towards the door to open it.


    The alpha entered inside along with two men in a row, and they filled whatever little space she had, which was almost suffocating.


    ¡°To what do I owe this pleasure?¡± Ariel asked, hoping the distaste wasn¡¯t obvious in her voice.


    ¡°This is my beta, Sam.¡± The alpha gestured to the man on the right of him, who looked like he wanted to be anywhere but here. ¡°And this is my gamma, Dn.¡± They tapped the man¡¯s shoulder on the left, and he managed to smile at her.


    ¡°Hello, I am Ariel.¡±


    ¡°I have told them about you, and they wanted to see for themselves.¡± The alpha exined, and Ariel nodded, although she felt more like a spectacle for them to watch.


    But she would endure anything as long as they were willing to take her in.


    ¡°Please have your seat.¡± Ariel gestured to the only piece of furniture in the room, and they nced at it in distaste, as if the mere thought of sitting down on the bed were beyond them, and she gave up totally.


    ¡°There is a rumor going on that Kane found his mate, and you look oddly simr to her.¡± The gamma began, and with a speed that she couldprehend, he pounced on her, his hands closing around her neck. ¡°Tell me, are you a spy?¡±


    Ariel pped his finger, but he didn¡¯t let go, his grip a death vice, as he continued choking her. It wasn¡¯t until she was already turning red all over that the alpha decided to intervene.


    ¡°It is alright, Dn; ease up. I have run checks on her, and she is safe. For now.¡± The alpha was added as an afterthought.


    Dn eased up his grip on her, and Ariel coughed, nursing her neck, which she was sure would be sporting bruises.


    ¡°We would help you, but you just follow the rules strictly; otherwise, there would be consequences.¡± The alpha voice drowned out her pain, and she nodded her head.


    ¡°Fine, hit me.¡±


    Ariel could only listen as the alpha listed a bunch of ridiculous rules she had to follow for the sake of her life.


    Great.


    She was to live as an outcast, but she had no choice.


    ¡°I will follow the rules.¡±


    ¡°Good, wee to The Den.¡±

 Chapter 79

    ¡°Wee to the Den.¡± The alpha managed a smile as he looked at her, and he stretched out his hands to her.


    The Den?


    It took everything in her not to burst outughing. That was a horrible name for a pack, but who was she toin?


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel mirrored his smile as she took his hand and shook it warmly, repeating it for his beta and gamma.


    ¡°Wee.¡± They echoed the greeting, but after what the gamma had done, Ariel was still skeptical about them.


    ¡°It should be time for dinner now, and we can go down to eat. I assume you are hungry.¡± Her stomach grumbled as if in response to his words, and she gave him an apologetic smile.


    ¡°Oh no, I could eat my own here if it is possible.¡± Thest thing Ariel wanted to do was meet his pack.


    If their leaders were like this, who knows how the pack members were going to be? And she had no strength to fight anyone.


    ¡°No harm wille to you as long as you are here.¡± The alpha said and Ariel¡¯s head snapped up, looking at him with wide eyes.


    ¡°Can you read my thoughts?¡±


    The alpha chuckled, shaking his head slightly. ¡°That would be absurd. Juste down; I want to introduce the pack to you. You will be our guest until you are not needed anymore, and it is only right that you are given a proper introduction to the pack.¡±


    ¡°Alright, if you say so.¡± Ariel shrugged her shoulders, patting her hair in ce and straightening her dress until she noticed the stares, and she wanted to shrink into the ground.


    ¡°We will be outside.¡±


    Ariel nodded her head, and she went towards the dresser, staring at her reflection. She wasn¡¯t here to impress anyone; there was no need to make the effort.


    Maybe a little bit, she thought as she ran to the bathroom, picking up the lipgloss she had seen in the basket, and she ran it across her lips.


    Her lips don¡¯t have to be charred, even if she wasn¡¯t here to impress them.


    Satisfied with the results, she hurried after them, shutting the door behind her and making sure to keep a safe distance from them as they walked down the stairs.


    Until they came to arge dining hall.


    If Ariel had thought that Kane¡¯s pack wasrge, it couldn¡¯t hold a candle to what she was looking at now.


    Only there were long rows of tables and chairs-the ones you would see in a Harry Potter movie. And people were already seated, chatting excitedly as the food was passed around.


    Only the noise was quick to turn toplete silence as they saw the alpha, and everyone stood up, lowering their heads and raising them at the same time, as if it had been rehearsed before hand.


    ¡°Hmm mm.¡± The alpha cleared his throat, and he motioned for Ariel toe forward. ¡°We have a guest joining us. She had been working as a spy for us, and she would be staying with us for now. She is my guest, and she should be treated as one irrespective of who she is, and failure to abide by that will result in consequences.¡±


    From the way the pack gulped, they were well familiar with his consequences, and they all nodded their heads.


    ¡°Good.¡± The alpha smiled, and he left for his seat, leaving her standing there and looking like a fool.


    Lucky for her, she didn¡¯t have to stand too long as ady came to her, directing her where to sit, and she was grateful to be saved from the embarrassment.


    Thedy led her to her seat in the half-filled hall, and they took their seats. ¡°Thank you for saving my ass there; my name is Ariel.¡±


    ¡°The alpha asked me to do it, but you are wee.¡± Thedy¡¯s sharp reply hindered any chance of friendship blossoming, and Ariel nodded with an awkward smile.


    The food began to pass around, and she took a long sniff as the scent filled the air, her stomach growling in response.


    She waited as per theirw for the alpha to take his first bite, and almost immediately she wasted no time, digging into the food.


    At least she wasn¡¯t going to starve here.


    She finished her meal and helped with packing the tes and cleaning them up. If she was going to stay here, it was only right that she help with some of the chores.


    She couldn¡¯t be a freeloader again.


    Dinner was over as soon as it started, and Ariel went back to her room, throwing herself on the bed and staring at the night sky.


    It got boring real quick, as she had nothing to do and fell asleep.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    The pounding on the door shattered whatever sleep she had been having, and she dragged her feet towards the door.


    ¡°Hello,¡± Ariel muttered, rubbing the sleep away from her eyes.


    ¡°It is time for breakfast.¡± And she was walking out.


    Ariel stared at her retreating back before it clicked in her head that the food may likely be gone before she got there, and she was running after her.


    Luckily, the alpha hadn¡¯te down, and she sat down, only eating her meal when the alpha had taken his bite and helping to pack the te before she retired to her room.


    The first thing that weed her as she stepped into her room were some shopping bags sitting on her bed.


    She peeped outside of her room to see if she could catch the culprit, but it was as empty as whatever, so she went back inside. It was creepy enough that anyone could have ess to her room, but it wasn¡¯t like she wouldin.


    She brought out the clothes, sizing them up. Many were not to her taste, but at least they fitted her well, and she kept them away.


    She brushed her teeth, washed her face, and sat down in her room, bored out of her life. There was nothing to do, and it irked her more than anything.


    But she was standing up as if she had been jolted by a bolt of electricity, and she was heading outside her room. As she walked, she could hear footsteps behind her; although subtle, her ears had picked them up, and she turned, sending a flying punch.


    But damn werewolf reflexes, he had seen iting and was able to dodge at thest minute.


    ¡°Why are you following me?¡± Ariel asked, her hands on her hips as she tried to look menacing, but the 6¡¯3-foot-tall man didn¡¯t even move a bit.


    ¡°I am to guide you around the pack.¡±


    Another word for a bodyguard, but she wouldn¡¯t care.


    ¡°I would like to go to the library. Can you show me the way?¡± There was no response from his end; instead, his eyes gleamed for a few seconds before they were restored.


    ¡°Follow me.¡±


    Geez, everyone had a stick up their ass in this pack, but she reluctantly followed him as they went down the stairs, well aware of the stares they got as the other pack mates passed them.


    They entered the room that had the library etched above the entrance, and her eyes widened in awe as she stepped into the room.


    ¡°Wow.¡± She couldn¡¯t stop the words from leaving her mouth.


    This was every reader¡¯s dream.


    The majestic row of shelves stretched before her, filled with books from top to bottom, and a sturdydder was attached that could help her ess the top.


    ¡°How may I help you?¡± The librarian, a bespectacled buxom woman, stood in front of her, looking every bit like your typical librarian, and Ariel red down at her, happy to know she was taller than someone in the pack. ¡°I know. I don¡¯t need the sses, but I am trying to look at the part.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Ariel nodded. Who was she to deny a woman her pleasure? Besides, she was the first person to smile at her without any form of hostility.


    ¡°She will need books on pack history, especially on the moonlight pack, if you may.¡± Her guard spoke up, and Ariel stared at him with an open mouth, wondering just how much the alpha had told him.


    But she was quick to recover. ¡°Yeah, and maybe anything you could get on Alpha John and his family. He was the alpha of the moonlight pack.¡± She added, and the woman smiled.


    ¡°Of course, I will be right back. Make yourselffortable.¡± Her ¡®bodyguard¡¯ continued standing, and she saw no need to sit.


    But she was already regretting it when more than 15 minutes had passed and the woman wasn¡¯t yet on sight.


    She should have opted to sit.


    A sigh of relief left her as she saw her, quickening her steps towards them with some piles of books in her hand, and Ariel¡¯s smile only grew wider.


    ¡°Sorry for the dy; it was a little difficult getting it, but all you need should be here.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much.¡± Ariel replied with sincere gratitude, and she took the books from her. ¡°Am I allowed to read it in my room?¡± She asked the man behind her, just to be on the safe side, and the little yes was the only confirmation she needed.


    ¡°Thank you!¡± Ariel eximed, cuddling the books to her bosom, and she was skipping all the way to her room.

 Chapter 80

    Arielid the books on the bed, and she sat in front of them, staring at them, yet she couldn¡¯t help the feeling of nervousness that clung to her.


    She wasn¡¯t sure she was ready to learn the whole truth.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    A little part of her-the part that was still clinging to the fact that she loved Kane-had refused to believe he had a hand in her parents deaths.


    She was afraid to confirm it now if it was really true.


    ¡°You can do this.¡± She gave herself a little pep talk as she picked up the first book. She had recognized it as the book she had seen in Kane¡¯s pack that had been torn.


    But this pack had theplete version.


    She flipped the page to the needed page; the page number was already stuck in her head. And this time, the content was there, staring right back at her.


    Ariel took a deep breath in a bid to calm her nerves, and she began to read, her pupils moving from left to right as she scanned through the page.


    She absorbed each piece of information like a sponge, clinging to it and holding on to it, as this was the most she had learned about her pack and her family.


    The book was a treasure trove of secrets-secrets Kane had been trying to bury. The text had been apanied by pictorial representation, and her fingers caressed the picture of her pack building, feeling an instant connection in her bones.


    The rest of the pages talked about her parents; they had been the leaders before they met their awful demise, and Ariel choked on a sob as she saw the picture of her parents standing side by side.


    Her eyes welled up with tears as she gazed at the picture of her parents, her heart heavy with feelings of sadness and longing.


    She studied the images, her eyes lingering on the faces of her parents, their smiles andughter frozen in time, and her breath caught in her throat.


    She was a splitting image of her father, with the same facial features and eyes, but her statue was all her mother¡¯s. They had the same slim, thick features, although her mother¡¯s were more broader with wider hips.


    She had no doubt she had been a head-turner when she was younger.


    Ariel turned the next page, and a sob burst forth, the tap pouring down. The tears streamed down her eye and fell into the pages, and she panicked, cleaning them off before she would incur the wrath of the librarian.


    The picture before her was that of a younger version of herself, atop her father¡¯s neck, wearing a big smile on her face.


    Her mother was sporting simr smiles, and they looked so happy and content.


    Ariel pushed the book to the side, and sheid on the bed, too emotional to continue; instead, she let her mind wander. She imagined a life with her parents, a life where she never had to meet Kane. She was happy in her pack as a full-fledged werewolf.


    It seems like the perfect life.


    But it was just a dream; she woke up to reality and continued reading through the books.


    Ariel spent the rest of the day holed up in the room, going through all the books provided, but she was only sinking lower and lower with each item she consumed.


    Until she finally stumbled on the article she had been looking for, she thought she was going to feel anger as she confirmed that it was indeed Kane who hadmitted such a horrible thing.


    But she was numb.


    The weight of it all came crashing down on her like a tidal wave, threatening to engulf her. The secrets, the lies, the truth about her pack, her family, and her very identity-it was all too much to bear. The revtion that she might never find a ce to call her own was the final blow, and she copsed onto her bed, overwhelmed.


    Ariel stared nkly at the ceiling, her eyes unfocused and her mind numb.


    She had already cried when she found out the truth the first time, and now there were no tears for her to cry; instead, she sank lower, her thoughts a scattered mess.


    She had lost the will to fight and to survive, and even when she heard the knock on the door, she didn¡¯t make a move to answer it; instead, she shifted on the bed, covering herself with the nket, and tried to sleep.


    Only the sleep didn¡¯te; instead, she spent the rest of the day in bed doing nothing, ignoring the calls to eat.


    Somehow, in her slump, the night hade and it was another new day, but she stillid on the bed, bing one with her mattress, when she heard the knock on the door.


    She ignored it as usual, not finding the strength to do anything, but the person behind the door continued, his persistence annoying her.


    ¡°Miss Ariel, you have to open the door. I will be forced to break the door if you don¡¯t.¡± She heard the voice of her guard, surprised at the emotion she could hear in his voice.


    But she knew very well that he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to carry out his threat, and she reluctantly dragged her weary self out of bed, and she opened the door slightly, poking her head outside.


    His recoil as he saw her hadn¡¯t gone unnoticed, but she couldn¡¯t care. ¡°What do you want?¡± The sound that escaped her lips was foreign, but none of them paid any heed to it.


    ¡°You haven¡¯te down for any of your meals.¡± He replied, and she shook her head.


    Thest thing on her mind was a meal.


    ¡°Could you help me ask the alpha if I could make use of aptop? I promise I am not going to use it to do anything illegal. I just want to talk to my friend, I promise.¡± She was so close to breaking down, and she needed to talk to someone.


    ¡°I will inform the alpha.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Satisfied with his response, Ariel shut the door and went back to the bed, listening for any activity on the door.


    She was almost sure he had forgotten all about it or that she had been denied her request when she heard a knock on the door, and she was flying out of bed to answer it.


    She threw the door wide open, and there he stood, holding two bags in his hand. He simply dropped it in her hands with no words, and he shut the door.


    Ariel stood transfixed for a while, wondering about his behavior. She carried the bags to her bed and peeped into the first one, excited that it had been what she wanted.


    She brought out theptop and checked the other bag. He had been kind enough to pack her lunch, and her heart warmed at the gesture.


    She picked up the apple he had packed and bit into it, her stomach doing the happy dance at being fed, and she opened theptop.


    The goddess must be in her favor because it wasn¡¯t locked and it was automatically connected to Wi-Fi, and she did the first thing she would think of.


    It was a little difficult logging into her social media, but after several minutes had passed, she was sessful, and she messaged her friend.


    She couldn¡¯t even fight the smile on her face as she saw her typing, but it stopped, and almost immediately she had an iing video call.


    The call startled her, as she hadn¡¯t expected it, but she knew if she didn¡¯t answer it, udia would be even more suspicious.


    ¡°Girlll?! Where have you been? I have been trying to reach you.¡± udia began berating her immediately after the call connected, but a loud gasp escaped her lips as she looked at her friend. ¡°What the hell happened to you?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Ariel exhaled a deep, relieved sigh, feeling the weight of her burden lift as she heard the concern in her voice. She stared at udia, at the way her lips had turned up in a frown, her hair cascading in waves down her back, and her lips twitched in amusement. ¡°You¡¯ve gotten a new man, right?¡± There was no way she would get wavy curls if she wasn¡¯t trying to impress someone.


    ¡°Don¡¯t try to change the topic. What the hell happened to you? I have been trying to reach out to you for weeks, and it was almost impossible. I have already made up my mind that I was going to take a trip down to look for you if ites to that. Why are your eyes red? Were you crying? Was it Kane, because I swear he would be 6 feet under if he thought he could mess up with you?¡± Her words were flowing like a broken pipe, and Ariel let out a chuckle, happy that she still had someone standing up for her.


    ¡°It is fine.¡±


    ¡°The hell do you mean by fine? You looked like a walking corpse, no offense.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°Then spill.¡±


    ¡°It is a long story.¡±


    ¡°You have to start somewhere because I am not letting you go until you tell me everything.¡± There was a defiant look on her face, and Ariel knew she was more than capable of seeing through her threat.


    ¡°What do you know about werewolves?¡±

 Chapter 81

    ¡°What do you know about werewolves?¡±


    udia¡¯s gaze drifted upward, her eyes searching the ceiling as if the answer were written there, and she tilted her head before shaking her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know, not much except for those awful series.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Ariel nodded her head, not sure her friend would be able to take what she was going to tell her. ¡°Promise you will not freak out.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Should I?¡±


    Ariel only had aforting smile to give, and she began to download everything she knew-everything that had happened to her-without leaving any stone unturned.


    The relief was almost instantaneous-the fact that she had someone to share it with-and the reveling at the anger udia felt made her happy that there would always be someone beside her. And she had taken the news well, a little blinded by Kane¡¯s betrayal to care about her friend not being a human.


    ¡°How dare he?¡± udia screamed out her anger, hitting the space beside her. ¡°He will be gone when I get hold of him.¡±


    ¡°You know he is a werewolf, right?¡± Ariel reminded her, a little smile ying on her face. She felt a little guilty for taking advantage of her anger, but she deserved it.


    No one had really stood behind her without Kane¡¯s interference.


    ¡°I don¡¯t give a fuck; he has no go!¡± udia screamed out her anger, and it took a while before Ariel could calm her down. ¡°What are you going to do now?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I think I will stay in this pack for as long as possible and maybe look for a job here.¡±


    ¡°You know you can alwayse back to Australia; I will be more than happy to house you.¡± udia reminded her


    ¡°I know, thank you.¡± Ariel couldn¡¯t let her know that she couldn¡¯t leave, not until she had gotten her revenge. And even when she had, she knew it would be almost impossible to do that. She had been grounded here, and somehow udia could tell.


    ¡°Where do you stay?¡± Ariel was about to protest, but udia cut her short. ¡°I know, protocol h h, but I need to be reassured by your presence and be assured that no harmes to you.¡±


    ¡°You are already far away, udia; I see no need for you to know my address.¡±


    ¡°Ariel!¡± udia called in a voice that left no argument, and she sighed.


    ¡°Fine, I will share my location with you.¡±


    ¡°See, it is not so hard.¡± udia stuck her tongue out, and Ariel rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Alright, enough about me. How are you doing? Have you decided to stay in the job?¡±


    ¡°I know you are trying to divert my attention, but it is fine. Anyways¡­¡± udia began to chatter excitedly about her day, and Ariel listened, hanging on to each word.


    Since her life was pretty much upside down, this was the only way to live vicariously, and she weed it.


    The talk went on for a long time, and the girls talked about anything and everything, and for the first time in a while, Ariel was happy.


    She had missed her friend so much, and she made a promise to visit Australia when everything was much calmer.


    ***


    Ariel woke up with a smile, and she stretched her limbs, feeling the satisfying crack of her joints as she arched her back and extended her arms above her head.


    The alpha had allowed her to keep theptop for the short time she would be around, although it was rather restricted.


    But anything was better than staring at the wall all day.


    She skipped downstairs, her bodyguard in tow, as she went for breakfast. She was satisfied with sitting alone in her corner and munching whatever they had provided.


    She wasn¡¯t here to make friends, even though it contradicted her nature, but she must focus on her goal.


    Ariel finished her meal and went back to her room, heading straight for the shower.


    She came back with a towel wrapped around her frame, humming to a song that had been stuck in her head when she caught the bright red envelope on the bed.


    For a moment, her heart skipped a bit as she walked towards it, wondering if she had begun to gain admirers in the pack.


    Christmas was still far away-although the werewolf could care less about human tradition-so it couldn¡¯t be a Christmas gift.


    She picked up the envelope and removed the note that was inside, curious to see what was written, but that was her undoing.


    As soon as her eyesnded on her name, she recoiled, dropping the letters as if they had suddenly turned to hot coals in her hands.


    She could never forget that handwriting. She had seen it scribbled in their room; she had seen it in every document that was in the pack. There was no way she could miss the familiar scrawl that was almost illegible.


    She picked up the letter again with a trembling hand, and she began to read it.


    ¡°Dear Ariel,


    It had been a while since you left the pack, and I have left you to your own device, thinking you woulde to a reasonable conclusion. But I think the time you have spent away has made you delusional. I will have to remind you that we are mates and you are still bound to me. I will give you a little freedom, but be well reassured that I will being back for you. And I won¡¯t take no for an answer. Best regards.¡±


    The sender hadn¡¯t signed his name, but Ariel knew.


    She read the letter again, just to be sure her mind wasn¡¯t ying tricks with her, and again, until the words were etched in her memory and she let out a loud scream.


    She didn¡¯t stop screaming when her guard, whose name she didn¡¯t know, ran inside; she didn¡¯t stop screaming when he pry the letter from her hands, nor did she stop screaming when the alpha came in.


    She was lost in her mind.


    Kane had found her yet again, and this time he had promised not to let go of her.


    ¡°Ariel!¡± The alpha snapped at the screaming girl, annoyed that he had to take on such responsibilities.


    ¡°He has found me; he will take me away; he wille for me.¡± Ariel continued screaming like a broken record, and the alpha held her shoulder, shaking her violently to calm her down.


    ¡°You are safe here; nothing can harm you as long as you are under my protection.¡± But she shook her head.


    It was a lie.


    She had been trying to learn about Kane and had gotten some books in the library, and it was horrific learning about him.


    He wasn¡¯t the saint he had imed to be.


    He wasn¡¯t the devil that your parents warned you about.


    He was worse.


    Kane would kill anyone as long as there was a price tag attached to it, and you could never escape his ws, and now he wasing for her.


    ¡°That is why you need me.¡± The Alpha¡¯s voice broke her reverie, and she looked at him with unfocused eyes. ¡°You need to tell me what you know so we can join forces and destroy him and his packpletely.¡±


    ¡°Destroy?¡± Her voice was high-pitched in shock.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Yes, she hated him and wanted nothing to do with him, but trying to destroy him and his pack was out of the question.


    ¡°Yes. That is the only way you can truly be free. Nowe sit and tell me all you know, and I promise to help you get rid of him once and for all.¡±


    Ariel looked at him with a slightly open mouth, wondering how she had dug up such a hole for herself, but she allowed him to lead her by the hand, and she sat on the bed.


    ¡°Now tell me all you know.¡± There was a hidden threat in his words that would have gone unnoticed if she hadn¡¯t been so observant.


    So she sat and did as she was told.

 Chapter 82

    Ariel told him all she could manage to tell him before the guilt began to tug at her heart.


    It wasn¡¯t like she had a choice; she had been staying here for two days now, and this was some sort ofpensation for housing and feeding her.


    But she suddenly erupted into a violent fit of coughing, her body convulsing as she hacked up phlegm from the depths of her throat, and the alpha¡¯s eyes widened in rm, his germaphobia triggered, and he shifted ufortably.


    ¡°Excuse me.¡± Ariel croaked out, and she ran in the direction of the bathroom, making a show of puking her guts out.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± The alpha called from outside the bathroom, his voice dipping with concern, but she knew he was only angry at the half-information he had received.


    ¡°I think I need to rest.¡± Ariel called out in a dry, airy tone that had the alpha leaving her room reluctantly.


    Ariel heaved a sigh of relief as she heard the door shut, and she waited for some seconds longer before she came outside.


    She had been spilling all she knew-nothing too major to harm him, yet. But her heart had tugged at her, and she knew she couldn¡¯t carry it through.


    She wanted to be the one to destroy him with her own hands while he looked at her and begged for his life.


    Ariel went back to her bed and picked up herptop, rying the news of the letter to udia. Now that she had a means ofmunication, she didn¡¯t feel lonely.


    But the alpha seems to have other ideas.


    For one, he had changed the bodyguard that had been situated at her door, while he had added more guards just to ensure her maximum safety.


    Lucky for her, the alpha had decided to let her be, only for the time being so she could recover, and she had spent most of her day in front of theptop screen, looking for any movie to distract her from reality.


    However, her peace was short-lived when she heard the gentle tap-tap on the door, and she grudgingly went to the door, poking her head out of the little space.


    ¡°The alpha had requested for you.¡± The new bodyguard had told her, his face devoid of any emotion.


    ¡°For me?¡± Ariel asked incredulously. She had barely recovered from theirst session, and she wasn¡¯t so sure she had anything to tell him without spilling something that would be too detrimental. ¡°Alright, let me wear something more appropriate.¡± She continued when it was obvious he wasn¡¯t going to give her a reply.


    She hurried to the wardrobe and picked out the only jacket she was given. The winter breeze had begun to blow around the house, and it could get really chilly.


    Ariel went out of the room, satisfied with her appearance, and she let him lead the way as they went downstairs, ignoring all the people that passed them.


    They halted before a door, and with a gentle push, the door swung open, releasing a wave of pungent aromas that washed over her like a tide.


    It wasn¡¯t exactly bad, but the smell of disinfectant was a little too overwhelming for her nose.


    ¡°This is not the alpha¡¯s quarters.¡± She whispered-yelled to the guard, but he had already entered inside, and she reluctantly stepped inside.


    Luck seemed to shine on her, for the infirmaryy silent and still, its rows of beds and medical stations unupied, until the echo of footsteps got nearer.


    A woman emerged from the shadows, her face etched with the lines of a life well lived. Yet, despite the whispers of age, she remained agile, her legs unfolding like a leopard¡¯s as she moved.


    She stopped before them, her very presencemanding attention, and her eyes sparkled with a fire that seemed to burn brighter with each passing year.


    ¡°Ariel, I never thought a day like this woulde when I would see you again.¡± She held her shoulders with a strength that surprised her, and Ariel looked at her, her mouth slightly open.


    ¡°Do you know me?¡±


    With a nod of her head, she dismissed the guard, and she beamed at Ariel.


    ¡°Of course, I could still remember how cute you were when your parents first came here.¡±


    ¡°You know my parents?¡± Ariel¡¯s voice was high-pitched in joy, unable to control her emotion.


    ¡°Let us talk more inside; the wall has ears.¡± Ariel followed behind her as she led the way and ushered her to her private office.


    She nced around the room, her eyes flitting and never staying on one object-the little bed in the corner, the chairs around, and the table that was filled with a lot of books.


    ¡°Sit.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel lowered herself to the chair, her butt barely touching it. ¡°How do you know my parents?¡±


    ¡°I was friends with your grandparents, and I was there at your father¡¯s coronation and when they gave birth to you. It was a sad thing that happened to John.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s heart swelled with unbridled joy. The mere fact that this woman had known her parents and had witnessed their lives was enough to send her spirits soaring.


    ¡°That means you knew what happened to them.¡±


    ¡°It was a horrible thing that happened. The werewolf world has always been loggerheads with each other, and the Moonlight Pack wasn¡¯t an exception. The rogue pack were known to take care of such things, and Kane couldn¡¯t pass on the job.¡±


    ¡°You talk like you know everyone.¡±Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    The sides of her eyes crinkled as she smiled, revealing yellow teeth that were once white. ¡°I tend to know a lot more than I give away. But that is not why you are here. I understand that you don¡¯t have a wolf.¡±


    Ariel shifted ufortably in her seat, but she nodded her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know what happened; I don¡¯t even know if I was truly a wolf.¡±


    ¡°It was your father.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Ariel couldn¡¯t believe what she had just heard. ¡°My father?¡±


    ¡°John had noticed that Kane was your mate, and he was trying to spare you the chance of meeting him and also trying to punish him. He had injected you with a lethal dose that stopped your wolf, and in the process, you lost your memory.¡±


    ¡°You are lying; my father could never do that.¡± Ariel didn¡¯t know her father, but she was sure that no parent would ever condemn their child to such a fate.¡±


    ¡°It is the truth. He had hoped you would be able to live as a human peacefully, but fate has a funny way of bringing people together.¡±


    ¡°I refuse to believe you. I don¡¯t even know how credible this information is.¡±


    ¡°I already told you, love, the walls have ears.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Ariel¡¯s breath escaped in a soft sigh, and she winced, already feeling the onset of a headacheing on. ¡°Can it be undone?¡± Her voice was barely above a whisper as she asked.


    ¡°It is a very tricky and dangerous thing considering how many years have passed. You are already happy living like this; there is no need to do something that would harm you.¡±


    ¡°It is my choice to make. I am tired of living like this, cut out of my own family and people. I have a right to know!¡± The fragile thread that had been holding her together snapped.


    ¡°I understand, but some things are better left buried. There is no need to dig up old wounds.¡±


    ¡°I want to know. I want to keep my parents¡¯ memories alive. They are counting on me to do that.¡±


    ¡°I understand love, but I will have to warn you. It is going to be a very painful experience, and it is not guaranteed that you will get her back, and you may end up losing your life.¡±


    ¡°I am ready; I don¡¯t care about the consequences, but I refuse to live like this any longer.¡± A lone tear fell from her eye.


    ¡°You remind me so much of your father.¡±


    ¡°I suppose that is a good thing.¡± Ariel sniffed, cleaning her eyes with the back of her palm.


    ¡°Of course, of course. Now strip.¡±


    ¡°W-what?¡± Her eyes widened at her words.


    ¡°That came out wrong,¡± the woman said with a sheepish smile. ¡°Wear this andy on the bed.¡± With a swift motion, the woman tossed a sky-blue dress towards her, and she caught it.


    Without a word, Ariel glided towards the curtain, shedding her old attire for the new one. And with quiet obedience, shey down on the bed, her eyes fixed on the woman as she awaited further guidance.

 Chapter 83

    Ariel listened to the woman¡¯s footsteps as she busied herself around while she waited for her. In her wait, her eyes wandered around, taking up the entire room.


    Outside, she may be calm, but inside, she is a panicking mess.


    If this actually works, she would be leaving here a werewolf, and she didn¡¯t know how to feel.


    Was she going to change, or would a wolfe and be bound to her? How did the change even work?


    All these thoughts gued her mind, and they weren¡¯t leaving anytime soon.


    ¡°It will be fine.¡±


    ¡°Uhh?¡± Ariel shifted her head to see her better, where she was still bent over the table, doing what she had no idea of.


    ¡°I can literally see your head swimming with different ideas, but you don¡¯t have to worry. Being a werewolf is the same thing as being a human. You don¡¯t have to learn it; it justes naturally.¡±


    ¡°How did you know I was thinking about it?¡±


    The woman gave her a little smile and made a show by zipping her lips, but Ariel could only shake her head. She was convinced she could read her mind somehow.


    The woman came closer to her, holding a syringe in her hands, and Ariel stared at it, her eyes widening with every second she made contact with it. ¡°What are you trying to do?¡± She hoped the fear wasn¡¯t so obvious in my head.


    She had a particr aversion to needles, and if it were possible, she would totally do without them.


    ¡°This,¡± the woman began, raising the syringe in her hand, ¡°is just going to juggle your memory. There are bits and pieces of your memories scattered about, but this would help bring everything together, and that will be the start of your recovery.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Her voice shook as she replied, but she braced herself as she saw the glint of the needle as it caught the light, and she shivered involuntarily. It wasing close, but she couldn¡¯t take it any longer. ¡°Can I hold your hand?¡± She blurted out, needing something to focus on.


    ¡°Of course.¡± Ariel held her arm, and almost swiftly, the needle entered her arm, not giving her any time to prepare.


    ¡°Ouuu.¡± Ariel whined more out of shock than out of pain.


    Then the waiting game started.


    She had expected it to be immediate and swift, but nothing happened. More than five minutes had passed, and all she could still feel was the little sting of the needle.


    ¡°I am not feeling anything.¡± Ariel reminded her, raising her head to look at her when more time had psed and nothing seemed to happen.


    ¡°Just give it time. It should start any moment from now.¡± The woman replied, and she continued with her work.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Ariel murmured, but sheid her head to rest, humming the tune of some song she had caught. But more minutes trickled in, and she was still as ever. ¡°I don¡¯t think this is-ahhhh.¡± Her words were abruptly cut short as her body was seized by a sudden and intense tremor. She began to shake violently, her entire frame vibrating with an uncontroble ferocity. ¡°What is happening to me?¡± She asked, but her words were reduced to a mere mumble as her body convulsed.


    ¡°Shhhh.¡± The woman was by her side, holding her hands, while the free one stroked Ariel¡¯s hair. ¡°It would be alright; just rx and let go.¡±


    ¡°What have you done to me?!¡± She tightened her hold, refusing to let go.


    ¡°Shhh. Just close your eyes and let go. It will soon be over.¡± But Ariel was adamant, determined to see it to the end. ¡°Close your eyes!¡± The woman snapped, her anger getting kindled with each passing minute Ariel wasted.


    Ariel found her eyes closing despite her efforts to keep them open. There was something in her voice that prevented her from going against her will.


    ¡°Now let it go. Forget all your worries and focus on finding your wolf.¡±


    Ariel did as she was told, letting the wind blow her worries away.


    And this time she did see.


    Ariel found herself whisked away through the sands of time, and she was transported back into the carefree world of her childhood. She was no more than five years old, running across thendscape as she chased after her parents in a game of hide and seek.


    Theirughter rang through the meadow, and their joy was loud for all to see.


    She found herself this time by her father¡¯s side, a constant shadow as he attended his meetings. She had refused to leave his side, content to observe from a distance. And this was soon to be a ritual, following him to any event he had until the day he took his final breath.


    She was once again transported to another memory, and she drew a ragged breath as it yed in front of her. She could remember this scene vividly. It was the day her parents had died.


    One minuteter, she was in her mother¡¯s arms, and the next, she was beside her father, watching him as he whispered to her young self.


    She saw when he pulled out the syringe, but it was toote; it was toote when he had stabbed her, and definitely toote when she saw the glimpse of her wolf leaving her.


    And Ariel screamed, ¡°Nooooo¡­ Come back.¡± She cried as she ran toward the other part of herself that had been buried for so long, but the more steps she took, the more it got away from her until it was almost impossible to catch up.


    And Ariel was left alone in the dark.


    She was all alone, as always.


    Ariel woke up to a bright light shining down on her face, but she was too consumed by her emotions to notice; instead, tears streamed down from her face.


    ¡°You are back?¡± The old nurse asked as she came to her view. ¡°Were you able to reach her?¡±


    Ariel shook her head, unable to say more lest her voice betray her.


    ¡°You will have to try harder, Ariel; you can¡¯t give up.¡±


    ¡°I have tried, but it didn¡¯t work. I don¡¯t even know what I am looking for; I don¡¯t even know what she looks like.¡±


    The kind nurseid a hand on her head, stroking her hair with tenderness. ¡°You will know when you see it. You have to look into the depths of your heart.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Ariel whispered, but she was already convinced. She closed her eyes in wait, focusing on the love flowing from where the nurse was still touching her.


    She could still hear her voice in her head, telling her to seek it, and she did as she was told.


    She searched the depths of her heart, going deeper, reaching out to every part of her that had been locked, and opening it.


    And she was right.


    Ariel stood before the final threshold, a gate shrouded in an unholy darkness that seemed to devour the very light around it. Yet she stepped forward, her heart pounding in her chest like a drumbeat in the stillness.


    Surprisingly, the gate opened without any hesitance, and she stepped inside, her fear dissolving in thin air.


    The woman was right, because she could tell that this was who she had been searching for. ¡°Hey, I have been looking for you.¡± Ariel¡¯s lips curled upward in a small smile, but the response she got was a far cry from the gentle warmth she had anticipated.


    ¡°Get out!¡± The voice boomed like the sound of thunder.


    ¡°W-what?¡± Ariel felt like a bucket of ice had been poured on her head. ¡°You are my wolf; I havee for you.¡±


    ¡°You left me, you abandoned me, and after all these years, you have decided you want me?¡±This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°That is a lie. I have been searching for you all this time. I knew I was neverplete, and I have been searching for that part thatpletes me, and now I have seen it.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t get to decide that so suddenly. You prevented me from seeing my mate; you left me for years, dumped at the back of your mind, and now youe here.¡±


    ¡°I had no idea about you.¡± Ariel was surprised at how steady her voice was when all she wanted to do was break down.


    ¡°You have been living all this year without one; you can spend the rest of your life like that.¡±


    ¡°Please, I-¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you. Get out!¡± Ariel was hurled backward with a force that seemed to shatter everything.


    As she crashed into the familiar softness of her bed, the sudden shift in surroundings jolted her back to reality. Yet shey there, her eyelids refusing to budge, even as the tears continued to slip from her eyelids.


    She had thought Kane¡¯s betrayal had hurt her, but now she knew better.


    Nothing was going to top this.

 Chapter 84

    ¡°Ariel?¡± The woman¡¯s voice was muffled and distant, as if it were being filtered through a thickyer of water. ¡°Ariel, what happened?¡± The voice grew slightly louder, but it still sounded like it wasing from beneath the surface of a stagnant pool.


    The voice dripped of concern, of a love that she had always yearned for, and more tears dropped from her eyes.


    ¡°What is wrong? Did you see your wolf?¡± The woman held her hands, squeezing them asionally, but Ariel shook her head. The words were stuck in her throat like a morsel of food that refused toe down.


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± She croaked out a sob, her voice cracking with emotion, as she ran out of the room. Tears streamed down her face, blurring her vision, but she didn¡¯t need to see to know where she was going. Her instincts guided her until she reached the safety of her door.


    ¡°Miss Ariel, you are back.¡± She heard the bodyguard say, but she pushed him away, jerked the door open, and closed it, making sure to secure it well before she flopped on the floor.


    And there, the waterworks were let loose.


    Ariel unleashed loud, guttural sobs from inside her, screaming her pain at the top of her lungs, letting the world know of her pain.


    And they did know.


    The door rattled as they knocked on it. ¡°Open the door!¡± They roared, but she couldn¡¯t be bothered by that. Instead, she sank on the floor, the cold biting into her skin, and she tuned herself away from all the noise; instead, she focused on her grievance.


    Ariel had never felt so lost and unwanted in her life.


    She had thought her parents didn¡¯t want her, but it turned out they were killed by the mate she had been panting after.


    A mate that obviously didn¡¯t want her.


    She had managed to escape and settle in a ce, and she had thought she had gotten something for herself, but as usual, he had to ruin it, and now the only thing she could depend on-her wolf-wanted nothing to do with her, and she had no idea what to do.


    Another wave of tears crashed down, relentless and unforgiving, as the dam of her emotions burst open once more. The more she dwelled on the pain, the more it seared her soul, like a branding iron etching its mark deeper into her heart.


    Ariel curled herself into a ball, clutching her chest as if in pain and rubbing it to soothe the ache that she was feeling, but it only seemed to be spreading.


    She closed her eyes against the pain and directed her gaze upwards, staring at the ceiling, but her tear-blurred vision rendered it a hazy blur. And with a shuddering breath, she let out a deep, despairing sigh.


    She was doomed.


    She had to have been cursed by the moon goddess herself because they were determined not to see her happy.


    She released another weary sigh, and she let everything go.


    ***


    Ariel couldn¡¯t recall what had happened to her, but she had woken up to feel the softness of the mattress underneath her, and when she had managed to open her eyes, she was immediately cringing from the bright light that shone on her face.


    She shifted on the bed until her face was nted on the bed, and she tried to recall how she had gotten here.


    Somehow, in her grief, she had dragged herself to the bed when she couldn¡¯t bear the biting cold anymore. Winter hade, and it hade in all its ferocity.


    Everything hurts; the light was too bright for her weary eyes; her throat felt like the arid earth of a desert; and it hurt as she tried to swallow her saliva. Her body was heavy with exhaustion, and each breath she took only wore her out.


    Ariel reached for her nket, and she covered herself, grateful for the shelter against the cold breeze. She then tried to will herself to sleep.


    Only it was proving almost impossible.


    She continued turning and tossing in her sleep, trying to find the right position that wouldn¡¯t hurt so much.


    In that moment, her stomach rumbled in protest, demanding to be fed, but Ariel neither had the energy for that nor could she care about it.


    She just wanted to wallow in her self-pity.


    The knock came again, loud and persistent, followed by shouts of her name, but she could only grumble.


    ¡°Go away.¡± She cried out weakly, but she broke into a fit of coughing. Her body was shaking as she coughed.


    ¡°Miss Ariel?¡±


    ¡°Arghhh!¡± Ariel groaned in frustration, grabbing whatever she could reach and flinging it.


    Can¡¯t they just leave her alone?


    She stuffed her fingers in her ear, trying to drown herself in her sorrow.


    And it worked.


    As the minutes ticked by, the world outside receded, its sounds and distractions fading into a dull silence, and Ariel was left alone with her thoughts. But just as she had begun to surrender to the stillness, the pounding on the door shattered the fragile calm, and her heart sank, even as she let out a despairing groan.


    They just never listen.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± She froze as she heard the new voice. ¡°You need to open this door; we have to talk.¡±


    Ariel shook her head, forgetting that she was alone and that no one could see her. Instead, she curled into a tight ball, her arms wrapping around her knees as she sought to protect herself from the pain that threatened to consume her.


    ¡°Ariel! I swear, if you don¡¯t open this door, I will break it!¡± She threatened, and Ariel managed a small smile despite the pain, pleased to know that her fire hadn¡¯t been put out.


    However, there was something in her voice that told her that she would do as she had promised, and she reluctantly got out of bed and dragged herself towards the door.


    Ariel opened the door slightly, but the woman poked her head inside, forcing her body into the house.


    ¡°You are a mess¡± was the first thing that came out of her mouth, and Ariel rolled her eyes. She was not in the mood for a scolding now.


    ¡°What do you want? Why are you here?¡±


    But the woman couldn¡¯t be fazed; instead, she marched around the room, her eyes taking in the state of the room and shaking her head in disapproval. ¡°Tut, tut. How can you live like this? This is no better than a pig sty.¡±


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± Ariel asked again, her hands in akimbo as she pretended like she didn¡¯t hear her question.


    Her gaze settled on Ariel, taking in her fragile state, and her eyes filled with understanding. ¡°I wanted to check up on you; thest session didn¡¯t exactly go as nned. And I wanted us to try again.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t have toe all the way for that. I don¡¯t need my wolf anymore, I have been living for years without her, and I can do without her for my remaining stay on earth.¡±


    ¡°Ariel!¡± The nurse let out a gasp.


    ¡°It is my life, and I have every right to dictate how I want it to be. All my life, I had people dictating to me how I should live my life, telling me what to do and how to do it. But that ends now. I want to be in charge of my life, and this is my decision.¡±N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°I understand you.¡± The woman spoke, her voice like a gentle breeze on a summer day. ¡°Sit.¡± She tapped on the space on the bed beside her, and Ariel¡¯s gaze drifted to the bed, where the tangled mess of clothes and memories stilly scattered. But Ariel pushed back her dirtyundry and sat on the bed. ¡°What happened back there?¡±


    ¡°Where?¡± She attempted to feign ignorance, but one look from the nurse had her ns crumbling down. ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about it.¡±


    ¡°Did you see your wolf? What did she say?¡± The nurse pressed on.


    ¡°I said I don¡¯t want to talk about it!¡± Ariel red up, annoyed by her patronizing voice.


    ¡°I am only concerned about you, Ariel. I have a hint on what happened there, and I could get the information if I wanted to, but I don¡¯t want to pry. However, I am here to help you, and I can only do that if you let me in.¡±


    Ariel took another look at the woman, her brown eyes shining with sincerity, and she reluctantly opened her mouth. ¡°She doesn¡¯t want me. She said I abandoned her.¡± And therees the water work again.


    It was a hassle trying to console Ariel.


    ¡°She is just talking from a ce of hurt. They, like us, can feel emotion. They are very social beings, and they thrive inpany. She had been abandoned for so long that she believed everyone had turned on her. However, if you continue like this, you are only going to prove her right.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°You have moped enough, Ariel. You should have realized now that there is no one by your side, and your wolf will be the only person who will be with you despite all that happens. Frankly, you need her more than she needs you.¡±


    Ariel sat up a little straighter as she heard her words, her curiosity piqued. ¡°What do you suggest I do?¡± She asked, cleaning the tears from her eyes.


    ¡°You have to fight for her; you have to go back there and do whatever you can to make sure shees with you.¡±

 Chapter 85

    ¡°You have to fight for her; you have to go back there and do whatever you can to make sure shees with you.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know; she didn¡¯t look like she wanted me here.¡± Ariel mumbled, the self-doubt eating deep into her.


    The woman looked at her incredulously, wondering how dumb someone could be. ¡°Are you just going to let it be? Are you going to give up because she doesn¡¯t want you? I may not know you well, but I was very familiar with your father, and he was no quitter. It will be a shame that his own daughter turns out to be the opposite of him.¡± She spat out in distaste.


    That struck a chord in Ariel¡¯s heart, and she sat up. Even though her parents were no longer on earth, she had to make them proud. ¡°I will do it.¡± Her voice was like that of a whisper, and if it weren¡¯t for the sensitive hearing, the nurse wouldn¡¯t have picked it up.


    ¡°Did you say anything?¡±


    ¡°I will do it.¡± Ariel replied, although her answer seemed more like a question. She still had doubt in her heart.


    ¡°Did you hear anything?¡± She leaned closer, holding her ear out. ¡°Because all I can hear is self-doubt.¡±


    ¡°I said I would do it!¡± Ariel boomed, the air carrying her words around the room and beyond the walls.


    ¡°Good. That is more like it.¡± She was awarded with a huge smile on the woman¡¯s face, and Ariel wouldn¡¯t help it; she melted from the smile. ¡°If you don¡¯t have confidence in what you can do, you will never get what you want. Especially in this world, if you somehow manage to get your wolf, you will have to continuously prove yourself and work all the way to the top.¡±


    Ariel took a deep breath, absorbing all she had said. ¡°I know, and I am ready to do whatever it takes.¡±


    ¡°That is what I would like to hear.¡± The woman patted her back. ¡°You still have a long way to go, child, but there is always light at the end of the tunnel.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel gave her a small smile, and she sat up. ¡°Shall we head to your office?¡±


    ¡°There is no need; we can just do it here. Give me your hand.¡± Ariel did as she was told, and she stretched her hands out, shocked when a soft palm enveloped her. For a woman her age, she wasn¡¯t expecting her hands to be soft. ¡°Now close your eyes and imagine yourself back at the ce.¡±


    Ariel closed her eyes as she tried to visualize where her wolf had been residing, and a surge of excitement burst through her as she saw herself at the familiar ce.


    If all goes well, she was going to leave there as a werewolf, and the thought both scared and fascinated her.


    She stood at the familiar, tall gate, and she blew out a ragged breath. ¡°You can do this.¡± With a deep breath, she summoned a surge of confidence, squaring her shoulders and steeling herself for whaty ahead. She took a few steps forward, but the growls that erupted from the shadows halted her in her tracks.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± The wolf thundered, rousing from her slumber. But Ariel paid her no heed; instead, she continued on, the gate opening for her, and she entered inside. ¡°Are you deaf? What are you doing here?¡±


    Ariel had no doubt about her bitchy attitude; no wonder she and Kane were a perfect match.


    She entered through the gate, and she stood, beholding the wolf. Now that it was much brighter, she could see the wolf clearly.


    Her wolf had a thick, dark gray coat, with shades of white in between. Those amber orbs she possessed were piercing and shining with some sort of hatred, and they were directed towards her.


    Every once in a while, she would bare her teeth, showing her razor-sharp canine, but it wasn¡¯t doing anything to her.


    This was a part of her, and she could never be scared of it.


    ¡°You have nice fur.¡± Ariel almost facepalmed as the words came out of her mouth.


    What the hell was that?


    And it seemed like her wolf agreed because she gave her a ¡®what the hell¡¯ look. Ariel wasn¡¯t sure the werewolf had the ability to show emotions or expression, but she had been proven wrong.


    ¡°Why are you here? I thought it was very clear that I wanted nothing to do with you.¡±


    ¡°Of course, your words were loud and clear, but that doesn¡¯t mean I would have to follow them.¡±


    ¡°Get out!¡± The wolf¡¯s thunderous boom echoed through the air, and a shiver went down Ariel¡¯s spine. Instantly, the fine hairs on her arms, the back of her neck, and the nape of her spine stood on end, as if electrified by the sudden surge of fear.


    But she shrugged it off like one would a nket.


    ¡°Let me just inform you now that I am not scared of you, and no matter what you say, I am not leaving here until you are with me. Capeesh?¡±


    The wolf sized her up, looking at Ariel in a new light, and she sees something new-a determination that is unshaken-and she lets her be.


    Instead, they stared at each other, sizing each other up.


    ¡°How are you doing?¡± Ariel was the one to break the ice, and the wolf looked at her incredulously, like she had gone mad. ¡°The least you could do is answer my question if I ask them.¡± Ariel grumbled, her lips set in a pout.


    ¡°What are you trying to do?¡±


    ¡°Nothing; I was just asking about you.¡±


    ¡°How do you think I am doing, confined to this ce?¡± Ariel¡¯s gaze swept across the surroundings, which looked more like a dungeon. The air was heavy with the scent of mildew and decay, and the walls seemed to press in around her, their cold, damp stones exhaling a chill breath that sent shivers down her spine. And the only light was the light that filtered through the gate.


    ¡°I am sorry.


    ¡°Don¡¯t-¡±


    But Ariel couldn¡¯t be deterred. ¡°I am sorry for abandoning you; I am sorry for letting you go. I should have done a better job. I should have looked for you; I should have been inquisitive enough, and maybe I would have been able to get to you before all this. I know all this is just an excuse, but I acknowledge it is my fault. I can¡¯t imagine how much you have gone through because of me. You have been locked up here for so long that you thought no one was going toe for you. But I am here now. You are my best friend in the world and the only one I can actually call family. I can¡¯t do without you. I need you, please.¡± Tears streamed down her face, and her voice cracked and croaked as she spoke. Yet, despite the pain and the struggle, she pushed on, the words tumbling out.


    ¡°Stop it! Stop trying to do what I think you are doing. It is not going to work.¡±


    ¡°I need you, and I know you need me. It took me so long to realize that, but I know better now.¡± Ariel¡¯s nostrils red as she sniffled, her breath catching in her throat as she struggled to draw air through her congested nose. Her eyes were already red and puffy from crying, but she wiped them with the back of her palm, and she cleared her throat, trying topose herself. ¡°I think I have said a lot, but I want you to know that I am really sorry.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t even handle me, Ariel. It will kill you.¡± The wolf yelled back, her resolve already dwindling.


    ¡°Let me worry about that. I just need you; any other thing doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    The wolf took another one at her other half; the woman standing in front of her was different from the young, inquisitive girl she knew, and all her walls came crumbling down.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Alright.¡±

 Chapter 86

    ¡°Alright.¡± The wolf reluctantly agreed after she had considered all of the options.


    Ariel was right in a lot of things, and if she would admit it, she was tired of staying alone.


    Wolf thrived better with their humanpanion, and she had made a promise to her parents and their humans that she would take care of Ariel.


    It was time for her to start fulfilling that promise.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Ariel screamed excitedly, pumping her fist in the air. ¡°Thank you so much. I promise you will not regret this.¡±


    The wolf chuckled at her, her smile reminding her of the young girl she used to know.


    ¡°So, how do we do this?¡± Ariel asked, breaking the silence. ¡°Do you jump inside me? Do I enter inside you or what?¡±


    Ariel took another look at the wolf, and she dismissed the first thought. There was no way she was going to jump into her without causing harm.


    ¡°Just close your eyes.¡±


    ¡°Hun?¡± Ariel¡¯s pupil widened for a split second as she heard it. ¡°What are you trying to do?¡±


    ¡°Just close your eyes!¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Ariel shut her eyes tight. ¡°I trust you.¡± The wind carried her whispers to the wolf¡¯s ears, and she smiled.


    ***


    Ariel¡¯s eyelids fluttered open, and she was met with a sight that made her heart skip a beat. The old nurse loomed over her, her warm breath wafting across her skin like a gentle breeze.


    ¡°Arrgghhh.¡± Ariel screamed at the sight before her, and the woman burst into a heartyughter.


    ¡°You were mumbling some things I wouldn¡¯t catch, and I wasing closer to hear you.¡± The woman answered her unasked question, and she straightened up in her seat, but the smile refused to go. ¡°I guess you have a wolf now.¡±


    ¡°How did you know?¡±


    The woman shrugged. ¡°I was sure you wouldn¡¯te back without your wolf, the fact that I can feel it, and the smile on your lips is enough evidence.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s smile only widened.


    ¡°I can¡¯t feel anything, though. Are you sure it worked?¡±


    ¡°Of course, it would take a little time to get used to, but I am sure she is here with you.¡± She was still talking when Ariel copsed onto her pillow, and a few secondster, only soft snores were heard.


    A soft, gentle chuckle escaped her lips as she gazed at Ariel with warm affection. Her hands moved with tender care, stroking Ariel¡¯s hair as if soothing a frightened child. She reached for the nket, wrapping it snugly around Ariel¡¯s shoulders and tucking her in.


    She took up and took another look at the girl, whose resemnce to her dad is so striking, and for once, she was sure that she would be fine.


    ***


    Ariel opened her eyes, and this time it was to an eerie quietness. Her pupil struggled to adjust to the darkness, and she squinted, trying to focus on her surroundings.


    And then, in an instant, the veil lifted, like a camera lens focusing into sharp rity, and she could see everything with stunning precision. The ck jacket, once relegated to the depths of her closet, now stood out, its threads and fibers visible in minute detail. The tiny spider that had clung to the windowpane, its delicate legs twitching as it gazed out at the world. The mountains, once a distant blur, now rose up in majestic splendor, their rugged peaks and valleys stretching out before her like an intricate map.


    ¡°Oh my!¡± Ariel gasped, her hands covering her mouth as she took in her new-found sight.


    It is no wonder werewolves always looked down on humans.


    Her hearing wasn¡¯t left out either.


    The stomp of her bodyguard¡¯s feet echoed through her mind. Even the humidifier, once a silentpanion, now hummed a gentle melody that pierced her eardrums like a thousand tiny needles. Every sound, no matter how faint, echoed through her skull, creating a cacophony that threatened to consume her.


    Ariel¡¯s eyes darted wildly, drinking in every detail with an unquenchable thirst, as if trying to absorb the whole world. But it was too much; the new senses were suffocating her, and her mind reeled as she struggled to filter the chaos.


    She held her head in her palm as she began to feel the onset of a splitting headacheing on, and her mouth opened in a wordless scream.


    Until¡­


    ¡°Hey, newer.¡±


    This time, the scream erupted from the depths of her vocal cords, and her mouth opened wide as she let out a deafening roar.


    ¡°I think I am going crazy.¡±


    ¡°Miss Ariel, are you alright? Do you need us?¡± The voice of the bodyguard boomed from out the door, adding more to her turmoil.


    ¡°It is fine; I am alright.¡± She replied in a shaky voice, hoping they didn¡¯t catch it. ¡°Oh my gosh!¡± Her chest rose and fell as she began to catch her breath, and her gaze wandered around, looking for the owner of the voice.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to be afraid. It is I.¡± The voice came again, and it took all of Ariel not to jump out of bed screaming.


    Instead, she took a deep breath and tried to ce the familiar voice. ¡°Wolf?¡±


    ¡°The name is Laura, but yeah, it is your wolf.¡±


    ¡°Laura?¡± Ariel broke off into another fit ofughter. ¡°Who names a wolf like that? I thought you were mythical creatures. What happened to Marlene, Agatha, and Artemis?¡±


    ¡°Not funny. And Artemis was a goddess.¡±


    ¡°Oh my gosh!¡± Ariel gasped. ¡°Was she real? I thought it was only a myth.¡±


    ¡°So were we.¡± Laura replied in a cold voice, and Ariel could have sworn she felt her roll her eyes. ¡°Anyways, we have a lot of things to do; I have missed out on a lot of things, and I had to ess your memories to be updated.


    ¡°W-wait, you can ess memories?¡± Oh my, if her wolf could do this, would it automatically trante to her? Then she remembered the action, and she frowned. ¡°You weren¡¯t supposed to ess my memory without my permission.¡±


    ¡°Yes, no, and I don¡¯t care. We are one Ariel, an entity; whatever I know, you know, and whatever you know, I know. There is no separating one from the other; you just have to get used to it. And yes, I can read your mind.¡±


    ¡°I guess that is bye-bye privacy.¡± Ariel mused sadly.


    ¡°That is not why I messaged you. We just got back together, and there are a lot of things we have to do.¡± Ariel straightened her back at her voice. ¡°First, I will teach you all you need to know about our world and what it takes to be one. You were an alpha¡¯s daughter, and you need to show the world that you are still one. You will have to resume training, but this time it will be more intense. With your new strength, I don¡¯t expect anyone to go easy on you again.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°Andstly, you need to prepare for your shift?¡±


    ¡°Shift?¡± Ariel called out in panic.


    ¡°Of course, you will have to change into a wolf, but that will be during the full moon, which is still some weeks away. I will prepare you for it, and I will inform Jack to guide you through.¡±


    ¡°Jack?¡± Ariel scrunched her brows at the name. Her head was already reeling from the new information she had just heard, and she was finding it hard to connect this one.


    ¡°The alpha in charge. You need to start learning about your history if you want to survive here.¡±


    ¡°I know, and I am ready to learn. Please teach me.¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes shone with some sort of confidence that she never knew she possessed, and Laura smiled.


    ¡°I think you are ready.¡±This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 87

    Ariel couldn¡¯t even begin to fathom how much she had been missing out on as a human. Every aspect of her life had suddenly changed overnight, even the seemingly minute ones.


    She had caught a glimpse of herself in the vanity mirror and did a double take at her look.


    ¡°Oh my!¡± Ariel gasped as she neared the mirror, staring at the reflection, and her eyes widened in wonder as she took in this woman in the mirror.


    She knew she was beautiful, but never this perfect.


    Her face now boasted a chiseled definition, as if the skilled hands of a master sculptor had refined her features. Her high cheekbones gave her an otherworldly elegance, while her eyebrows arched like the wings of a bird in flight, framing her eyes with precision, and her lips were left out. The plump and crimson lips seemed to pout with a subtle, mischievous charm.


    The pimple that had been standing out like an unwee guest had once camped out beside her nose, but now it was gone, leaving behind only wless, radiant skin.


    Ariel¡¯s mind reeled from all the possibilities, wondering if sorcery was indeed at y.


    Was this a perk of being a werewolf?


    No wonder they all looked like gods and goddesses.


    ¡°Stopughing,¡± Ariel scolded her wolf as she mocked her. It was unreal that, while she couldn¡¯t see her wolf physically, she somehow managed to know what she was doing.


    ¡°I am just amused; it is a littleical. But that is enough exploration; we have a lot of things to do.¡±


    That was enough to sober Ariel up.


    And for the rest of the week, Ariel spent most of her time with her wolf, learning all she could about the werewolf world. She had managed to obtain a book where she had written whatever was important.


    And the more they talked, the more they grew closer. Ariel had found out that she didn¡¯t mind having someone ess every part of her like that.


    It actually gave her a sense of security and apanion that she couldn¡¯t believe.


    She had thought things were going to be awkward between them given how long they had been without each other, but they had bonded so quickly, bing best friends that she had never thought they would be.


    It was easy for her to forget about the pain Kane had caused, to forget she was in a foreign ce, and to forget she had no one by her side as long as her wolf was here with her.


    And Laura had been with her every step of the way, guiding her and even telling her how to deal with the alpha while they nned for their escape.


    And in all of that, she had been getting particrly closer to the nurse, where she found out her name was Judith, and she had insisted Ariel call her by her name because she believed adding any other title would make her feel her age.


    Judith had lost her children to battles, and she had no grandchildren, so she had taken an instant liking to Ariel, and their friendship had blossomed into something beautiful.


    They were in her office one particr evening, and Ariel had opted to eat her dinner with her.


    ¡°Why is there so much fighting about the werewolfmunity? I thought they had a king, and he controls everything.¡± Ariel asked as she took another bite of her meal.


    ¡°Do humans have any reason to fight?¡± Judith sneered. ¡°As long as we continue to stay in this world, there is bound to be fights, and honestly, the werewolf is a fucking greedy.¡± She spat the words out, her lips curling in a snarl.


    Ariel was already used to her foul mouth whenever she was angry, so it didn¡¯t faze her; instead, she pressed on.


    ¡°Why is there so much hatred for the rogue? I have lived with them for a while now, and while their actions may be something I don¡¯t agree with, they are peaceful people. They are just like you and me, and when I hear some stories of how they became outcasts, I can¡¯t help but feel sympathy.¡±


    ¡°It is a long story, and even if I exin it to you, I don¡¯t think you will understand. Everything in this world has rules they follow, and the werewolf is very strict on those rules, and any defaulters have to be chased out. But newws are being implemented every day, and they allowed Kane¡¯s pack to live, so it is not exactly horrible.¡±


    At her words, a primal growl erupted from Ariel¡¯s chest. The sound was so raw and utterly foreign that it shocked her; her eyes widened in rm, and she mped her palm over her mouth.


    ¡°I am sorry; I didn¡¯t know how it happened.¡±


    ¡°It is alright; I should apologize. I overstepped my boundaries, and your wolf wasn¡¯t a fan of it.¡±


    ¡°It is fine.¡± Ariel gave her a smile, and they continued talking. It wasn¡¯t until she got to the confines of her room that she decided to confront her wolf.


    ¡°What the hell was that?¡± Ariel asked her wolf.


    ¡°What?¡± Laura shrugged, acting like she didn¡¯t know what she was talking about.


    ¡°The stunt you pulled at the office.¡± Ariel reminded her, her nonchnt irking her.


    ¡°She crossed the line. We may not be together, but I will not condone any disrespect toward him. He is still our mate!¡±


    ¡°Maybe you weren¡¯t aware of it, but we are no longer together. Me and Kane are over, and honestly, I don¡¯t care what happened to him.¡±


    ¡°That is what you keep telling yourself, Ariel. You and Kane may be over, but Max didn¡¯t do anything to me, so we are still together.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s eyes widened at the new information. ¡°W-wait can you reach out to Kane¡¯s wolf? Does he know you are back?¡± Her tone rose with each question she asked.


    ¡°I am sure he can feel that I am back, and yes, I can reach out to him.¡±This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Have you ever reached out to him?¡± Ariel was holding her breath as she asked.


    ¡°I would have if I wanted to, but I respect your decision as my human, and I would not do anything you don¡¯t want to do.¡±


    The sigh of relief was almost instant as she heard her.¡±Thank you so much, Laura.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so happy. If Max is aware that I am back, so is Kane, and I am sure he is only holding out to give you time to prepare yourself. But an alpha never lets his mate go. He will surelye for you.¡±


    ¡°You are lying.¡± Ariel¡¯s voice trembled, barely above a whisper. She was hyperventting, her chest heaving with ragged breaths as panic set in. The thought of him knowing her location and of him closing in on her was suffocating. ¡°He doesn¡¯t know where I am,¡± she insisted, her eyes wide with fear and her mind racing with the implications.


    ¡°If that helps you sleep better at night, I have done the best I could for you.¡± Laura said, and she shut down themunication as she retired to her corner.


    But Ariel was a mess; the news had thrown her off bnce, and no matter how she tried to deny it, Laura was right.


    It was only a matter of days before Kane woulde looking for her, and she had no idea what to do. Laura was already out of questions. The darn wolf wasn¡¯t going to help her escape.


    Ariel was only left with one choice.


    She wore sweatpants and threw on a shirt and headed to the training room, ignoring the men that were following her-they weren¡¯t so discreet about it.


    She would have to train to be able to beat him. She was also an alpha born, and the blood is still running in her veins. It shouldn¡¯t be so hard.


    ¡°Right?¡±


    Ariely sprawled on the mat, her body battered and broken, her strength utterly spent. Every inch of her ached, and she could barely summon the energy to lift her arm, her limbs as heavy as lead weights. The metallic tang of blood hung in the air, and she could taste it.


    Laura had been right; they didn¡¯t hold back, and at one point she wondered if it was training or a beating.


    If she was this horrible, how was she ever going to stand against Kane? The man had more than ten years of experience with this thing.


    Yet Ariel continued pushing on every day, falling, but rising up and learning from her mistakes.


    But most palpable of all was the shift in the air and Ariel¡¯s skin tingling with anticipation. A collective shiver ran through the pack, the very atmosphere alive and humming with expectation. And her heart raced with a thrill of excitement as she went about her day¡¯s job.


    The full moon was approaching.


    ¡°Are you ready to shift?¡± Laura had asked her, and she looked outside her window with a small smile on her lips.


    She was more than ready to wee her new side.

 Chapter 88

    The pack has been bursting with excitement as the new moon gets closer. The air was alive with a palpable buzz that was nearly impossible to ignore, and everyone had been preparing in their own little way.


    Ariel wasn¡¯t left out either.


    Laura had exined to her that the first shift was going to be the most painful thing she had ever experienced, and not even a horrible cramp couldpare.


    Although Ariel had no idea how she knew about cramp pain since werewolves don¡¯t experience such pain.


    For the days that followed, all she would hear was the full moon, and apparently this was special because it was a winter full moon, and everyone was anticipating it.


    But it was the question on everyone¡¯s lips that was bothering her.


    ¡°Are you ready for the shift? Are you ready to shift?¡± It was literally being ingrained in her. Anyone she came across would ask her this question before asking her if she was ready.


    ¡°You would be fine.¡± Judith had reassured her several times, but she was finding it difficult to stay calm.


    And so it started.


    Ariel stumbled into the dining hall like a ravenous beast, her stomach growling with a ferocity that could wake the dead. She had devoured five fluffy pancakes in rapid-fire session, washing them down with a cup of coffee.


    But instead of sating her hunger, each bite only seemed to fuel the fire. The more she ate, the emptier she felt, her hunger growing with a voracious intensity that defied logic. It was as if her stomach had be a bottomless pit, and she was powerless to stop its insatiable demands.


    ¡°What is happening to me?¡± Ariel had sought out Judith¡¯s wisdom as she tried to understand her body.


    ¡°It is nothing serious, sweetie; it is just your body¡¯s metabolism getting ready to amodate a new one.¡± Judith had exined it to her in a calm voice that was easing her nerves. ¡°It is nothing to be worried about; we all went through it.¡±


    ¡°I hope so.¡± Ariel sighed as she took another bite of the toast. Hopefully, her body will be able to burn off all the excess fat she gains.


    But that wasn¡¯t even the worst of it.


    Ariel had woken up one morning to an intense heat. Her pillow was drenched with sweat, the dampness seeping into her hair as shey there, and her forehead was slick with perspiration.


    She pressed her palm to her head, feeling her temperature, and she was burning up.


    Yet, despite the furnace-like heat coursing through her veins, she didn¡¯t feel ill.


    Ariel reached for the control of the air conditioner, and she lowered the temperature, yet it did nothing to alleviate the furnace inside of her. Her clothes had clung to her skin like a second skin, soaking up her sweat.


    Shey there, paralyzed, as the heat wave ravaged her mind and body, leaving her a limp, helpless mess. She couldn¡¯t even bring herself to take a shower to cool off.


    ¡°Is this how I am going to end?¡± Ariel thought as shey on the bed.


    She tried to call the guards outside, but her inaudible mumbles would be barely heard, and she was holding on for her dear life.


    She managed to close her eyes, her mouth opening slightly as she breathed, and she resigned herself to fate.


    But all of that was shattered when the door burst open and frantic footsteps thundered towards her. A face materialized in her peripheral vision, and despite how blurry her vision was, she could tell.


    ¡°J-Judith?¡± Ariel¡¯s voice was barely above a whisper. But before she could say anything else, Judith¡¯s hands were on her neck, assessing her condition. And almost immediately, her hands recoiled, as if scorched by Ariel¡¯s fiery skin.


    ¡°Shit!¡± Judith eximed, her voiceced with rm, ¡°You are burning up!¡±


    ¡°H-how, h-how.¡±


    ¡°Shhhh, don¡¯t talk too much; just save your breath.¡± The door opened again, and this time the bodyguards that had been staying at her door marched inside, and Ariel groaned as she felt hands on her. ¡°It is alright,¡± she thought she heard Judith say, the elder woman stroking her hair gently. ¡°They are only taking you to my room.¡±


    Ariel sagged as she heard her words, and she surrendered to them.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ***


    ¡°What the¡­¡± Ariel spluttered as she came about. ¡°What happened to me?¡± Her gaze flitted about, and she found herself submerged in a bathtub, with fragments of ice floating like tiny inds.


    Panic set in as she scrambled to recall how she got there, and it was practically radio silence from Laura. She turned and saw the smiling face of Judith peeping down at her, and her body sagged in relief.


    ¡°You were burning up, sweetie; I had to draw a cold bath for you.¡± Judith exined, calming her nerves. ¡°How do you feel now?¡±


    ¡°I think I am better now.¡± Ariel whispered, although she was still struggling to pierce everything together. She allowed Judith to feel her temperature before her mind could be put at ease.


    ¡°Does it have to do with my shift?¡±


    ¡°Yes honey.¡±


    Ariel released a deep sigh, already knowing it was it. ¡°The truth is, I am scared. I have been hearing people tell their stories, and it is in scary. I don¡¯t know if I can do this.¡±


    ¡°Of course you can do it, and we will be with you every step of the way. The alpha has alerted the pack, and they will do everything they can to help you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you so much, Judith. I don¡¯t know how all this would have been possible without you.¡±


    ¡°It is fine, and it may not be as painful as it sounds.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Ariel shifted towards her, her response piquing her curiosity.


    ¡°I mean, you have already shifted, so it is not a foreign sensation. Your body would have gotten used to the change.


    ¡°Really?¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes shone like stars in a midnight sky, radiant with hope as she gazed up at Judith.


    ¡°Of course, so just focus on shifting and ignore the pain.¡±


    s, it was all a big lie.


    ****


    ¡°AHHHHHH!¡± Ariel¡¯s scream tore through the air as her bone snapped, a blood-curdling wail that had all the birds of the air flying away. The pain crashed down on her with unrelenting fury, leaving her breathless and shattered. It was as if she were being ripped apart and her bones were being shattered with a blunt knife.


    She had once broken a bone in her finger during training, and she knew how painful it was, but it couldn¡¯t bepared to what she was feeling now.


    Another bone snapped, and she screamed. An ear-piercing wail tore from her throat like a wounded animal¡¯s cry, and she crumpled to the forest floor.


    ¡°Just breathe through it; it will be fine.¡± She was sure she heard what Judith said.


    ¡°Liar!!!¡± Ariel would have screamed to her face if she wasn¡¯t so delirious in pain.


    The pain was blinding, robbing her of any rational thoughts, and no matter what she did, it only seemed to be increasing.


    Her resolve was slowly crumbling, her strength fading away with each passing second, and she yearned for peaceful bliss.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare faint!¡± Judith yelled at her as if she would read her thoughts, and theeback was at the tip of her tongue, but it was disrupted when another sh of pain went through her.


    And this time, it was her hand.


    The sickening crunch echoed throughout the forest as the bones of her arms broke, and all that was left was a mangled mess.


    Bones snapped and reformed, muscles tore and reattached, and tendons stretched and recoiled like tortured rubber bands. Her body was on fire, and the pain grasped her with icy fingers, squeezing the breath from her lungs.


    Her mouth opened in a wordless scream, too spent to use her voice even as sweat poured out of every pore of her body, and Ariel wasn¡¯t sure she would be able to survive it.


    Yet she knew she couldn¡¯t give up.


    With every fiber of strength left in her, she screamed at the source of her misery.


    ¡°Kanneeeee!¡±

 Chapter 89

    ¡°Kanneeeeee!¡± Ariel screamed out from the pain, letting her hatred for him fuel her desire to survive.


    She couldn¡¯t die here, not until she had gotten her revenge, and for that, she had to live. She had to survive this shift.


    ¡°Kanneee!¡± She screamed out again, only the words had been reced with incoherent groaning that she couldn¡¯t ce until they were just growls.


    The experience was an otherworldly feeling because, at that moment, all her body had realigned, and she was standing on all fours, and when she looked down, she was met with paws.


    Her hackles were raised as she emerged into the world, her senses were on high alert, and she perceived everyone as a potential threat to her. She was quick to make her anger known with a low growl that sent chills down the spines of everyone that had gathered.


    This was no ordinary wolf; she was an alpha-born, and it was obvious in her stance. She stared at the new world with a curious look, yet she was wary of the people that surrounded her.


    The wolf felt trapped, and she wanted an opening. And she bared her teeth, saliva dripping out of them in a manner that terrified everyone.


    ¡°Laura.¡± The wolf¡¯s ears perked up, and she focused her gaze on the speaker, recognizing her as Ariel¡¯s friend, Judith. ¡°Wee back to the world, wolf. We mean no harm, and we are d you are back. You are free to roam, to run under the full moon, and to reim your ce in the wild. We will not hinder you.¡± The wolf¡¯s hackles slowly lowered as she talked, and the smile the woman gave her was something weing.


    The wolf lowered her head in gratitude, acknowledging the help.


    And then she took off.


    The wolf broke into a jog, stretching her limbs as she ran as if uncoiling from a long slumber.


    But she picked up her speed as she ran, throwing her limb as far as she could go, even as her paws pound the soft earth. The wolf ran through the woods, weaving through the trees as des of grass swiped at her, the dew wetting her coat.


    All of the snow had melted, so the earth was a little wet, and as she ran, the earth flew from her paw.


    Her tongue hung outside, feeling the wind as she ran, and a smile pulled up her lips. She had missed this. For more than five years, she had been trapped in the darkness with no means to escape, but she is now free.


    And so she ran with that freedom, the forest alive the more she ran deeper into it. She could hear the birds chirping, as if in encouragement, and the howls of the pack were only an echo in the forest.


    She only stopped to drink water from the puddle that had gathered on the ground, and shepped from it, the soothing liquid quenching her taste while the full moon shone brightly on all.


    The wolfy to rest beside the water, and she was content with observing the world around her.


    She closed her eyes in bliss, the noise of the forest purring her to sleep and tiny fireflies dancing around her in wee. But her ears pricked as she heard the noise of footsteps quickly advancing toward her, and she opened her eyes, the orange amber glowing in the dark.


    She growled her disapproval, angry with the male that was approaching, but sheid still, unmoving. The bushes around her rustled, and shezily followed his movement, watching him carefully.


    The female red at the intruder, a male wolf that had strayed too far from home. He stood in all his glory, his sandy brown fur shinning even in the dark, and she bared her teeth, letting him know he wasn¡¯t weed.


    But the male advanced closer, his head lowered as if in submission, and the female wolf continued watching him even as he ced his offering before her.


    He had caught a fawn, and the blood smeared the carcass, but saliva pooled at the female¡¯s mouth at the thought of the meal. However, she ignored it, turning her face to the other side and letting him know that his offering wasn¡¯t epted.


    But the male wolf couldn¡¯t be deterred; he nudged the meal forward, lowering his head, and a whine left his lips.


    He had wronged his mate, and it was only right that he sought forgiveness.


    The female wolf red at her mate, wishing she could convey all she had to say, but their bond was still shaking, and the wolves hadn¡¯t developed their bond enough tomunicate.


    Grudgingly, she bit into his offering, tearing the flesh off the carcass, her snout stained with blood, but her eyes refused to leave him, nor did his.


    She watched him watch her, his eyes flitting about her body and staring in a way that she didn¡¯t like, and she growled, boiling out her displeasures.


    She finished his offering, and she strolled to the water,pping it until she was content, and sheid down, resting her giant head on her paw.


    The male wolf, feeling brave, advanced forward, but her growls stopped him in his tracks, and she red at him, conveying with unspoken words that she had forgiven him.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    But the male wolf hasn¡¯t been someone to listen to people, so he advanced forward, ignoring her warning growls, and heid down beside her, resting his head on her body.


    The electricity sparked between them everywhere their bodies met, the connection almost instantly, and the wolf sagged against her mate, unable to resist him any longer.


    The mate bond came alive between them, the rusty chains tightening with each connection they formed, and they closed their eyes, embracing it.


    The female wolf was totally rxed, and she surrendered everything. Although she knew of her mate, this was the first time she was meeting him in such circumstances, and she wept for the years she had missed.


    She shook her head as she felt a warm tongue lick the top of her head, the male grooming his female, and he looked at her, feeling the unsaid things between them.


    The two wolvesy at peace, oblivious to what was going on around them; instead, they were just content with discovering the bond.


    No one would daree close to them, for the alpha wolf had already marked his territory, and it would be foolish for anyone to wander close.


    They got tired of lying down, so they stood up and began to run, and all of the forest had no choice but to give way for them.


    The wolves ran together, the female wolf running in front in a pretend chase, and the male was just behind her, running and nipping her paw whenever he came close to her.


    The action only spurred her to run faster, their hearts beating in sync, and she loved the game. She pumped her limbs faster, determined to show him that she was equally as strong even if she had been dormant for such a long time.


    And his delightful howls were her reward.


    The two wolves continued running, not caring that they had long passed the pack and had ventured deep into unknown territory. They continued running, not caring that they were beat and that dawn was almost approaching.


    They had to enjoy their little time to the fullest because soon the morning woulde with all of its troubles.


    The wolves ran until they were beat, and theyid together, closing their eyes to rest, exhausted from the exercise.


    And this time, when she opened her eyes, she was back to the pack and to her human body.

 Chapter 90

    Ariel¡¯s eyes fluttered open, but her body screamed in protest as it ached all over. The memory ofst night was still foggy in her brain, and no matter how she tried, she couldn¡¯t remember the details.


    She rolled to the edge of her bed and ced her feet gingerly on the floor, trying to stand up, but her leg buckled beneath her, and she fell on the floor.


    ¡°W-what the¡­¡± Ariel nced around her as she struggled to piece the little fragment; her legs felt like they were made of jellies, and it was only one person who would answer this. ¡°Laura?¡± Ariel tried to reach her wolf, but all she got was a static silence, and it frightened her.


    ¡°Laura?¡± She tried again but got no response, and she reached for the bed, hoisting herself up. Shey on the bed, her eyes closed, as she tried to recall the events of thest night.


    She could remember the intense pain she felt as her bone broke, and she shivered from the muscle memory. They hadn¡¯t been exaggerating when they said it was probably the most painful experience one would experience, and she wondered if this was going to happen whenever she shifted.


    Ariel could recall seeing paws for feet, but that was all she could remember. The rest of the memory remained hidden behind a thick wall.


    And when she tried to think harder, a searing pain shot through her head like a lightning bolt.


    ¡°I give up!¡± Ariel groaned, resigning herself to fate. When Laura woke up from whatever slumber she had been in, she was going to provide her with the information.


    Ariel wrapped herself in the nket, and she curled into a tight ball, shutting her eyes to sleep, but the peace was disrupted when she heard the footsteps heading for her room.


    Ariel¡¯s lips curled into a smile as the familiar scent wafted through her nostrils, and the door creaked open, revealing a smiling Judith.


    ¡°Ariel, you did it!¡± The woman shrieked as she entered inside, walking straight towards her and enveloping her in a warm hug. ¡°You were so beautiful.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Ariel murmured into her shirt. It was impossible not to be affected by her bubbling personality. ¡°How did I look? I can¡¯t really remember all that happened after I shifted; it was all foggy from there. Is that supposed to happen?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about that; it is amon first-time experience, but you will be aware of it the next shift or the one after.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± She exhaled, her tense muscles rxing at her words. ¡°I was afraid for a second, but I can¡¯t feel Laura, and I am afraid that she has somehow vanished.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about that; your wolf is just recuperating from the shift and the run. I never knew she was such a fast sprinter; almost no one could keep up with her.¡±


    That would exin why her legs felt like lead.


    ¡°Was I okay, for a wolf?¡± Ariel asked, her voice barely above a whisper. She hadn¡¯t told anyone of her irrational fear that somehow she wouldn¡¯t be what the ideal wolf was because it had been long since she was with them, and she was afraid of the consequences.


    ¡°Of course, dear. You were a perfect wolf; I would take a picture next time for you if you wish to.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s eyes sparkled like a tiny glow. ¡°Really, I would really appreciate that.¡±


    Judith lingered in Ariel¡¯s room, their conversation flowing nonstop. The older woman had answered every question she had until Ariel was exhausted and fell asleep.


    Ariel woke up from her slumber, and she stumbled out of bed, dragging herself to the dining hall. She could devour a whole whale if it were possible-that was how hungry she was.


    Luckily, she made it in time for dinner, and she hadn¡¯t even sat down when everyone flocked around her, curious about her shift.


    Apparently, she was of arger size; that was only possible if she were alpha blood. Many knew of her condition, but they had no idea of her lineage, and they were curious.


    Ariel had entertained their question and curiosity, gloating in their praise, happy to be the center of attention, and it wasn¡¯t for a negative thing.


    She basked in their praises, savoring each bite of her meal amidst theughter; although she couldn¡¯tpare it to her pack-Kane¡¯s pack-she was happy she was loved here.


    Ariel retreated back to her room after the meal, her feet pounding on the stairs as she ran, but her feet halted in the air as a foreign scent wafted to her nose.


    She could tell that scent anywhere, and now that she had shifted, the scent was overwhelming, threatening to consume her-and she wouldn¡¯t mind.


    She staggered on her feet, holding the wall for support, when the guard rushed to meet her.


    ¡°Miss Ariel, are you alright? One reached out to stabilize her, but she evaded his touch.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m f-fine.¡± She stammered, her mouth hanging open, and her eyes darted around until theynded on one of them, and she held him. ¡°I-Is anyone in my room? Did anyonee in or leave?¡±


    The guards exchanged a nce among themselves, and they shook their heads. ¡°We have been keeping watch, and no one has entered or gone out.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± The air escaped her lungs, and she hoped it was just a figment of her imagination. Yet she stumbled inside her room, brushing past their hands.


    Her heart was pounding behind her ribcage, threatening to burst out of their confinement, but yet her foot carried her inside, a little part of her wishing that she could see him.


    Her gaze searched every inch of her rooms, checking the hidden ces for wherever he may be hiding, but nothing was out of the ordinary.


    She turned back to her bed, but her eyesnded on the red envelope that was sitting pretty, and she walked towards it as if in a trance.


    His scent was overwhelming, as if he had rubbed himself on the envelope, and the thought sent a fiery red down her cheeks as she imagined Kane jerking off on it.


    The memory sent a wave of pleasure down her spine, and she took a deep breath, trying not to sumb to the temptation. It would be so embarrassing that she got turned on because of a piece of paper.


    Ariel¡¯s fingers trembled as she picked up the envelope, and she lifted it to her nose, closing her eyes and taking a big sniff, inhaling his scent. ¡°Yes.¡± Ariel sighed in bliss.


    It smelled just like she had imagined it-like home, like her mate.


    Ariel painfully tore the paper away from her nose, and she sat down, bracing herself as she opened it. She removed the note that was inside, and she began to read.


    ¡°Dear mate,Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Let me use this medium to congratte you on your shift. You were nothing short of breathtaking-as usual-and the coat seemed to glow in the moonlight. Did you enjoy our run together? Because I did. It has been so long since I saw you that I couldn¡¯t resist it, and I am looking forward to when we meet again. Hopefully, this time, you will be conscious of experiencing it. I will being back for you, my love, and you should already know it is futile trying to escape me. With love.


    Kane.¡±


    At the bottom right were three drops of a suspicious white fluid.


    ¡°W-wait, he couldn¡¯t possibly?¡± Ariel brought the paper to her nose and took a sniff, inhaling the pure maleness in its form, and she recoiled.


    What was she thinking? Of course it was Kane; the man was crazy enough, and he could do such things.


    Her heart was pounding erratically, and fear gripped her with its icy hands, refusing to let go.


    Somehow, Kane found out she was shifting yesterday. The man was always one step ahead of her; hell, he had even run with her while she was unconscious.


    There was only one person that was conscious during that time, and she was going to exin all that she did.


    ¡°Laura! You have some exnation to do!¡±

 Chapter 91

    ¡°Laura! You have some exnation to do!¡± Ariel yelled, directing it all to her mind, but she was met with a solid wall. ¡°Laura!¡± The bitch knew she was going to be mad, and she had blocked herself from her.


    But she wouldn¡¯t hide forever, and she would be ready to pounce on her when shees.


    ¡°Hey, my favorite human.¡± Laura said in a cherry voice as she roused from her slumber, and almost immediately Ariel red up.


    ¡°What the hell is wrong with you, Laura? You didn¡¯t even think to tell me that Kane came to visit? Why am I finding out that you guys even yed fetch, and you didn¡¯t think I deserved to know?¡±


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t Kane; it was his wolf Max.¡±


    ¡°Tomato, tomato. They are the same people. I thought we were in this together. You knew how much I hated him; you knew how he had hurt me. I thought at least one person had my back, but I should have known you were just like the rest.¡±


    ¡°Hey, that is no way to talk to me. I never broke my promise. Let me rify this: it was you and Kane, that had the issue, not I and Max, and you shouldn¡¯t be all up in my business. I haven¡¯t seen Max since I came into this world, so at least I deserve alone time together.¡±


    ¡°Laura!¡± Ariel couldn¡¯t believe what she was hearing. Where was the sisterhood?


    ¡°We didn¡¯t go any further because of the respect I have for you, but it wouldn¡¯t be long before hees to whet out.¡± It was characteristic of Laura to have thest words before she switched off the connection between them.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± Ariel screamed out in frustration, running her hands through her hair several times, quite tempted to pull it from the root.


    The wolf just frustrates her.


    She knew how she felt about Kane, yet she went about fraternizing with the enemy, and that shit hurt a lot. And she had the guts to tell her that Kane would being back for her.


    The knock at the door disrupted her thoughts, and she dragged herself towards it to answer the door. ¡°Miss Ariel, are you alright? We heard screamsing from your room.¡± Concern was written all over his faces as he peeped inside the room.


    ¡°Of course, I am fine; I thought an insectnded on me. I hate those creepy creatures.¡± Ariel¡¯s lips parted in a smile, hoping it would convince him.


    It must be convincing enough because he nodded his head, mirroring her smile. ¡°It is alright; congrattions on your shift.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She replied, and she shut the door behind her and went back to the bed. She picked up the envelope, throwing it into the deep end of the wardrobe.


    She had to make sure no one found out about it.


    Yet she couldn¡¯t get his words out of her head; they were ringing in her ears nonstop, the memories of his lies haunting her.


    She couldn¡¯t go back with a killer, not until she had avenged my parents deaths.


    There was only one thing she could do to make sure it happened, and that was to continue training.


    Ariel frequented the training room day after day, training twice as hard, and with her newfound strength, she could take the beating more, and eventually she started learning how to throw in a pinch.


    The pack members were ridiculously strong, but she couldn¡¯tg behind. If she was going to beat Kane, she had to be stronger than anyone else.


    She had also begun practicing her shift, and the pain was reducing with every shift. Ariel was determined, and she pursued her goal with a single focus that terrified her. Maybe she had truly found what she was passionate about.


    It was Christmas morning, but it was like every morning in the pack. Werewolves couldn¡¯t bother themselves about the Christmas tradition, but it was even worse in this pack.


    There was no Christmas tree, no exchange of gifts, no carol songs sting from the radio; it was just a cold Wednesday, and Ariel had to seek out ways to entertain herself.


    She had called udia to wish her a merry Christmas, but it was only a brief exchange as they were forced to disconnect the call when her parents called.


    She hadn¡¯t told udia about the recent incident and the letter she had received, deciding to tell her when everything was much calmer.


    With nothing to do, Ariel had to seek out the only friend she had in the pack-apart from Judith-and they had decided to run in their wolf form. The snowst night wasn¡¯t so heavy, and it would be a good time for a run.


    They had gotten dressed and went out to the area designated for their shift, and they had changed. As the day had passed, Ariel¡¯s change had be more fluid and faster, and throbbing pain was reduced to dull pain.


    She shook her fur as she emerged as a wolf, now conscious of her being, and she began to walk, feeling the snow melt under her paw.


    Then she broke into a run, sprinting as fast as she could. There was something about running that she had discovered.


    She felt light whenever she ran, as if all of her problems were flown to the wind. But this time she imagined she was stumping on Kane¡¯s face, and it only made her urge her legs to go faster, running with the wind.


    Ariel couldn¡¯t tell how much she had run, but she couldn¡¯t see her friend nearby, and she knew she had gone beyond the pack, so sheid down waiting for her.


    She closed her eye, listening to nature when she had footstepsing closer to her and her eyes snapped open, but that wasn¡¯t what was drawing her in.


    It was the scent, the smell of pine cones and oranges, of wet earth and rain. It smelled like heaven, the familiarity reminding her of home, and it was drawing her in, rendering her powerless to resist it.


    Ariel followed the scent until it led her to the culprit, and she stood face to face with the sandy brown wolf. Her brain turned into mush as she was in front of this male, and everything stood still in that moment until it was only them.


    Ariel stared at the wolf unashamedly, seeing him in a new light and admiring what she had been blessed with. The wolf stood proud, puffing his chest out, and he stared back at her, his amber eyes glowing as he met her gaze.


    The attraction she was feeling for this wolf was something she wouldn¡¯t understand, and she could recall all she had been reading about werewolves.


    It was only one person she could feel such attraction towards.


    Her mate.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Shit!


    This wolf in front of her was Kane, and a low growl rumbled in her stomach. She could remember all of the lessons she had been receiving, and she pounced on him, feeling satisfied when she heard his surprised groan.


    But she wasn¡¯t surprised when he stood unmoving as he regained his bnce.


    However, Ariel had already passed being calm, and she pounced on him again; this time, her mouth mped down on his neck, and she bit it, pressing down harder until she could taste blood.


    But that was a mistake on her part; the blood filled her mouth, and she swallowed it, and almost immediately, it sent a jolt of pleasure down her spine that startled her for a moment.


    But once she recovered, she pounced on him again and again and again.


    But in all of this, he made no attempt to retaliate, and it was frustrating her.


    She wanted him to fight, to get angry so she could take her anger out on him, but it was frustrating that he wasn¡¯t fighting back, and it was only getting boring and making her feel like a bad person.


    ¡°Fucking fight back.¡± She yelled in her mind, hoping it would be conveyed to him, but they haven¡¯t been fully mated, and all she was met with was a stumbling block.


    It was annoying to no end, and Ariel had no choice but to shift, and she stood in front of him, the wolf so big that it was reaching her midsection.


    ¡°Shift!¡± She demanded, wagging a finger in front of his face, but the wolf red at her, a certain mischief in his gaze, and it only made her more annoyed. ¡°Fucking shift, Kane.¡± She yelled, but the wolf shook his massive head, and it infuriated her even more.


    ¡°Shift! Shift!!¡± With each word, she kicked his forelimb hard, her anger only growing when he remained stubborn.


    ¡°You are barking the wrong tree, girl; this is Max, not Kane.¡± Laura said, rousing out of her slumber, and Ariel felt a sh of guilt go through her.


    Shit!


    She had taken her anger on the poor wolf, and he hadn¡¯t bothered to retaliate. But it wasn¡¯t entirely her fault; the wolf and the human are one, and the wolf had to be aware of what was going on.


    She was mulling over her actions when she felt a cold tongue swipe on the inside of her thighs, and she looked down to see the wolf grinning at her.


    ¡°What the hell!¡± Her screams ran through the woods, but the wolf had already taken to his heel, leaving her standing then; that was when she felt the unusual wind on her body.


    Shit, she had been talking to him stark naked; no longer the wolf couldn¡¯t take her seriously.


    She turned to go after the wolf, but the air carried the scent of her friend, and she nced at the direction Max had left.


    A day was going toe for her revenge, but it wouldn¡¯t be today.

 Chapter 92

    Ariel went back home, reeling with anger. She was furious that she wasn¡¯t able to deal with him the way she best saw, and it was annoying her to no point.


    ¡°Gahhhh!¡± She groaned in frustration, wringing her hands as if she were squeezing his neck.


    This was so frustrating.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± The only friend she had managed to make here looked at her with squinted eyes, wondering what had be of her.


    ¡°Of course, something is just getting on my nerves, but I am alright.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± Her friend nodded halfheartedly, unable to believe her, but she reluctantly let it go. ¡°How do you manage to run so fast? You have only been a wolf for some weeks now, but you could easily outrun me.¡±


    Ariel shrugged her shoulders, having no exnation to give her. ¡°I don¡¯t know; I guess my wolf is just dying to run after all those years of being dormant.¡±


    The answer was enough to shut her up, and they continued their journey in silence, digging their legs into the snow.


    They got to the packhouse, and Ariel made straight for her room, the event of the day tiring her out. She just wanted to rest her head and forget about what had happened.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    But who was she kidding?


    The new scent in the room stuck out like a sore thumb, and this time she wasn¡¯t rmed anymore. She hade to the conclusion that he must be a ghost because there was no way he was going in and out without anyone noticing.


    She lifted her nose in the air and took a long sniff, letting it guide her where the scent was most overwhelming, and it led her to her wardrobe, where she saw the familiar envelope.


    Ariel tore the envelope open, eager to see what he would write there, but as she read through, her eyes continued widening until it was almost humanly impossible, and her hands trembled until they could no longer hold the paper and it fell to the ground.


    ¡°No! This can¡¯t go on any longer.¡± Ariel screamed. She had kept quiet for too long, and he had thought he had the upper hand, but that is ending today.


    She stormed out of the room and went to meet the guards that have been keeping watch over her; it was useless asking them if they had seen him because it was only going to be the same answer.


    She had to change tactics.


    ¡°I would like to see the alpha.¡±


    The men exchanged nces among themselves, but they nodded their heads, and Ariel waited, her foot tapping furiously on the floor.


    ¡°The alpha woulde and see you when he is free.¡±


    ¡°Alright, thank you.¡± Ariel went back into her room and waited for him, but she had begun to n her escape. In case things didn¡¯t work as she wanted them to, she was going to leave.


    Her door opened and the alpha entered in, taking in all the air in the room; he wasn¡¯t even bothered to knock, and Ariel was going to take offense, but she remembered it was never her pack and swallowed whatever she wanted to say.


    ¡°I received this letter from Kane.¡± She said, handing the envelope to him and watching as he read it, repeating the words after him.


    Kane had written to tell her that he would being back for her on the eve of the new year so she could spend the new year with family.


    She had scoffed at the word ¡®family¡¯-what a joke. She had lost her family a long time ago, and none of them could be considered as one.


    ¡°I see.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s eyebrow rose in question, and she looked at him pointedly, ¡°Is that all you have to say? Kane ising in a few days. This would be the best time to capture him and enact your revenge.¡±


    The old Alpha broke intoughter that didn¡¯t sit right with her. ¡°Of course. You don¡¯t have to worry about this; you will be fine; we will be here for you.¡±


    Those are the words she wanted to hear, yet they didn¡¯t do anything in reassuring her.


    ¡°Alright, I believe you.¡± Maybe saying the words out would prompt him to action.


    ¡°You have nothing to worry about, Ariel; you will be safe.¡± This time, his words sent a wave of relief down her spine, and she nodded.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She lowered her head as a sign of respect until he had left, and she copsed on the bed.


    Ariel reached for the table calendar, and she marked the date. Something big was going to happen that day, and it was going to be one of the two, but she had to be prepared for whatever oue.


    The pack was a beehive of activity as they prepared for the new year; apparently, it was something to be celebrated, and there have been a lot of renovations and decorations going on.


    Everyone seems to be happy and excited, but she has yet to catch the fever. All she could think of was what was going to happen on the 31st.


    Kane was either going to capture her, or he was going to die, or she would have to run away, and none of the options were favorable.


    Days seemed to run by when there was a lot on your mind, and soon it was the night of the 30th. Ariel had stayed awake for a long time because she knew that once she closed her eyes to sleep, she would be waking up the next day, and she wasn¡¯t ready for what was going to happen.


    But you cannot cheat nature, and she had fallen asleep; waking up passed her awake time.


    Ariel had confined herself to the bedroom, locking the door and not evening down for breakfast. She didn¡¯t even have any appetite to stomach anything.


    She sat on her bed, ncing at the wall every minute as the time ticked. Kane was going to arrive any minute now, and she had to be prepared.


    But it was noon now, and there was no sign of her mate. Another hour passed, and nothing was out of the ordinary.


    Ariel had decided to take a short nap and had woken up by 4 p. m., and she had looked out the window, but there was nothing that indicated that he wasing.


    ¡°Maybe he had lost interest.¡± Ariel mused, a little smile on her lips.


    And with each time that pse, she began to drop her guards. He must¡¯ve been bluffing, trying to see how she was going to react.


    The sun had long gone down, and it was already past 9 p. m., and Ariel hadpletely dropped her guards. There was no way Kane woulde by this time; it was already toote.


    And she was starving.


    She had had anything in her stomach, and it has been protesting; a little food wasn¡¯t going to hurt.


    It was 45 minutes past 9 when Ariel decided that Kane was probably pulling her legs and he wasn¡¯t going toe again, and she decided to go down for ate dinner. Lucky for her, there was some leftover food, and she hurriedly scarfed it down, chasing it with water.


    She could think well with food in her system, and she headed for her room, humming a random tune under her breath.


    Nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary except theck of guard around her door, and she hesitated for a moment.


    They have never left their post before, and this should have been a warning sign to her, but she ignored it and continued to forge ahead.


    Even when she began to perceive the scent of pine cones and oranges, she had dismissed it, believing that it was only a figment of her imagination.


    But she should have known.


    Because she opened the door and her eyes met with a pair of green ones.

 Chapter 93

    ¡°Kane,¡± Ariel said as she saw the intruder inside her room. Her reaction was too calm for someone who wasn¡¯t expecting him.


    She had thought she was going to scream and shout, that her heart was going to pound until it burst out of its ribcage when she saw him, but none of that happened. It was, however, the opposite.


    She was too calm, her eyes taking over his figure as she took him in. The man always looked good, and even with her hatred for him, she had to admit that.


    Maybe she had expected it.


    Kane was a man of his words, and deep down Ariel knew he was going toe; she was just hoping he wouldn¡¯te soon.


    ¡°Hello darling.¡± Kane said, shing his dazzling smile that would have made her swoon, but she tightened her facial muscles, feeling the de she had kept in her back pocket.


    Ariel pursed her lips as she came closer to him, and she grabbed her knife, aiming it for his throat in a murderous intent, but damn the son of a bitch.


    His reflexes were too fast, and he shielded his neck with his hands, but the de came too close to his arm, and it nicked him, tearing a line in his flesh.


    Ariel watched as a thin line of blood spread across the wound, and the sight of the red liquid excited her; the metallic tang filled the room, and she wanted more.


    She reached for her knife again; only this time Kane could suspect what she was trying to do, and he held her hands at thest minute, holding her hands behind her back in a fine grip.


    ¡°You never learn my love.¡± He teased her, whispering so close to her ears and letting his warm breath fan her. And Ariel steeled, closing her eyes as she gave in to the momentary weakness.


    But she caught herself before she was too gone and she began to wrestle, moving her body violently in a bid to escape him.


    ¡°Unhand me this moment!¡± Ariel roared, digging her elbow into the sides of his stomach so hard that she was sure it would leave a bruiseter. ¡°Kane, I swear, if you don¡¯t let me go at this moment, I will kill you!¡± She yelled, spittle flying from her mouth as she struggled in his arms.


    But Kane was rather enjoying it. ¡°You can choose to do this the way or hard way, love; it is your choice. Although I would prefer the hard way.¡± Ariel couldn¡¯t miss the way his voice deepened at thest sentence, a little suggestive.


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me love.¡± She red up. It irked her how casual he could be, how nonchnt he sounded, and she wanted nothing more than to shut him up, maybe forever. ¡°You disgust me.¡±


    ¡°So I have been told, now it is time youe back home; I have missed you.¡± Somehow he had maneuvered her hands and slipped in handcuffs, and it wasn¡¯t until she felt the fluffy material on her skin that she noticed.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Ariel shrieked, struggling to loose herself from the bonds. She red at the cuffs on her hands, recognizing it as a toy in the inner room, and she red up. ¡°What the fuck are these? whose handcuffs are you using on me?¡±


    Kane gave her a sly look, his tongue darting out to lick his lower lips, and she was already regretting her word vomit.


    Thest thing she should be concerned about was his extracurricr activities, but as she saw the instrument, her jealousy had red up. They had never used it before, and the thought that it could be for one of his y toys bothered her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, darling, you are all mine. I got these for us, and we can put them to use when you are ready.¡±


    ¡°Fuck you!¡± Ariel yelled at him, ignoring the ways herdy bits throbbed at his words.


    ¡°I have been dying to do that, love.¡± The man surely has aeback for everything.


    Before she could process it, Kane had tossed her over his shoulders, like a sack of potatoes, and he began to walk out of the door amidst her screams.


    ¡°Kane, you fucker, drop me down this instant!¡± Ariel yelled, screaming out a whole bunch of colorful words. But the man barely reacted to any of the words, and she began to scream, calling out for the alpha, for Judith, and for any other person she would remember.


    It was so strange that the pack was this quiet a day to the supposed ¡®festive¡¯ new year.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°Someone help me; he is trying to kidnap me.¡± Ariel continued to vocalize her anger until he had gone down the stairs and she met the alpha standing, and she was breathing a sigh of relief.


    She was safe now; everything was going to be fine.


    But if only she knew how wrong she was.


    Kane came forward to the alpha, and they shared a knowing nce.


    ¡°Thank you for taking care of my mate. I know she can be a handful sometimes, so I am going to add a little cut to the money. I will not forget your goodness in a hurry.¡±


    The alpha smile widened even more at the thoughts of more money, and he stretched out his hand for a handshake while Ariel was still trying to process what she had heard.


    ¡°I thought you wanted to kill him.¡± She pointed out, hoping desperately she had not been transported to an alternate universe where enemies turn to friends.


    Maybe that was even better; at least she could be assured of the oue.


    ¡°Why would he do that? It would be foolish trying to kill me.¡± Kane bragged, puffing his shoulders in pride, and the alpha smiled, but the little twitch of his eyebrow was the only indication that Kane¡¯s words didn¡¯t sit well with him.


    ¡°B-but, you were, but¡­¡± Ariel couldn¡¯t wrap her head around it, no matter how much she tried.


    ¡°The alpha here is my good friend, and when I found out you were going to stay here for a while, I had to meet him and negotiate with him. Why do you think you were always taken care of and provided for? You think a pack would willingly ept a human?¡± Kane burst out in mockingughter, and it ruffled her feathers to no end.


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t understand our world.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, I had to pay a huge sum of money to ensure your survival and wellbeing, but for you, I will do it again and again.¡± The men smiled at what should be his deration of love, but Ariel didn¡¯t think it was anything romantic.


    It was purely stalking.


    ¡°Good luck with your mate.¡± The alpha said, but he barely spared a nce at her; at least he had the decency to be ashamed.


    Ariel kept quiet; instead, shey on his shoulder as he walked through the snow, and he dropped her off at the door of his car.


    Kane opened the door, and he gently deposited her inside, noticing her new demeanor. ¡°Have you finally decided to be calm?¡± He asked her, but Ariel only stared at him with a nk face.


    Her head was swimming with a lot of thoughts, trying to connect what had just happened.


    She continued staring at the dashboard, even when he entered inside and leaned towards her to help her with the seatbelt. Even when he had begun to drive out of the pack, she still remained silent until Kane was breaking the silence.


    ¡°I can see your head swimming with a lot of thought. You can ask me anything.¡±


    Ariel nced at him, her eyes hardening as she looked at him, but the words were stuck in her tongue.


    There was nothing she needed to know; he was always going to win, always going to have his way, and she was only a piece in his game.


    So she remained silent, staring at the dashboard all the way home, until she had gotten tired and had fallen asleep.


    Ariel was woken up by a gentle tap on her shoulder, and she slowly blinked her eyes open, looking outside the window.


    She allowed Kane to lead her out of the car, and they stood together, looking at the pack house.


    ¡°Wee back home, love.¡±

 Chapter 94

    ¡°Home?¡± Ariel scoffed at his ridiculousness. Maybe it was once home to her, but not anymore.


    ¡°Come on, let us go inside.¡± Kane said, and Ariel¡¯s gaze drifted towards the pack building. The walls have been repainted to a light gray color in preparation for the new year, and the Christmas decorations still adorn the wall, their bright red lights twinkling in the night.


    The meadows were a little overgrown and unruly, but people could still pass through, and the lights lit up the dark pathway.


    Ariel noticed theck of restraint in her hands, and she looked down to see her hands were free of the offending instrument, but she didn¡¯t say anything.


    Instead, she walked inside the pack, opening the door with a confidence she didn¡¯t know she possessed.


    It was toote to run away, and she hade to the fact that no matter where she may be or hide, Kane was always going to find her, so she decided to resign herself to fate.


    She opened the door and let her eyes wander across themon room, holding her breath unconsciously. It was as she had left it, only devoid of anyone, and she released the breath she had been holding.


    She wasn¡¯t ready to face anyone now, especially with the fact that they may or may not have been involved in the lies.


    She entered inside, with Kane at her trail, and she headed for the stairs, taking it one at a time and all too aware of Kane¡¯s presence behind her, watching her ass as it swung.


    Ariel flushed red, suddenly conscious of the eyes that followed her every movement, but she didn¡¯t acknowledge it, instead, she headed for her room-well, it was technically theirs since she didn¡¯t have a separate room in the new pack-but she was too tired to start fighting with him for a different room.


    Ariel held the doorknob and pushed the door open, and almost immediately she was hit with his scent; his pheromones rushed at her like they had been looking for an opening, and she staggered, resting her hands on her knees to catch a break.


    ¡°What is it? Are you alright?¡± Kane rushed to her side, holding her waist to steady her, but she pped it away, annoyed that his touch could still trigger something in her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch me.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so stubborn, Ariel; I was just trying to help.¡± Kane hissed, scolding her, but Ariel pursed her lips, not ready to hear anything he was saying.


    She entered inside, discarding the jacket she had been wearing, and sheid on the bed, making sure to lie down farthest from the bed.


    Kane looked at the scene in front of him, and he shook his head, fighting the urge to smile. His mate was a little dramatic.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to cramp yourself in that small space, love; you can have the room to yourself today; I will be outside with the pack.¡± Ariel barely acknowledged what he was saying; instead, she shifted further to the edge and shut her eyes tight.


    But she could barely get any sleep; she was all too aware of his movement around the room, and she had frozen when she heard the sound of his fingers working on his buttons.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Was he actually doing what she thought he was doing?


    Another button snapped, and she nodded. Yes, he was actually getting naked in front of her, well, behind her, but you get the gist.


    She was tempted to steal a peek, but she was aware that any movement would alert him and he would know she was looking at him.


    ¡°You are free to look; I promise I won¡¯t bite.¡± She heard Kane say, and she rolled her eyes, but she remained strong in her resolve, and she focused on the wall in front of her.


    He finally pulled another shirt over his head, and only then could she breathe well again.


    ¡°The pack will be holding a new year countdown at the yard outside; you are wee to join. I am sure everyone would be excited to see you.¡±


    But Ariel kept quiet, and Kane stood there for a moment waiting for her reply, and when it was obvious that she wasn¡¯t going to reply, he decided to leave her be.


    ¡°There will be a barbecue grill outside in case you are hungry, or you could still go downstairs to get something. I am sure there will be something for you to eat.¡± Kane waited, and when he got no reply, he continued. ¡°Goodnight love.¡±


    Ariel listened for his footsteps until he was out of the room, and she exhaled.


    It was going to be a torturous stay.


    We could hear the screamsing out from the windows, and she stood up, moving towards the window, and she looked down at them. All of the pack members were around, and with her improved sight, we could make out their faces.


    Toby was standing beside Maddie, and although there was a little gap between them, no one would doubt they were together. But what shocked her was seeing Liza holding hands with a man she had never seen before.


    There were a lot of new faces she hadn¡¯t seen before.


    They had hung a digital clock for the countdown, and it was still fourteen minutes to the time.


    Ariel gazed at them in longing, wishing she could be with them, but she was reminded of Kane¡¯s betrayal, and she went back to her bed.


    Ariel closed her eyes to sleep, but no matter what she did, sleep didn¡¯t seem to being any time soon. She continued turning and tossing on the bed, their screams bothering her, and she couldn¡¯t take it any longer.


    She stood out of her bed and went towards the wardrobe, taking any winter coat her hands could find, and it happened to be hers.


    Kane had not bothered moving her clothes; everything was as she had left it, and she wasn¡¯t sure how she was supposed to feel.


    But she draped the coat over her body, digging her hands into the pocket, and she made for the door. Ariel was a firm believer that the way you start your new year would determine the way you end it.


    And she couldn¡¯t start it lying on the bed and angry with him. She couldn¡¯t allow him to steal her joy on such a day.


    So she slipped out of the room and headed to the backyard, the noise getting louder as she neared them until she got to where they had all gathered.


    Her eyes took in the party people; there was a lot of booze passing, and the smell of meat being grilled in the open fire made her tongue water.


    Ariel stared at them with a certain longing; if things were different, she would have been in the crowd. Probably coordinating them, but she forced herself to stay close to the door, watching them in their festivity.


    She was happy to just watch the fireworks and soak in the atmosphere.


    The clock continued to click as it got to the final 30 seconds, and when it got 10, they began to chant aloud, the excitement in their voice, but Ariel couldn¡¯t be left behind.


    She began to chant with them, their excitement very contagious until it reached thest five seconds.


    ¡°5, 4, 3, 2, 1! Happy new year!¡± Their screams rose up to the sky along with the thousands of people around the world.


    But it was the new voice close to her that startled her. There was her mate, looking as dashing as ever, standing close to her, but he made no attempt toe close, and she was grateful for that.


    There was no telling her actions if he did.


    She stared at him, the fireworks highlighting his features, and she saw his lips turned in a smile, and for that moment, she pretended she wasn¡¯t angry with him.


    ¡°Happy new year.¡± Kane whispered, letting the wind carry his words.


    But Ariel was the one to close the distance, and she leaned into him, connecting their lips together.

 Chapter 95

    The fireworks went off above them, painting the sky with a colorful hue, and shouts of jubtion were heard around them even as the couples observed the new year tradition.


    Ariel did not allow herself to think, because then everything would be ruined. She was just content with kissing this person next to her, the mate she had actually fallen in love with.


    She was going to deal with the consequencester.


    And sparks flew from their connection, their hearts beating as one. This was the first time since she shifted she was allowing him close to her romantically, and the result was explosive.


    The electricity cackled between them, mes engulfing their bodies as the fire spread from their connection. Theirs was a match made in werewolf heaven, and Ariel was just realizing what it meant to have a mate.


    They were getting greedy, and what was supposed to be a mild kiss had turned into something mind-blowing, earth-shattering, and they wanted more.


    But they parted for air, too quickly for her liking, and she slowly untangled her shoulders around his neck, swallowing the ball of saliva that had pooled in her mouth. Any secondste, she would bepelled to kiss him again.


    Kane made an attempt toe closer, but she held her hand out, moving a little distance away from him, and thanked the goddess that he understood her decision.


    They stood apart, their mouths slightly opened as they tried to catch their breath, but Kane kept stealing nces at her, that it was almost impossible for her to be still.


    ¡°Mmm mm.¡± Ariel cleared her throat, trying to fight the blush that stained her cheeks, but the darkness of the night provided a covering for her, and she was d. ¡°Happy new year.¡± She muttered in response to his greeting, and he nodded his head.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± His smile was easy this time, lighting up his whole face. ¡°It feels good spending this year with the people I love, and seeing how far the pack has grown is making me happy.¡± Kane mused, and Ariel looked in his direction.


    The pack was still on a spree in their celebration, and they were going round, hugging themselves, and Ariel felt a tug in her heart.


    These were the people she had known, and she couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of family coursing through her wins; theplete ease at which she felt with them and the way her wolf had calmed down were second to none.


    She raised her head up, looking at the night sky and at the moon shining brightly on them, and an easy smile rested on her lips.


    This was the true definition of peace.


    But it was quick to shatter when she heard someone call her name. ¡°Ariel?¡±


    She whipped her head so fast to look at the caller, and it was Toby staring at her like he had seen a ghost, and she froze.


    His action had sparked a chain reaction, and everyone¡¯s head snapped in her direction, their eyes boring into her. ¡°Luna?¡±


    ¡°It is the Luna!¡± Another voice was carried above the noise, and Ariel swallowed, although her throat was very much dried.


    This was what she had been afraid of, and they have confirmed her worst fear.


    The pack began to advance towards her, everyone dying to see her, and she looked at them, her pupils widening every second.


    Her heart was beating so fast against her ribcage, and she was in full panic, but Kane had caught it, and he closed the distance between them, his palm covering hers and squeezing it gently.


    ¡°It will be fine; they have been missing you, and they just want to see you.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Ariel nodded like a mechanical robot, but she couldn¡¯t hear anything. She wasn¡¯t ready to face them.


    A part of her still hates them for lying to her, although she knew that many of them had no idea about her parents, but they get to partake in the me, and another part was nervous about their reaction.


    She had left some of her friends without saying a word, and they would be so pissed.


    Her eyes caught sight of Maddie staring at her, but she wasn¡¯t sure she could interpret that look, and everything was getting too much for Ariel, so she did what she was good at doing.


    She ran.


    Runninges easy when you are not ready to face the situation, and she ran up the stairs, taking advantage of her new speed. She didn¡¯t stop running until she got to thefort of the room, and she shut the door, making sure to lock it from inside.


    With the door fully secured, Ariel could breathe a little better now, and she closed her eyes, taking in air and breathing out slowly.


    Ariel dragged herself to the bed, grabbing her AirPods from the table. She needed something to distract her, and music should do. She plugged them in her ears and connected her phone, tapping on any random ylist she could find and letting it st through her ears.


    The noise distracted her from the voices in her head, and sheid down, looking at the ceiling, yet she wasn¡¯t seeing anything.


    Not long after, she heard the knock on the door, but she shifted on the bed, folding her legs in a ball and increasing the music, trying to drown herself in the noise.


    Somehow, in all of the chaos, she managed to fall asleep.


    ***


    Ariel slowly blinked her eyes open, and she sat up, uncoiling her body after the night¡¯s rest. Despite the whole chaos, she had a good sleep.


    She stretched her neck and gazed out the window at the snowkes falling to the ground, making the air crisp and cold.


    As if on cue, a knock went off at the door, and she was standing up before she could think of it and going to open the door.


    No surprise to see Kane standing at the door and looking so dashing and irresistible. He didn¡¯t look like someone who hadn¡¯t gotten a night¡¯s rest.


    ¡°Good morning, love.¡± Kane greeted cheerfully, his voice a deep, husky sound that filled her ears. But she couldn¡¯t be swayed. Instead, she let out a long hiss, and she turned, making sure to m the door shut, but the man got mad reflexes, and he was inside the room before she could do that. ¡°How was your night?¡± Kane continued like she was about to bash his face.


    The man was persistent; Ariel had to admit, but she was not in the mood. Instead, she went to the bathroom, washing her face clean under the running water.


    And she came out to meet Kane changing out of his clothes; he was currently in a ck briefs, and her eyes widened as she took him, but she tried to calm herself, refusing to give him the satisfaction of seeing her reaction.


    ¡°Toby has been asking of you. The whole pack is happy you are back, and they have been wanting to see you.¡± Kane said, putting on his pants, and Ariel let her eyes lingered a little on the soft bulge that jiggled with every movement, but she kept mute.


    Instead she went to the bed, covering herself with the nket, and she picked up her phone, d to be reunited with the device.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    She had a lot to catch up on.


    ¡°Ariel?¡± Kane called, annoyed he was ignored, but Ariel was already prepared.


    Call it childish or not, but she was going to give him the silent treatment until he was fed up.


    It was her little way of protesting.


    Kane got the hint after he continued trying to talk to her and his words were bouncing right off her body, and he released a sigh in defeat.


    He continued dressing up while Ariel pretended she was looking at her phone when all the time she was staring at him.


    Kane finished his routine, and he walked to the mirror, staring at his reflection, making a satisfied hum.


    And he walked to the door, his hands on the doorknob, ready to open the door.


    ¡°We will be having breakfast together as a pack to celebrate the new year, and I know everyone would be dying to see you. I would be d if you could make it.¡±


    And with that, he opened the door and went out.

 Chapter 96

    With Kane out of the room, Ariel could breathe a little better, and she copsed on the bed. The man was just determined to make things difficult for her.


    And it was making her go crazy.


    She resumed her activities on her phone, scrolling through it as she tried to catch up with all she had missed, but she soon got bored, and there was nothing for her to do again.


    Just then, her stomach rumbled, protesting its unfed state, and she managed to get out of bed and walk towards the mini kitchen.


    She let her gaze wander, looking for anything that could cure her anger, but the kitchen was empty; not even a cereal box was on the counter, and her anger only grew.


    ¡°I thought he was so bent on winning me back, but he can¡¯t even provide food around.¡± Ariel grumbled under her breath as she went back to the bed. ¡°Argghhh.¡± She groaned as she flopped to her bed, picking up her phone again, hoping the people on the screen would distract her.


    And it worked; she was quickly hooked up on a series that she had forgotten she was hungry, but she had to pause it as she began to hear footsteps on the hallway.


    She hurriedly arranged herself, running her hands through her hair to be presentable, and sheid down, pretending like she was unbothered.


    But as the scent grew closer, she slumped her shoulders in disappointment.


    It wasn¡¯t Kane.


    And soon enough, a knock sounded on the door. ¡°Luna, I brought your food.¡± The unfamiliar voice said, and Ariel groaned, sinking deeper into her bed. He knocked again and again until it became obvious she wasn¡¯t going toe out. ¡°I will leave the food outside in case you need itter.¡±


    Ariel heard him drop the food on the floor and his departing footsteps as he left, but she continued to stay on the bed, refusing to give Kane the upper hand.


    She chose to remain inside, and eventually she fell asleep, but by the time she woke up, the sun had already gone down.


    But then Kane burst into the room, his anger radiating from him, and it made her skin prickle with unease. The air was charged with his fury, and it was taking everything in her not to crumble from the force. ¡°Kane, you can just barge into the room like that.¡± Ariel mumbled, her voice still husky from sleep. She stood up to rebuke it, but she missed her footings and slipped, heading for the floor.


    But thanks to Kane¡¯s fast reflexes, he was able to catch her before she couldnd on the floor, and spark went through them from where they touched, making Ariel draw a sharp breath.


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch me!¡± She yelled, moving away until there was some distance between them, and Kane¡¯s eyes glowed-not a fan of her tone, but for her he would endure it.


    ¡°Why is your food still untouched?¡± He began, his foot tapping on the marbled tiles as he tried to keep his anger at bay.


    But as usual, Ariel continued to remain mute, and with every second she was like that, Kane¡¯s anger was only growing.


    ¡°Ariel, don¡¯t test me. Why did you refuse to eat the food I sent down for you? I don¡¯t think you have eaten anything since yesterday, and I have been in the office working. It is past 6 now, and you haven¡¯t had anything in your stomach?¡±


    ¡°Your voice is too loud, please. Just leave me alone.¡± Ariel cringed, her eyes still a little unfocused, and she swayed dangerously to the side.


    ¡°Ariel!¡± Kane blew up, fed up of her antics. He had been putting up with everything because she was angry and rightfully so, but he wasn¡¯t going to continue to her own detriment. ¡°I understand you are angry with me, and truthfully, you have every right to be. But if you want to pick up a fight with me, I suggest you do it with a filled stomach. You will not starve yourself in my pack!¡±


    ¡°You have no right to talk to me like that, you murderer.¡± Ariel snarled, poking his chest with her finger, but she was too weak for her voice to carry power.


    ¡°I am your mate, Ariel, and I have every right to talk to you, especially when you are endangering yourself. I don¡¯t care if you hate me, but I will not allow you to harm yourself.¡±


    ¡°Whatever.¡± Ariel sighed, rolling her eyes. She just wanted to be far from him and stop hearing his annoying voice.


    ¡°Now listen to me.¡± Kane growled, his hands on her chin, raising her head to meet his eyes, and her eyes darted all over the ce, refusing to make eye contact with him, but Kane pushed her chin until they were focused on him. ¡°I am going to go downstairs and get you food, and I wille back and feed you, and you will eat everything. Do you understand?¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t force me to do your will, Kane.¡± Ariel protested, but she was no match for the angry Alpha.


    ¡°Do you understand?¡± Kane repeated, leaning closer to her until their lips were almost touching. ¡°Ariel?¡± He growled at her, not giving her any room to disobey him, and she reluctantly nodded her head. ¡°I need your words!¡±


    ¡°Yes, I have heard you; just go and leave me alone.¡± She groaned in annoyance, and Kane¡¯s lips parted into a smile.


    ¡°Good girl,¡± he growled the words, quickly pressing a kiss on her lips, and he was fleeing the room before she could protest.


    And the way she melted.


    The man just knows how to push her buttons, but damn, he was pushing the right one.


    Ariel managed to staggered to the nearby chair, and she sat down as she waited for him. As if sensing the urgency, Kane quickly got all that he needed, and he was running back to his mate.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I am back.¡± He announced as he entered inside, and Ariel couldn¡¯t help the smile on her lips before she quickly caught herself and frowned. ¡°I got everything that I could find.¡±


    Ariel could only nod as the scent of roast beef, mashed potatoes, gravy hit her nose, and her stomach only rumbled more.


    ¡°Come,¡± Kane said, gesturing to the kitchen, and Ariel had no choice but to follow him until he got to the kitchen and they sat down on the stool.


    Kane spread the feast in front of her whilst handing her a cup of water, and he watched her closely as she drank, and when she was through, he began to feed her.


    Ariel pursed her mouth, embarrassed that he had to feed her, but Kane only had to give her one look, and she hurriedly opened up and ate from his hand until she was satisfied.


    That night, as theyy on the bed, with sufficient distance between them, none of them could sleep, and it was Kane that finally broke the suffocating silence.


    ¡°Your friends have been dying to see you, and they have been trying to reach you, but you are not answering.¡± As usual, Ariel kept quiet, and Kane continued. ¡°I know you are mad at me, but they didn¡¯t do anything wrong, and a lot of them were worried when you left. Just try to see them; they would love it.¡±


    With that, Kane closed his eyes to sleep, not expecting any response from her.


    But just as he was about to drift to dreand, he heard her low voice. ¡°I know, I am just afraid of their reaction.¡±

 Chapter 97

    The next morning, Kane was gone before she could open her eyes, although she had heard his footsteps as he got dressed, and she opened her eyes in the dark, watching his movement.


    And when he left, Ariel closed her eyes again, trying to sleep, and this time when she woke up, she was greeted by bright sunlight streaming from the window. Ariel sat up, moving towards the window as if enchanted, and she just stared outside, marveling at the beautiful sight in front of her.


    She closed her eyes, taking in a deep breath, and inhaled in the clean air, a sharp contrast to when she was in Blue Ridge. Then she slowly exhaled, all of her troubles floating away like the air.


    It was almost breakfast, and she knew the pack would be gathering downstairs to eat, and Ariel knew she could no longer avoid them.


    She hurried to the bathroom, sshing water on her face, and she quickly brushed her teeth. When she was through, Ariel got dressed in a light blue dress that stopped above her knees, and she ran a brush through her hair, taming the wolf mane.


    Satisfied with her look, Ariel nodded to herself and made for the door. Each step she took downstairs only made her heart pound the more as she wondered what their reaction would be.


    Especially Liza¡¯s.


    They had been very close friends before she went, and she knew she was going to be the most affected. But she couldn¡¯t postpone it any longer because she was already downstairs, and she headed for the dining table.


    But the growls stopped her before she could take any other step. Apparently, the pack would sense the foreign wolf in their territory, and their response was only natural as they wondered who the intruder could be.


    Most of them were already standing up to survey the new threat, their canines jutting out as they got ready to pounce, but Kane remained on his seat, unbothered by the intruder; instead, he watched his pack¡¯s reaction.


    A shock wave went through the crowd as they saw her, and it was almostical to see the way their eyes were bulging out and their mouths were hanging open as they realized that she was the person behind the new scent.


    ¡°Hey everyone,¡± Ariel began, raising her hands up in an awkward wave. ¡°How is everyone doing? It had been a while.¡±


    But no one could respond; they were all watching her like you would ab experiment, wondering when the change had happened.


    Ariel walked to the dining table, her eyes scanning for empty seats as she didn¡¯t want to be next to Kane, but pretty much all the seats had been upied, and she had no choice but to sit beside him.


    And it was only when she had settled in her seat that Maddie broke the silence. ¡°Wee back, Ariel.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel replied in a soft smile, giving her a small nod in acknowledgement, and as if it were a chain reaction, the others began to wee her. ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel¡¯s cheeks were hurting from smiling, but she soaked in her happiness until they finally quieted down.


    Breakfast was a quiet affair as everyone was too busy with their thoughts to talk, and Ariel could tell it was all about her.


    Kane had finished eating, and he gave her a look as if to say, ¡®Will she be alright with them?¡¯, and Ariel gave him a little nod, letting him know she could handle it.


    Kane looked at his mate, as if he were trying to read her mind, and he nodded his head before heading to his office together with Toby.


    And as if they had been waiting for this, the pack swamped around her, like bees to honey. ¡°Luna, I had no idea you were one of us.¡± One of them said, the shock evident in her voice.


    ¡°What happened to you?¡± Another concerned person voiced out.


    ¡°Where have you been?¡± Yet another asked


    ¡°We¡¯ve missed you.¡± And Ariel could only smile as she heard all of them.


    ¡°You have no idea how much I have missed everyone of you.¡± Arielughed, happy to be surrounded by her pack.


    ¡°Then why did you leave?¡± The new voice asked from the back, and as if they could sense the seriousness of it, the people parted, exposing the culprit.


    Ariel stared at one of the first friends she had made in the pack, her eyes red with unshed tears, and suddenly her tongue became tied.


    ¡°Why did you suddenly leave the pack when you had a responsibility towards us? Is that how a Luna should behave?¡± Ariel could hear the pain in her voice, and she whined as itshed on her open wounds.


    ¡°I really can¡¯t justify why I left, but I had to find myself. I had no idea that I was one of you all, and when I found out, I knew I had to search for that person. I know an apology can¡¯t undo what I have done, but I hope you all will be kind enough to forgive me.¡±


    ¡°Of course we forgive you.¡± She heard a female voice say, and Ariel could recognize her as one of the female warriors she used to train with, and she gave her a small smile.


    ¡°It is good to have you back, Luna.¡± And a chain reaction started again; this time they were all eager to hug her, making sure to press their noses into her shoulders, and Ariel learned that they were scenting her.


    It was to identify her as part of the pack and also to determine her hierarchy, but they were quick to learn that she was not on their level.


    Everyone finished scenting her until it got to Liza¡¯s turn, but she couldn¡¯t bring herself to do so; instead, she ran out of the dining hall with tears streaming down her eyes.


    Ariel had to clear her throat, trying to disperse the tense air. ¡°Sorry about that.¡±Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    ¡°It is alright. We understand.¡±


    ¡°Please excuse me.¡± Ariel took permission, and she was racing towards Liza, but she was toote; Liza had shut the door in her face as she saw her.


    ¡°Liza, please open the door.¡± Ariel fist pounded on the door, but Liza wouldn¡¯t bulge. ¡°Please, we have to talk.¡±


    ¡°Just go away,¡± Liza cried out. ¡°You have done it before; surely it is not going to be hard this time.¡±


    ¡°I had to leave Liza; it was almost suffocating staying here and being around him, and I couldn¡¯t do it.¡±


    ¡°You should have said something to me.¡± Liza croaked, her voice hoarse from crying. ¡°I thought we were friends; I mean, you were one of the females I was very close to, and you didn¡¯t care about your position, and when I thought I had you for life, you just left me.¡±


    ¡°I am sorry, Liza. I know no apology can remedy what I did, but I hope you find it in your heart to forgive me.¡±


    ¡°Please go away.¡±


    ¡°Liza, I am very sorry.¡± Ariel continued repeating the words, but Liza couldn¡¯t be consoled.


    ¡°Please, just leave!¡±


    Ariel wiped her eyes tears, and she could only drag herself back to her room, and she slumped on her bed, then the floodgates opened.

 Chapter 98

    The tears weren¡¯t stopping anytime soon, no matter how she tried, and it was only pouring down from her eyes. She had cried so much that she had even forgotten the reason she was crying.


    But she had never felt so pathetic.


    After everything and all the promises never to go back here, she was back in Kane¡¯s pack and even taking on the role of a Luna; her parents must be rolling in their graves seeing her frolicking with the enemy, and the thoughts pained her.


    Nothing could improve her mood, and she remained gloomy throughout the day and hadid down on the bed, just feeling pathetic for herself.


    And somehow, time had run until the door slowly opened and Kane entered inside.


    ¡°Ariel.¡± He growled as he stepped inside, marching towards where shey. ¡°I thought we had gone over this before; I don¡¯t care what happened between us, but you are not going to starve yourself.¡±


    Ariel rose up her head to look at him, and Kane caught sight of her red eyes, and he was rushing to her side.


    ¡°Ariel, what happened? Why are they crying? Did anyone hurt you?¡± Ariel almost scoffed at the fake concern she was hearing in his voice.


    He was the one that hurt her first before anybody, but she shook her head, refusing to answer him.


    ¡°Is it about Liza?¡± Kane continued, his worries growing as he searched all over his mate, and Ariel¡¯s head snapped back to look at him.


    ¡°How did you know about Liza?¡± She asked, sniffing her nose, and Kane smiled, happy he had gotten her to react.


    ¡°It is my pack; I know everything that is going on. Do you want me to help you talk to Liza? I would tell her I was the one at fault.¡± But Ariel shook her head; she didn¡¯t want him to interfere, and even if he did, it wasn¡¯t going to work anyway.


    ¡°What can I do to make it better? I hate seeing you like this.¡± This time Ariel rolled her eyes. He was one that got her into this mess.


    ¡°Just leave me alone, please.¡± She sighed, and she shifted on the bed till she was at the edge of the bed.


    ¡°Ariel, you can¡¯t continue like this. How can I get you to forgive me? I know I fucked up, I ki-¡± Kane took a deep breath, unable to bring himself to say the words. ¡°I know I did that to your parents, and I can¡¯t even begin to tell you how sorry I am. But I think you should cut me some cks.¡±


    ¡°I should cut you some cks?¡± Ariel¡¯sugh was bitter, but her eyes shed in anger. ¡°You killed my parents in cold blood, you murdered my pack, and you kidnapped me, and as if it wasn¡¯t worse, you lied to me about everything until I had to find out the truth!¡±


    ¡°And I have apologized to you!¡± Kane snapped. ¡°What more do you want me to do?¡±


    ¡°You are impossible!¡± Ariel yelled, throwing her hands up in frustration. ¡°I don¡¯t even know why I am still here; I should have stabbed you in your sleep or something.¡± And she stormed out of bed to go to the bathroom, but Kane blocked her path.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you do it then? You have been having a lot of opportunities; surely it wouldn¡¯t be so hard to kill me.¡± His words were like mockery to her, and it was impossible to ignore it.


    Ariel twisted her lips to the side; everything he had said was the truth, and she had no idea how to deny it. ¡°Get out of my way!¡±


    ¡°Just admit it, you still harbor feelings for me, and that is why you followed me home and why you are still here.¡±


    ¡°Kane, get out of my way right now!¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes were aze with fury, and her fists were clenched as she was trying to keep the lid on.


    ¡°And what are you going to do if I don¡¯t?¡± Kane leaned towards her, his mouth so close to her skin that she could feel the warm air as he talked.


    And in that moment, something changed between them; the air was charged with some kind of electricity that she hadn¡¯t experienced before, and it only needed a spark to light it up.


    ¡°Kane.¡± Ariel growled, and she held him by his cor.


    ¡°Ariel.¡± Kane¡¯s voice was like a warning, and he looked into her eyes, then his gaze fell to her lips, and he wetted his lips.


    All this time, Ariel was looking at him, watching him watch her, and she could feel all her nerve endings on fire.


    Kane¡¯s eyes devoured hers, his pupils dting with hunger as he drew closer, and Ariel¡¯s heart raced, her throat moving as she swallowed.


    But it was Kane that broke the distance.


    He leaned closer, iming her lips in a passionate embrace. His touch sent shockwaves down her spine, igniting a spark in her that she never thought she would experience again, and she sighed in bliss.


    Kane¡¯s hands wrapped around her waist, pulling her close as he deepened the kiss, taking everything she had to offer. She had long loosened her hand, and it had fallen to his chest, and she let her hands roam about, exploring his body like she had always wanted.


    With every minute they spent kissing, Ariel found herself melting into him, her body arching against his as she surrendered to him.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    Their lips moved in perfect sync, their hands getting more daring as they continued exploring each other, touching and fondling.


    ¡°Kaneee.¡± Ariel¡¯s mouth opened slightly in a moan, her head thrown back in passion. Their kiss was getting more intense, more desperate, his hardon poking her stomach, and she ground herself to him, loving the sparks she was feeling.


    Ariel¡¯s hands tangled in Kane¡¯s hair, holding him close as she lost herself in the desire. She didn¡¯t want to think about how wrong it felt yet how right it felt to be in his arms.


    She hooked one leg around his waist, wanting to be near him, and she continued grounding herself to him.


    But they reluctantly parted from the kiss for the need of air, and they stared at each other, their chests rising and falling as they tried to catch their breath.


    Their lips were red and swollen from the kiss, and they were still glistening from saliva. Kane gazed at her lips, wanting nothing more than to ravish her.


    But he looked at her, a question in those eyes as if to ask her if she was sure.


    Ariel licked her lips, the lusting haze clearing from her eyes, and she nodded her head in response. She was just going to allow herself this moment of weakness, and she would think of the consequencester.


    And this time, she was the one that connected their lips.

 Chapter 99

    When Ariel woke up, it was to streaming sunlight from the window slit, the chirping of birds as they sang sweetly in their trees, and her lips curled in azy smile, but the smile was quick to fade when she shifted on the bed, and she was met with restriction.


    A heavy arm encircled her waist, and her ass was painfully close to someone¡¯s crotch, and the hard appendage was poking her ass cheeks. She was feeling a suspicious amount of breeze and freedom in her body.


    Ariel raised the sheet that had been covering her and looked inside, and she was right. She was stark naked on the bed, and the arm that was swung around her was none other than Kane.


    She wasn¡¯t one to jump to conclusions, but from the tingles she was still feeling and the delicious soreness in her body, she had no doubt that something had gone down between them, but that didn¡¯t put her to ease one bit.


    This wasn¡¯t what she wanted.


    She had thought she could bear the consequences when the morning came, but she was only filled with regrets now.


    How would her parents feel if they knew she was sleeping with the enemy? Did she even have the right to be called their daughter anymore?


    The thought made her skin crawl, and she wanted nothing but to scrub her skin red.


    ¡°You are overreacting, girl.¡± Laura, her wolf, rolled her eyes. ¡°Kane is our mate, and it is bound to happen any time soon. You are focused too much on the dead when all you should be bothered about is the living.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t understand Laura.¡± Ariel wailed. ¡°Kane killed my parents; he denied me any opportunity of experiencing what it means to have a family, and he lied to me. There is no way I can forgive him.¡±


    ¡°And your parents have been dead for a while now; you need to get over it.¡±


    ¡°Get over it?¡± Ariel shook her head, unable to believe what she had just heard. ¡°I don¡¯t understand. I thought you were supposed to be on my side.¡±


    ¡°I am on your side, but it has gone too far, and it is destroying my rtionship with my mate. Have you even asked Kane why he did it?¡±


    ¡°You are thest person I thought you said this.¡± Ariel replied in a bitter voice, and she shut down their connection.


    There was no need to continue the conversation if she was only going to side with the enemy. It was obvious she was rooting for the other party.


    Ariel turned to face the man on the bed with her, his features rxed now that he was asleep, and she reached out, wanting to trace the lines on his face.


    But she caught herself before she could touch him, and instead she tapped him. ¡°What are you still doing here?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm,¡± Kane mumbled, his deep voice stillden with sleep, and he shifted, the sheet slipping off and exposing his back, and she was rewarded with a nice view of his derriere.


    ¡°What are you still doing here?¡± Ariel repeated, peeling her eyes away from his buttocks and focusing on his eyes.


    ¡°This is our room.¡± Kane replied like it was the most obvious thing, and he slowly sat up on the bed.


    ¡°I know, I mean, why are we naked on the bed?¡±


    Kane looked at her like she had grown two heads, taken aback by the barrage of questions. ¡°Isn¡¯t it obvious, we slept together?¡± He replied with a matter of fact, and Ariel shook her head.


    ¡°No, you are getting this all wrong. You slept with me.¡±Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you are trying to do, but don¡¯t ruin a happy moment because of your fears.¡± Kane warned, his face already set in a frown.


    ¡°I am not trying to ruin anything; I did not agree to this.¡± Ariel cried, sweeping her hands over themselves and the bed. ¡°I didn¡¯t want this; you knew I was vulnerable and I neededfort, but you took advantage of it.¡±


    There was a sharp intake of air as Kane understood what she was trying to say, and he shook his head. ¡°I understand that you are still trying toe to terms with your parent¡¯s death, but I would let you ruin the moment we shared.¡±


    ¡°I am not trying to ruin anything!¡± Ariel yelled, taking the nket with her as she stood and leaving Kane naked, but he made no effort to cover himself. ¡°You were the only one that enjoyed the moment.¡±


    ¡°Ariel!¡± Kane growled, rising up to meet her. ¡°Don¡¯t let your fear blind you and make you say something you will regret.¡±


    ¡°Regret?¡± Ariel shook her head. ¡°You murdered my parents and my pack in cold blood; I think it is my parents that would be regretting my decision to stay with you.¡±


    ¡°It is funny how you keep defending your parents that you have no idea of. Do you think your father was a saint?¡±


    ¡°You have no right to talk to my father like that!¡± Ariel bellowed, her eyes zing with fury.


    ¡°I have every right to talk to him how I want!¡± Kane blew up, and he started marching towards her, and with every step he took, Ariel took one back until her back hit the wall and there was no way to escape again. ¡°Your father is not the saint you think he is; he has also killed people.¡±


    ¡°You are lying.¡± Ariel sniffed just as a tear left her eyes. ¡°My father was a kind man; he would never do anything if it didn¡¯t warrant it.¡±


    ¡°It is ironic how you are a werewolf, but you are still blind to what we do. Your father and the BloodMoon Pack had been rivals. Your father killed his son, the only heir, and he sent an ambush to their warriors; that was why we hired to finish his pack. It was just business for me, and I fulfilled the side of my bargain.¡±


    ¡°You are lying; my father will never do that.¡± Ariel continued to be oblivious, shaking her head.


    ¡°Your father was the one that injected you and killed your wolf; he did that to spite me because he couldn¡¯t bear the thought of his daughter being happy with me. He did that to deny you of your heritage, and you im I was the bad one?¡±


    ¡°Liar!¡± Ariel screamed, pounding her fist on his chest, but Kane wasn¡¯t going to yield.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to lie to you, Ariel; you already hate me. There is no point trying to prove my innocence, but I must tell you the truth.¡±


    ¡°No, no. I don¡¯t want to hear anything. Please leave me alone!¡± Ariel roared, her body shaking with a mix of anger and sadness.


    ¡°Of course, I will go, and you will run, like you always used to. But don¡¯t you dare use me of taking you against your will.¡±


    Ariel¡¯s eyes widened so much that it was almostical. ¡°I-I..¡±


    ¡°I understand you hate me, and I will let you be. You are free to leave if you want to. I am not going to find you again.¡±


    ¡°Kane I-¡± Even her attempt was pathetic, and he wouldn¡¯t hear anything again. With a dismissive nce in her direction, Kane strode to the closet, and he picked up a T-shirt and a ck pant, putting them on, and he stormed out the door, not even sparing her a nce.


    And all this time, the apology was at the tip of her tongue, but Ariel was too stubborn to admit her wrong, and instead, she watched him leave.


    Great, just great.


    Both her mate and wolf have left her, and she was all alone.

 Chapter 100

    Ariel stared outside the window, the world now at peace as the snow had ceased falling, but she failed to notice the vibrant hues of the sky or the gentle quietness of the morning. Her mind was still consumed with the thoughts of her mate.


    The pain in his voice was something she couldn¡¯t stand, and she only had herself to me. What they had sharedst night had been mutual, and she had enjoyed every moment of it, but she had allowed her fears to push him away.


    Ariel cringed as she recalled the word he had called himself. How could she even face him now?


    And the things he said about her father? It had to be a lie; her father would never do that. At least from the glimpse she had seen of him, he seemed like a good man.


    She ran her head through her finger several times in frustration.


    Yet she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of guilt that settled at the pit of her stomach. He had done everything she had used him of, and he was also a murderer. If there was anyone that was going to be angry, it was supposed to be her and not him.


    Yet it felt like she was the one that had made the mistake.


    It was a struggle as she remained on the bed, unable to do anything but toss around until she was tired, and she got up from the bed and went downstairs for breakfast.


    All the time, she had hoped to see Kane, but his seat was rather empty, and when she scanned around for her brown-haired friend, the search only came back empty, and Ariel¡¯s heart only sank lower.


    She had taken her seat in the usual ce, and breakfast was served, but she had never eaten something so tasteless. Everyone seemed to think otherwise from the way they devoured the meal.


    But Ariel couldn¡¯t get the eggs down.


    She managed to take a few bites of the food before she decided she was okay and she dropped the cutlery.


    Any more bites, and she was going to throw up; instead, she had gone back to the kitchen and packed some breakfast for Liza.


    She was going to have to make up with her now.


    Ariel dragged her feet until she got in front of her door, but she was suddenly hit with an unfamiliar masculine scent, and she halted in her steps.


    Since when did Liza start inviting people into her room?


    Thedy was super private about her life, and Ariel had learned to respect it, but the door suddenly opened, and she was face-to-face with a rather burly, menacing man, his mouth set in a thin line immediately he saw her, and her heart skipped a bit.


    ¡°What are you doing in her room?¡± Ariel asked him, puffing her chest to appear intimidating, but the man neither shook nor appeared to be intimidated.


    He only lowered his head in greeting, and he went out of the room without bothering to say anything, and it bothered her to no extent, so she rushed inside.


    ¡°Do you know the strange man that just left your room? Are you in trouble anyway, or do I have to tell Kane?¡±


    Liza slowly rose her eyes to meet her, her mouth stuffed with food as she decided if the news was worth sharing, but she saw the look on Ariel¡¯s face, and she sighed.


    ¡°That was my mate, Richard.¡±


    ¡°Ohhh.¡± Ariel¡¯s mouth opened in sudden realization. ¡°Congrattions; he seems perfect for you.¡± She was trying to act like it was before, but itcked the warmth of their friendship, and even Liza seemed to think so.


    ¡°You don¡¯t even know him; why do you think he is going to be perfect for me?¡±


    ¡°Wait, is he not? If he is treating you badly, you just have to say the words, and I will give him an orientation on how to be a better mate.¡±


    At her words, Liza burst intoughter, unable to keep up with the mean facade, and Ariel couldn¡¯t help but join in. ¡°You think so?¡± Liza cocked her eyebrows and Ariel shrugged.


    ¡°If I can¡¯t deal with him, I am sure Kane cane up with a way to deal with the situation.¡±


    ¡°It is fine; you don¡¯t have to do that. Richard is just perfect, and I couldn¡¯t be happier.¡± She said with a fierce blush on her lips, and Ariel could only smile.


    This was the least she deserved, and she was happy to see it this way. ¡°So, how did you meet him, or did he suddenlynd on your hand?¡± There was an awkward pause, and Ariel realized. ¡°I am sorry; you don¡¯t have to answer it. I thought¡­¡±N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    ¡°It is fine. I forgive you. Richard made me see the reason why I couldn¡¯t hold a grudge against you, and it was selfish for me to get angry when I didn¡¯t even know what you were up against.¡±


    ¡°Oh Liza.¡± Ariel rushed to her friend and enveloped her in her arms. After spending a month without genuine friends, it feels so good as she breathed the familiar scent, only this time it was heightened and with just a tinge of familial bond. ¡°Thank you so much.¡±


    Ariel tried to put it at the back of her mind to thank the mate, who knew he could be this helpful.


    ¡°So how did you meet him?¡± She asked as she sat in the space next to her. ¡°I doubt you left the pack to meet him.¡±


    Liza shook her head, a warm smile on her lips. ¡°You are right. He came for me actually.¡±


    ¡°A, a love story. Spill.¡±


    ¡°Apparently, he had been searching for his mate for a while now, and he encountered the Alpha during one of their hunts, and he had perceived my scent and wanted to be sure. He had followed the alpha back even though your mate wasn¡¯t a fan, but he had gotten to the pack and met me, and that was all. He refused to go back, and we have been together ever since.¡±


    ¡°A.¡± Ariel cooed as she watched red stain her friend¡¯s face. ¡°I am so happy for you.¡±


    ¡°I know, I am happy I met him too. Sometimes I think he is too good for me.¡± Liza exined, and Ariel made a small noise at the back of her throat.


    ¡°I understand.¡± Even if some of Kane¡¯s methods were crude, he had been nothing but kind to her. Taking care of her even when she was away, making sure shecked nothing and she hadn¡¯t even done anything for him.


    ¡°I can tell you have gotten your wolf back. Congrattions.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Ariel beamed, d for the distraction, and she had dived into an abridged version of how she got her back, making sure to remove any part that mentioned Kane.


    For most of the morning, she had stayed with Liza, and they had caught up with everything she had missed when she was gone, but her mate came calling, and Ariel knew it was time to leave.


    This time she made a conscious effort to sh a bright, wide smile in his direction, and she went out the door.


    With nothing to do, she got pretty bored soon, and all that upied her mind was Kane. It had crossed her mind many times to apologize to him, but she squashed the thought as soon as it came up.


    She wasn¡¯t the one in the wrong; he was supposed to be apologizing to her.


    Yet why was her heart pounding so much? Why did she perk up as she perceived his scenting towards the room?


    Ariel had dashed to the bathroom, sshing her face with water and running a brush down her hair. She had picked up the lipgloss and ran the applicator on her lips several times until it shone under the lights, and she went back to the bed in wait.


    But the scent only passed the door, and it continued drifting off until it was faint, and she copsed on the bed.


    Kane had kept to his words, and he didn¡¯t bother her anymore, not even when it was time to sleep, and the bed had never felt sorge and so ufortable.


    Ariel had continued turning and tossing, her conscience gnawing on her, but she was an adamant thing, and she did nothing about it.


    Maybe it was better this way,


    If this continued for long, she would eventually forget him, and she could finally move past what he did.


    But why did it feel so wrong?

 Chapter 101

    Ariel woke up the next morning with a scowl on my face, annoyed by the sleepless night. She was practically turning and tossing on the bed until it was dawn.


    She made sure to avoid all of the mirrors or anything that could show her reflection, as she didn¡¯t need to know how horrible she looked.


    No doubt, there were huge eye bags in her eyes and horrible dark circles, but she refused to care; instead, she sshed water in her eyes and made for downstairs.


    Her heart lifted as she perceived the scent of pine cones and oranges, and she quickened her pace, hoping she would just get a glimpse of him.


    But it was just his scent that lingered as he was long gone, and her face fell even more. However, Ariel managed to p a smile on her face as the pack began to greet her.


    There was no need to let them know that their leaders were not on speaking terms; instead, she settled on her seat and waited for the food toe while she was scanning for familiar faces.


    Her eyes met with Liza, and she raised her hands, waving at her in excitement, but it was quick to die when she saw the mate beside him.


    The man wore a shirt that had his muscles straining from it, and he had packed his long hair in a low pony, but there was no smile on his face even when she nodded to him.


    He only nodded in reply, and Ariel was willing to ept it.


    The pancakes were dripping with a lot of strawberry jam, just how she liked it, and this time, she was able to finish her meal. Ariel had gathered that if she was going to fight for her bond, she needed to have enough strength.


    After breakfast, she retired back to her room, hoping the time would pass by fast and Kane woulde back home.


    But Kane could be pretty adamant when he had said something, and he kept to his promise. A little too well that it was making her worried.


    She could barely steal a glimpse of him, and she was quick to realize that that was the start of a bad day, but Ariel could not be deterred.


    If he could y that game, she could show him that she was also good at it.


    And so the waiting game started.


    Day two had her walking around the pack and exploring the yard outside.


    Day three, she decided to let her wolf out to limatize with the area, but when the pack got wind of it, they had decided to join her for a run, and it was really fun.


    Although she would have sworn she had a glimpse of his wolf, it was out of sight before she discovered it.


    Day four, Ariel hit her slump, and she was practically walking about like a zombie, not finding the strength to do anything, and the guilt kept weighing on her.


    If it wasn¡¯t even for anything, she needed to apologize to him for using him of touching her without her will.


    He deserved to know that she enjoyed it very well and wished he could touch her again like that, but the words dried in her mouth when she tried toe up with words.


    Day five, she had turned into a wanderer, and she was patrolling his office, reaching the door, but her courage failed her when she got to the door, and she was running back to thefort of her room.


    Ariel had managed to stay away for six days, but she was going out of her mind, and she couldn¡¯t take it any longer. This time she barged into his office, not caring for the consequences.


    ¡°We need to talk.¡± Ariel said as she entered inside, and she made herselffortable on the chair opposite him, not waiting for his permission.


    Kane raised his eyes to meet her, his eyes sparkling with something she couldn¡¯t read, but she ignored it and tucked her arms in each other.


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    ¡°Aaah.¡± The sound came out of Ariel¡¯s mouth without warning, and she pped her hands on her mouth.


    That was so embarrassing.


    It had been a while since she had heard his voice, and she had gone feral as she heard that husky baritone that she had lost sense of everything. ¡°Sorry about that. Please continue.¡± She tried to save herself, but the sides of his lips pulled up in a smile, and she shrugged.


    At least she was able to make him smile.


    ¡°Just give me a minute; let me finish with this.¡± He replied, pointing to the note he was working on, and Ariel nodded.


    She could wait for him; she had been doing it for a week now, so it wasn¡¯t going to be hard.Content ? N?velDrama.Org 2024.


    She settled her gaze on her mate, watching him work. His jaw was set, and there was a slight frown on his face as he scribbled into the paper, but even that couldn¡¯t mask how handsome he looked.


    She shifted her gaze to his shirt, noting he was wearing a different shirt than what he had left home with, and a frown settled on her face.


    Where did he get them?


    She had purposely locked the door whenever she was asleep. In case he wanted toe in, she would be alerted of his presence, but he must have found a way around it, and it irked her to no point.


    ¡°Mmm mmm.¡± Kane cleared his throat, raising his head to connect with her, and she gave him a pointed look.


    She was his mate after all; she wasn¡¯t going to be shamed because she was looking.


    But she decided to humor him and took to looking around, her gaze settling on the long rows of shelves and books filled in them.


    But a shrill ring disturbed the peaceful air, and whatever they had been sharing was gone.


    ¡°Can we schedule this another time? I have to take this important call, and it may take a long time.¡± Kane was saying, but all it seemed to Ariel were excuses.


    ¡°Of course,¡± she grumbled under her breath, and she stood up to go, making sure to sway her hips just for effect, but as soon as she was outside the door, she stered the frown back on her face.


    She didn¡¯t see or hear from Kane again until it was the afternoon of the next day. Ariel was going to sit under a tree and clear her head, but she had perceived the alluring scent of her mate, and she had started walking to his ce, like someone enchanted.


    But you could imagine her shock when she saw him talking to ady, a woman she couldn¡¯t recognize.


    Ariel had thought it was impossible to get jealous, but the mes had red up and her eyes darkened, revealing a flicker of possessiveness that she didn¡¯t know she possessed. He didn¡¯t seem to have time for her, but he could be cozy with another woman; even though the space between them could fit two more, Ariel refused to be reasonable.


    She continued watching their interactions closely, until thedy burst intoughter at what Kane had said, and the mes erupted.


    She had no idea Kane was such aedian, and it was only right she partakes in the joke.


    She was about to march up there and break the pair, but a strong hand mped on her wrist, preventing her, and she looked up at the culprit.


    ¡°Maddie? Now is not the time.¡± She grumbled, her eyes still focused on her mate.


    ¡°I can tell. You are practically shootingsers from your eyes.¡± Maddie replied in a teasing tone, but none of that was working on her.


    ¡°Are you seeing the way she is eyeing my man? Was it even so funny?¡± Ariel asked, and Maddie shrugged her shoulders. ¡°Well, I deserve to know andugh; I haven¡¯t had a goodugh since I came.¡±


    ¡°Take it easy; I think she has a mate. They are probably discussing something important.¡± Maddie tried to dissuade her, and she took a deep breath.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°What were you even nning to do? March up there and tell them to break it up.¡±


    Ariel shrugged; I mean, she was only going to politely tell thedy to back down. She decided to humor Maddie and stay back, but apparently Kane had said something funny, and thedy burst into a loudugh that had all the warning bells ringing.


    Ariel wasn¡¯t going to listen to anyone again because she was already marching there and inserting herself into their middle.


    ¡°You, me, your office now!¡±

 Chapter 102

    Ariel didn¡¯t wait to see if Kane was going to listen to her; she had decided to takew into her hands, and she grabbed him by his hands and began to pull him away.


    But she was met with little resistance as he dug his heel on the floor, refusing to follow her, and she turned to look at him, a challenge in her eyes. Goddess, help her; she could im him right now if he continued like this.


    There was a twinkle in Kane¡¯s eyes as he understood what she was trying to convey, and he allowed himself to be led by hand until they got to thefort of his office and she dropped his hands.


    Ariel tucked her arms in each other, and she fastened her eyes on him, with a look that could burn, but Kane was immune to all this, and he looked at her, although the sides of his mouth tugged up in a small smile.


    ¡°What were you doing with her?¡± Ariel demanded, hoping her jealousy didn¡¯t shine through. But who was she kidding? When ites to Kane, she seems to lose all her senses. ¡°What did you say that was so funny that had her cackling? I knew you were a wolf, but I have never pegged you to be aedian.¡±


    ¡°You are jealous.¡± Kane stated, more to himself than to her, but Ariel didn¡¯t think it was funny, and the sides of her lips curled downward in a smile.


    ¡°I am not jealous, Kane.¡± She stated it as a matter of fact. Jealousy is when I don¡¯t have you. I am only possessive of what I consider mine.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm. Possessive.¡± His smile ever so widened, and Ariel wanted nothing more than to knock it out. ¡°When did this ownership take ce? I don¡¯t think I was a willing participant.¡±


    ¡°Kane!¡± Ariel snapped. The man was enjoying this more than she liked, and he was trying to pull all of her buttons. ¡°Can you just focus on what is at hand or, goddess, help me? You would not like what I will do.¡±


    Her outburst was enough for him to realize that the issue was serious, and he sobered up immediately. ¡°You said goddess.¡±


    Ariel tilted her head in confusion, her frown getting deeper as she tried to make sense of what he was saying. ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡±


    ¡°You said goddess; you never say it. I guess you are gradually epting us.¡±


    ¡°Is that what is important? Who is thedy?¡± Ariel barked, and at her words, Kane took two steps towards her. He was in front of her, so close that she could feel his breath on her neck whenever he exhaled, and her stomach seemed to be doing the cartwheels.


    She would never have pegged her body to be an Olympic sport.


    ¡°Mm mm.¡± Ariel cleared her throat as she tried to focus on something else other than the fact that he was standing so close to her and his breath was sending tingles down her spine. ¡°You could say whatever you want to from where you were standing. There is no need to be this close.¡±


    ¡°I wanted you to hear it very well.¡± Kane whispered, and Ariel fought the urge to fan herself. Has the room always been this hot? ¡°She is nothingpared to you, Ariel. You will always be number one to me.¡± He continued in that voice that made her want to submit to him. She wanted nothing more than for him to touch her, to have his wicked ways with her.


    And Kane seems to want the same thing because his hands were resting on her waist and they were slid in ce, but his eyes widened ever so slightly, and he was removing his hands so fast as if they were burned, and he took a few steps away from her.


    ¡°Kane.¡± Ariel whined, her voice conveying her want, but the moment was already lost, and Kane¡¯s face was as nk as white paper.


    ¡°You were going to say something?¡±


    ¡°Kane?¡± Ariel tried again, taking a step towards him, but he brought his hands out in a bid to stop her, and all she could see was the moment in their room when she was telling him that he had touched her against her will and she wanted to bury herself.


    ¡°You must have a reason for dragging me up here. Just say what you want to say and make it snappy; I will be having a meeting soon.¡± He nced at his wristwatch before raising his eyes to meet her.


    ¡°Yea.¡± Ariel swallowed the painful lump that had lodged in her throat, but she nodded her head-she deserved it. ¡°I wanted to apologize for what happened the other day. I was out of my mind, and I used you of something that was never there. Please forgive me.¡± She lowered her head as she begged for his forgiveness, hoping he still had to give her.


    However, the room remained silent, except for the ticking of the clock hand, and Ariel looked up to meet his gaze, his eyes burning her to the spot.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think you are Ariel; you still hate me for killing your parents, and I can tell you don¡¯t believe my words.¡±


    ¡°No, I-¡±


    ¡°You only came.¡± Kane interrupted her before she could say anything, ¡°because you missed me, and I am not going to ept that.¡±


    ¡°I can wait forever for you if that is what you want, but when you are ready, I want you to be truly ready, and nothing should hold you back. Else, I am afraid there will only be a repeat ofst time.¡±


    ¡°No,st time was just my fear talking.¡± Ariel¡¯s voice croaked as she began to speak. ¡°Kane, I know you would never harm me, and it was foolish for me to say that.¡±


    ¡°But you did.¡± She flinched as if his words hadshed her, and she gently shook her head.


    ¡°I am sorry, Kane. Please, we could work something together. We could talk about it or even visit a therapist, but I need you to be close. The bed is empty without you; I am empty without you.¡± Ariel pleaded, the word rushing out of her mouth without any thought, but from the scowl on his face, she doubted her words were having any effect on him.


    A shrill ring disrupted the still air, and Ariel tensed. She watched as Kane went towards the table to get his phone, and he gave her a look before he connected the call.


    And she knew there was nothing she could do again.


    She stood for a moment, waiting to see if the call was going to be a short one, but he switched to hisptop, and several minutes had passed, but he didn¡¯t seem to stop, nor did he spare a nce at her.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    And she knew it was a lost cause.


    Ariel dragged her legs towards the door and let herself out, taking with her her shame.

 Chapter 103

    Ariel slumped on the bed as she got to her room, the rejection too much for her to bear. She wanted to bury herself in the mattress if it meant never to face him.


    The rejection had stung so much that she couldn¡¯t believe it.


    But she had brought it upon herself.


    This was the least she deserved after the way she had treated him, but that didn¡¯t soothe the ache in her chest.


    She began to rey all that she had said to him, her pity excuse to get him back, and she was cringing hard, but thinking of it now, therapy seems to be a good idea.


    Their rtionship was founded in lies and deceit; although she couldn¡¯t deny their sexual chemistry, their bond was shaky, and there are so many things that were wrong, and if given the chance, she would want to start afresh.


    With that determination surging in her veins, Ariel picked up her phone, clicking on the message app, andposing a short text to Maddie. The girl knew whatever was happening in the werewolf world, so there was no doubt she would know a werewolf therapist.


    The only thing was convincing Kane that they needed therapy. Men always seem to hate going for therapy, believing it was a bruise to their elbow.


    Maddie was quick to reply to her, sending up a long list of rmended therapists across the state and even her personal opinion, and Ariel wished she could give her a kiss.


    She had been terribly wrong about Maddie; yes, she may have a tough exterior, but she was a sweetheart when youe close, and Ariel was happy that she and Toby were together.


    Thinking of Toby brought a jolt to her heart. The man had also lied to her, but thinking of it now, there was nothing he could do.


    Kane was his alpha and had instructed him to hide the truth. If there was anyone she was going to be angry with, it was with Kane.


    But right now she was tired.


    Ariel was tired of holding grudges in her heart; she had realized when she came back that there was nothing like home, and unintentionally, her heart has identified this pack as her home.


    She just wanted to live in peace and enjoy all the benefits that the mate bond has.


    And the first step was reconciling with Toby.


    Ariel jumped out of the bed, and she walked towards the door, opened it, and went out, making her way towards Toby¡¯s room.


    She rested her fist on the simr-looking door, ready to knock, but Maddie beat her to it. ¡°The door is opened; you cane in.¡±


    Ariel smiled sheepishly, embarrassed that she was caught, but she held the doorknob and pushed it open to see Maddie naked, safe for the shorts she was wearing.


    Apparently she was trying on some clothes, and Ariel immediately averted her gaze.


    ¡°Oh. I had no idea you were naked.¡±


    ¡°It is fine.¡± Maddie brushed her off with the wave of her hand. ¡°I asked you toe inside. Can you just help me?¡± She stood in front of her, and Ariel helped her with the zip.


    ¡°I saw your rmendations. Thank you.¡± Ariel said in a level tone while trying to look at anywhere but her body.


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I have thanked you enough for the help you have given me when I needed it. Thank you so much.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me every time we meet Ariel. I would always help you if you need me.¡±


    ¡°I know, but I still want to thank you. To be honest, when you first came, I thought you were a stuck-up bitch.¡± Ariel noted, and Maddie burst intoughter.


    ¡°I am still a stuck-up bitch, but I am trying to be tolerable. Anyways, Toby isn¡¯t in the room; he had something to do with Kane.¡± Maddie exined as they gathered her clothes from the floor, and Ariel¡¯s eyes widened a little.


    ¡°How did you know I was looking for him?¡±Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    ¡°A guess,¡± Maddie shrugged her shoulders. ¡°You rarelye to our room. It had to be that.¡±


    ¡°Yea.¡± Ariel gave her a small smile, embarrassed that she had been caught, yet again. ¡°I will leave you to it.¡± She turned on her heels and left their room. But she was taking the stairs when she bumped into Toby.


    ¡°Ariel.¡±


    ¡°Uhmm, Hy.¡± Ariel gave him an awkward smile, not knowing what to do. Toby had been her best male friend, and there had never been any awkward moments between them.


    But now they stood observing each other, awkwardness much palpable in the air, until Toby broke the silence. ¡°Wee back; you look good.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it is good to be back. You don¡¯t look bad yourself.¡± Ariel mumbled under her breath, and it was the truth.


    His skin was smoother, an almost porcin-like canvas, and he had a healthy glow to him that was hard to ignore. Having a mate sure. makes a lot of difference.


    ¡°We need to talk.¡± Toby said, and Ariel nodded.


    ¡°Yea about that.¡±


    ¡°No, just listen to me.¡± Toby interrupted her before she could put any more words out. ¡°I don¡¯t even know where to start from, but I want you to know I am truly sorry about everything that has happened. The truth was, I knew about your background, about the lies, and everything that was happening. But I kept quiet all this time, even when I knew you were searching for the truth. I can¡¯t even begin to tell you how sorry I am for everything that has happened to you. I don¡¯t know if you even want me as a friend, but I need to apologize for everything.¡±


    ¡°Toby, it is fine.¡± Ariel began, but there was no stopping him.


    ¡°No, it is not fine. I have been beating myself up since you left the pack, and I had considered going to look for you until Kane said you were alright and I could finally sleep at home. I am truly sorry, Ariel.¡±


    ¡°Toby!¡± Ariel interrupted him before he continued his self-destruct. ¡°It is totally fine; I forgive you.¡±


    ¡°But you should be angry with me. I lie to you and hide the truth from you.¡±


    ¡°Do you want me to be angry with me?¡± Ariel asked in a teasing voice, folding her arms, and Toby quickly shook his head, a big smile on his lips.


    ¡°Thank you so much, Ariel. Thank you.¡± And without warning, he picked her up and spun her around amidst herughter.


    ¡°Toby!¡± Ariel shrieked in excitement, hitting his shoulders gently. ¡°Let me down. Tobyy.¡±


    ¡°Killjoy.¡± Toby retorted as she gently let her on her feet. ¡°Thank you so much; I think I can finally get a good rest.¡±


    ¡°Were you that worried?¡± Ariel asked, even though she already knew the answer.


    ¡°Of course, you were probably one of my first friends, and I thought I had lost you.¡±


    ¡°Well, you have me now, but no more lies.¡±


    ¡°Of course, no lie.¡± Toby said with a salute. ¡°Friends?¡± He held out his hands for Ariel, and she looked at it.


    ¡°Friends.¡± She took his hands and followed him.


    Everything seems to be working out well; all that was left was Kane.

 Chapter 104

    Ariel started devising a n immediately after she got to her room. Kane had been trying to prove stubborn, but he had no idea she was a greater force to contend with.


    Ariel was determined to let bygones be bygones and focused on the future, but Kane seemed to think she was still holding onto the pass, and she was determined to prove him wrong.


    She began by packing a few essentials she was going to need for the night, and she stuffed them in a tote bag. She peeped inside, making sure everything she needed for a sleepover was there, and she nodded her head in satisfaction.


    Then she picked up the bag, hanging it on her shoulder, and she made for the door. Now outside the door, she let her nose guide her, and she began to look for Kane¡¯s scent.


    The man had continued to prove stubborn, so drastic times call for drastic action.


    Ariel was able to trace the scent to the room at the end of the hall, and she held the doorknob, pushing it gently, and a sigh of relief left her as it gave way-grateful it was unlocked.


    She took a step inside, and almost immediately she was hit by the undeniable scent of his, so strong in the air that she staggered on her feet.


    ¡°Fuck!¡± Ariel eximed as she held her knees to steady her, and when she was much better, she straightened up, and she took a long whiff of his scent, letting it seep into her every being.


    Gosh, she had missed it.


    Now she understands what it means to be addicted and why it was hard to stay away. From the moment she entered the room, she knew she was never going to leave there alone, except Kane left with her.


    Ariel took another deep breath; this time she closed her eyes as she inhaled, and she slowly exhaled before she opened her eyes.


    She entered the room proper and dropped her bags on the bed while her eyes wandered about the room. It was pretty much bare except for some clothes that were hanging inside his wardrobe.


    The room was a lot smaller than their current bedroom, and it was bathed in a warm golden glow from the sun and the brown curtains that covered the window. The room had the same marble styling as their room, but there was a little Persian rug in the middle, and she sank her feet into it.


    All of the furniture was in the same dark brown color, and that was all about it.


    Not exactly bad if you ask her.


    The first thing Ariel did was jump on the bed and rub herself on the sheets thoroughly until her scent had saturated well in them.


    She had learned early in her baby wolf stage that rubbing your body everywhere was a way to get your scent everywhere. And she set to work, rubbing her scent everywhere she thought Kane would frequent.


    Nothing was spared, not even his shirts, and she looked ridiculous doing all that, but she was trying to save her bond, so anything would suffice.


    Ariel went to the bathroom, recing all of his washes and conditioner with her, and after she was done, she surveyed her handwork with a smile on her lips.


    Perfect!


    Kane was going to have a hard time resisting this both literally and figuratively.


    Now she just had to wait.


    Waiting was never a problem for her; she had used the time to reconnect with udia, already nning how she was going to visit her when everything was much better, probably with Kane.


    And somehow, the time had passed like that, and the sun had gone down, just in time for when Kane was going toe back.


    Ariel had already taken her bath again, and she had worn a long armless dress; it was as harmless as it could be, but under bright light, it was pretty much transparent, and she sat, waiting for him.


    She anxiously awaited his return with bated breath, her heart pounding behind her ribcage as the door slowly gave way and Kane came in. He locked gaze with her, and his forehead furrowed into creases, his lips pulling into a thin line.


    ¡°What is going on here?¡± Kane growled just as he took a deep breath, and it was amazing to see the immediate effect. His pupil darkened, and she was sure she saw his canine peek from his lips. ¡°Ariel!¡±


    ¡°Wee back, love.¡± Ariel said with a huge smile on her lips. ¡°How was work?¡±


    But Kane didn¡¯t seem to share in her enthusiasm: ¡°What is going on here? Why are you in my room?¡± He growled, his lips curling up in distaste, and to everyone he was angry, but Ariel had nced down at his fingers, noticing how hard he had tightened his fist in a bid to restrain himself, and she could tell that anger was thest thing on his mind.


    ¡°Oh nothing.¡± Ariel shrugged, feigning ignorance. She stood up, throwing her legs after the other as she calcted steps towards him. ¡°I just wanted to be as close as possible to my mate. It is lonely sleeping in that big room.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have time for this, Ariel. I have had a very busy day, and I just want to get a good night¡¯s rest.¡±


    ¡°Of course, help yourself. I am not going to disturb you.¡±


    Kane squinted his eyes at her, refusing to believe her words, but he was too tired to argue; even when she had held his shirt and began to undress him, he made no effort to pry her hands.


    Not even when she had set a tray of dinner for him, the smoked salmon was too good to pass. Kane had eaten everything and crawled to bed, not even thanking her, hoping she would take his silence for rejection.


    But Ariel had hopped to bed, upying the space beside him, and wriggled herself close until her ass was resting on his crotch.


    ¡°Ariel, what are you doing?¡± Kane groaned, his body reacting from being so close to her. ¡°I just want to sleep.¡±


    ¡°I never said I was doing the opposite, so don¡¯t mind me. I only want to sleep too.¡± She replied and closed her eyes, feigning sleep. But it was hard for Kane to do so when his cock was already resting between her ass cheek.


    He had promised not to touch her without her will, and it had taken all of his willpower not to sumb to temptation, but he won at the end, and he had fallen asleep, thinking it was going to be the end of it.


    However, Ariel was unstoppable when she was determined, and their routine continued. She would stay with him in the room, sleep next to him, and do everything, but she made no effort to bother him or talk to him.


    She only replied when she was spoken to, and it was driving Kane crazy.


    He could not continue again without losing his mind, so on the third day, the shell broke.


    ¡°Alright, what exactly do you want?¡± He had asked her after they finished their dinner.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Ariel said with a controlled smile, but she already knew she had him where she wanted.


    ¡°Ariel!¡± Kane groaned, unable to continue with the current situation.


    ¡°Fine, I want you to follow me to therapy.¡±Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    ¡°Therapy?¡± Kane¡¯s brow shot up as he looked at her. ¡°Ariel, you know that¡­¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. But this is the only thing I am asking of you. You and I will go for couple therapy twice a week, and I promise to leave you alone.¡±


    ¡°Ariel.¡± Kane gently strolled his jaw as he contemted the idea. There was no harm in it. ¡°Alright, but only twice a week.¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Ariel jumped on him, wrapping her hands around him for a tight hug. ¡°Thank you so much.¡± She said, her voice muffled in his shirt.


    Kane may not know it, but that was the beginning of changes in their rtionship.

 Epilogue

    As Ariel stood in the makeshift raised tform that had been constructed in the balcony, staring into the eyes of her mate, she could see nothing but love.


    All of the moments that brought them here had been a conscious effort on their part, and going for therapy had been a major factor.


    The first few weeks had been awkward as neither of them was ready to pour out their hearts open, and they had been going around in circles, but they finally broke when the therapist had asked Kane a question.


    ¡°Is there anything you would like to say to Ariel but you are afraid it will hurt her?¡±


    Kane had hesitated at first, his eyes darting to his mate, and he shook his head for a No, there was something about the way Ariel was looking at him, and he didn¡¯t know when he began to talk.


    ¡°You always act before you think. Most times, you do things that put yourself at risk, not considering people around you, and when it starts getting back, you pull away, leaving us to clean up the mess.¡±


    ¡°It is a lie.¡± Ariel¡¯s eyes widened as she heard what he had just said.


    ¡°You never give me the benefit of the doubt or give this bond a fighting chance, at the slightest inconvenience, you back out.¡±


    ¡°Liar!¡± Ariel cried out, surprised he still managed to remain cool whilst lying about her.


    ¡°I have always forgiven you, Kane, even when you hurt me. I had let it all go because I love you; you can¡¯t sit there and say I always run.¡± The tears she had tried so hard to hold were already steaming down her face, but she made no effort to clean them.


    It was taken everything in her not to run out of the suffocating room, but then she would prove him right, so she forced herself to sit through the torture.


    At the end of the session, they had driven home in utter silence until Kane couldn¡¯t take it anymore and he had stopped his car in the middle of nowhere, and he opened the car, helping her out.


    ¡°Ariel, I¡­¡± He couldn¡¯t put out another word before the floodgates opened again and Ariel broke into tears.


    It took several intense minutes for Kane to calm Ariel down, holding her close as she sobbed out her emotions. But as they hugged, something shifted between them.


    They had pulled back, their eyes still locked on each other, and they had apologized for their past hurts and misunderstandings.


    The couple continued to attend the therapy session, and with each passing day, their bond only strengthened, and their love continued flourishing, and finally they were here.


    ¡°Are you nervous?¡± Kane¡¯s voice distracted her from going down memoryne, and Ariel shook her head for a negative response.


    With Kane, she knew she was sure of the decision and there was nothing to be nervous about.


    ¡°Mmm mmm.¡± Denise cleared her throat, and the couple looked at her, red staining their cheeks.


    They had decided that Denise was worthy enough to join them, seeing she had always been with them and she had never been too pleased.


    ¡°We have all gathered here to witness a great union between Kane and Ariel, the leaders of the rogue pack.¡± Denise began, her voice ringing out loud and clear throughout the clearing.


    Ariel raised her head up to look at all that had gathered to celebrate them, and tears filled her eyes-the list had been exhausted. Everyone that had contributed to their sess story in one way or another was there.


    udia had flung from Australia down to the pack, and Ariel had screamed her head off as she saw her. She had earlier nned for her toe, but something urgent came up, and udia had been unable to travel.


    But Kane always had a way of making things work in his favor. He had reached out to her and was able to smooth out whatever dy udia was experiencing, and he had flown her to the states.


    Ariel couldn¡¯t control her screams when she saw her longtime friend, and she ran to her, jumping on her body. For the rest of the day, they had done nothing but catch up, trying to make up for the lost times.


    And now udia was smiling proudly at her, standing in the front row along with the rest of her friends. Toby and his mate, of course, Liza and her mate, the whole pack, some people from The Den, even the men that had taken care of her when she was in Blue Ridge.


    Everyone was present to grace the asion, and that was how she wanted it.


    ¡°These ones have stood the test of time, and they have proved that they will stay with each other no matter what happens. And by the power vested on me, I crowned you Alpha Kane and Luna Ariel of the Rogue Pack.¡±


    The audience erupted into cheers, their deafening screams reverberating throughout the garden. The air was electric with excitement as everyone was pping and shouting, and Ariel¡¯s face radiated pure happiness.


    Amidst the noise, one voice pierced through-a loud, proud ¡°Go girl!¡±-no doubt udia¡¯s and Ariel¡¯s grin only widened.


    It took some minutes before Denise could rein in the excitement of the crowd, and she faced the couple.


    ¡°You may now im each other under the watchful eyes of our goddess, sealing your union forever.¡±


    This was the moment they had been waiting for, and Kane took a step closer to Ariel, and he held her hands, squeezing them gently.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± He asked in a voice that spoke of nothing but tenderness, and Ariel nodded, too choked up in emotions to reply.


    Kane¡¯s hands went up, and he moved her hair to the side, revealing her neck, where she was going to wear his mark.


    Permanently this time.


    He let his fingers graze the skin there, loving the way she shivered against him. She looked so beautiful under the moonlight, and he couldn¡¯t wait to have her under him, now as properly mated wolves.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Kane asked his mate, and Ariel nodded her head, her eyes shining with eagerness. ¡°Let¡¯s do this.¡± Kane whispered, and that was the only prompt he had to give.


    The couple leaned into each other, their mouths on their necks and their canines making an appearance.


    And slowly they sank their teeth into each other¡¯s skin, pressing down until the saliva mixed with the blood. Time stood still as they continued mping down their skin, and they savored the moment, lost in the raw connection that coursed through their veins like liquid fire.


    Ariel could feel the bond between them getting even impossibly tighter and stronger. She found herself immersed in his thoughts, emotions, and memories while he simultaneously inhabited hers, and all of their secretsy in for each other to see.


    There was nothing to hide anymore.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g


    Ariel could feel him in every part of her, and so could he, and even their wolves had risen to join in the sacred union.


    With much restraint, they had parted from each other, and Kane surveyed the new wound, a proud glint in his eyes. His tongue darted out, licking the skin, watching as the skin closed up even as Ariel shivered against him, and he smiled, loving her reaction.


    He was going to have fun with this new sensitivity, but he didn¡¯t have long to explore his thoughts when a wet tonguepped on his new mark, and he lowered his gaze to see his mate, a teasing smile on her lips.


    ¡°Are you sure you can finish what you have started?¡± Kane said in their newly formed mindlink, and the slight widening of her eyes was the only indication that she had heard it.


    ¡°Of course I can.¡± But Kane didn¡¯t let her finish her words before his lips gently brush against her in a soft, tender kiss, but the fierce possessiveness in his touch was hard to miss.


    The contrast between the softness of his lips and the intensity of his passion was intoxicating, leaving her breathless and wanting more.


    Slowly their lips left each other, but their eyes remained locked on each other, glowing with an intense golden light, and Ariel knew in that moment, their fate was sealed forever.


    The End


    Thank you so much to each and every one of you who has followed this journey with me to this point. Yourments, votes, and reviews have meant the world to me.


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    The sequel of this book is already in progress, and it will be about Maddie, so stay tuned for more updates.


    Thank you again for your support, and I look forward to sharing the next chapter of this journey with you.


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    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!