《Chained By The Alpha Jessica Hall》 Chapter 1 ~Cleo~ The moment Lydia''s shrill voice pierces through the walls of my room, I know today''s going to be another test of my patience. It''s like living with a hyena, her voice just grates on my nerves. I nce at the photo of my mom on my nightstand, her smile a bittersweet memory Ever since she passed, it''s been a circus 1n this house, with my stepmother Linda and her daughter Lydia ying the starring roles in the drama that is my life I''m already dressed, wearing the top I snatched from Lydia''s closet. It''s a small victory, but in a house where I''m constantly overshadowed by her theatrics, I take what I can get. Plus the fury on her face will be so worth it. My father''s voice, firm andmanding, echoes from downstairs, summoning me. He''s a good man, but the weight of his expectations feels like a rope around my neck. Today, he wants me at the Alpha meeting - a disy of family unity or some such nonsense just another way for him to teach me the ropes when I take over the pack Another door ms downstairs, and I wince, bracing myself for my father''s wrath as I listen to his angry footsteps. His feet echo on the stairs as I rush to finish getting ready for a meeting I do not wish to attend "Cleo!" he yells from the second floor. "Get down here now!" My blonde hair falls in soft waves over my shoulders, and the deep blue blouse, as well as my ck faux pants, hug my curves in all the right ces. I take onest look in the mirror The blue blouse and ck pants might be a far cry from the glitzy dress code of the city ball happening alongside our meeting, but they''re more ''me'' But even after getting dolled up for the city ball/ alpha meet. I can''t quite summon the excitement. Chances are, I won''t be attending, but will be forced to go to the Alpha meeting next door. I sigh; I should be in a dress. Instead, I''m in work clothes, though I must admit, I do love this top. I snicker, knowing my step-sister Lydia will be furious when she realizes I stole it Tecan just see the look on her face "Tl be right out!" I call back to my father Hastily, domg up my heels, I rush to the door and the stairs. Stepping out of my room, I brace myself for the inevitable sh with Lydia My heels click on the hardwood floors. As I make my way down the stairs, I see Lydia standing impatiently by the front door, perfectly coiffed and dressed to impress in a slinky red number. Too bad her personality is so horrid because no amount of makeup would ever hide the inner troll she is Lydia smirks when she spots me. She no doubt wants to boast that she''ll be the belle of the ball Like I care. If I even do attend, I''ll likely stay put, lurking in the shadows. That is, if I even get a chance to leave this stupid Alpha meeting in time "About time," she sneers, pushing off the wall she is leaning on, she then eyes my top, her eyes squinting before a look of outrage crosses her features "Wait, is that my top!?" Lydia demands, taking in my appearance as I reach the bottom of the stairs "Not anymore," I mock, and she goes to say something, but my father cuts her off when he appears in the hall "We don''t have time for this, girls," my father chides, steering us out the door. As we pile into the car, I can feel the tension radiating off him He''s got a lot of riding on tonight''s meeting, especially with Alpha Zayn attending. The man''s a walking challenge to my father''s authority too young, too brash, and apparently, too good at getting under Dad''s skin Lydia''s gaze roams over me, taking in my appearance with obvious disdain "You look in, as usual," she scoffs, knowing better than to start a fight in front of my father "Thanks, Lydia," I reply sarcastically, fighting the urge to roll my eyes. "At least I don''t need toyer on makeup to hide what a troll I am." "Cleo, enough," my father scolds as Lydia folds her arms across her chest, a smug look on her face hearing my father tell me off. Dad tends to pick her side so as to avoid upsetting his mate, who unfortunately is my stepmother "Can we go now?" my father interjects impatiently, his stern expression warning me not to start another argument with my step-sister after our cat fight earlier where I smashed her in the face with my drink bottle. Oops. But the B deserved it for tripping me on the stairsContent ? N?velDrama.Org. nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! With a resigned sigh, I follow him out the door and to the waiting car, mentally preparing myself for the night ahead. A night of pure boredom "I can''t believe how long you both took to get ready," my father growls. "We''re runningte." I roll my eyes at his words, but he grabs my arm in an iron grip and drags me down the steps when I don''t keep up with his long strides. I wince, stumbling in my heels to keep up as he marches us to the car. This meeting with the other Alphas means everything to him, and to our pack, but to me, it''s just another reminder that my fate has already been decided Climbing in the car, my father shuts his door a little too hard, signaling that he''s in a ripe mood and I shouldn''t push his buttons. He jams the keys into the ignition and starts the car, muttering to himself as he pulls out of the driveway and heads into the city. As we drive, I can''t help but wonder about this Alpha Zayn I''ve never met him, but the way Dad talks about him, you''d think he was the devil incarnate "I swear, if Alpha Zayn iste to this one-" I nce at him, but his words cut off with a growl as he res out the windshield. My father can''t stand the new Alpha in the city. Alwaysining he is too young, cocky, and arrogant. I''m yet to meet the man, and if my father''s opinion is anything to go off, I probably won''t like him either As we drive towards the Alpha ball, and the meeting that is being held at the same venue, I can''t help but feel a growing sense of unease Chapter 2 The city 1s packed, even with so many attackstely. Having all these gatherings is like posting a neon sign saying attack here! My father''s words from earlier echo in my mind: ''Once you get your wolf.'' This serves as a reminder of my yet-to- emerge inner beast is a constant source of anxiety, knowing once I get my wolf, I will have that target on my back. I will constantly be scrutinized by everyone over everything, and not just by werewolf society, but also the human governments that help govern the city. We may be alphas, but we too have rules we must abide by Furthermore, with that date of my impending shift looming closer, it seems to put a strain on my rtionship with my father. Alpha''s rarelyN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. get along with other Alphas, so three living in one house will be horrendous. Lydia is also of Alpha blood. She is already a pain in the rear. I can''t imagine how much more insufferable she''ll be when the pack is handed down to me However, Lydia is the least of my worries. My father is a bigger concern. It seems like no matter how hard I try, I can''t live up to his expectations. Honestly, I can''t wait for the break to end so I can go back to university and live out myst semester in peace; soak in those final few months before I am forced to step up and take over the pack. We spend the rest of the drive in tense silence. I stare out the window, longing to be anywhere but here. I''d rather be sitting by theke with Deacon outughing or sneaking into the new club that opened up. Not stuck at some stuffy political event where my only purpose is to be shown off like a prize and watch as they all argue "Make sure you pay attention at this meeting, Cleo. This one is about pack protection," my father reminds me. "No falling asleep like you did at thest one." Lydia snickers behind me, and I clench my teeth, casting a re at her over my shoulder How I would love to give her a real piece of my mind "Maybe I wouldn''t fall asleep if it wasn''t so boring," I grumble to myself as we pull up to the meeting ce. As soon as the cares to a stop, Lydia practically jumps on the spot, her eyes scanning our surroundings like an eager pup for her friends "You better get used to them, kiddo. You''ll be attending them a lot more soon," my father adds I pull a face, wishing I had an older sibling to take my ce Climbing out of the car, I wait for my father "How could you not want to go to the Alpha ball?" Lydia huffs, tossing her perfectly curled hair over her shoulder "T would rather tolerate the ball than the meeting! Wanna trade?" I offer, and she looks at me "Ew, no, why would I want to hang out with a bunch of old dudes whining about border patrols when I can be hunting for my mate," she huffs. I sigh. She''s as dumb as she looks. I swear she was supposed to be Omega. How she ended up with Alpha genes is beyond me when she acts like a bitch in heat "You realize you''ll have to attend these eventually when your father gives you his pack?" I tell her. She pulls a face nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "And that is precisely why I will choose a mate They can attend all that boring crap. I got better things to do," she tells me "Like what? Your nails?" I taunt "You''re just jealous your father is forcing you to go to the meeting, though I can''t wait to see your face at the end of it," sheughs. I raise an eyebrow at her "Well, unlike you, I have better things to do than unt myself at Alphas all night," I reply, stepping next to my father. Now, he is done speaking with Lydia''s father, Alpha Samuel. I straighten my stolen blouse "Have fun, Cleo. I''m sure you''ll meet your destined mate tonight," sheughs "What the heck are you pping your gums about now?" I ask. Lydia smirks "Wouldn''t you like to know," she chuckles before spotting one of her friends nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Oh, Maya is here," Lydia gushes excitedly and immediately prances off to her friends who are hanging out next door, outside of the ball''s entrance. My father grabs my arm. "Stay close," he tells me, and I know he is worried about this venue. He did warn the Alphas we need to change the venue given the heightened security risk in the city. Routine 1s bad with all the recent attacks, and council meetings are always held here He shakes his head and drags me off to the restaurant where the council meeting will take ce. The ce is already full of Alphas in crisp suits. "Too many of us in one ce. We should have changed venues," my father growls as he leads me upstairs and into a conference room. My father''s jaw clenches when he notices one particr seat still empty. I internally groan Please don''t bete, Alpha Zayn. Great, now my father will be extra moody, if that''s even possible. We take our seats, and my father drums his fingers on the huge table, looking more annoyed as each minute passes "Where the hell is he?" my father hisses. Alpha Samuel looks over at us as we enter and take our seats. He is Lydia''s father, yet she didn''t have to attend this shitshow like I have to "Joseph, calm down. He''s on his way," Samuel warns my father Alpha Zayn. The Alpha of the ck River Pack Rumors have been swirling for months about how he gained his position, but one thing is clear-my father hates him. And those that don''t hate him, fear him Chapter 3 Sitting back in my seat, I remind myself that four more hours and the annual Alpha meeting would finally be over, and I can go home. Well, as long as Dad doesn''t force me to go to the ball and babysit Lydia. Dad loves to drag me to these silly meetings, even though I find them boring as hell. Mostly, they just argue or boast about theirtest business affairs The meeting is held in the main part of Nightshade City, which is neutral territory. All the packs are on the outskirts, surrounding the city. So, it makes sense for the city to be a neutral ground because otherwise, movement within the city limits would be restricted. All five packs rely on it not only for business to thrive, but also to keep suppliesing tn I''ve spent all my school holidays in these sorts of meetings. Despite literally nothing important happening in them, my father has still insisted I attend even though my stepmother volunteered to go in my ce. Dad, however, wasn''t having it, lecturing that I needed to learn the ropes of running a pack and how these meetings are a big part of it I guess I am an essory, and I''m one step away from bing his fanny pack at this point. I''m already his notetaker, calctor, mediator, and coffee maker. He might as well just hand the pack over already A few of the other Alphas have brought their sons and daughters. It is strategic on their parents'' part, a way to strengthen alliances through marriages However, I had no such interest, and it is clear I wasn''t the only one who wasn''t interested in parental antics. The only person I will marry one day is my mate, if I find him or her, that 1sN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. I often wonder what my mate will be like... who my wolf will choose... if I find my mate before Deacon marks me, that is. One part of me is conflicted if I should wait a year to see if I find my mate. Deacon wants to mark me once I get my wolf, we''ve been together two years but asionally, I am not so sure. Finding my mate, that person who was made for me, sounds so exciting and enticing I am brought out of my thoughts by Dad''s irritated voice "This is ridiculous. Where is he?" he growls, smacking the table with his fist. Alpha Zayn is notoriouslyte, and as Dad had exined earlier, he doesn''t seem to care much for these meetings. Well, that is one thing we have inmon, I guess. But that exins why I''ve never met the man, since he''s apparently too busy to attend Maybe now''s my chance to slip out to the bathroom and note back. Dad seems preupied enough with Alpha Zayn''s tardiness. I peer around the room, only to find the young man across from me staring. He smirks, and I bite back the urge to ask him to stop staring when he leans over the table "Have you heard the good news?" Boyd asks My brows furrow when his father elbows him harshly, giving him a look that seems to tell him to shut his mouth. Boyd leans back in his seat and folds his arms across his chest, looking rather smug like he knows something important I don''t. Confusion washes over me, we don''t have much to do with their pack. My father never really liked Alpha Dane, who is Boyd''s father. I nce at my father, who is suddenly stiff as a board beside me "Dad?" I elbow him "Well, discuss itter," he whispers back before diverting his attention back to the conference room door. "For frig sake, where is he?" my father snaps angrily, ncing at his watch "Hush, Joseph, I would prefer no bloodshed at this meeting," Alpha Samuel states, ncing at the other Alphas nervously Rumors have spread that Alpha Zayn''s father met an untimely death, and the circumstances surrounding it remain quite murky. Yet, Alpha Zayn looks guilty as sin. His father goes missing, and he is suddenly ruling over thergest pack in the country. Yeah, that doesn''t sound shady at all Dad groans at his words, drumming his fingers on the oval table. We are one of the smaller packs surrounding the city, and we rely heavily on alliances, especially when ites to rogues and hunters. Without alliances, we would never have won thest rogue attack. It was sheer luck that Alpha Samuel''s pack was visiting at the time because otherwise, we would have beenpletely destroyed That''s the subject of today''s pack meeting Rogue numbers have grown out of control, and packs are constantly under threat or being attacked. Even the city has been targeted a few times If something does go down at this meeting after my dad warned against it, I''m ming the alphas who refused to listen The double doors swing open as if summoned, and Alpha Zayn stalks in. The room stills, all eyes turning to him. He exudes power and confidence with every step, those piercing gray eyes taking in everything and the energy in the room, waltzing in like he owns the ce. My breath catches as I drink him in. Messy dark hair, stubble entuating a sharp jawline, and tattoos peeking out from his open cor. He looks like sin personified. Maybe this meeting won''t be boring after all Chapter 4 "Is there an issue, Joseph?" Alpha Zayn demands. Only then do I nce at my father, who 1s shooting a look of daggers in his direction. I kick him under the table, and my father sits back in his chair, folding his arms across his chest while shooting me a re "Behave!" I mouth to my father. Gee, now I need to tell him how to act! "Not at all, Alpha Zayn," Dad denies quickly Looking back at the Alpha, I quickly avert my gaze when I realize that me kicking my father under the table didn''t go unnoticed. Yet when I dare to look up, Alpha Zayn is still staring at me as ifm some puzzle he 1s trying to solve. He shakes his head and moves toward his seat. My eyes follow him to take his seat. When he does, his gaze finds mine for a heated moment before he turns his attention away, clenching his jaw. I feel my cheeks flush and quickly turn my attention to the huge board Alpha Samuel spent a good ten minutes writing on earlier I swallow, not liking the way he is staring so intensely, and I can once again feel his gaze on me. A shiver runs up my spine. Thankfully, Alpha Samuel clears his throat, drawing his attention away, and I let out the breath I didn''t know I was holding My eyes wander around the room, taking in the tense expressions of the Alphas as they discuss alliance strategies and resource management All this talk about pack politics and territory borders is exhausting. I can''t wait to escape back to my life outside these walls "Alpha Joseph, your input on the new trade agreement would be appreciated," Alpha Samuel says, his voice cutting through my thoughts Was I close to dozing off again? My dad straightens up in his chair, preparing to speak, but I can''t bring myself to care about whatever he''s going to say. Instead, I find my gaze drifting towards Alpha Zayn, who sits across the table, every bit as disinterested as I am "Very well," my father begins,unching into a lengthy exnation about supply chains and tariffs. I try to focus on his words, but it''s hard not to get lost in my own fantasies, especially when they involve the enticingly dangerous Alpha Zayn. His dark hair and the Alpha''s steely gray eyes make it difficult to concentrate on anything else when my phone vibrates on the table. I snatch my phone off to nce at the message lighting up my screen Leaning down, I look at it under the table to see it''s from Deacon, making me grin mischievously ''Meet me outside in ten minutes'' I quickly type a reply. "You decided to go?'' I reply back to my boyfriend. His reply is just as quick ''Jailbreak, meet me downstairs.'' I can''t help the goofy smile that splits onto my face I quickly reply, telling him I will find an excuse when my phone is suddenly snatched from my hand. I grit my teeth, expecting it to be my father, but Iam shocked to find it 1s Alpha Zayn. He raises an eyebrow at me "Is there something you''d like to share with the rest of us?" Alpha Zayn asks suddenly, his gaze piercing through me. My cheeks flush with embarrassment, but I can''t deny how my heart races at his attention. I shake my head, staring at the man wide-eyed "Um, no," I stammer, trying to regain my nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "TI hang onto this until after the meeting," he tells me, and his eyes flicker to his wolf as he peers down at my phone, reading my text messages. I reach for my phone, but he pulls it away, and I re at him "You can''t take my daughter''s phone," my father quickly growls. Alpha Zayn merely nces at him before pocketing it "L already did," he states, giving me a pointed look. I turn back in my chair, and my father looks like he is about to leap out of his chair, when Samuel speaks upN?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. "Joseph!" Samuel shakes his head, warning my father to back off, and reluctantly, he does while Alpha Zayn retakes his seat across from me The meeting continues, and I notice some other future Alphas sneaking off. They''re using the bathroom as an excuse to leave. It is that boring And no one seems to have noticed they haven''t returned, so I decide to chance it. ncing around, I lean closer to my father "L need to use the bathroom," I whisper. He nods for me to go, and I quietly push my chair out, making a quick exit for the door. Once in the hall, I go to retrieve my phone before remembering Alpha Zayn took it from me Great, I''ll find Deacon either way; I will just have to mindlink Dad to grab my phone from him on his way out. Moving toward the topnding and the stairs, I run into one of the Alpha''s sons from the meeting. I''m pretty sure his name 1s Boyd. He 1s the same one who seemed to have no issue staring most of the night "Cleo!" he calls out, and I stop, fisting my hands and turning back to face him "You escaped?" heughs "Trying to, but you''re intent on getting me caught if we are going to be lingering outside the door," I tell him. He nces back at the conference room door "Tm not taking over. My brother is. No purpose for me in those meetings," he says, draping his arm across my shoulders. "IT heard your father is handing down the pack to you. I''m surprised it''s not going to Lydia, since Samuel''s pack is bigger. It would make sense if they joined packs," he tells me However, this time, I try to step away. I may not like having to attend these meetings, but there is no way I would let that bitch take over my mother''s pack. I couldn''t dishonor her like that "Oh, sorry, I didn''t mean to offend you. Come on, let''s get a drink. My father wants to discuss alliances with your father anyway. It seems we''ll be getting to know each other better soon anyway," he says, and I stop in my tracks at his words "Excuse me?" "Your father hasn''t told you?" he asks me I step away from him, wondering what he means. For some reason, I remember what Lydia had said earlier and wonder if this is what she meant. Suddenly, Boyd stiffens as I bump into somebody. A warm hand falls to my hip, and tingles rush over my skin, sending a shiver up my spine ncing over my shoulder, I find Alpha Zayn behind me Chapter 5 Damn it! I try to step away from him, but he presses closer until I feel his entire body pressed against my back, and his grip on my hip tightens "Shouldn''t you be in the Alpha meeting?" Alpha Zayn asks Boyd, who stares at him like a deer in headlights "My father let me leave," he stammers, quick to defend himself I remain frozen in ce. Some part of me is grateful that Zayn stepped out before shit got awkward with Boyd. The other part of me knows I''ll be dragged back into that damn meeting, my opportunity to escape ruined "Good, now leave," Alpha Zayn growls when I feel his hand on my hip move slightly, brushing beneath my blouse. Boyd also notices the Alpha''s hand and reaches for me "Come on, Cleo," Boyd states, reaching his hand toward me. Yet after hearing what he said, I don''t want to go anywhere with him. Honestly, I''d rather put up with the boring meeting and this mysterious, somewhat bossy Alpha whose grip only seems to grow tighter "Cleo is using the bathroom. She is required to attend since she''ll be Alpha. Isn''t that right, Cleo?" his fingers dig into my hip harder. No Alpha has ever... disciplined me like this. I nce up at him and swallow when I find his eyes ring daggers at Boyd "T guess I''ll see youter, Cleo, if youe down to the ball," Boyd quickly states before rushing off down the stairs I gulp, peering up at Alpha Zayn, who leans down and points behind me. "Bathrooms are right there," he tells me, and I nce back toward the conference room door, which the unisex bathroom door is next to the conference room I give him a nervous look "You weren''t sneaking off now, were you?" he asks "Just using the bathroom, but then I ran into Boyd," I say, awkwardly turning for the bathroom when I stop. "May I get my phone back, please?" I ask him. He raises an eyebrow at me "Why, so you can message Boyd?" he asks, and my face falls "What, no? It''s my phone." Why is he so concerned with who I''m messaging? "Until the end of the meeting, it is mine. Now, hurry, your father was worried about you," he snaps "So, what? You decided to y errand boy for my father?" I snicker, rolling my eyes. Who is this guy? My teacher If he thinks I am going to take his crap because he''s an Alpha, he is in for a shock because I am also an Alpha and do not have to bow to him "I''m waiting for my Beta. Now, use the bathroom before I tell Alpha Dane how excited you are to take Boyd as your mate, and be the next Luna of ymore pack" he growls, and my face falls "Lam not taking him as my mate!" I reply, my tone changing to a growl. Alpha Zayn smiles deviouslyN?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. "Then you better get back to the meeting to say that, I heard Alpha Dane ask to speak with your father after the meeting about an alliance proposal." "What did my father say?" I ask him, slightly worriedly. This ismon within packs, my father married my mother as part of a pack alliance, he then took over her pack only to find his true mate in my stepmother. It made thingsplicated, but at first, my mother had epted it, though Linda wasn''t as epting as my mother. This is one thing that constantly wotrles me, even if we take a chosen mate, we will still recognize our true destined mate "I didn''t hear. My Beta mindlinked me," he says as he steps closer and leans down "But he can''t marry you off without your consent. So make sure you don''t give it," he tells me "You know it''s not that easy," I tell him, noticing how good he smells as he leans in closer, making me want to lean closer so 1 can soak up his scent. I almost follow that instinct when I snap out of the weird hair I''m under before embarrassing myself "Isn''t it?" he says, and my brows furrow "Tt could cause pack wars," I remind him "You''ll have strong alliances," he tells me "T highly doubt Alpha Samuel will go up against Alpha Dane, given they''re best friends, and he is the only alpha my father currently has an alliance with." My eyes suddenly burn at the thought as tears spring to my eyes "The only thing that would stop that going ahead," he begins to say, then smirks, and I want to p him for being a jerk about me possibly being married off "A mate, I know!" I snap at him, and his brows pinch. It''s alright for him; he isn''t being forced to marry someone he doesn''t like. I gulp, a horrible lump in my throat. How will I exin this to Deacon? We have ns. ns that don''t involve political alliances "Are you seriously not going to..." his words cut off when someone in the distance calls his name "Alpha?" mutters a voice. Peering around him, I see his Beta standing on the stairs Using his momentary distraction, I turn to the bathroom, push the door open, and quickly move inside. I wash my hands, not actually needing to use the bathroom, just trying to buy time. Now the urge to escape extends beyond avoiding an annoying meeting. I need to speak to Boyd and try to get him to talk his father out of that idea. Deacon will be my mate if my wolf doesn''t find her own. He''s insisted. We''ve already discussed it. Walking back out, Alpha Zayn 1s still talking to his Beta, and I internally groan. So much for escaping "I should go back into the meeting," he tells the man he is speaking with, and I know I won''t be sneaking off anywhere with the Alpha around to alert my father. He turns and moves toward me I quickly rush back into the meeting and retake my seat Alpha Zayn follows me a secondter. My father once again looks furious about having to wait for Alpha Zayn "Sorry, my Beta needed to speak with me," Alpha Zayn states, and the other Alphas don''t seem to mind. However, my father does "That''s what the mindlink is for," my father snarls "Really? I wouldn''t have known, Joseph. Last I checked, the mindlink provides me with ess to his thoughts, not his eyes. He had something to show me. Now, can we continue?" My father''s lip tugs in the corners, and I know he 1s biting back what he wants to say I lean back in my seat, sulking that I can''t escape to see Deacon. Yet, one part of me is grateful to Boyd for the heads up about my dad''s master n. If he thinks I''m marrying Boyd, he is severely mistaken The meeting drags on, tensions rising as Alpha Zayn continues to shut down my father''s every argument. I can see Dad''s temper boiling, his hands clenching into fists on the table. They spoke about the threat of the rogues and new treaty deals. As time passes, my father bes increasingly angry as everything he says continues to get shut down None of the other Alphas dare to interfere, and I wonder what my father did to infuriate this Zayn so badly. Surely, it isn''t just because of the look my father gave him when he entered Eventually, my father finally snaps and explodes, making me jump 1n my seat Chapter 6 "Fuck this. If you are just going to hand him control of the city, then I am done here," my father snarls abruptly, making me jump "Sit down, Joseph, my men on your borders are the only thing keeping the rogues off yournd So sit the fuck down and shut up!" Alpha Zayn growls, and his fistes down on the table with a loud thud: the wood creaks and groans, a crack slivering right up the middle of it makes my eyes widen My fatherughs and shakes his head. "T have no alliance with your pack!" "Regardless, if you bothered to go out to your borders for once, you would see my patrols Every pack here is under my pack''s protection, and I will revoke it if you don''t sit down!" "Samuel''s men help patrol my pack borders, not yours," my father snaps, gripping my arm and yanking me to my feet I curse, hitting my knee on the table. Great, why am I involved? Flinching, I''m nearly tossed to the ground, at the force of which my father grabs me and pulls me up beside him. My chair tips over, and I stumble over the top of it. A menacing snarl leaves Alpha Zayn''s lips "Samuel, would you enlighten this old fool," Alpha Zayn growls murderously, and my father stops, his grip on my arm bing crushing Now I wish I paid attention. My father never puts his hands on me, but something has really got under his skin for him to grab me like this Alpha Samuel shrinks in his seat as my father''s gaze turns to him "What he says is true. I haven''t had the numbers after thest attack, so asked Alpha Zayn to patrol the pack''s borders," he exins, looking somewhat embarrassed Alpha Samuel''s pack is the secondrgest and usually runs the city''s protection and the border patrols. That is what my father pays him for: his protection "Excuse me? I pay you every fucking month," my father spits at him, but it is Alpha Zayn that answers "Now, you pay me. So sit down and unhand your-" he pauses, looking me over, having lost his train of thought "My daughter, Cleo," my father answers. The Alpha nods once, his eyes on my father''s hand that is still locked onto me in a death grip. What is going on here? "T know who she is." My father growls, and I cry out as his grip crushes my arm. The other Alphas stare in shock. Alpha Zayn''s eyes ze, a snarl on his lips "Dad," I plead. "Let go! What''s going on? What are they talking about?" I say, feeling like there''s something big I''m missing out on nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 00005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Let her go," hemands, voice holding a deadly lilt. "You''re hurting her." My father blinks, ncing down at the bruises and scratches already forming on my skin where his ws had slipped out and scratched me Horror floods his face, and his hand falls away My cheeks burn a brilliant shade of scarlet. I am frightened and embarrassed as my father released his vice-like grip on my arm, the intensity of it leaving behind the clear outlines of his fingers "Cleo? Crap, I''m sorry, sweetie," he apologizes, the tone of his voice changing abruptly from venomous to remorseful. I can''t help but feel like some sort of prize or trophy, one that he nearly damaged with his careless actions and temper "I''m fine. Just leave me," I whisper, trying to hide my humiliation from him and the others in the room Swatting his hand away, I sheepishly try to hide the bruises on my arms. The weight of their gazes bear down on me, making me acutely aware of how much attention has been ced on me at that moment, but I refuse to look at any of them. Instead, I focus on keeping my thoughts and emotions in check, remembering the countless lessons I have taken about controlling my reactions "Now sit down. We must finish; I haven''t got time for another meetingter," Alpha Zayn snaps, my father''s head whips in his direction, and he growls, not liking being spoken down to by someone younger than himContent ? N?velDrama.Org. "You are all fools, giving this lunatic control of the city and our packs," my father snarls at Alpha Samuel, then turns to re at Alpha Zayn. "Shove your protection up your ass. I will not bow to the likes of you!" he growls, ring at the young Alpha before tugging me from the nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! room "Dad!" [ hiss, still majorly confused about what''s going on. He growls daringly at me, but even I know the importance of having those patrols "We need his help," I grit out, but he isn''t hearing it. Instead, he rips me away from the meeting room and toward the stairs leading to the restaurant "Dad!" I snap when we reach the bottom and are out of earshot "No, Cleo, I am not leaving my pack in the hands of that monster," he growls, stopping so abruptly that I m right into his back. He grips my shoulders and looks at me with a sigh, and drops his head "Look, one day you will understand, but for " Sirens suddenly go off, ringing from everywhere. My dad straightens up, his eyes darting around as the sirens grow louder, signaling the city is under attack. My eyes widen, and I nce around as people panic and screams ring out from outside. My father shoves me behind him "Cleo, go, find somewhere to hide!" my father screams before shifting into his huge gray wolf My heart beats like a drum in my chest, panic, and fear filling me, and I take off only to be knocked down by the stampede of panicked humans. I crawl to a nearby table, ducking under the tablecloth, when the windows all around suddenly shatter. Gunshots ring out deafeningly, and the roars and growls only get closer and louder "Cleo, run!" my father screams through the mindlink when a giant malt-colored wolf upturns the table. I scream, scrambling back on my hands and knees, only for my father''s wolf to attack the wolf. Turning, I try to get to my feet when teeth rip into my arm, sending jarring pain through me Chapter 7 My scream echoes through my skull as the beast shakes its head violently, flinging me toward the kitchens. My body flies through the air, and I crash heavily on the floor. Groaning, I scramble to get to my feet, slipping on the tiled floor that is drenched in blood. Bodies are strewn across the restaurant floor, and I run for the kitchen doors just as I am tackled to the ground- another wolf is upon me The wolf''s teeth tear into my thigh, and this time, when I hear my father''s panicked voice ring out, I know he has shifted back to find me "Dad!" I scream for him before hearing his strained voice "Samuel, get to Cleo!" I hear his gurgled cry from another room before I hear the snapping of bones again. I kick out, trying to get the wolf mauling me off while keeping my arms over my head, knowing if he gets to my neck, I am gone ws rake down my sides, and I scream in agony as the wolf drags me closerN?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. I thrash, screaming and kicking when his weight is suddenly gone from on top of me. I gasp in relief only to see a massive ck wolf standing over the rogue that attacked me. The rogue now lies dead at his feet. I crawl back on my hands and feet, my leg throbbing as my blood spills onto the floor, mingling with the rest of the bright red stains. I shriek when I notice another rogue lunge at my face, only to stop midair when the ck wolf mauls it. I try to escape, but I am caught beneath the ck wolf He takes down the rogue, and I clutch his fur, wondering which Alpha it is because I haven''t seen this wolf before. He doesn''t snarl as I use his body to pull myself out from under him so that I can stand, but the wolf sniffs my leg and whimpers when I notice more rogues spilling in through open windows. The wolf snarls, spinning on his feet before snapping his teeth at me, his way of telling me to run without the mindlink I don''t need to be told twice. I mber to my feet, ignoring the pain and running toward the kitchen to find somewhere to hide and catch glimpses of rogues everywhere. They are going to kill everyone, I think, panicked. There are too many. Sliding along the floor, my leg throbs to its own beat, and my arm is gushing blood when four roguese into the kitchen from the other end. Ie to a jarring halt before spinning, only to find my exit is now blocked, and I am surrounded "Cleo, where are you?" my father calls through the mindlink "Dad, I''m..." a snarl pulls me from the mindlink "Hold on, Bub, I''m trying to get to you!" he calls back, but my eyes track the movement of the wolves surrounding me Looking around, I grab a knife off the counter, trying to watch them as they stalk toward me The one at the exit I just came in from charges at me, and my eyes fly wide, a shriek leaving my lips when it too is suddenly mauled, mere inches away from me The huge ck wolf from before starts ripping it to shreds and knocking me out of the way when the other four join the fray, trying to kill him Scrambling back on my hands and feet, I turn, looking for a way to escape, when I see one wolf tear into the ck wolf''s hind leg. Panic ripples through me at the sight, knowing that the wolf is the only thing keeping me alive I stare at my hand and remember the knife Getting my hands and knees, I scramble to my feet. I rush toward the one ripping at his rear leg while two try to get at him from the side, the other dead on the ground. I plunge the knife into the filthy gray wolf. It rears back and snarls then wheezes when I pull the knife out just as quickly Only it doesn''t kill him. It only serves to piss him off. Panic rushes through me as he stalks toward me. The ck wolf is busy mauling the other two when moree in. By the time I turn back, it 1s toote. The wolf pounces and tears into my shoulder, knocking me backward. I scream, pain flooding through me, and the sound rings out loudly as it shakes its head Teeth tear through my flesh easily when it suddenly lets go. I groan, rolling on my side Blood coats the floor, making it slick as I try to drag myself away I crawl toward the huge walk-in freezers and grab the handle, attempting to rip it open. The savage fighting grows louder, and I hear their bodies dropping just as moree crashing into the kitchen, knocking the steel benches over and sending utensils flying. The ck wolf that saved me 1s now severely outnumbered and wholly surrounded as he puts himself between me and them Yet, no matter how many spill into the kitchen, he keeps attacking them with surprising finesse But he''s slowing down, limping and bleeding in several ces. I feel powerless, unable to shift and of no use to him. All I can do 1s watch and slowly back up, watching them intently. Who is this mysterious wolf? And why hasn''t he abandoned me to save himself? Chapter 8 I yank on the freezer doors, trying to get them to open, but in my panic, I realize there is a button on the handle. Jamming my thumb on it, it clicks open, and I grip the frame, using it to help pull me to my feet. Turning back, the wolf is covered in blood as he takes on three rogues at once. After looking around and finding no exit for him, I call out to him, knowing the freezer would be secure if we could jam the door closed "Hey!" I scream out to him, and he nces back only to be attacked. He attacks back, mauling the wolf, only for another to rece it He retreats, backing up toward me, and I push the door open. If he doesn''t hide in here, they will kill him. We can block the door and wait for help toe. Unable to shift and join the fray, it''s our only hope Not given a choice, he turns the moment he gets a chance and barrels toward me. I shriek, darting out of his way before mming the door shut the moment he is inside. The wolves hit the door and nearly toss it open while I push back against them "Help me block it!" I shout at the wolf while gripping the handle and digging my feet into the ground, trying to hold it closed. I scream as it pushes inward, my shoulder and arm protesting as the door rams back at me; my injuries threatening to make my whole body copse. I can''t lock the handle when suddenly, a body hits it. Likewise, I click the lock in ce, only for it to unlock instantly, and I know one of the rogues has shifted back. Paws would struggle to manipte the lock "Move!" a man''s voice growls, and I jump back as he ms his body against it. Hearing the lock click back in ce, and then the handle drops to the ground with a loud ng. I try to catch my breath, relieved he got it locked, just as my legs give out from under me I mp my hand over my bleeding thigh, internally cringing at the way it is ripped open My consciousness fades and I feel like Iam going to faint as I stare down at my blood-drenched blouse "Show me," the man''s deep voicees as he swats my hands away, and I look up to see who is the man behind the mysterious ck wolf who saved me. I gasp when I recognize him to be Alpha Zayn. Looking very handsome but absolutely exhausted. Plus, he is naked in the flesh with his hands holding my leg together "Why didn''t you shift?" he snaps at me, angrily pulling me from my shock "T haven''t shifted yet," I blurt out, and his head snaps up to look at me "You''re under twenty?" he stammers I nod, and he appears shocked, pressing his lips in a line. He nods once before he growls "Avert your gaze, jail bait, while I find something to cover myself with." "Excuse me? Jail bait? I''m neen and an adult!" I retort, outraged that he would call me such a name "Yes, exactly. You''re unshifted. Therefore, jail bait. Unmated wolves aren''t supposed to be naked around the unshifted she-wolves. You won''t get your wolf until you''re twenty Therefore, you''re still a damn pup!" he retorts "Shut up!" I growl at him "Was that a purr?" he mocks. I re at him, but he holds my gaze "Look away so that I can stand." Troll my eyes but look away. His logic makes no sense. I am the legal age to drink, an adult ording to thew. Just technically not ording to werewolf society, apparently "Wouldn''t be the first man I have seen naked," I mutter "You''re not a virgin?" he growls menacingly, responding quickly nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 5s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! My face heats. "I mean, I have seen men naked when they shift before." I''m certainly not going to be discussing my barely there sex life with an Alpha I hardly know. Especially one who knows my father "Good, so you are a virgin," he snarls Why does he care? I think bitterly "[ never said that either," I quip, and he growlsContent ? N?velDrama.Org. Not that he needed to know that I am, in fact, still a virgin. It just irritates me that he is so damn nosey and prying into my life "Well, are you or not?" he demands, and I look at him to find him covering himself with a meat bag. Seems fitting, I chuckle, staring at it "Aren''t there more important things to discuss?" I taunt. "Like for example my bleeding leg." I grunt, remembering the pain "Answer me!" He res at me "Why does it matter?" I shoot back. He looks away, and I watch as he clenches his teeth. "Are you a virgin?" I ask in a mocking tone "That''s none of your business!" "Yet my virginity is yours?" I retort, raising an eyebrow "Do I look like a virgin?" he snaps. My eyes roam over him. The man is sheer muscle and flesh, each part of him sculpted perfectly, right down to his.. "You look like a man who has his meat in a nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! sausage bag," I snicker, trying to keep the mood light and the pain away. He doesn''t find my joke funny. Instead, he stares nkly at me "Fine, no, you don''t look like a virgin, although I wouldn''t be surprised if you were with your attitude," I snap at him "Do you have a boyfriend?" he asks, and I sigh, rubbing my temples. I can already feel a headacheing on "What''s with the millions of questions? We may die in a freezer together, but that doesn''t mean I need to reveal my entire life to you?" I remind him, and he sighs "Just answer the question," he growls "Kinda," I tell him. Shit! Why would I tell him that? What if he tells my father? "But, please don''t tell my father. He''ll bloody kill me! I told him Deacon is just a friend," I blurt like an idiot Thest thing I want is for Deacon to get in trouble because we fooled around The Alpha growls but says nothing else on the matter and instead tries to stem the bleeding on my leg when I suddenly hear a loud crack. The Alpha looks up at the ceiling, and so do I Secondster, we hear a crash, and the freezer we are hiding in shakes "Please tell me that wasn''t the roof caving in," I mutter "That wasn''t the roof," he says sarcastically, using a piece of my shirt to tie my wound shut Chapter 9 "So, have you got a girlfriend then?" I ask. I''m here and who knows what''s going on outside, might as well pass the time "Not anymore; I broke up with her today," he states matter-of-factly "Today? No wonder you were in such a bad mood at the Alpha meeting if she dumped your cranky ass," I mutter "I broke up with her!" he protests, sounding less like a suave, imposing Alpha and more like a teenage boy I raise an eyebrow at him. "Really? Is that why you''re so butt hurt?" I tease "Tm not hurt. I dumped her during the meeting, and I was in a bad mood because your father 1s a prick," he states "Wow, you broke up with your girlfriend via text. You really are a jerk!" I tell him, and he shrugs "She''ll find her mate eventually. It wouldn''t havested anyway," he tells me "Wait, you just dumped her for no reason?" "I have my reasons, none that you need to know about," he tells me. I roll my eyes at him "Did she cheat?" I ask "What? No, of course not," he growls. Alpha Zayn gets up, wanders to the door, and unlocks it. When he yanks on the door, it doesn''t budge "Great, now I am locked in here with you," I curse as he examines the door. He swears, looking up, and I see that the door frame has been bent, locking the door in ce. The Alpha peers over his shoulder and res at me "Sure, say it like it''s my damn fault, you''re not the only one trapped in here!" he growls "Yes, but you can adapt to the cold, I can''t!" I retort, and he turns to look at me "Fuck!" he growls, turning back to try to find a way out My breath fogs the freezing air as I shiver, ring at Alpha Zayn''s back. It is impossible not to notice how his muscles flex beneath his taut skin, but I refuse to let myself be swayed by lust in this very not ideal situation "Tt''s no use; we''re literally stuck in here," I state the obvious, my teeth chattering as I huddle against the wall. Whether it''s the cold or the blood loss, my leg feels numb He turns, casting me a scathing re that sends shivers down my spine for an entirely different reason. "Thanks for stating the obvious, I fucking know." As my heart pounds in my chest, I can''t help but think how unfair it 1s that I might die here with this arrogant-as-hell Alpha. I want to scream at the injustice of it all, but there is no time for that. I briefly think about Deacon, hoping he didn''t get caught up in the fight as he stood outside, waiting for me. And what about the people at the ball? What of Lydia and my father? My thoughts are cut off when I hear a chilling crack echo through the room, and my stomach tightens with fear "Get down!" Zayn barks, his voice tense with urgency Before I can even react, Zayn throws his body over mine, shielding me from the teeth-grating screech of metal copsing above us. His muscr form presses against me, making it difficult to breathe "Are you okay?" Zayn asks, his breath hot against my ear as he lifts himself off me just enough to look into my eyes. I nod, my heart still racing from the close call, when I notice the side of the freezer is bent in, and the roof is now lower "Thanks," I whisper, feeling a strange mix of gratitude and annoyance towards him while he moves to try the door again "Maybe if we''re lucky, the power source has been cut, and we won''t freeze to death," I offer, trying to ignore the incessant chattering of my teeth Zayn tilts his head, raising an eyebrow as he assesses me. "I originally wasn''t so sure if you were a natural blonde. This just puts my doubt to rest." He did not just mock me for being blonde! Anger zes within me, momentarily eclipsing the cold "Hey, I''m actually pretty smart; I at least think with my brain and not my temper and dick," I snap, realizing that I can still hear the faint sound of the motors running. Just great! The damn room 1s still powered nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Ouch, princess," Zayn smirks, but there is a hint of annoyance in his voice. "You sure know how to hit me where it hurts."N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. "Good," I mutter, hugging myself to stay warm My nipples are painfully erect beneath the thin fabric of my bra, but I refuse to let him see how much the cold is affecting me. Instead, I focus on the anger coursing through me, using it to keep me warm when his eyes go to my shoulder and corbone. His hands reach for my shirt, eyes wide with panic I peer down at it before wishing I hadn''t when I notice the skin p. The next second, my blouse is ripped open entirely, with the buttons popping off. I groan as the p of skin falls forward. I clutch it, forcing it back, when I hear his bones snapping. The next minute, a huge tongue rolls over my wound I shriek, trying to push the wolf''s head away. He snarls, snapping his teeth at me. He bites my hand viciously, and I cry out at the sudden pain, but he returns to licking the gaping wound "You''re not supposed to do that!" I shriek in panic. My father is going to kill me when he finds out Alpha Zayn has healed me. This is not good. He shifts back and res at me "Would you rather bleed to death?" he snaps at me, reaching for my hand. He clicks his tongue when I whimper, seeing his bite mark on my hand. Leaning down, he goes to heal me "Wait, stop." "T didn''t mean to let my wolf bite you. You angered him when you refused his help," Zayn tells me before ignoring me and sucking on my fingers. My toes curl, and an embarrassing noise leaves my lips Chapter 10 This is precisely why wolves don''t heal each other, it''s taboo and only for mates. It can also possibly sire our wolves, but since I don''t have one yet, hopefully, that won''t be too much of an issue I am about to protest when he turns my hand, he growls in a warning. I see his eyes sh ck momentarily as he licks my palm and across the side of my hand, healing the wound his wolf had created. He then sits back, looking rather satisfied with himself "My father is going to kill me!" I hiss, knowing his DNA will be circting in my system for a few days. If too much DNA 1s transferred, especially 1f the wound is too big, he would risk siring me "Pretty sure he would rather you alive than find you dead when I could have saved you," hements "Yeah, well, he''ll still be angry either way just because it was you, and the risk of you siring my wolf," I sigh heavily when I realize what I said out loud. My face heats. Gosh, that would be humiliating if I started chasing after him like a lovesick- sired pup. Our wolves are always with us from birth but dormant until a certain age, but they can still feel and sense their human counterpart I''ve always found that part of us to be fascinating, and my mother used to tell me about mate bonds and the magic of finding your fated mate. How our wolves can sense their mates by eye contact, it sets transmitters off to recognize their soul''s counterpart, kind taking the term saying the eyes are the window to the soul to another level, it''s also why healing a wolf that isn''t your mate is so taboo. It can alter those neurotransmitters, making us not recognize our mate "Don''t be embarrassed. I''d rather you stay alive; besides, it''s not like anyone saw me heal you or saw your reaction to it." "You saw! And they''ll still know!" I tell him, blushing even more. He shrugs, uncaring. I roll my eyes and nce away. Great, what will Deacon think? "I save you, and all I get is attitude. Keep going, and I will heal your leg." I flinch at his words, knowing if he heals any more of me, that risk of being sired goes up even without having my wolf yet. Still, though, I can''t help but sense that he genuinely wants to help me and isn''t trying to manipte me "Sorry, I didn''t mean to sound ungrateful," I mumble thest part, feeling guilty, but he isn''t the one who will have to endure my father Yet when the light blinks, I nce up in time to see one goes out while the other dims. It is dark in here now, yet that is the least of my worries as the temperature keeps dropping. I do my best not to shiver. I can still hear the fighting from outside, but it is fainter now. Is my father ok? "Are you alright?" he asks, and I turn slightly to see the Alpha looking at me with concern. I can just about make out his eyes piercing into me where he sits in the darkest part, having moved away from me. That is probably a good thing because despite not having my wolf, his saliva 1s now in my bloodstream, making him far more alluring. Which doesn''t help much seeing as the man is already alluring enough! At least where I am. I have one flickering dim light Nodding, I wrap my arms around myself "Yeah," I reply, shivering, yet my voice stutters as my teeth chatter "I can''t believe this!" he growls, punching the wall and making me look up in rm. "I should be out there." I can sense his frustration as he drops to the ground, leaning against the wall, clenching his fist Rubbing my arms, I look across at him. "Maybe we''ll be found soon." "Perhaps," he exhales, resting his head back against the wall. "How is your leg?" he asks, and I look down at it, only now realizing I can''t actually feel it. It''s gonepletely numb. I poke it, and nothingN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. "That''s not good," he mutters, and I look at him, and he sits up better "Come over here. You''re going to freeze to death at this rate." I chew my lip, wondering if I should. After a few seconds, I give up and use the wall to get to my feet As much as I want to argue, I don''t want to die here either. I am already freezing, and Goddess knows when someone will find us. I drag myself over to him, and his gaze falls to my bleeding leg. "Can you cover up?" I ask. I am not going to cuddle against a naked dude whose junk is hanging out He looks at me in disbelief. "Does it look like there''s something to cover myself with down here beside this bag?" he growls He does have a good point. I take what''s left of my top off, although that just left me in my bra, and toss it onto hisp. Almost smirking at the fact, his eyes sh, and he turns away from me nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! Now, who''s ufortable? Is he really going to treat me like I am underage? Bloody hell, I''m neen, almost the leader of my pack, and he just frigging healed me. If anything, he should be more worried about the potential sire he has created "There, better," I huff "Juste here," he growls, yanking me down on hisp. I sit there stiffly when he wraps his arms around me, pulling me closer and lifting his legs, so I am not sitting on the cold ground "Rx, I won''t hurt you," he says softly as he rubs my arms while being careful not to squash my leg. Giving in, I lean against him, weing the heat of his body. Yet when I rest my head on his shoulder, he shivers "You must be cold," I tell him "I''m more worried about you... Your father will start a war if you die on my watch." He tucks me closer, wrapping his arms around me and pulling my flush against his chest, only for me to gasp when I feel his shaft against my ass Oh, heck no! "And she says she''s not a virgin," he mocks "I''m not." I lie, frowning, but I don''t struggle further, allowing him to enclose me in his muscr arms nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Yeah, you are." he snickers "Am not." Heughs again but pulls away. His hand moves into my hair when he suddenly jerks my head back. He buries his nose 1n my neck before running it along the column of my throat to the side of my lips. I swallow at how close he is, and his eyes flicker "I can smell your innocence," he murmurs, his lips so close they brush against mine when he smirks and his eyes sh to that of his beast My face heats at his words. "That''s a good thing. I don''t understand why you are embarrassed," he mutters, tucking my face back into his neck. "Now, rest. I''ve mindlinked my Beta already. They''re trying to get to us," he tells me "Finally." "Yes, but it might be awhile. The entire building is on top of us." "What?" I groan "Sleep, don''t think about it," he tells me, and I sigh but do as he says while wondering how my father is. I try to mind link him, but with my blood loss, it is like I can''t exert that kind of energy I have to admit, he smells good. I internally roll my eyes. Wow, focus girl. The severity of the situation settles in, and I be somber once more, knowing it''s just his blood in my system that is wreaking havoc on my hormones Please find us soon.. Chapter 11 I don''t know how long has passed, but my body is beginning to feel numb. Although, I do have feeling back 1n my leg, and boy is it painful Zayn''s lips look a little blue, and even his body heat isn''t doing much to keep us warm now. He now observes me with something that looks like concern in his eyes, but I think I imagined it because as soon as ites, it is gone "Are you alright?" he asks. I nod, but he knows it''s a lie because my body is shaking like crazy He sighs, his breath fogging the air. "I''m going to shift into my wolf form. I''ll be able to keep you warm better." Seriously? Did he think of that now? "I''m d you finally realized," I scoff, not that the idea hade to me eitherContent ? N?velDrama.Org. Suddenly, he grabs hold of my neck tightly "Careful there, princess. If it weren''t for the fact that your father pays me for protection, I could fucking care less. But if you must know, our wolves aren''t human, or have you forgotten that? Your scent is driving my wolf mad, so don'' t provoke him," he snarls, pushing me off hisp roughly My heart thumps as I look at the man before me, surprised at his sudden change in behavior. His eyes sh a shimmering ck that burns to a bright silver "Wait!" I blurt, now worried his wolf will kill me. I''m Alpha blood, and his wolf is an Alpha What if he thinks I''m a threat to him and mauls me? "What, Cleo?" he growls angrily "Maybe you shouldn''t shift? It was one thing for him to heal me while you had control, but you are giving him full control," I tell him, and he rolls his eyes. Before I can utter another word, his bones start snapping "At least tell me his name!" I blurt "Zarek," Zayn tells me, and I swallow when he quickly shifts into his massive, ck wolf He is huge, and his aura only seems to grow stronger in this form. He growls then stalks toward me, and I freeze, pressing against the wall as his wolf sniffs me "Don''t eat me," I cringe as his wolf puts his face so close to mine that our noses are touching Hesitantly, I reach up and brush the fur on his shoulder "Nice Zarek, good puppy," I tell him, he huffs at me calling him a puppy. I wonder how much control Zayn even has in this form His giant wolf then licks my cheek and drops to the ground beside me. I watch him for a second and see him roll his eyes, making me realize Zayn must have more control than I thought because that is clearly a human trait. He sets his giant paw across myp and drags me against him, pulling me close. Despite his harsh words earlier, I snuggle into his thick, soft fur, weing the renewed warmth of his giant body Right now, the important thing is to survive The warmth gives me hope that perhaps we''ll make it, and someone will find us before I die down here I know Dad won''t give up until he''s found me.. Wrapped in Alpha Zayn''s wolf''s warmth, I somehow drift off once again into an uneasy sleep, one filled with rogues, bloodshed, and dead bodies It is only when I hear a loud explosion that I am snapped out of my sleep, making me shoot up, and the Alpha growls. A second explosion sts more debris into the already tight space, forcing him to shift back At that very moment, light seeps into the freezer room, and I turn to see none other than my father standing there in wolf form. Several men are with him, but his eyes are on us, a look of pure rage in those burning eyes of his. A terrifying growl leaves him, echoing off the walls and trembling through me "Get off my daughter!" Dad roars, making me look up into the eyes of Alpha Zayn; his lush, dark locks are covering his forehead It is then, with pure horror, that I realize that not only am I in my skimpy bra, but the Alpha is on top of me, straddling me totally butt-naked "Wait! Dad, it''s not what it looks like!" I scream when I see my father move to grab him. Zayn, however, 1s much quicker. I find myself precariously caught between two Alphas wanting to rip each other to pieces as Zayn pulls me up with him But it is toote; Alpha Zayn''s eyes narrow at my father as he stands to face him with me caught between them "She was freezing to death, I was trying to keep her fucking warm..." he spits out in a cold voice that surprises me. Dad doesn''t seem to care and steps closer, pushing the Alpha away from me "You may be the Alpha of your pack, but you have no right to touch my daughter!" His voice booms through the room as they square off against each other; both are huge Alphas full of power and might, though only one could win this battle for supremacy.. The tension in the air is so thick, you could cut it with a knife. My dad and Alpha Zayn are at each other''s throats, both exuding menacing auras, their eyes locked in a challenging stare "You''re making out like I am hurting her. I''m not interested in hurting your fucking daughter Joseph, now get out of my way!" Zayn snarls furiously Dad, however, refuses to bow down to him, and I find myself caught between the pair of them "Don''t push your luck with me." Zayn''s voice is menacingly low as he looks Dad straight in the eyes Standing tall between them both seems futile They are both so much bigger than I am, and their anger 1s only escting with each word being spoken "She''s my daughter!" Dad roars, his voice echoing through the confined space. "And you had no right to touch her, regardless of the circumstances!" "As I said," Zayn retorts, unyielding, "She was freezing. What was I supposed to do? Let her freeze to death?" Chapter 12 The two Alphas looked like they are mere seconds away from lunging at each other when I hesitantly set my hand on Zayn''s bare chest. His heart thumps beneath my palm calmly when his eyes fall on me "Please," I mouth to him, needing him to back off. I know my father''s temper, and if Zayn doesn''t back off, I know this will turn into a bloodbath. Zayn''s brows furrow briefly, and he grips my hand, moving it off his chest. But he doesn''t let go like I expected he would, even after I turn to my father "Can we go, please? It''s cold, and Linda and Lydia are probably worried," I tell my father, knowing his mate is most likely the only person to distract him or stop him from causing a scene My father pauses briefly, considering my words at the mention of his mate. "Fine, but I will deal with you when I get home. What is wrong with you? How could you allow him to be all over you like that?!" he snaps angrily, grabbing my arm. Great! I hoped to use his mate to distract his attention away from Zayn, only to get it pointed right at me I nce at Zayn, who presses his lips in a line but nods to me, but he doesn''t look impressed about letting my father walk away with his life He squeezes my hand and lets me go just as my father yanks me toward the exit, where the debris has been cleared away, not that there is much left of the ce. And I see the source of the explosion: the huge gas tanks for hot water and kitchensContent ? N?velDrama.Org. turns back to Samuel and Lydia. You''d think those two would hate each other since Linda left Samuel for my father when they met at an Alpha meeting a few years back. Samuel seemed to ept it almost immediately. My mother, however, wasn''t so inviting to Linda but eventually, she came to terms with it, it is not like she had a choice. Linda and my father are fated mates. Yes, it is true that you can also reject your mates and take chosen ones. Some take chosen mates then ditch them for their true mates when theye along, true mates will always be stronger than chosen and will override a chosen mate bond, if the true mate marks them, which is what happened to my mother. When my mother caught my father cheating it was because Linda marked him, it severed her bond to him instantly I nce back at the building and see Zayn emerge from the wreckage, immediately taking charge. He''s barking orders at various members of his pack, directing them to tend to those who are injured. The man is fully in Alpha mode, but something in his eyes tells me that the confrontation with my father isn''t over My stepmother Linda shows up, rushing past me to embrace Lydia "Oh, my poor baby! Are you okay?" she gushes, and I roll my eyes The words turn my stomach. "Poor baby?" I mutter under my breath. Linda always worried about her daughter and never anybody else What about the people who are actually hurt? Ignoring the scene, I walk over to Dad''s car, pulling on the door handle, only to find it locked. Dad and Samuel are in a heated discussion a few yards away. And I try to listen "Wait, what happened?" Linda demands, looking at Samuel. But my father is the one that answers her "Samuel isn''t providing the pack protection we pay for each month, it''s provided by Alpha Zayn!" my father snarls at her Samuel shrugs, trying to exin himself to his ex-wife and his friend. "My hands are tied. I am short of men for my own border patrols with all the recent attacks, and I wasn''t going to leave my daughter unprotected, Joseph!" "But him! No, I won''t allow it... I don''t want him anywhere near my pack." I turn my attention away, rubbing my arms, trying to warm them The cold is starting to seep back into my bones, making me regret the loss of Zayn''s warmth. But before I can dwell on that thought, someone drapes a nket over my shoulders I turn around to find Zayn standing there, now wearing a pair of shorts "You looked cold," he says gruffly "Thank you," I whisper, pulling the nket tighter around me "Doesn''t your father ever get sick of yelling at people?" he mutters, and I chuckle "Apparently not," I sigh, knowing I will have to listen to him rant all the way home "Are you really going to leave my pack defenseless?" I ask, chewing my lip, and he nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! scratches his chin. "I will work out something with your father. Don''t you worry about it," he says, and I am about to ask another question when I hear my name being called "Cleo!" Another voice calls out, and I look over to see Deacon rushing toward me from the club next door. The relief on his face 1s evident as he wraps me in a hug, nearly squeezing the life out of me "Thank God, you''re okay! I''ve been trying to reach you. Why weren''t you answering your phone?" I nce back at Zayn, remembering he took my phone. Before I can ask him, I catch him ring at Deacon. I clear my throat, wondering what has gotten into him. He looks at me and then seems toe to his senses, but then snaps at me "Oh, I''m sorry. I left your phone in my pants, which was destroyed while I was saving you!" I blink at him, not expecting such a harsh reply Honestly, I wasn''t going to ask him at all because I knew there was no way he had my phone now. Not after the constant shifting and fighting "Oh, you must be Alpha, Zayn. I''ve heard about you. I''m Deacon, Cleo''s mate," Deacon says, holding out his hand to Zayn. Zayn, however, growls at his gesture "L highly doubt that she isn''t even old enough to recognize her mate yet," Zayn snarls, but Deacon is oblivious to his anger Chapter 13 "Well, not yet, obviously. But we n to mate and mark each other once she is of age," Deacon adds, and Zayn''s gaze flicks to me. His eyes flicker, and I take a step back from him, bumping into Deacon at the feral look he gives me "Ts that so?" he asks, his eyes narrowing I suddenly don''t know how to answer the question. Was it a question? Why is he so angry? The interaction 1s thankfully interrupted by the sound of my name being called again. "Cleo!" This time, it''s Dad. "I thought I told you to get in the car!" hemands. "Deacon, hands off!" my father snaps at him as he approaches us. I pull on the handle to show him the car is locked "I wasn''t disobeying, butst I checked, Dad. I''m a werewolf, not a ghost; I can''t walk through solid objects," I retort He res at me but then hits the button on the fob. "We''ll see if you''re so smart when we get home and you find yourself grounded." "I''m neen!" I growl at him. I was so excited the first time I growled. I remember it fondly Roughly a year ago, Lydia and I were fighting (what else is new?). I startled both of us when I did it. However, Dad seems unimpressed with me using it against him right now "Under my roof, it doesn''t matter if you''re five or fifty. What I say goes!" he snaps, opening his door and climbing in. I see Lydia smirking as she walks to her mother''s car, and Deacon quickly hugs me "New club opens up tomorrow," he whispers "I''m grounded, didn''t you hear?" I ask him "Never stopped you before." He pecks me on the lips, but I push him away, worried Dad may have seen. Deacon gives me a wink. He holds up two hands, indicating with his fingers to meet him at 7 p.m. I nod before turning to climb in the car, only to spot Zayn storming away, and I climb in the car to endure my father''s wrath The entire drive home, I have to listen to my father rant about how the rogue attack was all Alpha Zayn''s fault, and that the Alpha meeting should never have been held in the same ce every month Yet, this brings my thoughts back to border patrols: if my father isn''t allowing Alpha Zayn''s men near our borders, we''ll be sitting ducks "Are you really not going to allow Alpha Zayn''s men to patrol our borders?" I ask him, and he nces at me "He is noting near our pack," he growls, and I shake my head "We don''t have enough people to watch the borders, especially near the forest edge. We need him!" I snap. The house lights reflect in the windshield of my father''s SUV as he drives us home. It''s arge two-story house on the outskirts of the city, yet the suburb it is 1n 1s huge nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! My father''s eyes narrow. "We don''t need him, and you will not tell me what I can and cannot do, Cleo." My father''s face is scarlet red, his eyes are bulging, and his fists are balled "Yes, we do," I mutter as I watch the trees pass by as we drive down the road, my eyes zing over, making each tree run together like a mass of brown, green,N?velDrama.Org ? 2024. "No, we don''t. And you do not question me on this. You are not alpha, and you do not make decisions for our pack!" I press my lips in a line. He 1s being ridiculous All this because his ego is hurt over god knows what. Apparently, that is reason enough to put the entire pack at risk I climb out of the car and quickly make my way to the front door, wanting to get away from my father. I was so close to getting a chance to voice my opinion, but he just shut me down as usual. I take a deep breath in and out, trying not to let his words get to me But when I reached the door, I stopped in surprise. It''s not just my father here; the pack doctor is waiting for us, too "Cleo dear, your Father, he mindlinked me. He said you''re hurt?" He looks me over, and his eyes widen at my leg before he pushes me into the house "It''s stopped bleeding now. I''m fine," I tell him, but Doc shakes his head, leading me into the kitchen "Sit!" he tells me, and I move toward the table, nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! pulling out a chair obligingly. Doc grabs scissors, cutting my pants to get to my leg when my father walks in. He nces at my leg, his face paling with worry "Seriously, Joseph, you should have taken her straight to the hospital; if she were human, she would be dead with how much blood she has lost." My father fumbles for a response. "T didn''t realize it was that bad. She never said anything," he blubbers out, and Doc shakes his head "How is the pain?" he asks, and I shrug, not wanting to give Dad more reason to be angry, yet his temper seems to dim a little. A few momentster, Lydia and Linda arrive home Lydia is talking excitedly about the ball next door. I roll my eyes. Seriously? How much more selfish could she get? We have more pressing issues, and she is gushing about some poor soul she''ll use until she has no use for him My father cuts them both a re when they enter the kitchen. Linda looks at me, and her eyes take in my injured leg before the fake blubbering waterworks start. Linda''s high- pitched squeal of horror sounds like that of a dying cat. She rushes over, pretending not to be the conniving bitch I know she is. I swat her fussing hands away as she tries to embrace me "T''m fine," I tell her, not interested in putting up with her theatrics and her crocodile tears "Linda, I need to stitch her up," Doc says as I hiss in pain when the needle pierces my skin He presses gauze against the wound while pulling the thread through, stitching me back together again until, finally, it''s done. He then moves onto my arm where there 1s another cut that needs stitches, too. Even though they were painful for a moment-Doc''s experienced hands work fast enough to get them done quickly so that it''s not too bad Chapter 14 "Take these, and they''ll help with the pain. Try to stay off your leg for a few days." "Thanks, Doc," I say, standing and epting the pain medication from his outstretched hand "Bring her by next week, and I will remove the stitches provided she doesn''t reopen it, no training, and she needs to try not to tear them open again," Doc tells my father. At the same time, I take that as my excuse to head to the bathroom Climbing the stairs, I hiss with every step, feeling the stitches tugging slightly. Once on thending, I retrieve a towel from the linen cupboard and move toward the bathroom Once in the bathroom, I strip off and hobble to the shower. As I wash, the soap burns my skin, yet it feels good to get all the gunk and grime off me. As soon as I am clean, I grab the pill box Doc gave me and read the instructions. Popping two pills in my mouth, I swallow some water before heading to my bedroom I gingerly crawl into bed, and my stitches tug at my skin as I move about. I pull the nket over myself and grimace as a sharp pain shoots up my leg. The medication hasn''t kicked in yet, and the pain 1s almost unbearable. I remember the talk with my father and his refusal to allow Alpha Zayn''s men near our borders Despite the pain medication, I toss and turn. My mind revolves around rogue attacks, specifically the day I found my mother dead in the kitchen It makes me wonder why my father would risk us again like that, knowing the damage more attacks can cause. Tossing and turning, I stare at the roof, which seems to be osciting, the drugs finally kicking. My eyelids droop and my thoughts float away Maybe it''s time to take things into my own hands, I think as the room fades. I have to speak with Alpha Zayn, I have to try to convince him to keep his men along our borders somehow, but what can I offer him in return? Before I can decide, the pain meds take holdpletely Despite tonight''s events and the worry that is guing me, I drift off into a deep sleep where nothing can touch me, not even my father''s orders or Linda''s plotting schemes. She may make out I''m hers but I remember the way she treated my mother and sometimes I get a smug satisfaction knowing that no matter how long my mother has been gone, everyday she still has to see her face through me ~The next day~ I wake early the following morning to find my leg throbbing in pain. I am sweating, no doubt from a fever. Pulling the nkets away, I hiss when the sheet sticks to my leg. The wound must have leaked while I was asleep. With a groan, I rise from my bed and take a few moments to gather myself, weing the cool airThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. My thoughts immediately turn to Alpha Zayn, and an idea begins to form about how I can get to Alpha Zayn''s pack. Hopefully, he''ll speak with me. Despite our bickering, it seemed like he cared about me enough I look over to check the time on my rm clock The red numbers on the rm clock shine dimly into the dark room. The barely rising sun through the blinds shows the room in an eerie, bloodied-like glow. The digital numbers blink: 6:18 a.m. Iy back down, trying to get back to sleep, knowing it is far too early to catch a bus into the city. If only I had a car, I think to myself. I should have my car. If only Lydia hadn''t backed into it the other day Cursing at Lydia and my legs, I get up and grab the pain medication and my robe hanging on the door. Wrapping it around myself, I move toward the door and open it. The house is dark, so I descend the stairs quietly, heading for the kitchen I grab a ss of water and take two of my pills when I spot my father''s car keys sitting next to the fruit bowl. I chew my lip, debating whether I should. I am grounded, after all. Yet, thinking that Deacon''s words flit through my mind ''Since when has that stopped you?'' I know that this is my chance. If I can make it to Alpha Zayn''''s pack before anyone notices I''m gone, then maybe he will meet with me and listen to what I have to say before more people get hurt Snatching the keys, I pull my robe off before looking down at my pajamas. Great, I curse, I''m sure this will be a really convincing outfit Moving as quickly as possible, I move toward the door, where I spot Lydia''s jacket. I pull it on I know climbing the stairs back to my room will risk waking my father when the stairs creak This is my only chance, so I take it, wearing my fuzzy hot pink pants with bunnies on them. On the bright side, I probably won''t have to get out of the car; I can just ask the patrols to get Alpha Zayn nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! The drive is long, my leg is throbbing painfully, and I''ve broken out in another sweat. It takes 20 minutes to reach the city and another 20 minutes before I eventually arrive at Alpha Zayn''s Pack on the city''s outskirts, which is a massive gatedmunity. As soon as I pull up out front, the car is surrounded by several wolves, their eyes sharp and suspicious. I wind the window down when one of them taps on it "What are you doing here?" one of them demands I take a deep breath before speaking up. "I''m Cleo, Alpha Joseph''s daughter from the Shadowcrest pack," I exin firmly. "T need to speak with Alpha Zayn." He nces at one of the other men, who shrugs, and I watch his eyes ze over as he uses the mindlink After waiting a few moments, he tells me Alpha Zayn is on his way down. I nod, leaning back in the chair and resting. My skin is hot, and I can feel sweat beading and rolling down the back of my neck. My hands are mmy, and I groan, feeling the pain meds kick in Shit, and I need to try to drive home like this Now, this entire thing doesn''t feel like a good idea. How could I be so stupid? I don''t know how long I am waiting, but I jump when I hear my name Chapter 15 "Cleo!"es a husky, deep voice. I turn to find Zayn leaning in the window. He presses a hand to my forehead. "What are you doing here?" I shake myself, wondering if I''m dreaming "Cleo?" Alpha Zayn growls before opening my door. "You have a fever. Did your father not take you to a pack, Doctor?" he asks "T''m fine. It''s just the pain meds," I tell him,ing to my senses "Slide over into the other seat," he says, motioning towards the car. I stare at him. "Tt wasn''t a question. Slide over, now!" he orders, and I press my lips in a line. I am here for his help. I won''t get it if I start arguing with him Alpha Zayn starts my father''s car, and I briefly wonder how I will exin his scent to my father. Oh well, that is the least of my worries. The glow of the dash illuminates the Alpha''s face, his face a picture of confusion as he nces at me with his steely gaze. He looks handsome and clean as ever, quite the contrast to my sick, sweaty, bleeding self. His scent envelops me, vani and sandalwood. It''s intoxicating, and my racing heart slows a little as his scent calms me down The huge gates open, and Zayn drives me through the gatedmunity to his pack house, which is huge. He pulls up near the front door on the circr driveway. "You live here?" I ask, peering out in awe Landscaped gardens surround his pack house, made of stone and wood and appear to stretch for miles. "Yes, I do, unless I have to stay in the city for work," he confirms, and I follow him out of the car, wincing in pain as my leg protests Zayn looks down at my leg. A trickle of blood runs down the inside of my thigh. I groan, about to reach back into the car to look for a tissue when suddenly, my legs go out from under me. I shriek, grabbing hold of his shoulders beforeing face to face with Alpha Zayn "You never should havee out here," he growls before walking toward the house "I''m fine, put me down," I snap at him when he jostles me, grabbing a handful of my bare ass peeking out from under my booty shorts "Keep thrashing, and I will toss you over my shoulder," he warns. So I stop, ring at him instead. However, he doesn''t seem to mind my death stare; instead, I see the ghost of a smile tug at the corners of his lips, which makes my blood boil "What''s wrong with you?" I demand as he carries me through the front door "I could ask you the same thing," he replies, his lips curving into a smirk "You show up at my pack house and wake me up wearing fuzzy booty hot pants and bunny slippers, with a fever, looking ready to drop dead in my driveway, and now you''re bleeding all over me. What is wrong with you, Cleo?" I flush, suddenly aware of how ridiculous I look nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "You didn''t have to bring me here, I was fine outside your gates!" I snap at him "Well, you''re here now," Alpha Zayn says. "Let''s see to that leg of yours," he chucklesThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. "What''s so funny?" I ask, feeling irritation rising in my chest "You," he chuckles, "I can''t decide if you''re brave or just in foolish." "I''m not foolish," I say, scowling at him "Really? Breaking your father''s punishment anding here on your own to an Alpha''s pack, an Alpha you barely know?" he says, raising an eyebrow. "What if I don''t let you leave?" he taunts, and I stare down at him. He looks at me, his lips curving into a smile when his eyes flicker "You won''t hurt me, you''re not that stupid, it would start a war," I tell him "My pack is thergest in the country. Do you think I fear war?" nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I chew my lip nervously. His saying that really puts things into perspective at how foolish this indeed is "Or your old man of a father? Pfft," he chuckles suddenly, making me nervous as he climbs the stairs toward his house. "Never let your kidnapper take you to a second location," he growls, and my eyes widen in horror at his words, having heard that once on a crime documentary. I curse myself again. Am I his willing victim? I thrash in his arms, but heughs, maneuvering me. When I palm him in the face, he grabs my arm, trapping me, so I bite him as hard as I can "Ouch, what the fuck, you damn cannibal! Chill, I am just ying; if I wanted to hurt you, I would have killed you when we were trapped in the freezer!" he snaps at me. I let his arm go, pulling away to see I made him bleed. He looks at his arm and growls "You took a chunk out of me! I should bite you back!" he growls, pushing his front door open "Who says something like that and expects someone not to react to it," I spit back at him He growls and res at me. "You''re impossible," I mutter under my breath as he carries me inside The pack house 1s just as impressive on the inside as it 1s on the outside, with soaring ceilings and ornate furnishings "Wow!" I blurt, looking up at the enormous round skylight that opens up the ceiling in the foyer Zayn walks through to a sitting room. A huge firece sits in the center of one wall, and a huge t screen on another. He sets me on the couch. "Stay here. I will get something to patch your leg," he tells me, wandering off Chapter 16 When he returns, he gestures for me to lift my leg. I do so reluctantly, realizing that relieving the pain 1s worth sacrificing my pride. He examines the wound on my thigh. His touch is surprisingly gentle as he cleans the wound and applies a bandage "There," he says when he''s finished. "See, you''ll be fine." "Thank you," I say in a small voice, feeling extremely awkward "Now, what brings you here?" Alpha Zayn asks, taking a seat next to me. His eyes are intense as they lock onto mine, sending shivers down my spine I take a deep breath. "I know you hate my father," I start, and he raises an eyebrow at me "But my father is making decisions that are hurting our pack, and he won''t listen to anyone." "I don''t get what this has to do with me?" he asks. Zayn watches me carefully before sighing "This is about your border patrols, isn''t it?" he says, and I chew my lip. "Your father refused my men on his borders. There isn''t much I can do," he tells me "He''s angry, please. You can''t remove your men; we''ll be sitting ducks out there, and my father is too stubborn to listen," I admitContent ? N?velDrama.Org. "T have no alliance with your father. My hands are tied; thest thing I need right now 1s the human factions getting involved if a war breaks out because your father attacks one of my men," he tells me "Please, I know you don''t have an alliance with my father, but my father has one with Samuel Can''t you find a workaround?" Zayn runs his fingers through his perfectly-styled hair in frustration. "It doesn''t work like that. There needs to be contracts in ce, and I was only filling in for Samuel; that was what the meeting was for: to build alliances. Your father shot every offer down," he states "My father''s pack has been attacked by rogue wolves twice now," I protest, but he only watches me with those intense gray eyes. "Can''t I make an agreement with you?" I ask him, and he tilts his head to the side "You''re not the Alpha. Your father is." "Only for now, until I get my wolf. I want to make an agreement with you to keep your men along our borders to prevent any more attacks." Alpha Zayn''s gaze narrows, and he leans back on the couch. "And what would I get out of this agreement?" he asks Ugh, I groan internally. I was hoping he wouldn''t ask this. "What do you want?" I ask nervously, and his eyes flicker to his wolf fleetingly. "I''m not fucking you if that is what you are thinking!" I snap at him He scoffs. "I have no intention of forcing you to fuck me," he snarls "Then what do you want?" "Nothing you can give me, clearly. Do you even have a job?" he asks, and my face heats "No, I am still in college." I defend myself He pauses for a second. "Nightshade City College?" he asks, and I nod. "I''ll think it over; I will get back to you. What is your house number?" I shake my head. "You can''t ring home, and if my father finds out I am here, he will kill me." "And exactly how do you intend to exin my scent in his car or your whereabouts this morning?" he asks. I sigh because I know already that I am so busted "Fine!" he says abruptly, getting to his feet and over to the hall stand in the foyer. He retrieves something beforeing back to me. He holds it out to me nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Use this until you get another one," he says, holding out his phone to me "I can''t take your phone," I tell him "Cleo, take it. How else am I supposed to get in contact with you if I can''t ring your house phone?" I shake my head "So damn stubborn, you get that from him, you know that! How are we supposed to make a deal if you stay this stubborn!" he growls before moving toward the door. "Stay here, I''ll be back soon." "Wait, where are you going?" "To get you a phone," he says, leaving before I can protest Laying back on the couch, I try to think of an excuse to give my father for his scent being in the car. Yet, Ie up with absolutely nothing Feeling defeated, I know I will be in trouble once I get home and lie down on the couch Wow, I really really should''ve thought this through a bit more. Maybe I can me it on the pain meds? My entire body is aching like I''ve run a marathon. I tug at my top, feeling it sticking to the sweat covering every inch of my body At some point, I must doze off though because I wake to a hand touching my forehead. In turn, I lurch awake,ing face to face with Zayn "Take these," he growls, handing me some pills I look at him nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "I am not taking those. What even are they?" I ask him He tosses me a box, and I find they are antibiotics. "They should help rid any infection for your leg, and if they don''t, you might need to see your pack doctor. Rogue bites are full of poisonous bacteria," he informs me like I don''t already know that. Reluctantly, I take them when he passes me a phone "Seriously, I can''t ept that. When you said phone, I thought it was a cheapo one, not.. this!" I stare at the brand new iPhone. He shakes his head, looking annoyed "Just take it and shut up about it," he says, refusing to take it when I try to hand it back "I can just ring you in a couple of days," I tell him, setting the phone down "You are unbelievable, it''s a phone. Not a house," he snaps "An expensive phone that''s newer than the one I had," I tell him. What doesn''t he get? Also my father would definitely ask questions about how I got it "Do you want my help or not?" he asks, folding his arms across his chest, which makes him seem even taller "Yes, but..." He turns away from me before I can finish grabbing his keys and mine "Now, are you right to drive home, or am I taking you?" he asks. I jump to my feet "Tm fine," I tell him as a wave of vertigo from standing quickly washes over me. I sway slightly, and he grips my arm, staring at me worriedly "I''m driving you," he states. I go to protest when he grabs me Chapter 17 "Put me down, what is it with and being so damn handsy?" I snap at him Zayn rolls his eyes, ignoring myment Instead, he lifts me effortlessly off the couch and carries me, bridal-style, towards the door. I cringe at the sudden proximity, feeling heat rising in my cheeks "Can''t you just let me walk?" I say, my voiceing out a bit too high-pitched "You can barely stand," he retorts, not bothering to look at me We make our way towards my car parked outside. Only another man is there waiting. His hair is the same color as Zayn''s, but his eyes aren''t as silvery gray as Zayn''s and his expression is perfectly neutral. Though I do detect a glint of humor in his gaze as he looks at me. His lips are thin, and his jawline is sharp and angr, giving off a very serious vibe. I stare at him, he has an uncanny resemnce to Zayn, and I peer up at Zayn "My brother Vance, he''s also my Beta," he exins, answering the question before I can ask it "He''ll follow in my car," he tells me. I nod, not knowing how I feel about that. Zayn sets me down gently on the passenger seat before walking around to the driver''s side. The car is silent as we drive towards my house, the tension so thick you could almost cut it with a knife I keep stealing nces at him from the corner of my eye, taking in the sharp lines of his jaw and the way his dark hair falls across his forehead Aggravating though he may be, there''s no denying he''s handsome. He looks like he''s in deep thought, his expression unreadable As we pull into my father''s territory, my anxiety starts to grow. I have no idea how I''m going to exin this to my father, and knowing him, he''ll want answers "Pull over here; if my father catches me with you, he''ll kill me," I blurt "Either way, he''ll know I was with you. Your car reeks of my scent," he states, and panic rises in me as he continues driving. As wee to the main gates, he begins to slowly pull up when two pack warriors wave to us, too. I wind my window down, recognizing Mitchel. He''s one of the training instructors for my father''s pack "Cleo, your father put out an alert..." Mitchel pauses, his eyes moving to Zayn in the driver''s seat before they dart back to me. "You wanna have a good excuse being in that man''s presence, Cleo," Mitchel growls. I growl back, refusing to be scolded like a little girl. Putting up with my father''s wrath is terrible enough; I won''t take it from one of his men. Not when I will be their Alpha one day "I don''t need an excuse," I spit back at Mitchel, my pride stinging. Zayn''s handnds on my thigh, and I jump, not expecting the sudden contact. He squeezes gently, a silent message telling me to calm down "Seen her in the city, she was looking for her phone in the wreckage. My brother 1s in the car behind us. Cleo looked on the verge of passing out. Figured I best drive her home," Zayn cuts in smoothly, the lie sliding off his tongue with practiced ease. "Is there a problem?" Mitchel eyes him suspiciously for a moment before shrugging. "Just wanted to make sure everything was okay," he says before waving us through the gates As we drive towards my house, I can feel Zayn''s gaze on me "Are you okay?" he asks softly, and I nod, not trusting myself to speak I stare at him for a moment, taking in the sincerity in his eyes. For all his rough edges and gruff exterior, there''s something kind about him, too "Thank you," I say softly, meaning every word The car falls into a tense silence once again until we pull up outside my house. Zayn nods e before getting out of the car anding around to open my door for me. As I step out onto the pavement, I can''t help but feel a sense of safety with him around But as I turn to face my house and see my father standing on the porch waiting for me, that sense of safety is short-lived. "Thanks for the ride," I say, turning to face Zayn. He nods, his expression serious "Will you be okay dealing with him?" he asks, and I nce at my father to see him storming over to me. Before I have a chance to say anything, my father growls "Where the fuck have you been?" he demands "I was just out taking care of some things," I say carefully, trying to keep my tone neutral "With him! What business have you got with him, Cleo?" he snaps, grabbing my arm when I feel Zayn''s presence suddenly behind me. His hand goes to my waist, the warmth of it seeping into my skin. I fight the urge to look down at it, my skin buzzing slightly at his touch nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Your men really aren''t good atmunicating As I told your man at the front gate, I ran into her in the wreckage looking for her phone." "You could have called me to pick her up," my father snarls, ring at him "Would you have answered?" Zayn replies quickly, and my father falls quietContent ? N?velDrama.Org. My father doesn''t look convinced, but after a moment, he sighs and shakes his head "I don''t have time for this right now. Go clean up and get some rest," he says before walking away I let out a sigh of relief when I feel Zayn''s breath sweep across my neck. "I''ll call you in a few days," he whispers, and I nod when his hand grabs mine suddenly. I look up at him, only for his lips to graze mine. He is that close. Stunned, I just stare at him for a second when he smirks "Your keys," he adds, then chuckles I shake myself out of the daze I am in. "Thanks, I say awkwardly, and he steps away, moving toward his car parked on the curb Chapter 18 "I wonder how Deacon would feel knowing you'' re hanging out with random Alphas?"es Lydia''s taunting voice. I turn to find her leaning on the railing of the porch, looking smug as usual "He gave me a lift home, that is it; I was looking for my phone." Lydia chuckles and stands up,ing down the steps toward me. "Sure you were." She pauses beside me. "But I guess we will find out if Deacon believes your lies," sheughs before walking back inside Sighing, I head inside and to my room. Lydia has always had a thing for Deacon. She makes sure I know it, too, with the way she is always touching and flirting with him whenever he 1s near Later that night, Linda calls me down to help make dinner. With a groan, I heave myself off the bed. My stitches tug painfully, and I instantly reach for my painkillers. Snatching them off the bedside table, I head downstairs, where I find Linda standing in the kitchen "You look like shit," she says, and I can''t help but chuckle. She''s right, I do look like shit Linda''s wearing a simple white summer dress with short sleeves and white flowers. Her hair is down with curls hangingzily about her face She''s wearing silver hoops in her ears A slight smile tilts her lips as she nces up She''s standing at the counter, a pot, and spat in hand, with a bowl on the counter. I can smell the aroma of food wafting from the pot "Your father told me that you ran into Alpha Zayn this morning?" she questions as I grab my drink bottle from the fridge. I nod before popping my painkillers in my mouth and swallowing them "Here,e stir this," she tells me while grabbing a chopping board from beside the microwave. ncing in the pot, I find it''s chili "When will Dad be home?" I ask her while stirring the pot as she cuts up something to add to it "He''ll be here shortly," she says when Lydiaes into the room all dressed up in a skin- tight body-con dress "Hmm, chili," she says, moving past me "You look cute," Linda tells her "Always do," Lydia chirps, and I roll my eyes. "I''m heading over to the new nightclub that opened," she informs her mother when I remember I am supposed to sneak out there and meet Deacon "Are youing? I can give you a lift into the city?" Lydia asks, and my brows furrow. Since when does she voluntarily want to spend time with me? "She''s grounded!" Linda tells her, and I press my lips in a line "Seriously?" Lydia chuckles. "Grounded like a child?" sheughs, and I feel like pping her Linda shrugs. "That is what her father told me." "But depending on if she tells the truth, I may be able to sway her father," Linda adds, and I nce at her over my shoulder "Excuse me?" I ask, wondering what she is getting at. She leans on the counter, her arms folded across her chest "Where did you go this morning, and don''t feed me the same bullshit you told your father," she states. I look at her and then at Lydia, who is watching keenly "To look for my phone," I lie "Really, because Samuel was there this morning and didn''t mention you being there. He was helping with the cleanup," she tells me Pressing my lips into a line, I know I have been caught out when I hear the front door open up. I growl, knowing she has set me up. My father wanders into the kitchen. He pecks Linda on the lips before taking the spat off me. He dips it in the chili, tasting it "Hm, I love Chilli," he beams. I have to give Linda one thing, she is a great cook My father takes in the room before ncing between us all while Linda and I are locked in a staringpetition. "What''s going on?" Dad asks. Linda raises an eyebrow at me, and I try to keep my face neutral, yet my heart beats fast in my chest "Well?" Dad asks, looking at me expectantly, but before I can open my mouth, Linda cuts me off "Cleo lied about her whereabouts this morning, she was not looking for her phone. I spoke to Samuel earlier, who had been at the Hotel helping to clean up the mess from the rogue attack. Since daybreak, she has never been there," Linda tells him My father turns to look at me. "You lied?" he asks me. I say nothing, knowing he''ll take her side over mine any day. He always does since she is his mate and he can''t seem to see what a maniptive bitch she 1s "I went to visit Zayn," I admit. My father blinks at me "And why would you do that?" he asks, and I growl. He knows exactly why I would do that! "Cleo?" he demands, and my eyes dart to his "Because you are letting your ego get in the way of your judgment. You had him remove his menThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. from our borders when they are the only thing keeping the rogues out!" I tell him, and his face reddens with his growing anger "You went behind my back to a rival Alpha Disobeyed your Alpha?!" he growls angrily How does he not see the risk he is putting the pack in? "Yes, because you are putting the pack at risk How can you not see that!" I snap back at him "That wasn''t your call to make. You have no idea how to run a pack, and you certainly are not entitled to try to make treaty alliances without my say so!" "Ts that what you will tell the pack when their loved ones are killed because of your stupidity?" Task "Excuse me?" he demands, but I don''t stop "Or are you hoping this arranged marriage you''ve decided you can force me into with Alpha Dane''s son will be the end to your problems?" "Arranged marriages are part of pack alliances, Cleo. You know this! Is this what all this is about? You''re having to marry to help your pack?" he demands. I scoff at him "Have to? I am not marrying Boyd, I am not allowing him to take over my mother''s pack because you are too blinded by your ego to allow Zayn to help!" "You won''t have a choice. You want the pack You have to make sacrifices. This is one of them!" "Exactly, father. Call Zayn and fix our borders; don''t dump that on me, too. Somehow, I don''t think our pack will agree with you risking them for your own selfish reasons. Or do you n to tell them your ego was worth more than your pack members?" I ask. "Let''s just hope they believe your ego is more important than their lives!" We stand in the heavy silence of the argument weighing on me. My chest tightens as I stare at my father, the Alpha, with defiance burning in my eyes Chapter 19 "You dare speak to me like that! You have no idea who that man is! What he has done! He killed my best friend!" "I know exactly what he''s done, father which is try to help us and until you show proof of this friend or give up a name as far as I''m concerned its moot. And quite frankly, I believe his actions were justified and so does everyone else, or he wouldn''t hold the status he does! You can''t make assumptions based on conspiracy theories, there are two sides to a story and then there is the truth! Everyone is quick to assume and point the finger but no one has bothered to look at the reasoning behind his actions, shit no one even can answer if he truly did it!" I yell back at him The moment my rant is over, my father''s hand connects with the side of my face. My cheek burns violently, and my ear rings at the impact In shock at what he did, I touch my cheek, feeling how every finger had welted into my skin I stand there, staring at my father in disbelief His handprint stings, and I know that it will leave a mark. Linda gasps, and Lydia tries to hide her smirk as she leans against the counter and checks her phone All I can do at first is stare in shock. My father has never hit me. Never. What would my mother say? However, if I am expecting an apology, I know I won''t get one with the way my father res at meN?velDrama.Org ? 2024. "You are grounded until further notice," he says through gritted teeth. "And you are forbidden from leaving this house without my permission If I catch you going behind my back again, especially to that mongrel, you''ll find yourself rogue." This 1s not fair. I had gone to do what was right for the pack, to keep them safe from the rogues that lurked just beyond our borders. But my father, blinded by his own pride and arrogance, refused to see the truth of the situation As he turns to leave the room, I speak up onest time. "You will regret this decision," I tell him in a low voice He whirls around, his expression fierce. "You will not threaten me!" he growls I simply shrug. "I am not threatening you," I say calmly. "But actions have consequences. And when our borders get breached again by rogues, you can have fun exining to our pack why their loved ones are dead." "I don''t know what has gotten into youtely, but it ends now. I won''t tolerate the disrespect. I don''t like punishing you; I''ve been a good father and a..." His words hang in the air I scoff at his words "Yeah, you have, Dad. You''ve always been a nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! good father, but since mom died, you''ve been a shitty Alpha!" He seems taken aback by my words. Will he hit me again? "Maybe if Mom were still here, things would be different, but she is just coteral damage right off another shitty decision you made?" I spit venomously, each word like a dagger piercing his heart. I can see the pain in his eyes, but my anger didn''t allow me to feel any sympathy for him Even though my parents weren''t mates, I still mean what I said. The pack never had issues like this until Linda came along and got in his ear. Now, the pack is barely staying afloat with her outrageous spending habits and the stupid alliances she has with Samuel. The same alliance that got my mother killed when he canceled pack protection with Alpha Greyson, who is the alpha of Lakeview Pack. For a little while Alpha Greyson and my mother dated until my father put an end to it after Linda got in his ear Linda had convinced my father that my mother would marry Alpha Greyson, and they''d be without a pack if my mother removed my father''s title and merged packs, since my mother had grown closer with the Alpha when Linda came into the picture. My mother never refused to let my father keep his mate despite them being married. But, he refused to let her divorce him out of fear of losing the pack, since it legally belonged to my mother. Linda worried about her status had my father break the treaty alliance, and a few dayster, my mother was killed in a rogue attack because our borders weren''t protected "Watch your tongue, Cleo!" he growls, his face turning red with a mixture of hurt and rage. But Tam sick of holding my tongue and just enduring his stupid mistakes Linda, steps between us, her dark hair framing her eyes as she res at me, pointing an using finger at me. "You ungrateful little brat. Your father has done everything for you, and all you do is cause problems!" nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Ungrateful?" I scoff, incredulous. "What has he done for me besides trying to control every aspect of my life? Iam not some puppet that he can manipte!" "Enough!" my father roars, silencing both Linda and me. "Cleo, get out of my face and do not disrespect my Luna. She is only trying to help." "Help?" My mind races with anger and confusion. How could they not see that I was suffocating under their expectations and rules? Lydia never has to attend meetings, train with the pack, or be used as his personal secretary Yet, Iam the problem child? I am the one dragged from meetings and forced to work after school while Linda does absolutely nothing, just like her daughter, who gets everything handed to her on a silver tter. I take a deep breath, feeling the weight of their disapproval pressing down on me and knowing nothing I say will get through to him Unable to find the words to express myself, I retreat, storming out and back to my room, where I m the door shut behind me in frustration Iy down on my bed, flinging my arm over my eyes, blocking out what little light is in the room. Yet, the more I sit in the room, the more my anger at my father''s foolishness festers Chapter 20 I spend most of the day in the room, refusing to speak with my father. However,ter in the afternoon, I hear a knock on the door. Sitting up, I see it''s my father. Though right now, he looks guilty and remorseful. He hesitantly walks over, dropping my car keys on the bedside table I pick them up, looking at him questionably "Tm sorry I pped you, but you were not entitled or authorized to do what you did. Nor do you have the right to speak to Linda like that." He sighs heavily. I say nothing to him. I know he''s not in a space to hear what I have to say so I decide to save wasting my breath At my silence, he scratches the back of his neck nervously, then grips my shoulder "Anyway, I paid your outstanding bill on the car," he says. I nod, and he presses his lips in a line. He knows he fucked up by hitting me; he can''t take that back I watch as he walks out. I stare at the door where he left before ncing at my keys in my hand. Getting up, I grab some clothes and pull them on, hissing as I pull my leggings up my legs. Ineed to get out of here Fuck Dad''s rules I am going to enjoy the rest of my holiday before IT return to college. For now, though, I need some time away from them all and to think things through Without a second thought, I grab my purse and head for the door. Jogging downstairs, I storm into the kitchen, my anger still boiling from the confrontation with my father and Linda. Despite him apologizing, he still had no right to hit me The air in the kitchen is thick with tension as Lydia and I exchange barbs. Her smugness irks me, but I can''t let her see how deeply her words cut. I grab my drink bottle from the fridge, feeling its cold surface against my palm. I take a long, deliberate sip, letting the silence stretch between us. I can feel Lydia''s eyes on me, analyzing, judging, waiting for me to crack "You really think you can handle being Alpha?" Lydia taunts, her voice dripping with condescension. "You can''t even handle a simple conversation without running away." I turn to face her, my grip tightening around the bottle. "Handling the pack is more than just smooth talk and pretty dresses, Lydia. It''s about making tough decisions, something I''m more than capable of." She scoffs, crossing her arms over her chest "You? You''re too emotional, too impulsive. You think with your heart, not your head. That''s not what the pack needs." Her words sting, but I refuse to show it. "Maybe that''s exactly what the pack needs," I counter "Someone who cares about them, not just the power and status." Lydia rolls her eyes, but I can see a flicker of uncertainty in her gaze. I know I''ve hit a nerve The truth 1s, Lydia has always been about appearances, about maintaining a facade. But being an Alpha requires more than that. It requires strength, determination, and a willingness to put the pack above all else, something she isn''t capable of. Drinking half my drink, it tastes a little off, I set it on the counter as I rustle in the pantry for something to snack on and chose a beef jerky stick. I bite a peace off when she speaks again "You''re going out?" Lydia asks me, and I nce at her "I thought you were too?" I ask, and she shrugs "Lam just waiting for Amber to show up, do you want a lift into the city?" she asks me, and I eye her suspiciously. What Is she sucking up for? "Not from you," I tell her, holding up my keys. "IN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. can drive myself." "How did you afford to get that out?" she demands "Dad got it out of the shop for me." "Typical, your father is always rewarding bad behavior," she hisses "You''d know, your behavior is hardly the little princess you make out in front of him." Lydiaughs. "I''m not gonna be the next Alpha You are," she says, unable to hide the bitterness from her tone nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "You''re right, I will be, and I can''t wait because that means I can kick your freeloading ass to the curb!" I sneer, going to grab my drink bottle from the fridge when I don''t notice it on the counter. I could have sworn I left it on the counter. How did it get in the fridge? "Did you put my drink in the fridge?" I ask Lydia. She looks at me like I''m a fool "Why would I touch something you''ve had your cock sucking lips on?" I roll my eyes, turning back to my task, I rinse the bottle and refill it with iced coffee when I remember that I left my jacket upstairs. With a growl of annoyance, I head for the stairs and cringe every step. Once back upstairs, I snatch it off the back of my chair next to my desk and head back downstairs My hands shake from the pain of moving down the stairs, but I ignore 1t and move to the kitchen. Lydia stands beside the fridge. "Don''t get caught now," Lydia sneers "I''m sure you''ll snitch the first chance you get," I retort when she hands me my drink bottle "Sure will, I can''t keep my reputation so clear with daddy dearest without muddying yours." Troll my eyes at Lydia who wears a malicious glint in her eyes. Refusing to pay her any more attention, I tighten the cap on my bottle and take arge gulp, desperate to quench the fire of rage within me "Enjoy your night, Cleo," Lydia sneers, sashaying her hips as she walks away. "Oh, and Cleo? Don''t get too wasted, you don''t want to be too hungover when your father punishes you for sneaking off!" she adds Chapter 21 My brows furrow at her words, Lydia knows I am not much of a drinker. I am just going there to spend time with Deacon, not get wasted Shaking my head, I move for the front door, and there is only one thing that can help me forget the suffocating tension at home - going out and having some fun. I need to get out of here, away from Lydia''s snidements and my father''s overbearing presence As I step outside, the cool evening air hits me, a wee relief from the stifling atmosphere of the house. I take a deep breath, trying to calm the storm of emotions raging inside me. I can''t let my family''s drama dictate my life. With a burst of defiance, I pull out my phone and dial Deacon''s number "Hey, Deacon, are you still at the club? I need a break from this hellhole," I whisper urgently into the phone "Of course, Cleo. I''ve been here for ten minutes waiting for you, I was wondering when you''d show up," he replies, his warm voice soothing my frayed nerves. "Whose phone are you calling from?" he asks as I unlock my car "Ah, new one. I got it today. I''ll see you soon," I tell him, hanging up I climb into my car, the familiar scent of leather and pine air freshener enveloping me. I start the engine, the purr of the motor aforting sound. As I pull out of the driveway, I nce back at the house, a sense of determination settling over me The drive to the club is quiet, giving me plenty of time to think of a way to build up the courage to tell Deacon about my father''s ns to marry me off. Outside the club, the thumping music vibrates through my body as Deacon and I wait in line to go into the club. Yet, the longer I wait, the dizzier I feel. I grab Deacon''s arm, and he nces at me. "Are you okay?" he whispers I nod, must be vertigo, must be from the painkillers," I answer He presses the back of his hand to my face. "Do you want me to take you home?" he asks. I shake my head, knowing it will wear off when I hear her nagging voice "Deacon!" Lydia calls, and I groan. Deacon turns just in time for her to throw her arms around his neck and lean into him "Hey Lydia, Amber," he states, and Lydia steps back. Deacon gives Amber a hug, and she pecks his cheek "I thought you were going to be here earlier?" Deacon tells them, and I cut him a re. What does he mean? "Wait, you invited them?" I ask him, and he looks at me "What, they wanted to go, chill out Cleo, you know I''m friends with them. What''s got into you?" "Gee, I don''t know, maybe the fact you asked me to go to the club with you but decided to invite your ex and my bitch step-sister along," I snap at him, and my eyes go to Amber. "No offense, Amber," I tell her. Truthfully, Amber wasn''t so bad when she wasn''t around Lydia "Jealousy is a curse," Amber pipes in, while Deacon tries to defuse the situationN?velDrama.Org ? 2024. Deciding to let it go, I turn back to the line. No wonder Lydia was so eager for me to go earlier She knew it would piss me off when I learned Deacon invited them Putting those thoughts aside, I decide despite this, I want to enjoy myself. Once inside, I feel a sudden jolt of energy, ready to dance my problems away. But that energy quickly dissipates when I lock eyes with a tall handsome figure across the dimly lit room. Zayn. His silver eyes pierce into mine "T need a drink," I tell Deacon, who nods, leading me to the bar "What do you want?" he asks "Just water," I tell him "Oh,e on, Cleo. Have fun, live a little," Lydia purrs,ing up behind me. "My treat!" she taunts, shing her card at me. It''s not like I have a card of my own. My father took mine after Lydia stole it and racked up a huge bill My father had been furious, and took it back Now I get a cash allowance from working for him, which was dwindling fast after Lydia reversed into my car, cracking the radiator and crushing the front end. So Iam d I no longer have to worry about that bill after my father paid it "Fine!" Lydia orders us drinks, something called a fruit tingle, it is sickeningly sweet, and I sip mine, not intending to get drunk Deacon leads me to the dance floor, yet thatsts all of five minutes before my leg starts throbbing, and I have to sit down I sit in one of the booths, watching Deacon dance with Lydia who is shaking her ass all over him along with Amber, who at least has the decency to keep her distance. Lydia gives no fuck who she makes ufortable "Shouldn''t you be home resting?" Zayn demands, his voice a low growling from behind me. I jump not seeing where he came from "Last time I checked, you weren''t my keeper," I retort, refusing to let him control me like everyone else "You''re right, but I saw you by yourself and wanted to check on you," he tells me "I''m fine," I tell him, and he sighs "I can see that with the way you''ve been ring at your little boyfriend, who''s dry humping your sister on the dance floor." Chapter 22 "He''s not dry humping her. They''re friends," I tell him, and heughs "That''s debatable with the way he has his hands all over her," he says, shaking his head "Like you know anything, they''ve been friends since they were kids." "With benefits by the look of it." I growl at him, now he is deliberately trying to get under my skin "Just stop, I''ve put up with enough drama today I don''t need you getting in my head trying to cause more." "Right, I''ll leave you alone. You''re right, I don''t know the little worm well," he says, setting his ss on the table beside me I peer up at him, towering over me when he leans down, so close I can smell the whiskey on his breath. "But just for the record, I wouldn''t be able to get in your head unless you suspected they were fooling around already." "They''re just friends," I repeat, my voice a growl "You keep saying that, but if it is true, why has he left you here while he dances with her?" he asks, and his words sting His words are true. When Iined about my leg, he didn''t bat an eysh in my direction, Just waved me away "Something to think about, Cleo. But you can do better. He isn''t worth your time." "Then who is? You?" I scoff and he shrugs "Well, if you were mine, I wouldn''t be caught dead with another woman, let alone have my hands all over one," he whispers. I swallow, and he smirks before standing back up, and I find Deacon staring in our direction. Suddenly, a bouncer taps Zayn on the shoulders "Alpha, a fight has broken out upstairs." "Shit, show me," Zayn says, following him, I shake my head, turning my attention back to the dance floor where I notice Lydia is gone and Deacon is making his way over to me "What did he want?" he asks, and I shrug "Wanna get out of here?" I ask him "Lydia just went to get us all more drinks." I huff "What''s wrong?" he asks. I point to my leg "An hour more than we''ll go," he says, and I shoot him a dirty look. "Promise," he tells me when Lydia hands me a drink. I shake my head "Come on, don''t be a party pooper," she whines "I have to drive," I remind her, and she shrugs "Catch a taxi; I can run you back in tomorrow to get your car," she tells me, holding out the blue- colored drink. Reluctantly, I ept it, sipping it when Amberes over nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Deacon,e dance with me!" she whines, giving him pouty lips. She tugs on his arm, and I raise an eyebrow at him. He mouths sorry and lets her pull him back toward the dance floor "One hour, Deacon!" I yell out over the music He blows me a kiss, holding up one finger, indicating an hour For the next hour, I tried to lose myself in the pulsing beats and shing lights, but I can''t shake the feeling of Zayn''s gaze on me Gradually, I begin to feel strange. Something is definitely wrong. I get up and make my way toward the bar to ask for some water. My face 1s tingling, and I hear my words slur when I speak Thedy at the bar grabs my arm as I sway on my feet, and my surroundings blur. "I''m fine That drink was stronger than I thought," I say, shaking her hand off. I have to get out of here. I turn and look for Deacon Yet, the mish-mash of bodies on the dance floor blurs around me, the music dims as my hearing moves in out from loud to soft. My head feels heavy, my tongue thick, my limbs not wanting to cooperate "Deac", I don''t feel so good," I mumble, clutching his arm for bnce when I find him "Can you take me home?" "Sure thing, Cleo. Let''s get you out of here," he says, leading me through the throng of sweaty bodies The world spins around me as Deacon guides me to his car, parked next to mine "No, you''ve been drinking," I tell him nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Ring my father," I tell him, willing to take his wrath then wrap ourselves around a pole or kill someoneThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. "Actually, just let mey down for a bit," I tell him, my legs feeling like lead weights "Want toy down in the back until your father gets here? Your car''s too small for that," he suggests, opening the hatch. Grateful for the offer, I nod weakly, letting him help me into the trunk. As soon as Iy down, my body feels impossibly heavy and unresponsive "Deacon, I can''t feel my body," I try to say, but the wordse out garbled and distorted as panic creeps in. Instead of offeringfort, Deacon climbs in beside me, closing the hatch and plunging us into darkness "You''re alright," he murmurs, brushing my hair back from my face. His touch should have been reassuring, but it only heightened my unease "Did you call my Dad?" I ask him, my eyes flutter closed, and he says something, but my hearing is funny He leans down and presses his lips against mine, ignoring my feeble attempt to turn away "Deacon, did you call..." My words are cut off by him gripping my chin forcefully, he invades my mouth with his tongue, his kisses growing more eager and desperate "Deacon, what are... no," I slur, my words nothing but a garbled mess as I try to push him off me, but my arms feel limp and useless Ignoring my protests, he lifts my butt up and rips down my leggings and tears open my cami, leaving me vulnerable and exposed. My mind races, searching for an escape, but my body refuses to obey Chapter 23 The tension in the air is palpable, a dangerous energy that makes my skin crawl. Deacon''s voice is barely recognizable, his words slurred and filled with a malicious intent that I never thought him capable of. The sense of betrayal cuts deep, leaving me feeling cold and hollow inside "Deacon," I whisper weakly. My vision blurs as fear creeps in while I wait to wake up from this nightmare. It has to be a nightmare, Deacon would never. Once again, my eyes flutter shut, though my mind screams for me to wake "Stop, Deacon," I manage to say when I hear the unmistakable sound of his zipper. The dark haze encircling my mind is suffocating, like a vice grip around my consciousness "Don''t be such a prude," Deacon growls, his voice cruel and unfamiliar. "Two years, Cleo, and we still haven''t fucked. So Lydia gave you a little something to help you rx." Lydia, I know I''ve heard the name before but can''t ce it as my mind is overrun with the foreign feel of my body. Deacon pulls my underwear down I can feel him moving my limbs like Iam a puppet, and he is the puppeteer, and the next second, bright light sears my eyes and then again and again. I hear the distant sound ofughing, but I am struggling to remain conscious "You better keep your fucking word," I think I hear, but I can''t be sure when the sh goes off again. The ceiling swirls when I see a phone before another sh that blinds me I struggle to keep my eyes open, to fight against the darkness that threatens to engulf me. Each sh from the phone is like a physical assault, disorienting and terrifying. I want to scream, to run, to do anything but lie here helplessly, but my body betrays me, refusing to respond to my desperatemands Tears form in my eyes, but my body remains unresponsive to my desperate pleas for it to move, to do anything. My heart pounds in my chest as the gravity of the situation settles upon me, making it even harder to breathe "Deacon?" I slur, wanting him to get me out of whatever is going on Deacon''sugh 1s cruel and mocking, a sound that sends shivers down my spine. "You''re mine," he slurs, his words dripping with possessiveness. "I''ve waited long enough for this." Suddenly, the door of the wagon 1s ripped open nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "What the fuck, man," I hear a voice say "She said no!" someone snarls, but I can''t see them; my eyelids are now too heavy to open, but whoever it 1s, his voice carries an authority that sends shivers down my spine. Yet, I know that voice from somewhere. I''m sure of it My heart races, pounding against my rib cage as if trying to escape the nightmare unfolding around me. I can hear the sounds of a scuffle, the grunts and shouts muffled as ifing from underwater "Whoa, calm down, man! You can have a go after me," Deacon retorts. It''s Deacon! My mind tries to zero in on the other voice. It''s a voice of power, of control, and it stirs something within me, a flicker of hope in the darkness The sound of a struggle intensifies, the thuds and crashes reverberating through the wagon. I can sense the violence, the raw aggression of the confrontation, but I''m powerless to intervene My eyes flutter shut again, the effort to keep them open too much for my drugged bodyN?velDrama.Org ? 2024. The darkness is all-consuming now, a suffocating void that seems to stretch on endlessly. I''m lost in it. I can feel myself slipping away, the edges of my consciousness fraying and dissolving into nothingness Then, suddenly, a burst of light pierces the darkness, followed by a loud crash. The wagon shakes violently, the sound of rattling ss and groaning metal filling the air There''s a final, decisive thud, and then silence The oppressive weight of the situation lifts slightly, the air no longer thick with the threat of violence. I can sense someone else in the wagon now, a presence that is bothforting and terrifying in its intensity Gentle hands lift me, cradling me with a tenderness that is in stark contrast to the brutality of moments ago. I can feel the warmth of the person holding me, a sense of safety that I cling too desperately "You''re safe now," the voice murmurs, its tone soft and reassuring. "I''ve got you, Cleo. You''re safe." I want to believe those words, to let them wash over me and take away the fear and pain. But the darkness is too strong, pulling me back under with an irresistible force. I surrender to it, letting it envelop mepletely, thest remnants of consciousness fading away into oblivion Chapter 24 ~Zayn~ I re at the thrashing bodies on the dance floor, my heart pounding with frustration. After handling the fight, I headed upstairs to watch those dancing below and to keep an eye on Cleo. However, when Cleo rises from her seat, I instantly know something 1s wrong as she stumbles to the bar, and my stomach twists with unease, feeling the flickering of my bond to her Zarek nervously presses beneath my skin, urging me to go to her, but she has no idea who I am to her. Cleo, vulnerable and unaware of our bond, struggles to maintain her bnce at the bar. Her light blue eyes are unfocused, and her blond hair clings to her flushed cheeks "Hey!" I mindlink ra, the barmaid. "Don''t serve her. She''s already drunk." My finger jabs in Cleo''s direction, and ra''s concerned gaze follows "Alpha Zayn," ra''s mindlinks back a momentter, "she wants water, not liquor." "Where the hell is Deacon?" I growl inside my head, my body tense. He should be taking care of her, but he''s nowhere to be found My wolf, Zarek, presses restlessly beneath my skin, urging me to intervene, but I resist. It''s not our ce - not yet "Boss?" ra''s voice prates my thoughts again "Stay with her," I order through the mindlink, my eyes fixed on Cleo. I can''t shake the feeling that something is wrong, which eats away at me "Boss?" ra mindlinks, drawing my attention back to the bar. "I don''t think she is drunk. She can barely talk. Is she on something?" I peer down at her to see her sway, and ra reaches over the bar, grabbing her arm to steady her. "No, she''s only been drinking," I reassure her "She''s only had two drinks all night, and I don''t know, boss, something 1s off with her though she seems really out of it." I see Cleo shake ra''s arm off and stumble into the fray of people grinding on each other "TI handle it," I mindlink back, moving toward the stairs when another fight breaks out. This time between two men when one sses the other one. I am shoved backward and turn, grabbing the man who shoved me. Recognizing me, he freezes and ces his hands in the air "Sorry, Alpha Zayn," he stammers "Get out of my club," I snarl back before shoving him. He nods, and I see one of the bouncersing up the stairs. Meeting him halfway down, I pause. "Handle them for me." The bouncer nods, and I continue down the stairs looking for Cleo, yet she isn''t on the dance floor or at the bar. Moving towards the bathrooms, I bang on thedies twice before pushing the door slightly open nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Cover up!" I order before hearing shrieks Stepping in, I walk around "Any of you seen a girl wearing a ck leather jacket and a blue cami and ck leggings?" The women shake their heads, some looking concerned, others irritated by my intrusion. I keep my gaze focused, not allowing myself to be distracted by their scantily d bodies "Damn it," I mutter under my breath, feeling desperation w at my insides. Leaving the restroom, I try to think of where Cleo could have gone. My wolf, Zarek, is growing increasingly restless beneath my skin, picking up on my own mounting anxiety I move to the men''s toilet when I remember her phone. Pulling mine out, I find hers, which I linked to mine to keep tabs on her. It takes me a few seconds to realize she 1s outside somewhere but hasn''t left the parking lot I walk to the front, bumping into people as I am too busy watching my screen when I walk out the front. Zarek 1s suddenly frantic, pressing against my skin, and my blood boils when her fear hits me, battering against me. A secondter, I am hit with her fear "Where are you, Cleo?" I growl to myself, storming through the crowded parking lot until I spot her car. My heart races as I move toward it, only to hear a whimper from the car beside it, and something shes in the backThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. Moving around her car I get to the car beside it and find Deacon texting when I spot her. Her leggings are pulled off and discarded, her shirt torn open, and I can see ws marks down her left breast when I notice she hasn''t got any underwear on Her legs are pulled apart, her knees held t against the carpet of the trunk by his knees, her stitches torn wide open, and blood cascades down her leg onto the carpet. But that is not the most disturbing part, it''s the zed-over look on her face, and I realize he was taking pictures of her in such a vulnerable state She whimpers when he leans down to fondle her breast. And she tries to speak, but her words are garbled. Looking back at Deacon, he pockets his phone and shoves his pants down his legs. I rip the back hatch open, and he jumps, startled Deacon shrieks. "What the fuck, man," he snarls "She said no!" I roar, grabbing the back of his shirt and ripping him from the car "Whoa, calm down, man! You can have a go after me," Deacon retorts. A whimper escapes her lips, and I want tofort her, but first I need to deal with this prick My fist connects with his face as I fight my wolf from shifting. If Zarek takes hold, this kid will be dead, no doubt. He drops to his knees when I grab the hatch, mming it down on his head repeatedly until he crumples to the ground Bending down I fetch his phone from where it fell on the ground. I go through it, deleting the pictures only for a message toe through from Lydia. I nce at Cleo, her step sister is the only person I know with that name which makes me curious. I open the text message and see Deacon had sent the photos to her. My stomach sinks, and I try to unsend the images but can''t since she already opened them Chapter 25 Now why would he be sending these to her? Pocketing the phone, I nudge Deacon with my foot. He 1s definitely out cold Lifting the hatch, I find Cleo passed out. Her leg is bleeding everywhere, her blood staining the carpet beneath her "Fuck!" I curse, pulling my jacket off and cing it across her waist to cover her. She whimpers, "Shh, I won''t hurt you, love," I whisper while mping my hand over her leg After a second, I decided to take her. Opening the mindlink, I search for my brother, and he answers immediately. "What''s up?" "Vance," I send through the mindlink, my voice tense and urgent. "Are you still here?" "Yeah, out back. What''s wrong?" he replies, a hint of concern in his tone "Bring my car around to the front, look for a blue wagon, and hurry," Imand him "Okay, give me a sec." Using her leggings, I wrap her leg as best I can The anger and fear brewing within me is almost palpable, but I can''t let it consume me-not now Not when Cleo needs me "By the doors or the other end," Vance responds, and I can sense him moving quickly to follow my orders "Midway," I answer As I wait for my brother, I nce down at Cleo, my heart aching at the sight of her battered, vulnerable state. Her golden hair is matted with sweat and blood, and her once beautiful blue eyes are tightly shut, as though she''s trying to block out the world around her. I want nothing more than to hold her close, to whisper sweet assurances in her ear, to do whatever it takes to make her feel safe again When headlights light up the car park, I peer over the roof of the car, realizing how packed the ce is. Opening the mindlink again, I contact the bouncer, seeing the huge group of people waiting out front "Let them all in," I tell him "Pardon, boss?" Stuart replies "Let them in. I need this parking lot cleared now!" "On it," he obeys I stick my head out, peering over at the entrance doors when Vance pulls up with my car. I grab Cleo from the back. "Open the back door," I order, and he does so quickly while he nces around "We''re kidnapping girls now?" he asks "No, just my mate," I tell him, and he seems startled by this information. Shutting the door, I pop the trunk, and he follows "What''s going on?" he gasps, spotting a bleeding Deacon on the ground "Grab his legs," I tell him, and he does. I shut the hatch quickly and we then chuck him in the trunk. I fish in his pockets, retrieving his keys and tossing them to Vance when Deacon begins to stir, his eyes fluttering open. Panic fills them when he sees me looming over him "Please," he begs, his voice weak and broken "You can have her. Just let me go." My anger res at his words, and I can''t help but snort derisively. Grabbing the front of his shirt, I pull him close, my voice low and dangerous "Oh, I will," I say, my eyes never leaving him "Because she''s my mate." I headbutt Deacon, sending him straight back into unconsciousness. mming the trunk shut, I turn to Vance, my expression hard. Tossing him the keys to Deacon''s car, I point at it. "Burn it, then meet me at the packhouse." Vance doesn''t question me, just moves to do as he is told while I slide into the driver''s seat The drive back to the packhouse is tense, each mile seeming to stretch on forever as I nce at Cleo in the rearview mirror. She''s still unconscious, and I can''t help but worry about her condition. Zarek, my wolf, paces restlessly inside me, eager to tend to our mate As we drive back to my packhouse, I can''t help but steal nces at Cleo, her chest rising and falling with each shallow breath. Her scent fills the car, a heady mix of fear, pain, and that irresistible honey-jasmine fragrance that is uniquely hers Finally, we pull up to the impressive packhouse - amassive stone mansion nestled deep within a lush forest. The moonlight filters through the trees, casting a silvery glow over the sprawling grounds and intricate gardens I carry Cleo inside, cradling her in my arms as I climb the staircase to my room. Using my foot I push the door open to reveal a spacious master bedroom decorated in warm, earthy tones. A roaring firece dominates one wall, while floor-to- ceiling windows offer a breathtaking view of the dark forest beyond. In the center of the room sits arge, luxurious bed, which is where I take herThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. Iy Cleo gently on the bed, her eyes fluttering open for a moment before she suddenly vomits onto the sheets. "Shit," I mutter, quickly pulling her hair back, so it doesn''t get dirty. "Hang on, love." I hurry to the bathroom to grab some towels and wet some washcloths in the basin. As I enter the bedroom again, I find her slumped over,ying in her vomit "Shower it is then," I mutter, moving toward her I scoop her up and take her into the attached bathroom, filled with warm golden light and smooth marble surfaces. I turn on the shower, but Cleo is a dead weight in my arms, a rag doll, making me feel sick knowing he could have done anything he wanted to her, and she would have been none the wiser Keeping an arm around her waist, I carefully remove her ripped top and unclip her bra, doing my best to be gentle and not let my gaze linger too long on her naked form. Her body is petite but strong, her curves enticing even in her current state. Checking the water, I step in, pulling her with me. My clothes be soaked as I tip her head back under the water, rinsing her hair. She stirs, pulling faces, but not fully waking. Eventually, I am forced to sit with her, and I pull my shirt off, which is sticking to me like a second skin Chapter 26 Cleo leans heavily against me as I pull her closer, so she isn''t drowning under the stream of water, letting it wash over us both. Her eyes are closed, and she takes deep breaths of the steamy air as I pour shampoo and massage it into her scalp with soothing motions I take my time cleaning every inch of Cleo''s body, rinsing away dirt and dried blood, when I notice her leg 1s still bleeding badly. Despite knowing that I shouldn''t, I pull her legs up, so she 1s sitting across myp. Leaning down, I trace my tongue along the wound before watching my saliva heal the jagged gash cutting across her thigh I''m going to have fun exining that tomorrow It''s taboo, and she may see it as a direct vition or assault. Werewolf saliva heals, but it also can make the healed''s wolf sire to them, our DNA mingling, which is why it is supposed to be something reserved for mates. But even then, it is rare, and I learn why pretty quickly when my leg starts throbbing painfully. I suck in a breath at the pain she''s been walking around with, but lucky it fades quickly. Though now I understand more clearly why, a more serious injury may kill the healer, yet I don''t think I would be able to help myself Cleo shivers, her skin prickling with goosebumps, and she mumbles incoherently as I sit up. Her face moves as she sniffs the air. "You smell nice... like chocte and..." she trails off, mumbling incoherently "Thanks," I chuckle, trying to keep things light despite the gravity of the situation. The tension is palpable, as if one wrong move could send everything crashing down around us "Ow!" I exim when she suddenly bites me, her teeth sinking into my chest. I look down at her, surprised by the sudden act of aggression Her eyes are zed over, and I realize whatever she was given is strong; I don''t even think she realizes I am not her vile boyfriend "I''m hungry, but you don''t taste how you smell," she pouts "Alright, alright," Iugh, a hint of relief washing over me. "I''ll feed you, just don''t eat ?? me She buries her face in my chest, leaning against me for support as the water cascades over both of us. Within seconds, she ispletely passed out again. As I carefully support Cleo in the shower, the sight of her leaves me momentarily breathless. Even in this vulnerable state, there''s an undeniable beauty about her that''s impossible to ignore. Her blonde hair, damp from the water, clings to her fair skin, framing her delicate features. Stray strands stick to her cheeks and forehead, and I find myself gently brushing them away, my touch as light as a feather Her eyes, a striking shade of green that remind me of the lush forests surrounding our territory, are closed now, her longshes casting shadows on her cheeks. Even when she''s unconscious, she''s still fierce, a sign of her Alpha lineage. It''s thisbination of vulnerability and strength that draws me to her, igniting a fire within me that I struggle to contain As I wash her, my hands move with a gently, acutely aware of every curve and contour of her nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! body. Her skin 1s soft under my touch, and I can''t help but admire the way she''s built - strong yet undeniably feminine. The water cascades over her, tracing a path along her corbone, down her chest, and over her toned stomach. I''m torn between my duty to care for her and the growing desire that''s threatening to overwhelm my senses Despite the heat stirring within me, I remind myself of the circumstances. She''s hurt, and vulnerable. The thought of taking advantage of her in any way repulses me. She deserves respect, care, and consent things I''m determined to give her, regardless of how much my body aches to im her as mineN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. Holding her like this, feeling her body against mine, is both a torment and a privilege. Every nerve in my body 1s acutely aware of her, of the softness of her skin and the gentle rise and fall of her chest as she breathes. But my role right now is to protect her, not to give in to the primal urges that her presence evokes Once she''s clean, I wrap her in a towel and carry her back to the bedroom, taking care to avoid the soiled sheets. Not having any clothes for her, I slip one of my shirts over her head and ce her on the chaise. I quickly strip the bed and remake it beforeying her on the fresh linen. Tucking her into bed, I can''t help but admire how peaceful she looks now, her breathing steady and even "Rest now, Cleo," I murmur, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. "T''ll take care of everything." I press my lips to her cheek and want nothing more than to climb in with her, but I have to take care of the parasite in my trunk I make my way downstairs, my thoughts a whirlwind of concern and anger as I consider the events of the night. As soon as I reach the first floor, Vance appears in front of me. "Took care of the car," he says, his expression dark and unreadable. "It''s gone." "Good," I reply, trying to keep my voice steady "T left her keys out in the kitchen for you Retrieve her car and bring it back here." My brother nods, but there''s a question in his eyes that I know won''t go unanswered "Zayn, why didn''t you tell me? And are you going to tell her?" Vance asks, his voice low and urgent. "She deserves to know." "Because firstly, she can''t recognize me," I admit quietly, my chest tightening with unease. "And I would rather not put her in danger. At least not now, with all the drama going on between the packs, they could use her against me." My resolve hardens as I consider the lengths I''ll go to protect Cleo Chapter 27 "Alright," Vance concedes, though I can tell he doesn''t fully agree with my decision. "Just... be careful." With that, he turns and leaves the room, his footsteps echoing through the corridorN?velDrama.Org ? 2024. I step outside, taking a deep breath of the cool night air. Popping the trunk, I find Deacon still passed out, the sight of him igniting a fresh surge of fury within me. Every muscle in my body tenses as I stare down at him before I drag him out of the car and down to the basement His unconscious form is limp and heavy, forcing me to grit my teeth with the effort it takes to move him "Damn it," I curse under my breath, my heart pounding in my chest. The basement door creaks open, revealing an unfinished space filled with equipment and boxes. I haul Deacon''s body over the threshold and let him drop unceremoniously down the stairs and onto the cold concrete floor "Let''s see how you like being vulnerable," I growl, my voice low and menacing as I tower over him. My body aches with the need for retribution, but I know that simply hurting him won''t be enough. He needs to understand the gravity of his actions "Please," Deacon moans weakly, his eyes fluttering open as he starts to regain consciousness. "I didn''t... I didn''t mean..." "Save it," I snap, cutting him off before he can finish his pathetic excuse "You''re going to pay for what you did, and the best part?" I tell him, grabbing him by the shirt and dragging him to the center of the basement where the pulley is. He tries to scramble away, but my order rushes over him. Pathetic, he''s weaker than an Omega He freezes, and I grab rope and tie his hands before pulling them above his head and attaching them to the pulley. Hitting the button on the wall, he is hoisted until his feet no longer touch the floor. However, I need to figure out what I am going to tell Cleo. No doubt she will question how she got here, also her boyfriend''s whereabouts when he is suddenly missing, vanished without a trace Walking over to the table where the tools are, I find a dirty rag one of the painters leftst time they were here. I turn back to him, and he whimpers, begging and pleading, but I stuff the rag in his mouth and secure it with duct tape "Can''t have your screams waking my girl now, can I?" I tell him. His eyes widen, and I crack my neck "I wasn''t nning on going to the gym today, but you''ve changed my mind," I tell him when my fist connects with his sternum As I stand over Deacon, a sense of cold fury washes over me. The memory of finding him attempting to vite Cleo, my mate, in her vulnerable state fuels a primal rage within me My clenched fist collides with his sternum, the sound of the impact echoing in the basement like a thunderp. His body jerks with the force, a muffled cry escaping through the gag Each punch Ind is a release, a physical manifestation of the anger boiling in my veins My knuckles meet his flesh with brutal precision, leaving behind a blossoming map of bruises and swelling. Deacon''s eyes, wide with fear and pain, flicker with the dawning realization of his grave mistake. He struggles weakly against the restraints, his futile attempts only adding fuel to my rage nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 5s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I pause for a moment, my chest heaving, as I watch his battered form swing slightly from the pulley. I lost control, and he is no longer breathing, and I look down at my hand where his heart now rests. The satisfaction of seeing him helpless, paying for his heinous act, courses through me. But there''s no time to revel in this retribution. Cleo, injured and unconscious, needs me ncing around the basement, my eyesnd on the chest freezer tucked in the corner. It''srge enough, a temporary solution to hide Deacon''s body until I can deal with it properly. With a grunt, I lower him to the ground and untie his hands. His body is limp, a dead weight, as I drag him across the floor. The scrape of his body against the concrete floor fills the room as I haul him towards the freezer Lifting him is a task, his body an unwieldy burden in my arms. With a heave, I hoist him up and over the rim of the freezer, his bodynding with a dull thud against the icy interior. I m the lid shut, the sound a final note in this dark, quiet room. The freezer will preserve him until I can dispose of him permanently, ensuring no trace of him 1s left to be found Turning away from the freezer, my thoughts immediately return to Cleo. My heart aches at the thought of her in pain, her trust vited in the worst way possible. I need to be with her, to ensure her safety andfort. With onest look at the sealed freezer, I make my way back upstairs, my mind already focusing on Cleo As I ascend the stairs, each step brings me closer to her, to the Woman who has unwittingly be the center of my world. My mate. My responsibility. My priority. And no one will dare touch her once I make her mine Chapter 28 ~Cleo~ The sun zes through the white curtains, burning my skin to a crisp as I jerk up from my slumber. Where am I? A violent headache has taken over my body and I groan in pain Squinting against the bright light, memories ofst night flickered in my mind some of which were very hazy I groan in pain as my head throbs some more. I scrunch my eyes shut against the light and rub them, trying to remember what happened Finally, I open them and my eyes dart around therge room, searching for a familiar face Eventually, theynd on hims standing by the window, looking out into the cityscape. His hair is wet, looking as though he recently showered. A pair of gray sweatpants cling to his frame Confusion bubbles inside me as I nce down at my unfamiliar clothing. It''s not mine or Lydia'' s. My fingers nervously graze the fabric before I shift my gaze back to him, no longer able to contain my curiosity or anger "Did we...?" The words almost die on my lips, but I say enough to make him understand. He shoots me a wicked smirk before his expression softens into seriousness. An ufortable tension hangs in the air. Anxiety surges inside me as dread begins to fill my veins "Oh, you were being serious?" heughs, and I glower at him. Hisughter only grows louder, and I can''t help but feel embarrassed "Trust me, if we did, you wouldn''t be questioning if we had," he replies, a hint of amusementces his tone, but I notice the way his eyes flicker I want to look away, but instead my gaze lingers on his face. His expression is unreadable, and he seems to be lost in thought I take a deep breath before speaking up again "Well, someone''s got tickets on themselves," I retort and immediately regret it when his face hardens "No, I''ve seen every inch of you, Cleo," he spits angrily. "I know exactly the damage I would have caused you had I helped myself to your body." My face heats up as I tug the shirt down, trying to cover myself up more It''s then that realization starts to fill me up-this isn''t just some small mistake, this could have been a lot worse than what it already is, and it scares me deeply He must sense my fear because suddenly, his expression softens, and he crosses his arms over his massive chest, causing the muscles to ripple beneath his skinPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "Tf I wanted to fuck you, I could have easily You''re just lucky that I''m not into Somnophilia with drunk girls." My heart hammers in my chest, and I try to process what he 1s saying "Stress less, I never stole your virginity," he mocks with a roll of his eyes My mind races, searching for any signs that I''d had too much to drink. But all I could remember was arguing with Zayn, then after that nothing My eyes widen. Why don''t I remember anything after speaking with him? My mind mulls that over for a second. Oh, my what does Deacon think, did he see me leave with him? Why didn''t he stop me? My eyes move to Zayn, who is watching me, the intensity in his gaze holds me for a few seconds before a thought flickers through my head andes out my lips ina snarl "What did you do to me?" He seems taken aback by my words "Did you drug me? Is this some sick revenge to get back at my father?" I use, outraged that he would... he would... not steal my virginity? "You did not just use me of raping you!" he scoffs. I say nothing, just stare at him, not knowing what else to do. I don''t remembering back here, I don''t remember anything after seeing him. I shake my head, only the motion makes my head pound worse and I clutch it regretting the action instantly "Why don''t I remember anything then?" I mutter, panic coursing through me. I can feel the tension in the room, thick and palpable like a heavy mist clinging to our skin. When I open my eyes, Zayn presses his hands on either side of my hips. I move away from him as he leans closer. I swallow at how close he is, his scent overwhelming my senses nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Maybe ask Deacon that question?" My brows furrow and shoves off the bed "Your so-called boyfriend is great at watching over you. Someone slipped something in your drink while he was grinding against your sister on the dance floor," he spits, anger seeping through his words "She is not my sister, and I told you they are..." I start to say, but he cuts me off "Yeah, I know they''re just friends right, the kind that rub genitals together on a dance floor? I saved your ass, just in case you''re wondering. I could have left you, but I..." he doesn''t finish, just shakes his head In the overwhelming silence following Zayn''s words, my mind races with a whirlwind of emotions. His gaze lingers on me, intense and unsettling, as if he''s trying to decipher my thoughts. The air between us 1s charged with a tension that I can almost touch His proximity is disarming, the heat from his body mingling with mine. Despite my turmoil, I can''t help but notice the way his muscles move under his skin, the way his eyes hold mine with a fierce intensity. It''s a dangerous dance, this push and pull between us, and I find myself both repelled and drawn to him at the same time I wrap my arms around myself, feeling suddenly vulnerable in the oversized shirt. "Why should I believe you? You could be making all this up just to... to get back at me for something." Zayn''s eyes darken, and he runs a hand through his hair in frustration. "I have no reason to lie to you, Cleo. You should be thanking me, not using me of lying or using me of-- I saved you, that is all that matters." Chapter 29 "Saved me how?" my voice shakes, and I fight back the tears that threatened to spill "Someone slipped something in your drink," he tells me. "I found you in the parking lot... trying to drive home," he answers. Why would anyone drug me? And why did he care enough to help me? I open my mouth to say something, but then close it again, not knowing what to say. "And Deacon just let me try to drive?" I ask him. He shrugs "No idea. He was too busy, not dry-fucking your step-sister and his ex." "Stop saying that! You make it sound like he was doing something wrong!" I snap. His eyebrows raise almost into his hairline "Because he is wrong! You shouldn''t be with him! You''re not his!" he snarls "What the heck are you talking about?" I growl back at him, and why 1s he getting so mad? Of course, I would assume he did something when I wake up, not remembering how I got here! Zayn sighs heavily and pinches the bridge of his nose, letting out a deep breath I struggle to process everything he''s saying about Deacon and Lydia. It feels like a betrayal, a wound that''s too fresh and raw. "You''re wrong," I whisper, more to myself than to him "Deacon wouldn''t allow someone to do that to me and there is nothing going on with him and Lydia!" Zayn''''s expression softens slightly, and he takes a tentative step closer. "Cleo, I''m just telling you what I saw, he abandoned you. I wish it weren''t true, but I can''t change the facts." "You have a mate out there. One that abandoned you. Deacon clearly isn''t yours, so I don''t get why you''re with that loser, or he would have told you, you were his mate." He shakes his head "Yeah, but heaps of people choose mates, they don''t actually have to be fated, and I, for one, don''t even believe in fated mates. Look at my father''s mate, real catch, she''s nothing but a gold digging bitch. I rather skip on the mate''s part, thank you," I tell him, and he shakes his head "And you think Deacon isn''t after the same thing? He knows you''re the next Alpha, he bes your mate, you be his Luna while he steals your title right out from under you," Zayn states I''d never thought of that, but Deacon wouldn''t do that. We''ve been together for two years, not once has ever mentioned bing Alpha once I take over the pack However, Zayn''s words about Deacon seeking power through me echo in my mind as I try to piece together the fragments ofst night. I barely remember anything. I remember seeing him dancing on the dance floor, that''s it. The concept of him using me for his gain feels like a foreign thought, yet it gnaws at the edges of my consciousness "L never thought about it like that," I admit reluctantly, the realization leaving a bitter taste in my mouth. "But Deacon isn''t like that. He cares about me." Zayn raises an eyebrow, a skeptical look crossing his features. "Does he? Or does he care about what being with you can get him? Think about it, Cleo." His words sting, and a part of me wants to defend Deacon, to deny Zayn''s usations. But another part, a growing, nagging doubt, wonders if there''s some truth to them. The world of pack politics is aplex web of alliances and power ys, and I''ve always known that being the next Alpha would put me in the center of it all "Even if what you''re saying is true, what does it matter?" I challenge, trying to mask the turmoil inside me. "I don''t need a fated mate, fate can be wrong, look at my mother, fate really fucked her n Over Zayn''s gaze softens, and he steps closer, his presence overwhelming. "You might be surprised at what fate has in store for you."Please check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. The proximity between us 1s electric, a current that seems to flow from him to me, igniting a fire that I didn''t know existed. His eyes search mine, and for a moment, I feel as if he''s looking straight into my soul The room feels charged with an energy I can''t exin, and I find myself leaning towards him, drawn by an invisible force. His scent envelops me, a heady mix that makes my head spin when he speaks again "Doesn''t matter, not now anyway. Just do what you want, you wanna stay with the fool, be my guest. Just know that you''re safe. And nothing nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! happened between us," he says, his gaze holding mune. I suppose I should be grateful it was him and not someone else with more sinister intentions "Thank you," I whisper, feeling a little relieved but still uneasy. He nods, his eyes never leaving mine, as if trying to reassure me without words But the tension remains, undeniably simmering between us ¡ª a heat that refused to be extinguished, and his gaze 1s intense And though I know I should be grateful for his help, I can''t help but wonder what it would have been like if something had happened between us. This dangerous thought sends a shiver down my spine and ignites a fire deep within me that threatens to consume my very being "Look, I wasn''t drunk, I had two drinks and I definitely didn''t take any drugs voluntarily, and I am sorry you had to babysit me. But you are wrong about Deacon, he wouldn''t abandon me," I insist, my voice trembling with embarrassment The heat between us is undeniable, but so is the humiliation "You are seriously still doubting me? See for yourself." Zayn hands me his phone, and on the screen is a video of me being carried inside the packhouse by him, clearly not in control of my own body "Your so-called boyfriend left you alone while you were like that." I chew my lip, tears threatening to spill at the thought of Deacon just abandoning me. I hand the phone back to him. "But why am I wearing your shirt?" Chapter 30 "As I said, you threw up on yourself. I showered you." He shrugs, though his eyes burn into mine with an intensity that makes my heart race. My face flushes at the realization that he''d seen me naked, he had said it, but I was kinda hoping he was joking, and that he had his cleaner or maid or someone else do it. As if sensing my difort, Zayn leans over me, gripping my chin and forcing me to look at him "Don''t worry, you have nothing to be ashamed about," he smirks, and I swear I notice a glint of desire in his eyes. He lets me go after a few intense seconds And I move to the edge of the bed, only to realize I have no underwear on, I awkwardly pull the shirt down trying to conceal myself "Let me guess, you took me to the hospital too?" I snap, trying to regain some sense of control as I climb off the bed, only to notice that my injured leg is nowpletely healed "No, I healed you," he replies simply, shaking his head I stared at him in disbelief. "You what?" I ask him. Healing like that was incredibly rare and dangerous; it is taboo for a reason. Mates would only heal each other in the most dire of circumstances, and even then, such an act could be fatal for the healer. Why would Zayn risk his life for someone who meant nothing to him? When another thought urs to me, he could have sired me by doing so, meaning my wolf would obey him "Please tell me you''re joking right now?" he folds his arms across his chest and raises one eyebrow at me. "Do I look like I am joking?" he asks, and I swallow "But you could have sired my wolf before I even got it!" I snap, annoyed at him, though that may exin the weird attraction I''ve had toward him since waking up "I can''t believe this, I saved your ass just to get abused over it, gee thanks," he snaps, making me feel guilty "Tt''s not that.... Please don''t tell my dad about this," I plead, my voice barely audible. I shudder at the thought of what he''d say or do if he found out. What if he strips me of my title? Especially if Zayn has in fact, sired my wolf to obey him? That would put the pack at risk "Fine." I let out a breath of relief when he speaks again "But you have to go to breakfast with me," Zayn says with a grin. My heart leaps in my chest What if we''re seen together? "Not anywhere anyone will see us together," he says like he was almost reading my thoughts "So what will it be?" he asks "Deal," I agree, a shiver running down my spine and I stand up only to look down "Ah, Zayn?" I ask, and he tilts his head to the side "My clothes?" I ask and he blinks at me "Ah, right. You threw up on them. I threw them in the bin." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I nce down at the shirt I am wearing, I can''t go to breakfast like this and certainly not home in this. My eyes widen in horror, another thing I will need to exin to my father Zayn moves toward me and I peer up at him when he grabs my shoulders. I stare at him like a damn moron when warmth rushes through me Oh, no, what if he did sire my wolf? He must realize where my thoughts went because he chuckles and rolls his eyes, steering me toward the bathroom The bathroom is spacious and modern, with gleaming fixtures and arge, ss-walled shower "I think you sired my wolf!" I blurt embarrassingly, and my hands move to my mouth "Why? Fantasizing about me now?" he purrs "And you don''t sound the least bit upset about that!" I growl He appears to think for a second. "Nope, not at all," he chuckles Zayn''s nonchnce about the possibility of having sired my wolf only adds to the swirling chaos of emotions inside me. His casual dismissal of something so significant makes my head spin, but his next words stop me dead in my tracks "Would it be such a bad thing if I sired you?" he muses, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "At least I know how to treat a woman." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I scoff at his audacity. "Really? You? How exactly would you treat me differently?" He steps closer, and the intensity of his gaze sends a thrill down my spine. "For starters, I wouldn''t leave you vulnerable and alone at a club," he begins, his voice low and steady. "I''d respect you, protect you..." His words trail off, but the implication hangs heavy in the air I roll my eyes, trying to mask the effect his words are having on me His proximity is overwhelming, his scent enveloping me, making it hard to think. The idea of being with Zayn, of being his, sends a jolt of excitement mixed with fear through me His words, though seemingly yful, carry a weight that''s impossible to ignorePlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "And how exactly would you do that?" I challenge, my voice barely above a whisper Zayn''s smile evolves into something more predatory, his eyes darkening with a hunger that sends a rush of excitement through me. He steps closer, so close that I can feel the heat radiating from his body. His hand lifts, tracing a line down the side of my face, his touch feather-light yet sending shivers down my spine "You have no idea, Cleo, how much I could appreciate you," he murmurs, his voice a low, seductive hum that vibrates through me. His hand moves lower, skimming the curve of my shoulder and down my arm, leaving a trail of heat in its wake His other handes up to gently cup my chin, tilting my face up to his. "I''d worship every inch of your body," he continues, his gaze locked onto mine, intense and unwavering. "Every curve, every line..." His fingers trail down to the neckline of the oversized shirt I''m wearing, teasing the edge of the fabric Chapter 31 I catch my breath, my body responding to his touch in ways I can''t control. His proximity, the heat of his body, the intensity of his gaze - it''s overwhelming, intoxicating He leans in closer, his breath warm against my ear. "With my hands, my tongue, I would trace every inch of you. You''d never be out of my sight, you''d be lucky if I let you out of my bed," he whispers, sending another shiver through me "Id make sure you are safe, cherished..." His words are like a caress, wrapping around me, pulling me deeper into the spell he''s weaving. I can feel myself getting lost in the moment, in the fantasy he''s painting a fantasy where I am adored, where I am the center of someone s world But then he ruins it, his voice turning teasing, almost taunting. "I certainly wouldn''t abandon you while you were in a vulnerable state." his face pulls away with a smirk on his face "But by the smell of your arousal, I bet you want to find out exactly how I''d worship you, don''t you?" His fingers trace lower, brushing just below the hem of the shirt, teasing the bare skin of my thighs. "I bet Deacon doesn''t get the same reaction from you." The spell breaks, and I step back, feeling a flush of embarrassment heat my face. His words, so intimate and raw, cut through me, reminding me of the reality of the situation "I... You can''t just say things like that," I stammer, trying to regain myposure. The mix of arousal and embarrassment leaves me feeling exposed, vulnerable Zayn''''s expression shifts, a flicker of regret passing through his eyes before he masks it with a smirk. "Can''t I?" Turning away from him, I wrap my arms around myself, feeling a turmoil of emotions raging inside me. Zayn''s words, his touch, have awakened something within me, something I can''t quite understand. And as much as I want to explore it, I''m also terrified it may mean he has sired me I can feel the heat rising in my cheeks, his words igniting a fire within me. It''s a dangerous game we''re ying, flirting with the line between jest and earnest "You''re just messing with me," I say, though my voicecks conviction as I peer at him over my shoulder Zayn''s smile fades, reced by a look of sincerity. "I''m not, Cleo. You deserve better than Deacon. You deserve someone who sees your worth, who values you for who you are." The sincerity in his voice catches me off guard The thought of being valued, cherished even, is both alluring and terrifying "Now go shower, I''ll find you some clothes," he tells me nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading!This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. Alpha Zayn leaves the bathroom to fetch me some clothes, and I turn on the water, adjusting it toa warm, soothing temperature. As I step under the spray, the water cascades over me, and I close my eyes, letting 1t wash over my skin. The tension in my muscles begins to loosen, but my mind refuses to quiet down My mind a whirlpool of confusion and unbidden thoughts about Zayn and the things he Just said. The way he had moved, his muscles rippling under his skin, had left an imprint in my mind, one that I found both unsettling and undeniably alluring. His presence seemed to linger in the room, a tangible force that I couldn''t ignore As Ither soap over my body, I find myself thinking about Zayn more, about the way his sweatpants had clung to him. It''s a visual that''s both provocative and intimate, and it sends a warm flush through my body I shake my head, trying to dispel these thoughts I shouldn''t be thinking about him like this, not now, not with everything that''s happened. But it''s like a current I can''t swim against, drawing me in despite my best efforts to stay aloof Rinsing my face, I open my eyes, and to my mortification, he walks back into the bathroom just as I am about to step out of the shower. His eyes never leaving mine, he begins stripping off his own clothes and I open the door to hop out when he cages me back inside the shower, forcing me to remain in with him "Dude, you are getting far toofortable with me!" I snap, my embarrassment morphing into irritation He smirks and steps into the shower with me. I try to hop out, but he reaches for the soap behind me, effectively caging me in. I take a step back, bumping into the cold tiles, letting out a shriek. I lurch forward and m into him in my haste to get away. His strong arms wrap around me, stopping me from falling. Now, I am flush against him, feeling the heat of his body against mine and feeling my blood run to my face. I try to pull away, but he keeps a hold on me "Only the other day, you were saying unshifted females shouldn''t be around unmated males?" I remind him, trying to sound confident despite my awkwardness. "I''m pretty sure you''re breaking your jail bait rule?" He only smiles, tugging me even closer, making me gasp. "I figured that went out the window when I healed youst night," he murmurs, his lips brushing against mine as he speaks. "With my tongue." He lets out a soft purr, and this time, his tongue runs along my lips Arousal floods me, and instinctively, I lean in towards him, only to realize what I am doing. I jerk away, but his grip on me remains strong Embarrassment washes over me as he lifts his hand, brushing his thumb over my cheek. That silly smile still dances on his face, clearly toying with me. His scent envelops me, intoxicating and entrancing me. Before I know it, Iam leaning in again, our lips nearly touching as he speaks "I''m definitely getting toofortable around you, but are you ufortable because you want me closer or because you''re scared of what Daddy will think if he finds out?" he asks, a teasing glint in his eyes "Shut up," I spit, ring at him, trying to regain some semnce of control over the situation The truth is, I can''t deny the strange attraction I feel towards him. But that didn''t mean I was going to let him make fun of me for it Chapter 32 My face burns with embarrassment and confusion, a rush of emotions coursing through me, and some I''m struggling to understand. It is maddening - this inexplicable attraction to him that seems toe out of nowhere. In frustration, I growl at him, "This is your fault because you''ve sired my wolf when you healed 35 me! His eyes sparkle with mischief as his smile grows even wider, the sharp points of his canines peeking out from behind his lips. Heughs, before releasing me from his grip. I re at him, still feeling the heat in my cheeks "You shouldn''t do that," I warn him, trying to regain some control of my body. But instead of taking me seriously, he turns away from me to wash himself. I re at his back before my eyes and can''t help but follow the trail of water droplets running down his strong shoulders, along the curve of his muscr back, and finally to the swell of his ass. When he turns around, my gazends on his cock-long, veiny and thick. I gulp at the size of it "Still think you wouldn''t have noticed if I slept with you?" heughs, clearly enjoying my difort. As I lift my gaze to his face, I feel the heat in my cheeks intensify. All the blood in my body seems to be rushing there, making me feel lightheaded "And she says she''s not a virgin; your blush says otherwise," he teases, stepping closer and stepping under the water to rinse himself off Feeling caught out and exposed, I stare at the wall, not knowing where else to look. Moments I stand there, the water still cascading down my body. My mind races with conflicting emotions I can''t deny the fierce attraction that pulses between us, but I am also terrified of what it could mean. For me, for my pack, and for my rtionship with my father if he finds out Zayn has sired my wolf before I even have a chance to meet her. The thought of my father finding out about this sends a shiver down my spine, one that has nothing to do with the cool air hitting my wet skin. If he truly has, this is bad, he''ll have influence over my wolf, influence over me As I finish showering, I mull over Alpha Zayn''s words, trying to make sense of everything that happenedst night, but I draw a nk, my nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! memorypletely gone Hopping out, I wrap the towel around my body My thoughts continue to swirl as I get dressed in the clothes he had left for me - men''s clothes that are too big, but carry his intoxicating scent As I step out of the bathroom, I try to regain myposure, preparing myself for whatevery ahead But even with the uncertainty and fear, part of me feels alive, electric. And inexplicably drawn to the puzzling Alpha who has so thoroughly turned my world upside down and is on the verge of getting me murdered by my father Trying to exin one run in with the Alpha was bad enough. How the heck will I exin spending the night with him? My father must be raising the rm as we speak. What if Deacon went to my house looking for me, or if Lydia saw him take me, and told my father? Panic slivers through my veins at that thoughtThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. Stepping out of the bathroom, I find Zayn waiting for me. The scent of him clings to the fabric, simultaneouslyforting and maddening. I know I should be furious with him for siring my wolf - but I find I can''t bring myself to hate him for it considering he did stop anything from possibly happening to me. But it''s the only thing that exins the strange attraction I have toward the man "Please tell me we aren''t leaving your pack with me dressed like this?" I whine, tugging at the clothes once I am dressed. As I do, my pants fall down, prompting a shriek from me as I scramble to pull them back up. Zaynughs, his eyes dancing with amusement as he reaches over to help me. He grabs the waistband, hoisting them up so high I can almost tuck my breasts in them, I hiss when he gives me a wedgie, front and back. I re at him, and heughs but ties the drawstring again before stepping away, so I can try to pull his sweats from my crack. Great, now I have to walk around with a wedgie and cameltoe "Come on," he chuckles, guiding me toward the door. Reluctantly, I follow him, unable to shake the feeling that I am walking straight into the wolf''s den once home. We make our way through the grand hallways of his packhouse, eventually emerging outside, where my car is waiting? "L had my brother bring it back for you," he tells me, gesturing toward the vehicle, another thing I have no memory of. He then leads me to his own car, opening the door for me. I hesitate for a moment before sliding into the plush leather seat. The interior of his car is sleek, with a glossy ck finish. It was the kind of car most people could only dream of owning - but for Zayn, it was just another luxury in his life, while it gives me anxiety in case I break something, or scuff it with my shoes Zayn hops in and puts the key in the ignition "You aren''t taking me into the city, are you?" I ask nervously as he starts the car. "My father will murder me if he catches me with you." Chapter 33 "Rx, Cleo," he replies, a wicked grin ying on his lips. "T have no intention of getting you in trouble with your father." He revs the engine, sending a shiver down my spine as I fumble for the seatbelt As we drive, I can''t help but feel torn with the information of Deacon abandoning me and the knowledge that being involved with Zayn could have dire consequences. He is powerful, intoxicating - different from Deacon in every conceivable way. I can''t help but remember what he saidst night. That he would never be caught dancing with another woman if I was his "Stop overthinking things," he says suddenly, as if reading my mind. "T''ll make sure nothing bad happens to you, your father won''t find you here." I want to believe him, more than anything. But deep down, I know that anything to do with Alpha Zayn is ying with fire - and Iam dangerously close to getting burned "My step-sister is always looking for any excuse to get me in trouble, and this wouldn''t just get me in trouble. My father would disown me," I exin, feeling the heat rise in my cheeks as I think about Lydia''s constant meddling "So?" he asks, his gray eyes meeting mine with a challenge. "You''re an adult, you can be around whoever you want," Zayn shrugs and I raise an eyebrow. No, he can be around whoever he wants, he''s an Alpha. Right now, I am just the Alpha''s daughter who relies on her father to still pay her tuition "My father hates you for some reason, he mes you for killing his best friend, but I am yet to hear word of this so called friend he had." I admit "Ah, he''s talking about my father," Zayn states Confusion washes over me and Zayn smirks, his fingers tapping against the steering wheel "That''s your real concern, your father." I swallow hard, averting my gaze. I can''t deny the truth of his words "Rx, Cleo," Zayn murmurs, his hand reaching over to brush against mine, sending an electric thrill up my arm. "I promise I won''t let anything happen to you."N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. "Easy for you to say," I mutter under my breath, but the warmth of his touch somehow eases my fears. I pull my hand away, he clears his throat, cing both hands on the steering wheel "Because of my father," he abruptly answers, catching me off guard. I look at him, confusion mixing with curiosity nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Excuse me?" I ask "They used to be best friends and they were talking again before my father died. Your father, he hates me because my father is dead, he mes me. My father was going to sell him back thend but I stopped him not wanting Linda to get her hands on it. When the city was founded, your father and mine, along with four other men, co-owned thend on which it was built. However, your father got into debt to mine, and after he was caught out, he spent the funds put aside for his half. My father was going to file for bankruptcy when your mother told my father to sell half of it." "So he was forced to sell half of their shared half or lose it all. He left a patch for your father from his half, which he finished paying off just before you were born, but back then my father had no choice but to sell the rest off. It took until I took over my father''s pack to recover what he lost," he exins "And as a result, your father has been holding a grudge against my father ever since, and he''s been trying to find a way to take thend back That''s why he hates me - he thinks my father sold him out and tried to steal what is his However, that hatred grew when my father died, your father hated him but for years they were really close." "But if my father were in debt, he wouldn''t have had a choice," I say, the pieces not quite fitting together in my mind nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "True, but your father didn''t see it that way and reckons my father caused issues in his marriage to your mother. However, what he doesn''t know is that your mother told my father to sell it because the money used to buy it originally came from her parents." My brows furrow, my grandparents died when I was six, so hearing him speak of them 1s a little odd? "Only when your mother learned your father spent thend taxes and defaulted on her parents'' credit. So she asked my father to sell it to get back anything he could for it. My father, luckily, was able to sell a sizable chunk that paid her parents back. But he kept a piece and gave it to your mother because your mother used to be best friends with mine until your father got it in his head that my father was meddling and after his wife." "Yet he left her for the troll he has now because she is his mate," I scoff, shaking my head at the absurdity of it all. Zayn remains silent on the matter, clearly ufortable with discussing my father''s choices "So, where is your mother now?" I ask him, trying to shift the conversation "Dead. She died 19 years ago," Zayn reveals, swallowing thickly as if the words still sting after all these years "So, just after I was born?" Realization dawns; I never heard of this or met him before the Alpha meeting. If our mothers were close, surely I would have known him if she did not die I stare at Zayn, trying to wrap my head around the revtion he''s justid before me. My father''s long-standing grudge against him wasn''t because of some imagined slight or personal vendetta it was rooted in aplicated history between our families and that sense of betrayal that has festered over the years Chapter 34 "Wow," I murmur, feeling a mix of emotions churning inside me "That''s... quite a story." The weight of his words settles on my chest, making my heart feel heavy with the knowledge of their shared past. I nce at Zayn, taking in the determined set of his jaw and the shadows in his eyes As we pull up next to a quaint caf¨¦ and boutique clothing store, Zayn climbs out of the car and gestures for me to follow him. I hesitantly move around to head into the caf¨¦, feeling foolish in the oversized clothes he lent me, when he suddenly grabs my hand and tugs me in the direction of the boutique instead. He pushes the door open with a jingle from the bell above, revealing an array of colorful summer outfits on disy "Andrea!" Zayn calls out, his voice echoing through the small store. A woman around my father''s age appears, her face lighting up with Joy upon seeing Zayn. She rushes forward and embraces him tightly, her eyes sparkling with affection "Oh, I''ve missed you! I haven''t seen you in weeks! How''s your brother?" "Doing much better, picked him upst week," Zayn replies, his voice softening "Who is this lovely youngdy?" Andrea asks, her gaze shifting to me. Her expression 1s warm and weing "This is..." Zayn begins, but Andrea interrupts him "Gosh, you look like your mother," says the woman, her eyes lighting up. "Hello Cleo, I''m Andrea, Zayn''s mother''s twin sister," she tells me "You knew my mother too?" I asked, always eager to meet someone who knew her. Back home, hardly anyone mentions her and when I do, I always get told not to bring up the past, or not to upset Linda by speaking of his previous marriage "Of course, honey. Your mother and I were close friends," Andrea says warmly, her gaze softening as she looks at me I swallow hard, trying to keep my emotions in check. No one has ever spoken so openly about my mother before, and it feels both thrilling and forbidden. Last time I heard anyone speak of her I was eleven years old, but then Linda got upset, rarely does anyone mention her nowPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "Yes, very well. I was devastated to learn she passed, many regrets. I should have intervened earlier, I did warn her, but..." Andrea''s voice trails off under Zayn''s disapproving gaze, changing the topic swiftly "T take it you need clothes," sheughs, switching subjects with skill and pulling clothes from the shelves. I nce at Zayn, wanting to know what she was going to say, when he nods for me to follow her "Really? You already gave me a phone, showered me, healed me, and now you''re clothing me?" I am baffled by his generosity He chuckles. "At this rate, you might as well move in with me," he mocks, thenughs but nudges me to follow his aunt Iply, and Andrea hands me a long, flowy dress. I avoid looking at the price tag and nce at Zayn for reassurance "Go on, this ce was my mother''s. Pick what you want," he shrugs, and the ease of his generosity battles me, especially since I am from a rival pack. Why is he being so nice? I slip into the fitting room and change into the dress, admiring how it hugs my curves yet finally feeling better in clothes. I don''t have to worry about them falling down to my ankles when I am walking "Looks like you''re ready for breakfast," Andrea says, her eyes twinkling with approval as she takes in my appearance. "Go on, Zayn''s waiting nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! for you at the caf¨¦ next door." Heading next door into the cafe, I spot Zayn seated at the back of the cafe. When we arrived at the boutique store, this ce had been bustling with people. Yet I find we''re the only ones here now. I peer around wondering if I drove them off being that I am not from here Zayn notices me, sets his phone down and rises from his seating over to me "You found something you like?" he asks, eyeing me up and down with approval. I nod, still peering around at all the empty tables "Yes, thank you," I tell him and he ces a hand on my lower back. "Where did everyone go?" I ask as he leads me toward the table he was sitting at "Patrols, home, we have the ce to ourselves besides the staff." My eyes narrow at him. "I scared them off didn''t I? They don''t like rival packs around," I frown feeling terrible when Zayn pulls out my chair. I reluctantly sit in it "I would hardly call you a threat to my pack," he chuckles "[ never said a threat, just that I''m not from here and it''s obvious," I tell him Zayn grips my shoulders, making me look up at him, only to find his face barely an inch off mune His lips are so close, my eyes dart to them and his scent floods me, making me instinctively lean in nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "L asked them to leave, you didn''t scare them off," he whispers. My face heats at his words "You didn''t have to do that," I blurt, horrified "Your pack doesn''t bother me, this is their territory," I tell him and he smirks "You were worried about people seeing you, I asked them to leave, stop stressing besides most had duties to attend anyway." He squeezes my shoulders before sitting down across from me "You don''t like being alone with me," he chuckles "Tt''s not that I''m just worried about being seen with you," I admit "Here? Your father wouldn''t dare, besides my pack won''t snitch on you," he adds. I chew my lip "They may not, but I know Deacon would have stopped by home looking for me by now, which in turn will have my father questioning my whereabouts." "You seriously like that little weasel?" he questions, his eyes narrowing "Well, he is my boyfriend," I admit. Zayn leans back with his arms folded across his chest, eyeing me Chapter 35 "But he''s not your mate?" he questions. I shake my head. Deacon already admitted that I''m not his mate, he is two years older than me and has his wolf "No, that I do know, his wolf hates me because Deacon wants to mark me when Ie of age." "His wolf wants his mate?" I shrug unsure, I tend to try not to be around him when his wolf is loose "You''re scared of his wolf?" he presses "Can we talk about something else?" I ask, not feeling this conversation is appropriate "Does mine scare you?" he asks "Yours hasn''t bitten me," I tell him. "Though he is huge, his aura is potent, but no, your wolf doesn''t scare me, well he did when you shifted but not after falling asleep with him," I chuckle "Deacon''s wolf bit you?" I nod when ady brings out a milkshake. I thank her, then reach for my milkshake. The coldness of it soothes my dry throat as I take a sip "Yes, he lost control a couple years ago and shifted when we had an argument. He tore into me," I admit "That''s why you have the scar on your hip, the one you covered with your tattoo?" he questions. I nod my head "What about your tattoos, you have a heap?" I ask, trying to push his attention away from my rtionship with Deacon. My eyes roam over his arms that are covered in them to his chest, I can just make out the edges of them poking out beneath his shirt "Pack emblem," he says, patting one side of his chest. Though I did notice the other side was left bare. "My arms?" he shrugs. "My father had the same ones, I got them for him." My brows furrow in confusion "I thought you hated your father?" I ask, my eyes widen at my words and I cover my mouth before quickly apologizing. "Sorry, that''s none of my business." "What made you think that?" he asks curiously "No reason," I shake my head, not wanting to answer. He raises an eyebrow at me "Then why would you assume?" he chuckles. I sigh heavily knowing he won''t drop it now "Rumors, everyone says you killed him," "T did, but I don''t hate him. I loved my father, he was a good Dad, husband and Alpha," he tells me. Now that just confuses me more "He changed thest couple of years Werewolves do that when they lose their mates, he was unstable," is all he offers in the way of an answer The woman returns with our food, and I nce down to see what Zayn had ordered and sigh in relief thinking for sure it would be sd or something "You look shocked," heughs as I pick up a fry nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading!N?velDrama.Org ? 2024. "Yeah, most people assume since I''m a girl I like sd. I think Deacon forgets I''m werewolf not a rabbit," I chuckle "Why do you let him order for you if you don''t like what he orders?" Great back to Deacon again we go I shrug, "I think he finds it intimidating that I''m Alpha born and he 1s a regr wolf. He said he liked ordering for me, like he has control over something, I think... I don''t know. I just allowed him too, if it meant it made him feel better," I say, shrugging and putting another fry in my mouth "He should be intimidated, you''re an Alpha And you shouldn''t have to sacrifice your nature just because he is ufortable." "You ordered for me!" I point out "Because you weren''t here, and I know you''re eager to get home, besides I am not much of a sd eater, so I just ordered what I normally do Besides, I don''t think I''ve met anyone who doesn''t like burgers and fries," heughs He does have a point. "Next time you can order for both of us, I don''t feel intimidated by you," he smirks "Because you''re an Alpha," I point out. He shrugs "Even if I weren''t, I still wouldn''t be intimidated by you. Deacon should have realized that, if he is so insecure around you, he doesn''t deserve you, he shouldn''t want to intimidate you, that''s not how rtionships work. Couples shouldn''t want to dominate each other; they''re meant to be a partnership, not a boxing match," he tells me nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "How can you say that? You''re Alpha. I know it''s hard to walk away when challenged, you couldn''t when my father challenged you," I remind him "I did, though, didn''t I? I didn''t want to, but I did for you." "So you''re saying your wolf doesn''t want to challenge me knowing another Alpha is sitting across from him?" Iugh "Oh, he does, but that doesn''t mean he will, also doesn''t mean in the same way you think he does," he snickers, taking a bite of his burger "What do you mean?" I ask "You really have to ask?" heughs harder. "I''m still a man, Cleo and you look like sin in that dress." he tells me. I nce down at what I''m wearing with my boobs on disy. My face heats "So you''re saying if I challenged your wolf he wouldn''t try to kill me?" I probe "You''re a female Alpha, and I don''t mean that in a bad way. Just saying my wolf is huge, he doesn''t find many people a threat. Honestly, if you actually challenged him he''d probably roll over for you," he states. I look for any deception on his face but don''t find any "Then something is wrong with your wolf, he should hate me since I''m an Alpha." "You have no wolf, ask me again when you have her," he tells me "Maybe I''ll challenge you." "Or maybe you''ll roll over and submit? I guess we''ll have to find out," he smiles Chapter 36 "You seem so sure of yourself," I taunt "Maybe I am just hoping you will be easier to deal with regarding your border issues. If you are morepliant, I already fight with your father enough." he states "Wait, you''ll handle the borders?" I ask him. He leans back 1n his chair, watching me for a second He seems deep in thought. "Your father will eventually find out. You''re aware of that, right?" he tells me. I nod slowly, but my father is being irrational. He''s putting the entire pack at risk I sigh heavily. "You''re scared of him," Zyan asks, and my eyes dart to his "Not in that sense, not how you''re probably thinking. My father won''t hurt me," he raises an eyebrow at me, his eyes darting to my cheek, almost like he can see my father''s handprint there. Instinctively, my hand goes to my cheek and my face mes "Are you sure about that?" he asks and I swallow guiltily "T know he hit you. I could see the burst blood vessels under your skin, Cleo, when I showered youst night and washed your makeup off." "He was angry because I came to you for help. I overstepped." he nods slowly and leans forward 1n his chair "That doesn''t give him the right to put his hands on you," he addsPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "It''s not like," he raises an eyebrow at me and I exhale, knowing there is no point. He hates my father. Nothing I say to him will justify his actions "He apologized, he lost his temper. He isn''t usually violent, he''s never hit me before," I admit. His jaw clenches "If you''re not afraid of him hurting you, then what are you scared of?" "Tm scared of him giving my mother''s pack to Lydia," I tell him He nods. "And I''m scared of him marrying me off to Boyd." "That won''t happen," he tells me. Iugh. He has no idea "Tt won''t happen, Cleo," he tells me and his aura rushes out and I fight the urge to push back against it, knowing there is no point challenging the man when I don''t have my wolf. Gritting my teeth, I stare down at my te when he suddenly drops his aura "TI speak to Alpha Dane. I have a meeting with him next week, anyway." I look up at him hopeful. If I can''t get Boyd to refuse the marriage alliance, maybe Zyan can convince Alpha Dane not to force it "Why would you do that?" I ask. This man has already done enough for me "Because no one should be forced into a marriage for treaty agreements," he tells me "Now finish eating, you should head back before your father sends out a search party looking for ?? you, "That''s if he hasn''t already." I roll my eyes and he snickers nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Tm sure he has. He''s probably tearing the city apart as we speak, looking for you. Have you decided how you''re going to exin your absence?" I shake my head and he clicks his tongue "Well, you wanna think of something quick," I nod, mulling his words over, but either way I know I''ll end up having toe clean eventually. asionally, it''s best to just rip the band-aid off "L guess I''ll tell him I fell asleep in my car," I ponder "He''ll believe that?" "No, but it will give me a few days toe up with a better excuse or I can tell him I stayed at Deacon''s, which will definitely not go down well, but Deacon will cover for me." Zayn says nothing and we finish eating in silence. When it''s time to leave, he drives me back to his ce where my car is waiting and hands me my car keys, along with another key and a stic card. My brows furrow as I look at the swipe key and the small key attached to it "What''s this?" I ask him "That is the swipe card to the gate in here, and the key is to the packhouse," he tells me. My eyes widen, and I try to pass it back to him "Zayn, I can''t take that," I tell him "You can, and you will if you want my men watching your borders," he tells me, and I swallow guiltily "You still haven''t said what you want me to do nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I can''t pay you. My father would notice if I took money, besides I don''t even know what he pays for pack protection," I admit "When do you go back to school?" he asks and I lean against the hood of my car "Next week," I admit, and I can''t wait to be away from my father, Linda, and Lydia "And what do you do for work?" he asks "Mostly I work for my father, but only during breaks mostly. I was paying off this after Lydia almost rode it off, but after my fight with him, I think I''ll steer clear of him. Especially if he is serious about this marriage alliance. I know he''ll try to force me to drop out." "He can''t do that," he tells me "He can when he pays for it," I chuckle nervously Zayn sighs, then runs his fingers through his hair. "Fine," he says, stepping closer and cing his hands on either side of my hips. His scent overwhelms me and he smirks, seeing the effect he has on me. "You''ve sired my wolf, you know that. My father is going to murder me," I growl, but ites out more of a moan. My eyes widen and my face heats "Keep telling yourself that," he purrs, giving me a devious smile "Zayn, stop ying with me. It''s not funny!" I growl at him. But the shaky note in my voice betrays how hot and flustered this man makes me feel. His gaze rakes over me and ignites a pool of desire that has been simmering deep within the entire time I''ve been with him. I try to remind myself it''s the sire bond from him healing me, yet another part of me can''t deny how attracted to the man I am "And what if I don''t want to stop?" His voice is low, barely more than a whisper as he dips his head lower, his lips moving against my ear. It sends a thrill of anticipation spiraling down to my toes Chapter 37 The way he looks at me...It says he wants more than just yful banter. He wants me. I don''t know if that is his way of getting back at my father, but I can''t say I would turn him down if he requested my body for payment. Which goes against everything I believe in. I am saving myself for my mate or for Deacon to mark me, yet why do I feel like I would throw all that away for him? Deacon! Deacon! You have a boyfriend; I remind myself Zayn''s arms suddenly wrap around my waist, pulling me flush against him. My breath hitches as I feel the hard contours of his body pressing into mine. The feeling of raw power emanating from him makes my blood pulse wildly in my veins, filling me with a heady mix of lust and desire. It''s intoxicating "T bet right now, I could ask you to do anything, and you''d fall over yourself to do it," heughs softly, pulling away to look at my face "It''s the sire. If you didn''t want me falling over myself to please you, you shouldn''t have healed me!" I blurt. He smiles wickedly "Or maybe I have you exactly where I want you," he purrs, and my eyes flutter closed at the sound emanating from his chest. Zayn''s words send a shiver down my spine, and I can''t deny the pull he has over me. I know it''s the sire bond, but part of me wants to believe that there''s something more between us DEACON! I remind myself. Yet he ditched me, abandoned me in a vulnerable state! I push Zayn away, trying to regain some control over myself. "We both know this is just the sire bond," I say firmly, my voice shaking slightly He raises an eyebrow at me and smirks. "Ts it? Because I have a feeling you''re attracted to me regardless of the sire bond." He takes a step closer, trapping me against the wall with his body and my car once more I can feel his breath on my face and it takes all of my willpower not to give in to him. "I have a boyfriend," I remind him, hoping that will be enough to get through to him He leans in even closer, his lips almost touching mine. "And yet here you are, alone with me, and youre really putting up a fight to escape me," he whispers seductively I struggle to find a response as his hand gently cups my cheek. My heart is racing and my body is betraying me by responding to his touch Tension crackles like electricity between us. The raw power of his aura radiating from him makes my blood rush, my heart pound against the walls of my chest. It''s almost as if he''s wrapped me up in this heady mix of lust and desire, and I suddenly don''t want to break free of it Zayn''s lips brush against mine as he speaks "What if I said I want you as payment? Would deny me?" his words sending a shiver down my spine. I know I should push him away, remind him I have a boyfriend and this 1s wrong, but all rational thought seems to have escaped me in this moment He pulls back slightly, his eyes searching mine for any sign of hesitation. But all he sees is the desire burning in them, mirroring his own "Zyan, please," I tell him. A part of me wonders if am begging him to keep going or asking him to stop I bite my lip, trying to regain some control over my body and emotions. "This is wrong," I whisper nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Is it really?" Zayn asks, his hand trailing down from my cheek to lightly brush against my neckPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "You don''t seem to beining." he smiles smugly then leans in closer until his hot breath tickles my earlobe, causing waves of anticipation to sear through me "But you should go before I don''t let you, wouldn''t want that boyfriend of yours to find out you''re sired to another now would we?" he asks and hearing him speak Deacon''s name is like he tossed a bucket of ice water over me The thought of Deacon makes me stumble back momentarily, but Zayn''s swift reaction leaves no room for escape. Strong arms circle around my waist, pulling me close again. The feel of his hard body pressing against mine again causes a sharp intake of breath He watches me for a second and I push off his chest. "I should go." I tell him while also reminding myself how wrong this is. Zayn lets me go and I fumble with my keys to unlock the car when I pause "You never said how I am supposed to pay you for watching the borders." I remind him as I climb into my car "[ have an office near your university. What days do you have free?" he asks "None, but I have three early days," I tell him "Then you''lle there. You can help me in the office. I just fired myst secretary," he tells me "Why?" I find myself asking "Because she is my ex," he states. My brows pinch "Oh, the one you dumped via text?" I snort augh "Yep, don''t need her moping around work," he chuckles "Who said she is moping? Maybe she is d to be done with your arrogant ass," I tell him and he smiles "Now I''m arrogant. Only a second ago you would have let me kiss you," he tells me, and my face heats at his words. I open my mouth to argue it''s the sire bond, but he beats me to it "Yeah, yeah, it''s the sire bond. Now get home You have my number if you need me, and I''ll have my men watch your borders from a distance," he tells me before turning on his heel and heading back into the packhouse. Shaking my head, I start up my car and turn it around in the huge driveway before leaving, driving out his territory Now, to convince my father, I slept in the car or at Deacon''s because guaranteed he''s been looking for me and will be on a warpath Chapter 38 After leaving the caf¨¦, and Zayn, I feel a mix of emotions swirling within me. The quietfort of his presence I found calming, but is now reced by the cold, uncertain air of the city as I make my way home. My mind is a whirlpool of thoughts about Zayn, Deacon, the pack, the issue with rogue attacks and theplicated web I have found myself in. And then there''s the issue of exining my absence to my father Either way he''ll find out, it''s just a matter of how long I can avoid his wrath for When I finally pull up into the driveway, I breathe a sigh of relief as I notice my father and stepmother''s absence as both their cars are gone However, the sight of Lydia''s car elicits an involuntary groan and a roll of my eyes knowing she may just be worse than them together Steeling myself, I step out of the car and head towards the front door "About time you showed up," Lydia snipes as soon as I step inside, her voice dripping with disdain. "Are they new clothes?" She asks, bing distracted by my appearance. "What brand is that?" She asks, pulling to see the tag. I shove her away She eyes me suspiciously. "Morning Lydia, nice to see you too," I mutter and she folds her arms across her chest. I drop my keys on the counter ignoring her "Where were you all night?" She questions "None of your business," I retort, trying to hide my unease as I shrug off my jacket. Her gaze lingers on me, her lips pursed in disapproval She eyes my clothes and I know she is wondering where I got them from "Really?" she presses, stepping closer, her eyes narrowing. "You were seenst night talking with Alpha Zayn at the club. You wouldn''t have been with the oh-so-dark and mysterious Alpha, would you? You know Deacon wouldn''t approve." "Lydia, don''t start," I warn, feeling my cheeks heat up despite my best efforts to keep them calm yet thinking of Zayn makes me all hot and flustered and I know it''s the sire bond, I can''t believe he sired my wolf. Well I''m pretty sure he did, I wasn''t this overwhelmed by him when I first met him. "Deacon and I are adults, we don''t need your input on our rtionship." "Rtionship?" She smirks, her eyes gleaming with malice. "Is that what you''re calling it now? You don''t deserve Deacon, not with how you were throwing yourself at that alphast night." "T was not throwing myself at him, and since when are you the expert on rtionships, what''s your longest rtionship? A week?" I ask her, and she res at me "Can you just go away, Lydia? I really don''t have time for your games today," I snap, my patience wearing thin. But she doesn''t move; instead, she takes another step closer Yet now, as I truly take in her appearance, my senses are immediately assaulted by the pungent scent of Lydia''s anxiety. Her eyes are wide with worry, bloodshot from crying, and her hands wring together nervously. She looks a mess, but there''s something undeniably satisfying about her vulnerability "Lydia," I say, trying to keep my voice steady as I take in her disheveled appearance. "What''s going on?" Lydia sighs heavily and rubs her eyes. "Your father won''t listen, nor does he care, I...." She pauses and sucks in a breath nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Have you seen Deacon? He didn''t show up for patrol this morning, and his Alpha said he tried to mindlink him but found his tether broken," she stammers, her voice quivering with concern "His pack tether?" I ask, feeling a cold shiver run down my spine at the thought. There are only two ways to sever a pack link: go rogue, either by choice or by force, and death. My heart races at the possibility that Deacon might be in danger "He''s probably wrong, Deacon is probably passed out drunk somewhere, and it numbed his link to his Alpha," I tell her. But something nags at me, and I pull my phone out of my pocket Usually, Deacon visits me every day, it''s rare that I don''t see or hear from him I try calling Deacon''s number, but it goes straight to voicemail. A sense of unease tightens in my stomach. Lydia''s worry seems to deepen, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "This isn''t like him, he always reports in," she murmurs "And why would his Alpha say it''s broken, he has no reason to go rogue, or what if he had an ident on his way home or what...?" Lydia is rambling, and I''ve never seen her this worried about anyone before I try to calm her, cing a hand on her shoulder. "Hey, calm down, he''s probably fine," I say, trying to catch her gaze "We''ll find him, okay? But we need to stay calm and think rationally." "Rationally?" she scoffs, wiping away a tear with the back of her hand. "How can I be rational when Deacon could be...could be..." She chokes on her words, unable to finish the sentence nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Why are you so worried about Deacon?" I ask, suspicion creeping into my voice. "He''s my boyfriend, not yours." Lydia shifts ufortably, avoiding my gaze "We should all be concerned, shouldn''t we?" she deflects, but her heightened anxiety is obvious. She''s always had a thing for Deacon "We''ll check his house, he is probably hungover, or maybe he has passed out," I suggest, more to ease her worry than to appease my Own growing concern "Have you tried calling any of his friends?" I ask, breaking the silence "Of course I have!" she snaps, her frustration evident. "They haven''t heard from him either." "Alright, alright," I say, cating her. "I''m just trying to help." "Maybe he went somewhere else after leaving the club," I suggest, mixed emotions swirling within me. Worry about Deacon''s well-being churns with the lingering memory of his betrayal, and him ditching me in such a vulnerable statest nightPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "Or maybe he didn''t make 1t home," Lydia suggests, her voice low and desperate, as if she''s afraid to speak the words aloud Chapter 39 "Let''s not jump to conclusions," I chide gently "We need more information before we can form any theories." "Right," she agrees, taking a deep breath to steady herself "Let''s check his ce. Maybe he has just passed out," I suggest. However, the uncertainty 1s eating away at me, but I refuse to let fear consume me "Fine, let''s go," Lydia nods frantically and starts pushing me toward the door As we walk outside to my car, I can''t help but wonder what''s gotten into hertely. I know she''s always had a thing for Deacon, but this sudden surge of concern seems... intense "Where are my father and Linda?" I ask as we make our way to the car. She looks at me briefly before answering, "He went to speak with Alpha Samuel, they''re discussing some pack business." "Pack business? What kind of pack business?" I press, feeling uneasy. Something tells me there''s more to it than that "Something about alliances; who cares, Deacon is missing," she snaps, ripping my car door open. I pause in the driveway, a shudder running up my spine. Alliances with Alpha Dane... My father wouldn''t agree to a marriage alliance without my consent, would he? Shaking the thought from my head, I open the car door. "Cleo, hurry up. Who cares where they are! It''s nothing for you to worry about," she dismisses my question with a wave. "Let''s just focus on finding Deacon right now." "Fine," I sigh, knowing it''s pointless arguing with her. We get in the car and drive in silence, each of us lost in our own thoughts. I can feel the tension between us, thick and palpable, like a fog that refuses to lift As we drive, my mind races with possibilities, my fingers tapping impatiently on the steering wheel, and I can''t help but sneak nces at Lydia. She''s always been soposed, so calcting in her moves. But now? She is a storm of emotions, barely contained beneath the surface. I''d known for years that she had feelings for Deacon, but it still stings to see her so invested In his well-being "Did Deacon say anything to you about where he was goingst night?" I inquire, hoping to get any information I can from her regarding Deacon''s whereabouts She turns in her seat to look at me "Why don''t you know where he is, Cleo? Weren''t you with himst night?"N?velDrama.Org ? 2024. I''m taken aback by her abrupt shift from worry to anger. "No, Lydia, I wasn''t with Deacon Deacon ditched me! What''s going on with you?" "Ditched you? I saw him leave with you!" she snarls, and confusion washes over me. What does she even mean by that? She''s delusional Her face contorts in anger. "Then where were you, I saw him leave with you? And why can''t we find him?" "T''m not arguing over Deacon with you, it''s none of your business where I was," I growl at her and Lydia mutters something under her breath As her usations hang in the air, I start to piece things together. Lydia''s overreaction, her intense worry it''s more personal than it should be. She''s hiding something, but I can''t dwell on that now. Deacon is missing, and that''s what matters Pulling into Deacon''s street Lydia''s agitation seems to grow with each passing second. Lydia''s clenched jaw and furrowed brow, her tapping fingers and restless movements, all, contribute to the image of a person on the brink of panic Her eyes scan the familiar street, searching for any sign of Deacon We stop out the front of his house, but his car 1s not here, which makes worry gnaw at me further. I run my fingers through my hair, trying to remain calm We step out of the car and approach the front door, my heart pounding in my chest Lydia reaches out to ring the doorbell, her hand trembling slightly. I can see the fear in her eyes, the desperation to find any trace of Deacon. The seconds stretch into eternity as we wait for someone to answer the door, but there''s no response We exchange a nervous nce before Lydia takes a step back, peering through the windows in search of any signs of life inside. The curtains are drawn shut, so we are unable to see anything beyond them nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! We are about to leave when I suddenly remember the spare key that he always kept outside. "The spare key," I blurt out. "Deacon always keeps a spare key under the doormat." Without wasting another moment, I rush over and lift up the doormat, revealing the small silver key hidden beneath, letting out a breath of relief. I nce at Lydia, who waves her hands at me before shoving me out of the way, she snatches the key and jams it in the lock The door creaks open, revealing a dimly lit hallway, and all the lights are off The house 1s silent, and a chill runs down my spine as we step cautiously inside. It''s as if time has stopped, the air heavy with anticipation. We make our way through the familiar rooms, searching for any clue that might lead us to Deacon Lydia''s footsteps echo behind me, her breathing shallow and uneven. I can sense her desperation growing with each passing second, matching my own mounting fear. The house feels empty, void of any signs of life. Where 1s he? We both move from room to room, meeting back in the foyer. "Maybe he stayed with friends, his car isn''t even here," I tell her, yet the sinking feeling in my stomach causes knots of anxiety "Or maybe he didn''t make it home at all. Maybe he is dead in a ditch somewhere," she retorts, her eyes narrowing suspiciously. "Maybe you''re the one who''s lying, Cleo. Did you do something to him?" "What would I lie about? And why would I do something to MY boyfriend Lydia, just shut up, you aren''t making any sense!" I snarl incredulously, feeling my anger rise at her usation Chapter 40 "Where were you Cleo, I saw Deacon leave with you! Don''t lie to me, I know you''re lying!" "Are you really going down this road right now, I told you I never left with him? Is that so hard to believe?" I ask, my disbelief growing by the second "I saw you!" she screams, her face turning purple in her anger as she clenches her fists ring at me "Fine," I snap, my patience wearing thin. I can''t deal with this anymore, now isn''t the time for it "No, I wasn''t with Deaconst night. I was with someone else." My words seem to shock her, she flicks her long hair over her shoulder and crosses her arms "Who?" she presses, her interest piqued "None of your business!" I shoot back, refusing to give her any more ammunition against me She opens her mouth to speak again, but I cut her off "Lydia, I swear," I start to exin, my voice shaking with emotion. "He left me at the club; I don''t know where he went after that. Last time I remember seeing him, he was dancing with you and Maya!" "Of course you don''t remember how convenient I don''t believe it," she snaps, rolling her eyes My gaze flickers over her body, taking in her disheveled appearance - the smeared makeup, tousled hair and rumpled clothes. Her gaze goes to me. She sneers, eyeing my clothes suspiciously "But clearly you were up to no good, look at what you''re wearing. Where did you get money for that dress, are you whoring yourself out now?" "I''m not doing this with you, think what you want," I wave her off dismissively. She really grates on my every nerve "But you managed to find your way into someone else''s arms, didn''t you? I wonder what Deacon will think about that. You''re nothing but a slut, who else are you screwing? Does Deacon know what a whore you are?" She keeps pushing, her wordsced with malice and usation "Wha-?" I stammer, caught off guard by her usation. But it isn''t entirely baseless. Last night, in my drunken haze, I had ended up entangled with Zayn, but not in the way she 1s suggesting "Lydia, it wasn''t like that," I say defensively, my fingers twisting nervously in the fabric of my dress. "Let''s just inform my dad and organize a search," I say, trying to keep the quiver out of my voice. My mind races, attempting to focus on the task at hand: finding Deacon "Fine," she begrudgingly agrees, her eyes narrowing with suspicion. "But you still haven''t answered my question, Cleo. If you weren''t with Deacon, where were you stayingst night? Or should I say, who with?" I feel my cheeks heat up, knowing full well that no answer will be good enough for Lydia. But there''s no escaping this conversation now Taking a deep breath, I muster all my courage and admit, "I stayed with Zayn." She stops beside my car staring at me Nervousness creeps into me, fuck I am so busted. My father is going to kill me "I tried to drive home and Zayn ran into me," I tell her truthfully, and she scoffs "You were with Zayn? As in, you spent the night with him?" she asks, shocked "Zayn found me outside the club, alone and wasted, trying to drive home. He helped me back to his ce, Deacon was not with me." "Wait, so you were gallivanting around with a rival pack alpha the same night Deacon goes missing, and Iam supposed to believe that is a coincidence!?" "Lydia, I don''t care what you believe, just get in the car so we can find him. We''ve wasted enough time." She huffs but does as she is told, and then throws another usation my way "Do you think your new boyfriend, Zayn, had something to do with Deacon''s disappearance? He doesn''t like him," Lydia points out, pursing her lips as she cocks a brow as if I would know the answer to that, after spending a little time with Zayn I feel a surge of anger at her suggestion. "Zayn wouldn''t hurt Deacon," I snap back. "He has no reason to. Besides, he is probably fine, you''ll see all this worry will be for nothing." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 5s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "But you were with Zaynst night, weren''t 5". you? she presses, her eyes narrowed in suspicion "Yes, and I think I would have known if Deacon was with me! He wasn''t!" I snap back at her, and she falls back in her chair, folding her arms across her chest. Yet, my mind goes back to what Zayn said about how he saved me, but never said from whom. I shake the thought away, Deacon would never. Right? But the thought has been embedded into my mind, and for some reason I can''t shake it off as we continue the drive home Once home, Lydia rushes inside and I see my father 1s now home. I am dreading going inside now, I know Lydia will blurt to my father about me being with Zayn, and I can already see the fight this will cause Once Lydia is inside, I pull out my phone and send a message to Zayn. My fingers hesitate for a moment before I type Me: ''Deacon is missing. Can you check the club''s footage fromst night? Maybe it can help us find out where he went.'' I hit send, feeling a mixture of hope and desperation. Zayn might be my only chance at finding out what happened to Deacon. As I wait for a response, the weight of the situation settles heavily on my shoulders. But for now, finding Deacon is my priority, and everything else will have to wait Zayn replies a few secondsterPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. Zayn: ''Deacon is missing? I saw himst night before I left. He was dancing with Lydia. I can meet you at the clubter, and we can go over the footage together.'' Chapter 41 I quickly agree to meet him when the front door bangs open and my father is ring at me from the front porch. Great, now I have to deal with him, and he''ll be furious when he learns who I was withst night. Climbing out of the car, my father storms down the steps toward me with a furious look on his face His eyes sh with anger as he confronts me, his voiceced with disappointment. "Cleo, what the hell were you thinking? Spending the night with Zayn, of all people!" Of course, Lydia couldn''t wait to throw me under the bus. His words pierce through me like hot iron, igniting a mixture of fear and defiance "Dad, it''s not what you think," I stammer, attempting to defend myself. But he doesn''t seem interested in hearing any exnation "Not what I think? You''re fraternizing with the ?" enemy!" he growls, his face turning red with anger "I know, I know," I stammer, my heart sinking at the disappointment in his voice. Once again, I''ve let him down, great, thanks Lydia "But it wasn''t like that, Dad. I was in no state to drive, and Zayn found me outside the club. He brought me back to his ce to make sure I was safe. That was all. Nothing sordid, I swear!" I try to exin myself, hoping he listens My father''s expression softens slightly, but his disapproval is still evident. "And where was Deacon during all this? He should have been the one taking care of you, not Zayn." I swallow hard, my throat dry with guilt. "T don''t know, Deacon left me at the club earlier in the night. I haven''t seen him since." His eyes narrow as he studies me, searching for any signs of deceit. "You expect me to believe that Deacon just abandoned you in that state?" "IT wouldn''t lie about this," I say firmly, meeting his gaze head-on."Deacon disappeared, and we need to find him. Ask Lydia, we just returned from his house; can we argue about this after we find him please?" And for the first time ever Lydiaes to my defense against my father, even though she is the one who clearly told him where I was "She''s right Joseph, Deacon wasn''t home. We can''t find him," Lydia adds, and he peers over his shoulder at her then looks at me "And nothing happened between you and Zayn?" he questions. My brows furrow in confusion at his words. "No, I just told you that!" "So you didn''t fuck him?" my father uses, and my eyes widen, appalled at his question "Excuse me?" I splutter "Answer the question Cleo or I will have the doc check you. If I want this alliance to go well with Alpha Dane, you best still be pure." I stagger back at his words, and even Lydia seems disgusted at his question, which says a lot because that B revels in my difort "For your sake, I''m going to pretend you did not just ask about the state of my virginity. And Alpha Dane can go fuck himself if he thinks I will marry his son," I snarl angrily, stomping off toward my car "Where do you think you''re going?" my father yells at me, and I stop flinging my car door open "To find Deacon, my boyfriend and future mate!" I yell at him before climbing in my car. I start my car and m it in reverse, tearing out of the driveway and back toward the city 28K ok ~Zayn~ After Cleo leaves, I head home to the packhouse where my brother, who''s also my Beta, Vance, is waiting. I groan, I was on high after seeing my little mate, not so much now seeing his concerned face nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! Toeing my shoes off, I kick them beside the door and wander into the living room where he is sitting on the leather armchair by the window "Spying on me now?" I ask, knowing he just witnessed everything outside with me and Cleo "Not spying, I''vee to speak to you about Deacon." I raise an eyebrow at his words "What about him?" I ask, falling onto the sofa Vance scratches his chin nervously before leaning forward and resting his elbows on his knees "His body?" Vance questions "In the freezer in the basement," I answer with a shrug, and Vance nods slowly and sits back "What is it?" I ask, cocking a brow as I lean back in my seat "Nothing major, just thought you should know." He sighs heavily like the weight of the world rests on his shoulders "Alpha Grayson put out an alert this morning when he didn''t show up for patrol duty. He knows Deacon is missing, and he felt the pack link sever." "Well, that''s to be expected," I state "You sure he didn''t mindlink anyone?" Vance questions "Positive, he was too intoxicated. And every time he tried I handled it, I''m not stupid Vance nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! He isn''t the first wolf I''ve killed," I remind him "What about his car?" "Burnt out, I had Harry pick it up earlier and crush it. They won''t find it." I nod with confidence "So nothing to worry about then?" It''s obvious he''s still concerned "Video footage I took care ofst night, bouncers won''t speak, you know that. But apparently the kid was pretty reliable, he never misses patrol. His Alpha was quite concerned about him; he''s worried he''s dead, or was forced to be a rogue for some reason." Vance gets to his feet and heads toward the door, only to stop at the threshold. "What do you reckon he was taking the photos for?" "Nothing good, what I want to know is why he would send them to her step sister," I question Vance seems to think for a second "She''s Alpha Samuel''s daughter, right?" he asks, and I nodPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "Yeah, why''s that?" "Alpha Samuel won''t hand the pack to her because that means Linda has ess to it Makes me wonder if she is trying to get Cleo removed as the next Alpha, and what better way to do it than embarrass her father and hurt her reputation." Chapter 42 Chapter 42 Zayn~ "I figured the same thing, but how would she exin handing those photos over to her step father?" "I don''t think they''re for Cleo''s father, perhaps Alpha Dane? Joseph had a meeting with Alpha Dane earlier, they were spotted at the public library. Alpha Dane wont ept her if she isn''t a virgin, you know how religious his pack is." I press my lips in a line, the bastard was serious about marrying her off "TI handle it, somehow." I shake my head, annoyed at just the thought of her marrying anyone else "Are you gonna tell her?" Vance asks, and I sigh "No. I don''t want to put her at risk while she doesn''t have her wolf, she''ll have every Alpha after her trying to use her against me," I remind him. I wish this wasn''t the case, but right now it''s the only choice we have "Yeah, dad made sure to make a lot of enemies thest few years." I nod sadly. The weight of the past, heavy on my shoulders "TI figure it out, Boyd won''t be getting his hands on her, I will kill him and dere war before I allow him to marry my mate," I growl in annoyance "We''ll, I''m off to check border patrols, I will organize some men on her borders and tell them to keep their distance, and to remain on neutral territory." I nod, waving him off while I ponder what to do about the marriage alliance Alpha Joseph has nned for his daughter. There is no way I will allow her to marry anyone else I must have dozed off at some point because I wake to my notification ringtone ring. It takes me a few seconds toe to my senses and shut it off, only to see I have a message from Cleo "Is she okay?" Zarek, my wolf asks, stirring awake at the thought of her. He presses beneath my skin and I open the message Cleo: ''Deacon is missing. Can you check the club''s footage fromst night? Maybe it can help us find out where he went.'' I groan, sick of hearing about the weasel but quickly reply if it means seeing her again. I may Just watch her boundaries myself if it means being close to her all the time. I quickly type my reply and hit send Me: ''Deacon is missing? I saw himst night before I left. He was dancing with Lydia. I can meet you at the clubter, and we can go over the footage together.'' Cleo replies almost instantly, agreeing to meet me at my club at 7 PM. Smiling to myself I check the time, I still have hours and decide to go shower, check on work and follow up on emails while I wait Heading upstairs to my room I grab some clothes, my wolf pressing excitedly beneath my skin urging me faster, and I roll my eyesPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "Your eagerness will scare her off Zarek," I warn him, but he ignores me. Hopping in the shower I have just started washing myself when I hear my phone again nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I step out of the shower, drying off and then reaching for my phone to see another message from Cleo Cleo: How about now? I''m headed to your club My brows furrow in confusion wondering what happened, but I need to sort a few things out first Me: What happened? We agreed on 7 PM. I have to stop by and check my brother has sorted your borders out before heading into the city I send back only for her reply toe back almost instantly Cleo: That''s fine, I will wait for you there. See you at 7 I stare at the screen in confusion "Something happened," Zarek chimes 1n and I nod in agreement. Maybe her father found out about where she wasst night. That thought has me wondering if she 1s okay Me: I''ll get there as soon as possible, meet me at the bar Cleo sends me back a thumbs up. I don''t like the idea of her being at the club by herself, but I''ll message the staff to keep an eye on her. We have a function there tonight for one of the packs Drying myself quickly, I get dressed then mindlink Vance. "Did you sort out Cleo''s borders? I was going to stop by before heading into the city, but something must have happened, Cleo 1s heading there now." I tell him "Almost I am struggling with numbers, most are running rampant with the other packs, but I''m moving numbers around. I will have to man the doors at the club tonight for the ymore pack event. I need to send Michael in, most are refusing since Joseph isn''t in agreement. But Michael agreed to go," Vance tells me, and I nod along before Zarek speaks up "ymore, that''s Alpha Dane''s pack, right?" Zarek asks, cutting through the mindlink. I nod to him before recognition of his words hits me "Fuck, I gotta go. That means Boyd will be at the club." I tell Vance before cutting the mindlink. Snatching my phone, I try calling Cleo to tell her to meet somewhere else or toe here, but I get no answer. With a growl, I snatch my keys up and jog downstairs. Zarek presses beneath my skin, urging me faster "He better not think about touching our mate," Zarek grumbles at me as I jam the keys in the ignition. I tear out of the pack territory and onto the highway heading toward the city only toe to a screeching stop when I see cars lined up and smoke ahead. "Fuck!" peering out the window I realize it''s a car ident. I reach for my phone only to find I have no reception here Great, just fucking great Chapter 43 ~Cleo~ My hands grip the steering wheel tightly as my frustration and anger churn inside me like a storm. I can''t believe my father would even think of marrying me off to Boyd, let alone question my virginity. It feels like a betrayal, a disregard for my own choices, my life and not to mention absolutely mortifying As I park outside Zayn''s club, I notice the flurry of activity in the beer garden where staff and caterers are setting up for what looks like aing-of-age party. I briefly wonder what the event 1s about, but my thoughts are quickly consumed by the need to see the video footage ofst night and confront Deacon; more so now with my father trying to marry me off. Deacon may get his wish to mark me sooner than he thinks Climbing out of the car, I make my way inside the club. The pulsating music hits me as soon as I step inside, surprising me with its intensity The ce is alive, even at this hour, and I make my way to the bar perching on a stool where I wave down the bartender and order a can of coke Taking a sip, I scan the increasingly crowded space, my nerves on edge as I wait for Alpha Zayn. But when I spot Boyd weaving through the crowd, my heart sinks. Quickly, I turn back to the bar, hoping he hasn''t noticed me. But luck 1s clearly not on my side today, or this week, maybe ever it feels like "Hey there," says a deep voice behind me, making me jump when I feel hands slide down my arms. I turn to find Boyd smirking down at me, his eyes roaming over my body with an unnerving hunger before falling on my breasts "Boyd," I grit out, trying to keep my voice steady, despite how repulsed I feel right now "Hi, I didn''t see you," I state, knowing I can''t cause a scene here "Really, you didn''t notice me despite looking directly at me?" he chuckles "Come on, Cleo," he drawls, leaning closer. "I Just wanted to talk to my sexy future bride." "About that," I say, feeling my cheeks flush with anger. "I have a boyfriend, Boyd. This marriage isn''t happening." "Really?" he taunts, one eyebrow raised "Because the paperwork has already been drawn up." "Excuse me," I snap, irritated by his arrogance "You don''t get a say in this, am not marrying you. I have a chosen mate." My heart races as Boyd''s unwanted presence looms over me, his smirk sends shivers down my spine. I take a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves and find the right words "Boyd," I say, attempting to keep my voice even, losing my temper right now will only worsen things. "It''s not what I want, and I don''t think it''s what''s best for either of us." Boyd leans in closer, his hot breath brushing against my ear as he slurs, " You know this would be good for both our packs. We''d be a power couple." I almost scoff at his words nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! Power couple? At the cost of my future? I suppress a shudder at the thought of being with him, but I can''t deny the truth in his words Our packs would undoubtedly benefit from the alliance, but at what cost? The thought of sacrificing my happiness, my dreams and my self-worth for the good of the pack feels like a suffocating weight on my chest "Boyd, listen," I start again, trying to maintain eye contact despite the intoxicating scent of alcohol wafting from his breath. "I have a boyfriend, someone I care about, I can''t just throw that away for an arranged marriage." "Is that so?" Boyd taunts, leaning in even closer until his lips are just a whisper away from mine "You might be surprised by what you want, Cleo." I fight the urge to punch him in his smug face Forcing myself to meet Boyd''s gaze, I try to project an air of confidence I don''t entirely feel His eyes are zed from liquor, but there''s still a predatory gleam in them that sends shivers down my spine. I wish I wasn''t here beside him "Come on, Cleo," he insists, dragging out my name as 1f it were the punchline to some private joke. "You can''t be serious about this boyfriend of yours, he''s not even Alpha blood." Boyd reaches out and brushes his fingers along my arm, and I fight back a shudder at the unwanted contact "Boyd, stop," I say firmly, pulling away from his repulsive touch. My heart races with a mix of anxiety and anger, but I refuse to let him see how much he''s getting to me. "My rtionship is none of your business." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Rx," he coos,pletely ignoring my protests. "This alliance 1s good for both our packs. Besides, what''s not to like about having me as your mate?" His smirk is infuriating and I clench my fists at my sides, struggling to keep my temper in check "Boyd, I have a boyfriend," I repeat for the hundredth time, enunciating each word carefully but clearly my words are not getting through to him. "I won''t marry you."N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. "Ah, so it''s true," he muses, his grin turning even more sinister. "He must be something special if you''re willing to defy your father and risk our pack''s future for him." "Boyd, it doesn''t matter how many times you repeat it, the fact remains that I can''t marry you," I say, my voice wavering slightly despite my best efforts to remainposed My words are cut short as Alpha Dane strides toward us, his dark eyes assess the situation with a keen interest. "Ah, Cleo, so nice to see you again," he says smoothly, extending his hand for me to shake "Alpha Dane," I reply, forcing a smile onto my face as I ce my hand in his. His grip is firm and unyielding, much like his son''s determination to see this alliance through "T take it the function being held here is yours?" I ask, suddenly wishing I''d waited in the car for Zayn. Alpha Dane ces his hand on my shoulder and nods toward the beer garden "Yes, my youngest daughter''s shift 1s tonight, I suppose your father told you about the great news?" he asks me, and my eyes dart to Boyd who smirks smugly Before I can answer, Alpha Dane starts leading me out to the beer garden where the function is being held Chapter 44 "Please, allow me to introduce you to my wife, she''s been here since this morning setting everything up, she''ll be excited to meet Boyd''s future wife. He gestures to a woman standing beside the fountains, her delicate features and sharp eyes immediately giving away her connection to Boyd. "This is Luna Grace, Boyd''s mother." Alpha Dane introduces us, and she steps forward, a smile on her lips "Nice to meet you, Cleo," she says warmly, though there''s something in her gaze that suggests she''s already sizing me up as a potential daughter-inw With pleasantries exchanged, Alpha Dane wastes no time 1n diving into the topic of the alliance "Boyd has told me how you seemed hesitant when he mentioned it at the alpha meeting.. that you have hesitations regarding this marriage, but surely you understand the importance of uniting our packs?" he asks, his tone deceptively gentle "Of course," I reply, struggling to keep my anger in check. "But there''s more to consider than just politics¡ª" "Oh, hold on dear, that''s Alpha Grayson, I''ll be right back," he tells me and I grit my teeth The outdoor area is buzzing with activity, fairy lights casting a soft glow over the various tables and guests. I reach for a ss of wine from a passing tray, hoping the liquid will help calm my frazzled nerves My patience is wearing thin, and I nce at my phone, noticing it''s already past 7 PM. Zayn should have been here by now, and have I really been here that long? "Where the heck are you?" I mutter under my breath, my fingers gripping the winess tighter as I steel myself for whatever mighte next, when I see Boyd stepping closer "Excuse me, Boyd. I need to use the restroom," I say, my voice strained as I attempt to maintain a polite demeanor "Of course, Cleo," he replies, his eyes lingering on me before returning to his drink As I step back inside the club, the pulsating music washes over me like an invigorating wave. Desperate for some semnce of control, I make my way to the bar and ask one of the staff members if they''ve seen Zayn "Alpha Zayn? He''s not here yet, there was an ident on the highway so he''s probably stuck in traffic," the bartender informs me "Damn it," I mutter under my breath, epting another drink from the bartender as I try to calm my nerves. The idea of waiting for Zayn while dealing with Boyd is less than appealing, but I don''t have many other options "Here you go," the bartender says, sliding a ss toward me. "This should help take the edge off." "Thanks," I reply, taking a sip and hoping it will help me keep myposure As I turn around, leaning against the bar and scanning the crowd, I suddenly hear Boyd''s voice cutting through the buzz of the club. My heart skips a beat, and my grip tightens around the ss. Oh for frig sake! I mentally curse "Cleo, I thought you were going to the bathroom? My mother was wanting to speak with you," he asks, irritation evident in his tone as he approaches nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Boyd," I say, struggling to keep my voice steady. "I''m not avoiding you, I''m just waiting for someone." "Who?" he questions, eyeing me skeptically. "I know this is all a lot to take in, and my father can be kinda pushy but we can make this work," he continues, and my eyes dart to the bartender who''s watching us closely I sigh inwardly, trying toe up with a usible exnation. "Look, I appreciate your enthusiasm about this alliance, but as I''ve told you before I can''t marry you." His closeness 1s suffocating, and I feel the urge to flee, to find sce in Zayn''s arms-even if it''s only temporary. But for now, all I can do is wait hopelessly for Zayn to get here so I can leave Drinking the rest of my wine, I turn to thedy at the bar, she hands me another ss of wine, leaning closer "He''s just pulled up in the parking lot," I sigh in relief. Finally! "Your father seems to think otherwise," Boyd retorts, a smug grin spreading across his face "Boyd, "I start, but he interrupts me with augh "Rx, Cleo. I''m just teasing, we''ll figure it out," he says, reaching out to trail a finger down my arm. The sensation sends shivers down my spine, and I can''t help but flinch away from his touch "Please don''t do that," I snap, unable to maintain myposure any longer. My heart races in my chest and I feel a wave of heat rush through me as frustration and repulsion collide within me "Boyd, we need " My words falter as I try to formte a response, but before I can continue, strong arms encircle my waist, pulling me away from Boyd and spinning me around. I find myself face-to-face with Zayn, his gray eyes zing with intensity. His presence instantly transforms the atmosphere, sending a shiver down my spine "Hey, baby," he purrs, his voice low and seductive. My breath catches in my throat, and I''m momentarily frozen, shocked by his sudden appearance and the way he''s acting Boyd''s expression shifts from irritation to horror as he takes in the scene before him. "Wait, he''s your boyfriend?" he stammers, hisposureN?velDrama.Org ? 2024. slipping But Zayn ignores him. "Sorry, I''mte," he murmurs, his arm tightening around my waist possessively as he pulls me closer, I stare at him like he''s grown two heads. What does he think he''s doing? The heat of his body seeps through the fabric of my dress, igniting a fire within me that I struggle to control and my face mes knowing Boyd 1s watching this disy Zayn''''s eyes hold mine, some unsaid message in them when he leans closer burying his face in my neck. He groans, his hand sliding down my back to grab my ass. My heart races, threatening to burst from my chest as Zayn takes control of the situation in a way that''s both exhrating, and terrifying. The intensity of his touch, the determination in his gaze-it all sends shivers down my spine "Zayn," I manage to whisper, my voice barely audible "y along," he whispers below my ear, and I barely hear him over the loud music Chapter 45 He pulls back, brushing his nose against mine gently, and then his hand grips my chin, tilting my face up to his. I can feel the heat radiating off his body and the scent of his cologne mingling with his natural addictive scent. It''s intoxicating, and I find myself unable to look away from his piercing gray eyes And then, without warning, his lips are on mine The kiss is searing, electric, like a bolt of lightning straight to my core. His tongue teases my lower lip seeking entrance, and snapping out of my shock at his actions, I grant it willingly, letting myself get lost in the feel of his tongue brushing softly against mine. When he pulls away, all I can do is stare at him "Does that answer your question?" Zayn asks Boyd, who looks utterly baffled "Y-yeah," Boyd stammers, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "I guess it does." "Good," Zayn replies, his eyes never leaving mine. "Now, if you''ll excuse us..." Boyd hesitates for a moment, then nods, turning on his heel and disappearing into the crowd The tension in the room seems to dissipate with his departure, but my own internal turmoil only grows My chest tightens with a strange mix of relief and anger. I can''t help but feel like a pawn in some twisted game, with Zayn making moves I can''t predict "Zayn," I seethe, my hands balling into fists as I shove his broad chest. "What the fuck?" His eyes sh dangerously, a storm brewing behind those silver gray eyes. "He won''t challenge me for you, Cleo." There''s a bite to his voice that sends shivers down my spine. "I panicked. Or if you''d like," he adds, his lips curling into a feral grin, "I can tell him you''re ripe for the picking." My heart races in my chest, torn between fury and something else entirely a dangerous spark of desire. It scares me how attracted I am to this unpredictable alpha, even as his words set my blood boiling "Fuck you," I spit, trying to ignore the heat pooling low in my belly. "This isn''t some game you can control. This is my life!" "Believe me, Love," Zayn murmurs, stepping closer until his body brushes against mine. The scent of his cologne threatens to overwhelm my senses, a heady blend of cedar wood and smoke "I know exactly what''s at stake." "Then why would you do that?" I whisper yell, feeling the first tendrils of doubt creeping in Maybe Zayn''s impulsive actions are going to throw me in hot water once again with my father. This will definitely get back to himN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. "Because I couldn''t stand the thought of that prickying im to you," he growls, his fingers digging into my hips as he pulls me flush against him. My breath catches at the intimate contact, my body betraying me by arching into his touch nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Zayn,'' I breathe, struggling to maintain my anger as I push against his chest "Unless you want Boyding over and staking his im against you, you''ll stop pushing me away, Cleo." He growls in warning before dropping his head lower. "He''s right there, no lovers quarrels, you''ll make him think he stands a chance," Zayn whispers, then grins deviously as he leans closer I am about to mention Deacon, but my words are swallowed by his lips and he groans. His fingers twist in my hair as he tilts my head back and nips at my lips with his teeth, forcing them to part. His tongue brushes mine and I feel the sire bond kick in as a sound, a cross between a whimper and moan, escapes me. Zayn chuckles, kissing me deeper, and my tongue brushes his as I kiss him back. Breathless, Zayn pulls away, his eyes darting behind me, but I don''t look "He''s gone," he states, his lips hovering just above mine. I bite my lip and Zayn''s hand moves from my hair, his thumb brushing my lip and pulling it from between my teeth. "You''re not married yet, Cleo. And from what I saw, you didn''t seem too keen on the idea." My chest heaves with the weight of my emotions, my heart pounding like a war drum. I can''t make sense of what''s happening within me, but I know I need to get away - at least for a moment "Zayn," I say, my voice strained, "I need to get out of here." "Sure,e on, I''ll take you to view those tapes," he replies, his eyes flickering with an unreadable emotion. He leads me towards the security room, his hand on the small of my back, warm and reassuring, sending shivers down my spine Each step feels like a battle, my mind racing with confusion of how the sire bond makes me feel toward Zyan, and the uncertainty of the war I could have possibly started. The suspicion that my draw to Zayn might be due to a sire bond gnaws at me like a relentless itch, clouding my every thought. Seeing a waiter with another tray of wine, I snatch a ss and scull the contents before holding up a finger telling him to wait Right now, I need something to drown out this sire bond; I give him the wine ss back when it''s empty, and I grab another "Now you can go," I tell him, and he nods, walking off while Zayn raises an eyebrow at me "Didn''t realize that me kissing you requires a drink?" he taunts, grabbing my hand and leading me down a hall As we enter the security room, the tension between us is thick, the air heavy with unspoken words and unanswered questions. We sit down next to each other, our thighs brushing together, sending jolts of electricity through my body "Let''s just focus on finding the footage fromst night," Zayn suggests, his voice low and slightly husky. "Maybe it''ll give us some answers." The security room''s dim lighting adds to the heavy atmosphere that seems to press down on me as I follow Zayn inside Chapter 46 The soft hum ofputers and the faint glow of monitors cast eerie shadows across the walls, their silhouettes distorted and ever-shifting. My heart races in my chest, anxiety gnawing at my insides as I try to make sense of the chaos in my mind "Any luck?" Zayn asks, his voice low and controlled as he speaks with one of the security guards watching over the screens "Not yet, Alpha," the staff member replies, frustration evident in his tone. "I''ve been trying to locate the footage, but it seems to have vanished." "Vanished?" I echo, my eyebrows shooting up in surprise. "How is that even possible?" "Technical difficulties," Zayn exins, though it sounds like a weak excuse. "These things happen sometimes." "Let me try," Zayn tells him, stepping forward and holding his hand out. The security guard rummages around on his desk, which seems to be in messy orderN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. "Here you go, Alpha," a technician says, handing Zayn a tablet before stepping back to work on one of theputers and trying to pull the footage up. The whirring of processors forms a quiet hum as he retreats back to hisputer station drenched in ghostly blue light. Fingers dance swiftly over keys in order to coax up missing fragments fromst night''s events, his brow furrowed as he searches for the footage "Thanks," Zayn replies, his tone detached. I can feel the weight of his gaze on me, but I avoid looking at him, focusing instead on the screens around us. One by one, they disy grainy images of the club''s various rooms and corridors, but none seem to capture the moment I so desperately need to see "Seems like we''re having some technical difficulties with the footage," Zayn says, handing the tablet back to the technician. "Keep looking, though." "Of course, Alpha," the man replies, nodding before turning back to his task "Technical issues, huh?" I mutter, more to myself than to Zayn. My thoughts keep drifting back to the confrontation with Alpha Dane, and the uncertainty of where Deacon might be. A sense of helplessness washes over me, and I suddenly feel lightheaded "Hey, are you okay?" I nod, and chew my lip "Just worried about Deacon," I admit. Zayn rolls his eyes "Tm sure he''s fine, probably just cooling off somewhere, chilling out with friends," he tells me. I raise an eyebrow at him "We checked his friends, they haven''t seen him Zayn sighs "Tf it makes you feel better, tomorrow I will even help you put up missing person flyers, fuck T''ll find a milk cartonpany if you want to ster his ugly mug on that too, okay so cheer up." he tells me and I can''t help but smile knowing he is only saying this to make me smile, "Deal?" he asks "I may take you up on the flyers if we can''t find him," I chuckle "I''m sure he''s fine," I ce a hand on the edge of a desk to steady myself, realizing that the wine I had earlier is affecting me more than I expected nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Lightweight," Zayn teases. He leans over, gripping my arm to steady me. The casual gesture somehow makes him even more desirable, and I have to force myself to focus on anything but the maic pull I feel towards him "Never took you for a wine drinker," Zaynments, his voice tinged with amusement "Are you always this much of a lightweight?" "I don''t usually drink wine, okay?" I defend myself, rolling my eyes. I can''t help but appreciate the distraction, though. It''s a brief reprieve from the storm of emotions threatening to overwhelm me "Rx, Cleo. I''m not judging you," Zayn says, amusement dancing in his eyes. "If anything, it makes you more... endearing." "Endearing?" I scoff, feeling the heat rise in my cheeks. "That''s one way to put it." "Would you prefer adorable?" he asks, his lips curving into a smirk "Definitely not," I retort, trying to ignore the way my pulse quickens at the sight of his smile The sire bond it has to be that, right? There''s no other exnation for why I''m reacting this way to Zayn I roll my eyes, trying to suppress the flush creeping up my neck. "I don''t usually drink wine," I admit. "But I needed something to calm my nerves after dealing with Alpha Dane and Boyd." "Fair enough," Zayn replies, leaning against the desk with a smirk. "But you''re not driving," he warns me nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Tl catch a cab," I retort with a shrug, and Zayn huffs "Let''s get out of here," Zayn suggests, sensing my irritation. "I''ll drive you home." "I don''t think I can go home just yet. My father will be furious." I admit Zayn sighs, rubbing the back of his neck as he considers my words. "Do you have any other ces in mind? Your dorm, maybe?" I take a deep breath, attempting to regain some semnce of control over my emotions. My heart is a thunderous drumbeat in my chest, and the heat from Zayn''s touch still lingers on my skin, and Iam a hundred percent positive he has sired my wolf now. I can''t ignore the fact that our chemistry is undeniable, but the thought of being bound by something so uncontroble terrifies me As we make our way toward the stairs, I see the barrage of threatening messages from my father on my phone. My heart clenches with fear as I realize that going home isn''t an option tonight Zayn, sensing my distress, guides me gently down the stairs, his hand warm and steady on my lower back "Careful," he murmurs as I stumble slightly. "I''ve got you." he murmurs, his grip tightening on my arm slightly when someone calls out to him "Crap Shana, needs me to fix the safe, apparently it''s jammed again" he grumbles, leading me down thest couple of steps We reach the bar, and Zayn insists on confiscating my clutch, teasing me about trying to drive home buzzed before shoving me down on a stool at the bar Chapter 47 He waves someone over. Annoyance res within me, but it''s quickly overshadowed by the realization that I''m stuck without many options "Fine," I huff, rolling my eyes, even though a part of me appreciates his protectiveness "Stay here," he instructs, leaving me under the watchful eye of his massive security man. I recognized him immediately as Vance, Zayn''s brother. "Watch her, don''t let her out of your sight while I help Shana," Zayn tells him I watch Vance step closer, the man is just as big as his brother, standing beside me with arms crossed tightly over his broad chest. His dark expression and muscr build make him appear even more imposing and intimidating "I don''t need a babysitter," I huff. Vance chuckles, looking down at me "He''s just looking out for you after the other night," Vance tells me, and I roll my eyes "Hey," he leans in, lowering his voice, "Between you and me, I know how much of a pain in the ass Zayn can be. But trust me when I say he''s got your best interests at heart." I chuckle. "He''s certainly bossy," Iugh when I see Alpha Dane, approaching. He doesn''t look happy, and I sit up straighter when he stops next to me "Boyd told me you''re involved with Alpha Zayn For now, I will turn a blind eye, but you will end it before the wedding." he trails off, about to turn away when he stops again "Oh and Cleo, after this little stunt, and knowing Zayn''s your boyfriend, you''ll be forced to ensure your virtue has remained intact. I''ll have one of my pack doctors get in contact with you to arrange a sample of your slick to be taken. Your father knows how strict I am on that tule," he smiles coyly "And well Lydia''s virtue is long gone, but he assured me you''re a virgin, that better still be true, or we''ll have issues, your father owes me a considerable amount already," Alpha Dane warns I re at the man, and Alpha Dane leans closer "Do the right thing Cleo, it''s not worth your pack. I get you don''t like the idea, but you''ll learn to love my son, but this little thing you have going on with Alpha Zayn needs toe to an end." Alpha Dane states before turning abruptly and wandering off. I watch him leave, and I move to get up, wanting some fresh air, when Vance grabs my arm, pushing me back down on the stool. I look up at him, and he gives me an apologetic smileN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. "Sorry but Alpha orders, you need to remain," he tells me and tears threaten to burn my eyes when Vance speaks again. "He can''t force you," Vance says "Yeah, well by the looks of it he can, my father owes him money," I growl and then sigh, reaching for my leftover drink. But before I can take another sip, Vance takes it from me too "Seriously?" I gape at him and he nces around nervously I re at him and he rolls his eyes. "You''ve had enough," he tells me but gives it back. "But I would need a drink after listening to that asshole too," he chuckles, sending me a wink I tip the ss to my lips and drink the rest of the ss when Zaynes out, stopping beside me "I told you not to let her drink," Zayn growls at his brother. Vance leans in whispering something to Zayn, who''s entire demeanor changes, his eyes sh as he looks down at me, but he says nothing "Come on, I''ll take you home," Zayn says, grabbing my hand and leading me out of the club. Alpha Zayn seems angry about something but leads me to his car. He opens the passenger door and I slide into the passenger seat when an idea hits me Zayn climbs in and starts the car. "I don''t want to go home, I don''t want to deal with my father," I tell him. "Where do you want me to take you then?" Zayn asks, pulling out of the parking spot "Friends ce?" he asks, and I bite my lip "Can we go to your ce?" I ask. Zayn stares at me for a second "Cleo, I don''t think that is a good idea, I''m assuming you are already in enough trouble with your father, and I don''t think I made it any better. What about your dorm?" he asks her "Can''t get in for a few more days when school opens back up." He sighs. "It''s fine, just drop me at a motel or something." I tell him, but Zayn scoffs "I''m not leaving you at a motel." he growls at me. I huff, crossing my arms over my chest. "I''m not a child, Zayn." He smirks, refusing to meet my gaze "Tam not going home, so either drop me to a motel or I''ll sleep in my car." I retort and Zayn growls "Fine, you can stay at my ce, but don''te crying to me when you get in more trouble." I hesitate, considering my options. Going home was never an option tonight, but I would rather not impose on Zayn either. Thest thing he needed was more drama he didn''t ask for. Yet, Zayn hasn''t tried to hurt me, and he did save me from Boyd inside the club. I nod and he starts the car As we drive in silence, I watch the city lights blur by the window. My thoughts are a whirlwind of emotions: anger, fear, confusion. I yawn and Zayn chuckles. "Stay awake for me Cleo," he says, and I nod, pressing my head against the cool ss window When we pull up out the front, he helps me out of the car and leads me up to his door. I take a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. I don''t know what I''m getting myself into, but I can''t go back home tonight Chapter 48 Inside, Zayn takes off his jacket and offers me a ss of water. I watch as he moves around his living room, his muscles flexing under his shirtN?velDrama.Org ? 2024. I lean heavily on the counter, resting my head on my arms "Here drink this, it will help," Zayn says, and I lift my head staring at him. I take the ss and sip the water, not realizing how thirsty I am. I watch Zayn over the ss "You''re not gonna be sick on me, are you?" he asks, and I shake my head "Good you''ve puked on me once, let''s not go for another round," heughs again. My face heats when my mind goes back to Alpha Dane words and him suggesting my virtue be checked "Alpha Dane said I have to prove my virtue is intact," I tell him, and Alpha Zayn''s eyes darken "His pack is religious, it''s seen as a bad omen to take an "Unpure" mate," Zayn exins. I pull a face when a revtion hits me "So if I am not a virgin, it''s a bad Omen to the pack and Boyd can''t marry me?" I ask him. Zayn seems to think for a second. He shrugs "I guess," he tells me, taking my empty ss, he sets it in the dishwasher "But you''ll find a way out of this. Don''t let it bother you," Zayn tells me. But I think I just did find a way out of it? I wonder Zayn closes the dishwasher and turns around "Are you okay, Cleo?" he asks when he notices me staring at him. I shake the thought away, reminding myself I have a boyfriend and I can''t use Zayn just to make sure I am not married off "Yep, just tired," I tell him and he sighs "Come on, then," he says, pulling me from the stool at the counter. He leads me upstairs to his room before wandering into his closet, while my heart races at the thought of spreading my legs to some stranger while they test my slick. Just the thought is horrifying, and I blink back tears Zayn returns in a pair of Gray sweats hanging low on his hips and his chest bare. My eyes roam over his tattooed, muscr body, desire pooling in my stomach when he clears his throat "Here, you can wear this," he tells me, eyeing me worriedly. He cups my cheek with his hand gently. "We''ll figure it out, just sleep. You''re safe here," Zayn murmurs, and I nod "Im going to make sure the house it locked, I''ll be back," he tells me, leaving the room. Yet now alone in his room, I strip my clothes off and pick up the shirt when I hear my phone notification going off Picking up my phone off the bed, I see another threatening message from my father. I toss my phone on the couch and pick up the shirt, my eyes going to Zayn''s bed. I stare at the shirt in my hand and bite my lip "Come on Cleo, he kissed you, you could just be another notch in his belt, rip the band-aid off or rip the virginity away and no alliance, simple," I tell myself I suck in a breath, ncing at the door when my thoughts go to Deacon. He''d be furious, but fuck him he ditched me while drunk, and is now refusing to answer my calls. With my anger slowly simmering hotter and my thoughts growing more panicked, I toss the shirt on the couch and shut the light off before slipping under the covers naked "You can do this! He''s not that big, he''d be.. what''s the word. Experienced, beats losing it in the back of a car, right?" I give myself a mental pep talk when I hear his footsteps, and the rhythm of my heart falls in beat with his steps Zayn taps on the door. "Are you decent?" he calls out. "Cleo?" he calls out again Oh goddess, what am I doing? I say nothing and after a few minutes, he opens the door, flicks the light on, and I pretend to be nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! asleep. I hear him moving around the room before the lights go out, and he climbs into bed next to me and I remain frozen, stiff as a board, paralyzed by my own humiliation and panic "Cleo? Are you okay? Your heart is beating so fast," hements and sits up and slightly rolling me toward him "Hey, are you okay?" he asks, shaking my shoulder, and I open my eyes, peeking out at him. He lets out a breath of relief "T called out to you, you said nothing. I can sleep on the couch if you want?" he offers, but I shake my head. His brows furrow and I know he''s about to ask me what''s wrong, but before he can, I kiss him. Unlike at the club, he freezes at the action, caught off guard and I move to straddle him, his hands grip my hips only for his hands to rip away like I burned him. He pulls his face away "What are you doing, Cleo?" he growls. I kiss him again, but he doesn''t respond, instead freezing beneath when his hands grip my shoulders. "Have you got clothes on?" he snarls, moving, and my eyes are suddenly assaulted by light as he flicks themp on. His eyes roam over my naked body, and I suddenly feel very exposed under his gaze "Cleo, what the fuck?" he growls as his eyes take me in straddling him naked. His eyes flicker as they roam down my body, but his rejection hits me loud and clear. My face burns and my eyes prickle with warmth. I scramble to climb off him "Fuck Cleo. Wait, it''s not like that," he growls, grabbing my hips before I can climb off him. He rolls, and I suddenly find myself pinned beneath him on the bed Chapter 49 I look away, unable to meet his gaze, and it feels like all the blood has run to my face. Zayn watches my face for a second and curses. He then groans and drops his head onto my shoulder "Lam not taking your virginity just because you''re scared you''ll be forced to marry Boyd," he breathes out. I swallow, nodding my head and feeling foolish, I suddenly want to change my mind and ask him to take me home to face my father instead He lifts his head, but I refuse to meet his gaze, instead staring at thempshade like it 1s a work of art. Well, it kind of is with its swirling shape "Cleo?" Zayn growls, pinching my chin between his fingers and turning my face to look at him His eyes soften slightly "I''m not rejecting you, you haven''t got your wolf." "I thought you didn''t believe in all that crap?" I snap out of embarrassment. He presses his lips 1n line "Tt''s not that, fuck. You caught me off guard, you just bitched me out for kissing you at the club, and now youre trying to..." he shakes his head and pinches the bridge of his nose "You''re drunk, and scared I am not taking your virginity while you''re in this state? I''m not taking advantage of you," he whispers, lifting his head to look at me He brushes my cheek softly. "It''s fine, Zayn. You don''t want me, it''s fine, I get it," I tell him, pushing on his shoulders to shove him off. This is embarrassing enough, he doesn''t need to humiliate me more by lying to me now we are both adults Zayn growls and grip my wrists, pinning them above my head "That''s not what I said," he growls sexily, catching my lower lip between his teeth before soothing it with anguid lick His strong, grip on my wrists sends a delicious shiver through me, anchoring my fluttering nerves and focusing all my attention on him. I gasp as his hips grind against mine, the unmistakable hardness of his arousal pressing against me even through the barrier of his pants nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! My heart stutters erratically at the intimate contact, my body instinctively responding to his with a wanton yearning that takes me by surprise "Does that feel like I don''t want you?" he purrs, his voice low and rough, sending a tremor of desire rippling through my veins. I swallow hard, my eyes snapping to his. The heat in Zayn''s gaze is palpable; it sears into me, igniting a wildfire of longing deep within. I can''t help but squirm beneath him, unconsciously seeking more friction against the throbbing ache between my legs Zayn releases one of my hands, only to slide it down to cup my breast beneath. His touch sends electricity zinging through my veins, drawing an involuntary moan from me. He tweaks my nipple, earning another whimpered cry of pleasure from me. The sensation spurs me on; liquid heat pools between my thighs, soaking into the fabric of his of pants, and he groans, his hand trails down my side, but his steely gaze finds mine A whimper escapes from me as he tweaks my nipple again-challenging the very limits of my self-control. This sensation amplifies everything around me the soft rustle of his clothes, the sheets beneath me and the intoxicating scent of Zayn himself. It was all too much and not nearly enough simultaneously His hand leaves a trail of tingling warmth down my side as he traces every curve with calloused fingers before stopping at the apex of my thighs A bolt of electricity zaps through me at the contact, as I arch upward, unconsciously seeking more "L never imed I didn''t want you--far from it But not while you''re rattled and terrified, and certainly not when you''re drunk." His wordse out as a low rumble, his gaze hungrily tracing the contours of my lips. His tongue makes a pass over his own lips, causing my eyes to follow the motion 1n heated anticipation. The desire for his mouth meeting mine is evident Zayn, seeming to read my thoughts, smirks before capturing my lipsN?velDrama.Org ? 2024. His tongue caresses the line of my mouth deliberately, coaxing them apart in an act of surrender to him., his tongue delves between my lips, tasting every inch of my mouth, devouring me. I kiss him back with equal intensity, desire burning through me When he finally pulls away, I''m left gasping, breathless "But not like this," he murmurs slowly, each word heavy with unfulfilled promise. "Wait until you''re sober-minded and equipped to make decisions," he tells me, gently pressing his lips against mine before rolling off me Chapter 50 Chapter 50 Zayn Waking up to the first rays of sunlight filtering through the curtains, I turn to find Cleo still asleep beside me. Cleo''s face is soft and rxed, her features smooth and free of any tension. Her longshes fan gently against her cheeks, framing her closed eyes Her lips are slightly parted, her eyelids fluttering gently in her slumber, and I want so desperately to kiss her. I can''t help but feel a twinge of regret for how things esctedst night, knowing how my rejectionst night upset her It''s not that I didn''t want her, it is that I want all over her, lucid her. I want her to want me not because she feels it''s her way out of an arranged marriage, but because she feelsfortable and safe with me I slip out of bed carefully, not wanting to wake her, and head downstairs to prepare breakfast The silence of the house is heavy as I make my way to the kitchen, thoughts of Cleo upying my mind As I start preparing some eggs and toast, I can''t help but remember the way she lookedst night when I rejected her advances. Her eyes had filled with hurt and disappointment, and I hate that I caused her pain I know Cleo will be embarrassed aboutst night, and I rack my brain for ways to reassure her, to ease the awkwardness between us. But before I coulde up with a n, she walks into the kitchen, still wearing my shirt fromst night Her hair 1s tousled from sleep, giving her an adorable bedhead look. She looks at me tentatively, unsure of how to act around me after what happened "Good morning," she says softly, avoiding eye contact "Morning," I reply just as quietly. "I hope you slept well." "T did," she nods. "Thank you for letting me stay here." "Of course," I say sincerely. "You''re always wee here." We stand in ufortable silence for a few moments before I break the tension "Coffee?" she nods but avoids my gaze, her movements stiff and cautious. I hand her a cup of coffee, trying to gauge her mood "So, what do you want to do today?" I ask, attempting to sound casual She takes a sip of her coffee, still not meeting my eyes. "Is your offer to help put up missing signs for Deacon still on the table?" she asks, her voice almost a whisper I nod, hiding my surprise at her request. "Of course. Have you got a picture of him." she nods, and searching for her prick of a boyfriend who is currently a popsicle in my freezer is thest thing I want to do, but I will if it means spending the day with her "Have you got a printer, I''m sure I can find a temte online for a missing poster," I give her a tight smile and point her in the direction of my office while I finish making breakfast. She wanders off, and I take a deep breath, my mind racing with questions. Why does she want to find Deacon? Is she hoping to reconcile with him? Or is it simply closure that she seeks? Regardless, I can''t deny her request. If helping her find Deacon means spending more time together, I''m willing to do whatever it takes We work in silence, me in the kitchen and her in my office. I can hear the printer whirring as it spits out the missing posters, and I sing out to her to let her know breakfast 1s done. I want to discussst night, to clear the air, but she''s clearly not ready. Cleoes out and sits with me at the breakfast nook in the kitchen For a few moments, we eat in silence. Every time I open my mouth to broach the subject, she changes the topic before I can ask. So when she gets up, to put her te in the dishwasher, I follow and cage her in, giving her no escape She stops, looking up at me questionably Seeing Cleo in my shirt fromst night, the fabric caressing her curves with each delicate movement she made, ignites a me of desire inside me. Her long legs on full disy and I suddenly wish to peel the thing off her. Her hair 1s In messy waves, making her look alluringly innocent yet sinfully tantalizing. And though there''s a tension of unspoken words and events between us, the electricity 1s impossible to ignore. She can im it''s the sire bond all she likes, but she can''t deny how attracted she is to me "Cleo," I start, unable to hold back any longer "Aboutst night..." She cuts me off, her voice firm. "I don''t want to talk about it, Zayn. I need to find Deacon." Her avoidance stings, but it''s her desperation to find Deacon that truly bothers me. "Why are you so desperate to find him, Cleo? After he abandoned you?" She finally looks at me, her eyes filled with a mix of frustration and fear. "Because without Deacon, I''m screwed. I''ll be forced to marry Boyd. I need him to mark me." Her words hit me like a physical blow. The idea of her with Deacon, of him marking her, ignites a fire of anger within me. A sh of anger consumes me. The thought of him marking her skin with his touch, iming her as his - it''s enough to shatter myposure. The deep-throated growl that escapes me startles Cleo; she stares at me with wide eyes, taken aback by the brute possessiveness 1n my voice "No," I say, my voice low butced with fury. "I won''t allow it." Cleo stares at me, taken aback by my intensity "Zayn, you don''t understand. I don''t have a choice. Besides, why do you even care?" I take a step closer, my anger simmering just beneath the surface. "There''s always a choice, Cleo. And I''ll be damned if I let that bastard mark you." My fists clenched at the thought of another man touching her iming her Her eyes widen, and for a moment, I think she''s going to argue. But then she looks away, her shoulders slumping, but I grip her chin, forcing her to meet my gaze. "You''re not his to mark," I growled low "I''m not Boyd''s either yet, that won''t stop him, at least this way I get some say 1n it, I rather Deacon than Boyd," she whispers. "At least I know him," she adds, her eyes burning with unshed tears nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I sigh, running a hand through my hair. I need to find a way to help her, to protect her from this arranged marriage and from Deacon. But first, I need to break through the walls she''s put up, to get her to open up to me "Let''s go put up these posters," I say, offering her a small smile. "And we''ll figure out the rest together. Just don''t make any choices that are forced, Cleo, you time."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. Cleoughs softly. "Time? What time, the moment I shift, my father will force my hand or force me to stand down! IfI don''t find Deacon, I will be forced to marry Boyd, nothing I do will stop that." "Then I''ll mark you." I blurt before I can stop myself. She seems taken aback by my words "That''s not funny, especially afterst night Especially with you having sired my wolf, don''t y games with me Zayn," she snarls shoving past me, but I grab her arm, swinging her back to me and pressing her against the counter "T''m not ying games." I growl, unable to keep the anger from my voice "You don''t fuck with unshifted she-wolves, you said it yourself," she jabs my chest with her finger, but I capture her hand. "Don''t fucking toy with me just because you sired my wolf, don''t y with my damn emotions Zayn! I''m jail bait, you said it yourself." "And yet, I would dly rot in a prison cell for you until you get your wolf..." Cleo bites her lip, trying to avoid my gaze. She thinks I''m ying around, I''m not. How does she not see that? I force her gaze back to mine, pressing closer, so our bodies are flush against each other, her soft curves pressing against the bulk of my muscle "Do you not hear your own words Cleo, you said it yourself, I don''t fuck with unshifted she- wolves, yet I can''t seem to stay away from you, I''m already breaking all my own rules, what''s one more?" I whisper Chapter 51 ~Cleo~ My pulse quickens as the heat rolls off Zyan''s broad chest and muscr arms pulling my gaze back to him. Our bodies pressed together, his skin igniting the friction between us. His intense gray eyes bore into mine, setting off tremors that ripple through my entire body and cover me goosebumps "Do you not hear your own words, Cleo?" Zyan''s husky whisper sent an intoxicating wave of his warm breath onto my earlobe. The sound of my name on his lips felt like silk against bare skin, causing my nipples to harden. The intensity in his gray eyes sends shivers down my spine. "You said it yourself, I don''t fuck with unshifted she-wolves, yet I can''t seem to stay away from you. I''m already breaking all my own rules. What''s one more?" he whispers. My brows scrunch at his words Confusion marred my sudden arousal momentarily what was this game he was ying? What interest could he possibly have in me except for revenge against my father? But before I could voice these doubts, Zyan''s lips Were upon mine, silencing any further thoughts The kiss ispletely unexpected. Zyan''s lips, full and soft, press firmly against mine, his face intense and focused as his fingers tangle in my hair. His eyes are closed, but his brows are slightly furrowed, as if he''s as surprised by our kiss as I am My eyes flutter closed in response, caught off guard by the unexpected sensation, and I kiss him back. His fingers entwined in my hair, tugging gently as he deepens the kiss - strangled sounds escaping him when I kiss him back. My core tightened at the roughness of his grasp, sending shivers of delight straight down to my throbbing heat Suddenly, his weight shifted. Strong hands moved lower down my waist then hips before seizing my thighs and lifting me effortlessly onto the kitchen counter My heart races as I struggle to process the whirlwind of emotions coursing through me Guilt threatens to suffocate me; Deacon is missing, and here I am kissing another man. I think of how selfish I must be, betraying Deacon when he needs me most Yet, despite my inner turmoil, something about kissing Zayn feels so right, as if we''re two puzzle pieces finally clicking into ce. Just as I start to lose myself in the moment, that same doubt creeps in like a dark cloud, casting a shadow over my bliss and smacking into me With a jolt, I push Zayn away, breaking the kiss My breathing is ragged, my cheeks flushed, and my mind a chaotic mess. How could I let this happen? What was I thinking? "Zayn," I stammer, trying to regain some semnce of control over the situation. "We.. we can''t do this. It''s wrong." "Ts it really?" he questions softly, concern etched on his handsome face. "Or 1s it just that you''re afraid?" I don''t know how to answer him. My heart aches for Deacon, but something about Zayn calls to me in a way I''ve never experienced before. Still, I can''t ignore the fact that Deacon 1s out there somewhere, possibly hurt or worse, and I need to find him "Zayn," I say firmly, trying to shove my conflicting emotions aside. "This isn''t the time for this. We need to focus on finding Deacon." He studies me for a moment, then nods reluctantly, stepping back and giving me space As much as I want to explore whatever is happening between us, I know that we have more pressing matters at hand. I need to find Deacon, and only once he''s safe will I be able to sort through the tangled web of emotions that Zayn has stirred up within me Zayn sighs heavily My chest is tight, my heart aching with guilt and confusion. This is all too much. I barely know this man, yet this stupid sire bond makes me feel like I''ve always known him. It lets him get under my skin, and gues my mind "Hey," Zayn says softly, cupping my face in his hands and pressing his forehead against mine "We''ll go try to find Deacon, okay?" Although he doesn''t seem too happy about it, more like he is trying to cate me so I don''t go to water works, which seems like I''m fighting the inevitable these days "Thank you," I whisper, forcing a small smile despite my turmoil As we head to the printer to collect the missing posters I''d designed for Deacon, I can''t shake the feeling of unease. Zayn walks beside me, his presence providing a strange sort offort, even as it adds to my internal battle As we are leaving the packhouse Zayn shivers suddenly. "Are you okay?" I ask him "Stormsing," he tells me, and I look at the clear skyPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "Weather looks fine to me," I tell him, and he shakes his head while digging out his keys. "I''m driving in case we get caught in it," he tells me and I raise an eyebrow at him "T''ve driven in rain before," he shrugs "T have better vision," he smirks, pointing to the passenger seat. I roll my eyes, I really should drive myself. "Car Cleo - now. I don''t want you driving in the rain," "What rain, it''s sunny," I tell him, motioning to the sky "It''sing, I can feel it," he sniffs the air. "And smell it," I sniff the air and he chuckles "Wolf senses, nowe on," he tells me, opening the passenger door. I huff but slide into the seat while he walks to the driver''s door Zayn lets me direct him to all the ces I know Deacon frequents, and we park at the train station to start sticking thest of our signs on poles, he starts to get on my nerves "Deacon is probably just chilling somewhere, don''t get why you worry so much," he jokes, trying to lighten the mood "Shut up, Zayn," I snap, ring at him. "My boyfriend is missing, and he could be hurt or worse! What if he''s dead?" "Alright, alright, sorry," Zayn sighs, raising his hands in surrender. "You''re probably right; he''s probably in some serial killer''s basement stuffed ina chest freezer." "Zayn!" I gasp, horrified by his crude joke "That''s not funny! Now, either help or leave me be!" "Fine, I''ll help you," he says, his tone suddenly serious. "Though I find it a little strange being the current boyfriend, looking for your ex-boyfriend, strange times, can''t say I ever predicted this," he mutters "Tam not your girlfriend," I remind "Keep telling yourself that, it''s cute when you''re in denial," "I am not in denial," "That''s why you kissed me back," he tells me, sticking another sign on a pole "I kissed you back because you sired my wolf!" I whisper thest part not wanting anyone to overhear Chapter 52 "So what, doesn''t change anything." This man is impossible Together, we put up the missing posters all around the city. The weight of my conflicted emotions and the fear for Deacon''s safety threaten to crush me, but I can''t allow myself to break down now. I need to be strong for Deacon, and for myself As the day wears on, Zayn remains by my side, his teasing reced by quiet. In those moments, I can''t help but appreciate him, for putting up with me for the past week. Moving to the next street we ce thest sign and are about to head back to the car when I hear the first crack of thunder. ncing at Zyan he smirks. "Told ya," he chuckles. and I look up at the sky Where did the sun go? The downpour started seemingly out of nowhere, drenching us in seconds. I shiver as the cold rain pelts my skin and soaks through my clothing. Zayn and I exchange a nce before hurriedly searching for somewhere to wait it out knowing it''s a good twenty minute trek back to the car "Over there!" I shout over the sound of the rain, pointing to an old library across the street. We sprint towards it Rain poured mercilessly from the dark, overcast sky as Zayn and I dash across the street. Cold raindrops stter against my face, causing shivers to race down my spine. We reach the old library, its heavy wooden doors offering a warmth from the downpour. The distinct smell of dust and aging books fills my nostrils. The sudden change in environment is jarring, but it offers us a temporary refuge from the storm outside. The sound of rain pouring on the library''s roof creates a soothing ambiance. I''ve always loved the sound of the rain, though the thunder can kindly leave "Damn," Zayn mutters, shaking his head and sending droplets of water flying from his hair "We''re soaked." "Tell me about it," I reply, attempting to wring out my shirt to no avail. "Well, I guess we will wait here until it passes." "Yeah," he agrees, running a hand through his damp hair. "You''re right. Let''s find a quiet corner." he tells me We settle into an empty aisle between towering bookshelves, the dim lighting casting shadows across the space. Zayn shrugs off his jacket and drapes it around my shoulders, his touch igniting a spark within me that I struggle to suppress, despite the outside being soaked, the inside is dry and warm "Better?" he asks,ying on his back "Thanks," I whisper, pulling the jacket tighter around me "Of course," he says softly, his gray eyes dark and intense as they lock onto mine. For a moment, I allow myself to get lost in them, wondering what it would be like to be this intimidating man''s girlfriend He sits up and moves closer, his wet clothes clinging to his muscr frame. I couldn''t help but let my gaze linger on his broad shoulders and strong arms before meeting his stormy gray eyes. Their intensity drew me in like a moth to a me After a while, I can''t stand his intense gaze so I get up and wander through the towering bookshelves, the sound of rain pouring on the library''s roof and the window panes seems to calm my rattled nervous. But I might as well get ahead on my reading list if Iam going to be stuck here "Hey," Zayn calls, drawing my attention from the book I''d been scanning for my college reading list."Of all the things you could read, you''re reading that?" he chuckles nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "It''s for school," I tell him, looking over the back of the book making sure its the right volume "Why medicine?" he asks abruptly I nce back at him, startled by the sudden curiosity in his voice. "I want to help people," I reply, tucking a damp strand of hair behind my ear. "I''ve always wanted to work in either the children''s hospital or the emergency department." "Those are pretty different areas," he notes, stepping closer as he peruse the shelves alongside me. "Why those two areas?" "T like children," I admit. "And as for emergency... When my mother died, all I remember is feeling like there weren''t enough people to cater to all the injured. Maybe if they hadn''t been so understaffed, they could have saved her." I shrug Zayn''s expression softens, his eyes filled withPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. some emotion I can''t read. "But I''ll have to drop out when I be Alpha," I mutter quietly. I sighed, my chest tightening at the thought. "My father would never allow me to do both responsibilities." "Who says you can''t do both?" Zayn challenged, a spark of defiance lighting up his eyes. "You''ll be alpha, you could do what you want, Cleo You shouldn''t have to choose between your dreams and your pack." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Easy for you to say," I murmur, running my fingers along the spine of a medical textbook "But it''s not just about what I want. It''s about what''s best for my pack." "Is it, though?" Zayn presses, his voice suddenly serious. "Or is it about what your father wants? Because the way I see it, wouldn''t being a doctor be an advantage to your pack alongside being alpha?" I hesitate, the truth of his words hitting me like a ton of bricks "Come on," he says gently, guiding me to a cozy nook in the back of the library We settle onto a plush couch, our legs tangled together as we lean against one another. The rain continued to drum against the roof above us, but at that moment, with Zayn''s arm wrapped securely around me, I feel safer and content. As the storm raged on outside, I allowed myself to believe in the possibility of a future where I didn''t have to choose between my dreams and my pack Zayn''s words echoed in my mind as we sat in silence, the library around us fading into the background. I looked at him, his gaze steady and encouraging, and for the first time, I felt a glimmer of hope. With a deep breath, I nodded, deciding to face my fears head-on. "You''re right," I whisper, my voice barely audible over the rain outside. "I need to talk to my father." It rained for hours, and after being stuck for longer than intended, we decided to try to make the dash for the car. We both ended up soppy wet and once back at Zayn''s. I sigh heavily, knowing I have to go home "You''re not staying longer?" Zayn asks as I fish my keys out of my pocket. "No, I need to go home. And you need to work instead of babysitting me constantly," I remind him, and he nods slowly Chapter 53 After saying bye to Zayn I jump in my car, turning the heat on, it''s freezing and I now need toe up with an excuse of where I''ve been, while praying Alpha Dane hasn''t spoken with my father aboutst night Once home, I hesitate outside the front door of my house, steeling myself for the confrontation that is sure toe. My heart pounds in my chest as I turn the knob and push the door open "Where have you been?" my father demands as soon as I step inside, his piercing gaze boring into me "Out, and today I put up signs for Deacon," I reply, trying to sound calm "In this weather, don''t le to me. And why did I have Alpha Dane ringing mest night about you turning down his son?" I already want to leave, I don''t feel like fighting with him, especially over Alpha Dane "And why did Zayn im to be your boyfriend," Dad growls, his eyes narrowing dangerously. "Is that true?" "Of course not!" I exim, feeling my cheeks heat up. "He just said that to get Boyd to back off." "Then why do you have a new phone? Lydia told me all about it." Dad''s voice is cold, and I knew she would rat me out but she could at least give me a chance to fucking enter the house for once without being questioned. I''m freaking cold, wet and I want to go to bed and start packing for school "Zayn gave it to me," I admit, fidgeting with the hem of my shirt. "My old one got damaged, and he...." "Give it to me," hemands, holding out his hand "Excuse me?" "Give it to me, ever since you started hanging around that man you''ve been nothing but a defiant brat, now give me the phone Cleo!" Movement catches my eye and I look behind my father toward the kitchen where I see Lydia peeking out watching with a smug smile on her face. Reluctantly, I hand over the phone, my heart sinking as he confiscated it. "You''re grounded, Cleo. You will not leave this house without me or Mitchel from now on, do you understand?" I grit my teeth and my father snatches my phone "T thought better of you, but to find out you''ve been sneaking around behind my back with that man, is thest straw, you do not go anywhere without permission until I say so "But what about school!" I demand "Then you better behave, or I won''t pay your tuition!" he snarls, stomping off. I swallow, hating how easily he can manipte me just because he holds my title over my head The following days felt like an eternity as I was trapped at home with no phone and under constant scrutiny from my father. The only bright spot on the horizon was the prospect of starting school again next week. At least then, I would have something to distract me from all the drama at the moment, and I could escape my father nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I take a deep breath as I make my way towards the pack training grounds, most of the packs train here, it''s thergest space plus fully equipped. My father had even decided to join us today, under the pretense of wanting to spend more time together before school started, but I knew it was just another way for him to keep an eye on me. I can''t wait for school to start, so I could finally be away from all this drama and have some freedom As I approach the stadium, my eyes scan the field and I spot Zayn among his pack members It''s strange to see him here, as he usually trains in his own territory with his men, so I find it odd he moved his pack training here Zayn catches sight of me too and starts making his way towards me. Panic floods through my veins, knowing that my father is watching from a distance. I quickly wave him off, silently telling him not toe any closer Thankfully, Zayn seems to understand and nods before turning back to join his pack''s training session. Relief washes over me as I continue towards the stands where other pack members are already gathered I take a seat next to Lydia and watch my father talk to the other pack members. She looks at me curiously but doesn''t say anything with my father within earshot My father''s voice booms through the stadium, signaling the start of training. As always, we begin with physical exercises before moving on tobat training I try my best to focus on the drills and pay attention duringbat demonstrations, but my mind keeps wandering back to Zayn. Why was he here? Was it just a coincidence or did he purposelye here knowing that I would be here too? My thoughts are interrupted when one of the pack warriors identally knocks into me during a sparring match. My father quickly rushes over, apologizing profusely while also scolding the warrior I shake my head, assuring him that I am fine And my father finally calls it quits on training After training, I make my way to the locker rooms to change. However, thest thing I expect 1s to be grabbed from behind and pulled into a cleaning closet by Zayn "Zayn!" I gasp, my heart racing as I stare up at him in surprise. "What are you doing?"This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. "Where have you been?" he demands, his eyes searching mine with concern and frustration "Why haven''t you answered any of my texts?" "Shh," I whisper, ncing nervously at the door. "My father, he''s been watching me like a hawk. I can''t risk being caught talking to you." "Damn it, Cleo." Zayn curses under his breath, running a hand through his disheveled hair. His close proximity sends a shiver down my spine, and I struggle to keep my emotions in check. "I was wondering why I couldn''t get a hold of you," He grumbles Chapter 54 "What''s going on?" Zayn questions but I haven''t got time to answer. "I need to go," I tell him, pushing him aside "He''s really got a leash on you, hasn''t he," Zayn murmurs, his eyes darkening at his words before quickly pulling me toward him. He wraps his arms around me, I sigh, relishing the contact, it''s nice to be touched when all week I''ve earned nothing but sneers from Lydia and criticism from my father "Zayn, I can''t be here with you," I whisper urgently, ncing towards the door. My father had been watching me like a hawk, and I knew it was only a matter of time before he realized I wasn''t alone. "He took my phone, and I''m in so much trouble already. Deacon has not returned, and I have to focus on school now." "School?" His brow furrowed. "When do you go back?" "Tomorrow," I replied, my voice cracking with anxiety. "Please, Zayn, I need to go. If my father catches us..." "Alright." He sighs, clearly frustrated but understanding the gravity of the situation."Come on," he says softly, releasing me and cracking open the door to make sure the coast was clear. "You need to get back before your father notices you''re gone." I nod, swallowing hard as I step out of the closet and rush to the locker room into the harsh light of reality "Cleo!" My father''s voice cut through the air like a knife as I exited the stadium, making me jump He was waiting for me by his car, his expression unreadable. I approach cautiously, trying to act as casual as possible "Where 1s Lydia?" I ask him "Linda picked her up," my father answered without exining further. The ride home is tense and silent, my heart pounding in my chest as I wonder what my father is thinking "Where are we going?" I finally ask when it bes clear we weren''t heading straight home. "I thought we were going home?" "We will," he replies cryptically, still not meeting my gaze. "Afterward." "Where are we going?" I press, growing increasingly anxious. My father refuses to answer, and as we pull up to a doctor''s office, my stomach drops like a stone. "No!" I exim, realizing what he intends to do as I catch sight of Alpha Dane waiting at the nearby doors "Cleo, as the next alpha, you need to make sacrifices," my father says sternly, ignoring my protests. "This is a small difort for the sake of your future pack." "Absolutely not." I refuse, trying to climb out of the car and escape this nightmare. But Alpha Dane approaches, blocking my path. "Cleo!" My father grits out and I re at him nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "No!" I snap at him mming the door only to turn around to find Alpha Dane blocking my path with two of his warriors "T won''t marry your son, and I''m leaving." I tell him, trying to step past him when his warriors block my pathThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. "Your father and I have already signed the treaty agreement," Alpha Dane replies coldly, his eyes boring into mine. "The paperwork is ready to file. You don''t have a choice." "Like fuck I don''t you can''t force me to marry your son!" My voice is barely audible, but the defiance in my eyes speaks volumes. As I turn away from him, only for his men to grab me I struggle against the strong hands that hold me, panic and disbelief flooding my senses. "Dad, help me!" I scream, desperate for my father to do something, anything. But he sits there, not even bothering to get out of the car, head in his hands, making no move to save me from this nightmare "Get your hands off me!" I spit as Alpha Dane''s men drag me toward the door and into the medical room. The sterile smell of disinfectant filled my nostrils, making me feel even more vulnerable and exposed "Remove your pants," Alpha Dane orders coldly, his eyes unyielding as they bore into mine. I clench my fists and shook my head, unable to speak through the fury and humiliation that chokes me. "If you won''t do it voluntarily, I''ll have my men do it for you, Cleo," Alpha Dane sneers. "Your little scene at the club has raised enough questions, my son won''t have a whore for Luna." he spits at me just as a female doctor steps into the room. I look at her for help and she drops her gaze but finally speaks "Your presence isn''t needed here, Alpha Dane," the female doctor interjects, her voice firm but Alpha Dane looks like he is going to argue but the doctor. "She is entitled to privacy Alpha. I can''t perform the exam if she is tense and fighting me." she quickly adds Reluctantly, he retreats from the room, taking his men with him. The door clicks shut behind them, leaving me alone with the doctor "Please," I plead, tears streaming down my face "T don''t want this exam." The doctor looks at me with pity in her eyes "T''m sorry," she said softly. "I''ve been given orders. If you refuse, Alpha Dane has men who will hold you down. It''s best if you cooperate, it is ufortable, but not painful and will only take a few minutes. I just need a sample of your slick." I scoff. I can''t believe my father would allow this. Tears burn my eyes "Please, I don''t want to order them in, you have every right to feel vited, this is an abuse of power, but I am undermand, I can''t let you leave this room without that sample." she tells me and I can hear how badly she doesn''t want to force me Horrified by the thought of enduring this vition while being forcibly restrained, Iply, feeling my dignity shatter as I remove my pants. Each moment of the exam is an invasion I never would have imagined my own father would force upon me Chapter 55 When it is over, Alpha Dane returns to get the test results. And I rise to my feet to finally leave "That wasn''t so hard, was it, Cleo?" Alpha Dane sneers and I can''t help myself, I spit in his face "You''re a pig, and when I be Alpha, I''ll make you pay for this," I snarl Heughs cruelly. "How can you be Alpha when you''ll be my son''s Luna?" he tells me. I blink at him, is this why the arranged marriage, my father is giving this man control of my mother''s pack? The ride home is silent and tense, my father trying to apologize while I refuse to look at him As soon as we reach our house, I lock myself in my room, wishing I could erase this terrible day from my memoryPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. Morning came too soon, but with it a glimmer of hope. My phone is back on my nightstand, Dad showing his guilty conscience and I waste no time packing for college. I can''t wait to escape the suffocating atmosphere of my home and finally live life on my own terms. So I packed and left the house before he even got a chance to speak with me Once at school, I moved into my new dorm room and turned on my phone, surprised to find a barrage of messages from Zayn. I hadn''t heard from him since training, and though I wanted to talk to him, I didn''t know where to begin. Yet as I finish unpacking my room, my phone starts ringing. Picking it up, I see it''s Zayn. I let it ring out, only for it to ring again and I reluctantly answer It "Cleo?" I suck in a breath "Yes, its me" I assure him "Thank God I saw you read my messages, but then you never replied. I wasn''t sure if it was you or your father," Zayn says, his voice filled with concern I didn''t answer, too overwhelmed by the emotions coursing through me. Here was a man who barely knew me and yet had shown more care for my well-being than my own family this past week. A single tear slips down my cheek "Cleo?" Zayn asks when I say nothing "T should go," I tell him, trying to regain control over my emotions "What''s wrong? Where are you?" he asks gently "In my dorm room," I admit, sniffling quietly "I''m on my way," he says before hanging up. I stare at the phone About thirty minutester, I hear a knock at my door. I hesitate, not entirely convinced that it could be Zayn since he had no idea which room is mine. But when I open the door, there he stood, his gray eyes filled with worry. He immediately scoops me up in his arms, pulling me tight against his chest as I burst into tears "Hey, hey, it''s okay. I''ve got you," Zayn murmurs into my hair, his strong armsforting as he kicks my door shut. The raw intensity of his embrace sends shivers down my spine, making me all too aware of our close proximity. My body reacts to his touch, my heart pounding in my chest as he hugs me tightly like he can squeeze the life back into me "Zayn," I whisper, the sound of his name on my lips sending another wave of longing crashing through me. Our eyes met, and for a moment, we were both lost in each other''s gaze. I could see the same need reflected in his eyes, but also a hint of something more - perhaps a tenderness and understanding that I never thought I''d find "T''m right here, what happened?" nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! Despite the storm of emotions raging inside me, Zayn''s presence brought me a sense of calm that I hadn''t felt in a long time. Zayn moves toward the bed and sits on it "Are you going to tell me what happened?" he asks gently, my face heats remembering the humiliation and at the hands of my own father makes it even worse Zayn pulls away looking at me and waiting for me to answer. "My father and Alpha Dane...they made me take a pelvic exam. They tested my slick to ensure my virginity." Zayn''s body tenses beside me, a low growl rumbling in his chest. But he doesn''t say anything, instead choosing to hold me even tighter, as if his embrace could shield me from the humiliation of what had happened "Everything will be alright, Cleo," he murmurs into my hair, pressing a soft kiss onto my forehead Exhausted, both emotionally and physically, I eventually fell asleep in Zayn''sforting embrace, feeling safer than I had in a long time The next morning, I wake up to find Zayn gone An unsettling emptiness settles over me, but I didn''t have time to dwell on it when I spot the rm clock beside the bed. Crap! I''m running Besides beingte to my first ss, I had a good day, and feel somewhat normal, but as I walk through the campus, I noticed hushed whispers and furtive nces. Confused and uneasy, when I spot Maya, heading to her next ss I wave to her "Maya," I call out, catching up to her. Maya pauses and waits for me to catch up. I fall in step with her nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Do you know what''s going on? Why is everyone whispering?" Maya stops looking at me. "You haven''t heard?" "Heard what?" I ask as she blinks at me then rolls her eyes "Where have you been? Do you live under a rock?" she asks incredulously. I frown, anxiety knotting my stomach. "It''s been all over the radio and social media!" "What? Please, just tell me," I ask, not wanting to y guessing games. It makes me wonder if Deacon has been found and dread fills me but I find her next words even more shocking "Alpha Zayn dered war against the Alpha of ymore pack. He pulled all his men from pack protection and broke all treaty agreements," Maya informed me, and my eyes went wide with shock "Wh-what?" I gasp, my heart pounding in my chest. "Why?" "Apparently, he punched Alpha Dane at the council meeting this morning. Right in front of everyone," she adds, her voice hushed My world seems to crumble around me. At this moment, I know that everything has changed The consequences of my actions - and Zayn''s - would ripple through our packs, altering the course of our lives forever And yet, deep down, amid the chaos and uncertainty, a small part of me can''t help but wonder if this is my fault for telling him about Alpha Dane and my father. Fuck! Chapter 56 Cleo As I stood there, staring at Maya in disbelief, my mind raced with questions and doubts. Had I set off this chain of events by confiding in Zayn? Had my trust in him, in the wrong person, led to this devastating turn of events? My luck seems to be getting worse and worse The sound of my own heartbeat rings in my ears, loud and fast Maya must have sensed my distress because she reaches out and squeezes my arm gently. "Look, Cleo, I don''t know what''s going on between you and Zayn, but you should know that Zayn..." She stops and shakes her head. Maya''s expression is one of concern and confusion, her brow furrowing and her lips pressing together "What is it, Maya?" I ask, wondering what more there could be Maya bites her lip. "Lydia told me you''ve been involved with Zayn; whatever is going on between you, too, you need to be careful, especially now," she tells me. My brows furrow in confusion "T have a boyfriend, Maya, Deacon. Remember him," I remind her. Maya raises an eyebrow at me "You sure about that? Because Lydia said, you''ve been sneaking off to see him. I know Lydia can be a bitch, but Zayn, of all people!? He''s ruthless, Cleo, if he starts a war with our pack over you. You''ll get us all killed; we haven''t got enough warriors to go up against his pack!" she snaps at me abruptly "What are you talking about!" I snarl. "Just spit it out, Maya, whatever it is, tell me!" Maya curses and shakes her head "Your father was at that meeting. He''s furious Zayn put im to you, told him if he forces you to marry Boyd, he''ll start a war and challenge your father. How could you be so stupid to risk the pack like that?" she shakes her head in disbelief "He what?" I squeak, knowing my father was going to lose it at me for this. What has Zayn done; why would he do that!? "So forget about Deacon; if he hasn''t heard already, he will because right now, you and Zayn are the talk of the city," she growls, storming off I spent the rest of the day lost in thought, trying to figure out what I could do to help. Every time I think of Zayn, I am filled with a mix of longing and anger. He had seen me in my weakest moment, and instead of leaving things be, he had started a war-a frigging war, and not just with Alpha Dane, but my father As the news spread throughout campus and beyond, the tension grew so thick it was almost tangible. The quiet whispers and casting gaze in my direction transformed into outright hostilityced with their fearN?velDrama.Org ? 2024. My phone also has done nothing but go off with messages from my father. I never even gave him this number, so I know he must have rang his phone off it, so he had the phone number. I didn''t open a single one of them, already knowing what I would find in them nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! Alpha Zayn''s decision to dere war against the ymore pack had thrown the entire school into turmoil. It is as if everyone 1s expecting him to storm the ce. Unable to handle everyone staring and whispering, I skip the next ss and head back to my dorm Yet even furious with Zayn I couldn''t shake the memory of his embrace, the way he hadforted me in the face of such humiliation Our connection is undeniable, and this sire bond only seems to make me ache for him despite wanting to punch him in the face. I paced back and forth, unable to shake the conflicting emotions swirling inside me. I knew I had brought this upon myself, but I also couldn''t help feeling drawn to Zayn like a moth to a me I copse onto my bed, a deep sense of despair settling in when I receive another message Sighing I open it, not wanting my father toe here and cause a scene. There are around 50 messages from him, each one raging at me like I asked Zayn to dere war. Yet thest one sends my blood cold Dad: Meet me at my office tomorrow so we can go over ways to fix this My heart sinks as I realize there is no avoiding this conversation. My father 1s going to be furious with me for bringing this upon our pack Swallowing down my dread, I hastily reply nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! Cleo: I''m sorry, I never asked for this Dad: You may not have asked for it, but you certainly caused it. You will marry Boyd, but first, we need to fix this shit with Alpha Zayn Whatever is going on between you two, you end it, and end it now, Cleo! I stare at his message, tears burning my vision; I don''t even understand what''s going on between me and Zayn. We aren''t even a thing, so exactly how do I break up with someone I am not even with? Clutching my hair, I try to take some deep breaths, trying to will the tears away. This is so messed up, so frigging messed up I was still trying to gather myself together; I was even too afraid to get dinner, not wanting to be caught in the halls by anyone when I heard a knock on the door. I sit up abruptly, staring at my dorm room door. ncing at the clock, I see it is a little after 8 PM now. I know it can''t be my father because I literally just spoke to him Nervousness ripples through me when the thumping continues, and some part of me worries it might be Alpha Dane "Cleo, I swear if you don''t open this damn door, I will break it down!"es Zayn''s voice. My heart flutters in my chest, and I quickly move to open it before he busts 1t down The moment I do, I want to m it in his face when I see he is also furious with me. Zayn''s face 1s twisted in anger, his jaw clenched tight, and his eyes shing with frustration. His body is tense, and his fists are clenched at his sides Chapter 57 "Why aren''t you answering my texts?" Zayn''s voice is harsh and demanding, his words hitting me like a punch in the gut. The door ms shut with a loud thud, the sound echoing in the small room The scent of Zayn''s cologne, a mixture of musk and sandalwood, fills the room as he enters, but the overwhelming smell of anger and tension quickly overpowers it "Do you have any fucking idea how panicked I have been about you? I thought I was going to have to storm your father''s pack looking for you!" he snaps at me before grabbing me. He crushes me against his chest "Why are you here? Haven''t you done enough?" I demand. He sighs, and I try not to breathe in his scent, knowing I will want to melt into him Stupid sire bond "What do you mean?" he asks, pulling away from me. I stare at him. What does he mean? What do I mean? He started a war, not even one war, but two! My father''s text messages flit through my head while I try to figure out how to break our nothing off "Zayn, you dered war on my father. You can''t Juste here." "Well, I did. Pretty easily, actually, the front gates were open, they really should lock those," he tells me, and I pinch my brow in frustration, what isn''t he understanding? I go to tell him he needs to leave when he speaks again. "Have you eaten?" he asks, and instead of me answering, my stomach does "Good, neither have I. Let''s go," He tells me, grabbing my hand and pulling me out the door before I can even protest. Great, I''m supposed to be dumping him, the man I''m not even dating Instead, I''m being dragged off to dinner with him. Dragged may be an over exaggeration, but I am ming it on being hungry My father is going to lose his damn mind if he hears about this. "I can''t believe this!" I snap at him as he drags me out the door "Believe what?" he questions "You. You started a war with my father, and now you''re expecting me to have dinner with you?" I can''t believe he''s doing this, just casually taking me out for dinner like nothing has happened between us I try to pull my hand away from him, but he tightens his grip. "What are you doing, Zayn?" I demand, trying to keep my voice steady "T told you, taking you to dinner." I huff, that was not what I meant, and he knows itN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. Zayn nces down at me, a look of frustration crossing his face. "Look, I didn''t start this war Your father did, and I''m just trying to protect my own interests." T rolled my eyes. "Interests? Like what?" "Like you! Why else Cleo? Besides, Alpha Dane never should have put fucking hands on you!" he tells me "You can''t just go starting fights. It''s none of your business anyway, and I never should have told you, I... Just don''t worry about it. It''s already done. Now I gotta deal with the consequences," I tell him as he leads me down the corridor toward the open courtyard. Zayn growls, his hand gripping mine tightening, but he doesn''t add anything to my words Zayn leads me through the corridors while I nervously nce around, praying no one spots us. As we make our way through the dimly lit corridors, Zayn''s grip on my hand tightens, and I can''t help but feel a strange mixture of apprehension and excitement. I try to shake off the sire bond''s influence, but it''s as if its tendrils have already begun to weave themselves deep into my very being "Where are you taking me?" I ask nervously, and he drapes his arm across my shoulders "Nowhere public. I know you''re worried about your father catching you," he answers when I hear voicesing toward us, and I stop; my heart skips a beat. This 1s thest thing I need, just great! "What is it?" he asks, stopping when he feels me stop. I nce down the corridor, and Zayn growls, his aura rushing out abruptly "Your father has been in your ear already, hasn''t he?" he states. "What did he say?" Zayn demands, but my eyes are down the corridor, hearing whoever it is getting closer. His growl is angry, and if his aura doesn''t drop soon, they''ll feel it long before they spot us. Zayn realizing this, shoves me into the courtyard quadrangle, pinning me behind the pir. Their voices draw nearer "Your aura," I squeak out in panic nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Bit hard for me to rein that in right now; tell me what your father said to you. Did he threaten you?" "What... No... he um," My heart hammers in my chest when I hear their footsteps on the stairs and the bats in the fruit trees in the small courtyard area take off, picking up on his energy "Cleo?" Zayn asks, his aura pressing down on me "If he threatened you, tell me, I will sort it out." "Like you did earlier with Alpha Dane," I retort my own minimal aura slipping out and challenging his. The voices draw closer, and I look around in panic, knowing my own barely there aura challenging him; he definitely felt it, even if it was a nudge Panicking, Zayn presses closer, his eyes holding mine when I hear the voices halt abruptly recognizing a threat near, I stand on my tippy toes and kiss him. He freezes, shocked, but his aura drops instantly as my actions take him by surprise Zayn''s eyes widen in shock as my lips press against his. I can feel his surprise and hesitation, but I''m too desperate to think about the consequences right now. All I know is that we need to y it cool until whoever is approaching leaves I wrap my arms around his neck, pulling him closer and deepening the kiss Chapter 58 For a moment, everything else fades away, and I forget about the danger that we''re in My tongue sweeps across his lips, and I vaguely hear their voices again over the purring sound he makes in the back of his throat when he kisses me back. The voices grow fainter, and relief floods me. This was a terrible idea. I pull away abruptly, having avoided detection when I hear them leave "They''re gone," I tell him, peering over his arm in the direction they went. My shoulders drop, and I lean against the pir and let out a breath of relief only to find Zayn has a silly smirk on his face "You kissed me," he tells me like I don''t know that "Yeah, because your aura was about to give us away. I am in enough trouble because of you!" I tell him, and his smile only gets bigger. This man is absurd! Zayn''s eyes dance with a teasing glint, his smirk deepening at my attempt to exin the kissN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. "Ah, so it was a strategic move to avoid detection, was it?" I swallow at his words because he leans closer I nod, not trusting my voice "And now?" he asks, his lips brushing mine as he speaks "You''re gonna get us in trouble," I whisper "But you''re not pulling away," he smirks. I open my mouth to tell him it''s the sire bond when he grips the back of my neck, dragging me closer until Iam pressed up against him. His breath sweeps over my lips, and a strangled gasp leaves me "Tell me not to, and I won''t. Tell me to stop," he whispers, yet my entire body tingles at his words, my heart fluttering in my chest. Because I don''t want him to stop, and I know I should, but I can''t bring myself to say the words His eyes flicker to his beast momentarily, and a wicked grin splits across his face."I didn''t think SO Zayn''s lips crash onto mine once again, igniting a sense of urgency and fiery passion that sends my senses into overdrive. His kiss is a perfect bnce of control and longing, his mouth exploring mine with such intensity that I am left breathless and yearning for more His hands roam over my back, pulling me flush against him, and I can feel the solid strength of his body. The kiss deepens, and I lose myself in the sensation, in the taste of him, in the way he makes me feel like I''m the only person in the world As he finally pulls back, leaving us both gasping for air, he gives me a smoldering look that promises more. "Now, that''s the kind of trouble I could get used to," Zayn says huskily, his eyes alight with a mix of desire and affection At that moment, under the spell of his kiss and his mesmerizing gaze, I can''t help but agree Being in trouble with Zayn feels dangerously right As we pull apart, my cheeks flush with desire and excitement; I reach up to touch my swollen lips. It was not the first time we''ve been caught in a moment of passion, but each time felt more electric than thest "We really can''t do this here," I remind him, my voice shaky from the intensity of the kiss "But you didn''t say we couldn''t," he chuckles, and my face mes at his words because he was right. I should be shoving him away, telling him off anything apart from kissing him. His fingers trace along my jaw nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! Despite the warning siren sounding in the back of my mind, I find myself inexplicably drawn to Zayn, his rough exterior and fierceness impossible to resist "T just..." I say, searching for the words to fix everything, end whatever this is because it''s wrong." You know we can''t keep doing this," I whisper, feeling my resolve weaken in the presence of him "You keep pushing me away despite not really wanting me gone," he sighs, his eyes searching mine. "But I can''t stay away from you." He presses his forehead against mine "Come on, let me feed you at least before you kick me to the curb," he chuckles, grabbing my hand Zayn leads me out of campus, and despite no one being around, I can''t help my paranoia of being caught by someone. Unlocking his car, he opened my door, motioning for me to get in. I slip into the seat, and Zayn walks around to the driver''s side, climbing in and starting the car "So, are you going to tell me what your father said?" he asks, reversing out of the parking space and turning onto the road "Nope, because you''ve started enough issues already, I will pass on extra," I tell him, and he growls, his hands tightening around the steering wheel. He doesn''t say anything else but starts driving through the city. After driving for a few minutes, I nce at him nervously "Where are we going?" I ask him "My ce since you don''t want to be seen in public with me." My heartbeat quickens at his words as he pulls onto the highway "Why do you look nervous hearing that?" he asks, and I shake my head "I''m not, but I probably shouldn''t be alone around you," I remind him nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Well, we can go to a restaurant if you prefer." heughs, and I raise a brow at him "Chill, I''m just ying. Not my fault you don''t trust yourself around me," he adds, and I re at him "That is not why! I.." "Keep telling yourself that, you''re clearly not scared of me, or you wouldn''t have got in my car. You certainly wouldn''t have kissed me," he reminds me, and my face heats "Just focus on driving!" I snap at him, knowing he is only taunting me Zayn smirks, not taking his eyes off the road as he navigates the winding highway headed toward his pack house. I cross my arms and stare out the window, trying to control my frustrated emotions The rest of the drive is mostly quiet, with only the sound of the engine and the wind rushing past us. Eventually, we pull up at the front gates. He fiddles with the visor, and the gates unlock, his men on guard nodding as he passes them We follow the road to his driveway and park in the circr courtyard, surrounded by tall trees and lush foliage. The main house stands high above us, illuminated by the moonlight As I get out of the car, Zayn follows me to the front door, opening it for me with a smile. We enter the dimly lit house, and he flips on the lights Chapter 59 "Make yourselffortable," he grins, Tm going to get out of this suit," he tells me, leaving me as my eyes adjust to the light I walk through the grand foyer, taking in the luxurious furniture and high ceilings, feeling out of ce among the opulence. Zayn finds me a few minutester, walking toward me in sweats and a tank, his eyes intent on me as he closes the space He ces his hands on my hips, pulling me closer until I''m flush against him, and brushes his lips over mine. "Hungry?" he asks, and I pull away from him, my hands ttening against his broad chest "Actually, we should talk," I tell him, knowing what I need to do. "We can talk after I feed you," he tells me, leading me to the kitchen. I sigh but let him lead me to the kitchen and I take a seat at the ind bench Zayn cracks open a beer, before tossing one to me, and I catch it, noticing the way his muscles ripple under his tank. As he opens the fridge, I watch him, taking a swig of beer Zayn''s movements are graceful and confident as he pulls out various ingredients from the fridge, humming to himself. His scent fills the room - a mix of woodsy musk and freshly bathed skin that makes me shiver involuntarily. The clink of ssware and metal on metal echoes against the stainless steel surfaces. I finish my beer when he goes to the fridge before pulling out an open bottle of wine He pours some wine into a ss and hands it to me, his fingers brushing against mine as he does so. It tickles my senses, sending shivers down my spine. "Tell me what you like in your food," he asks while chopping up some vegetables with precision. I watch him work, his hands almost dancing across the cutting board with an ease that speaks volumes about his experience in the kitchen I sip from the ss, feeling the smoothness of the wine glide down my throat as I ponder his question. "Surprise me," I finally reply with a smile "Challenge epted," he murmurs lowly before getting lost in his task once again - saut¨¦ing onions now while keeping an eye on something simmering on the stove top simultaneously. The aroma of garlic begins to fill the air, making my mouth water. His movements are graceful and predatory as he prepares food and I find myself entranced watching him when he nces at me over his shoulder "Like what you see?" I blush a little, looking away quickly because damn it, he knows he looks good in this kitchen He chuckles softly before turning back to his cooking He pours the leftover wine into a pan, and the sizzling sounds fill the room as he tosses two big steaks 1n it with seasoning and olive oil he sears each side before he slides it onto a baking sheet, making sure to season both sides evenly before popping them into the hot oven. The smell intensifies as they cook, making my stomach gurgle with hunger "So," I start tentatively, "My father..." I trail off, wanting to get this over with, when he cuts me off, holding the wine bottle upN?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. "Did you like this wine?" he asks, I shrug because I am not much of a wine drinker. "If you want, you can grab us another bottle. I have a few in the basement in a small cer. Down the hall first door on left," he tells me, and I sigh, knowing he is deliberately avoiding the conversation, but it''s one that needs to be had Reluctantly I go to the basement and open the door only for Zayn toe rushing toward me, scaring the crap out of me with how fast he moved nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 00005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I clutch my chest, "Jeez you scared me." "Figured I woulde to help," he says, though he suddenly looks anxious. He leads me downstairs to a huge basement. Chains hang from the ceiling, and I see this part looks like a typical basement. One side has storage and a huge freezer when I see him walk through to another room. I stare at the chain, wondering what it''s for "Punching bag," Zayn answers my thoughts, yet I don''t see any gym equipment down here, but I smell the stench of bleach making me wonder if he is a clean freak "This way," he nods, and I follow him through a door which turns out to be another set of stairs leading further down under the mansion. I hesitate on the top step He must hear me stop because he nces back at me. "Are youing?" he asks while I look at the darkness below "Maybe I should wait upstairs," I tell him nervously; he rolls his eyes, stomping up the steps only to grab me and toss me over his shoulder "Seriously, we''re back at the Zayn 1s a serial killer. If I wanted you dead, I would have killed you in the freezer," he tells me "Because 1f you were a serial killer, you would tell me too," I remind him He chuckles before cing me on my feet. "And if I was, you didn''t even put up a fight. Maybe you want me to kidnap you," he tells me before turning me around to face a giant cer of wine "T thought you said it was small?" "Nothing about me 1s small," Zayn chuckles, and I look at him "Oh, you mean the cer," heughs, and I fold my arms across my chest. He nudges me. "I''m fucking around. Now, choose one," he tells me, and I peer around "TIL let you; I know nothing about wine." "That makes two of us because this was my father''s, and I prefer whiskey or rum, but someone''s gotta drink it." he chuckles, snatching a bottle off the shelf "Come on, let''s see how hideous this one tastes." he tells me Chapter 60 I follow him back up the stairs and into the kitchen, where he is pulling out tes. "So, what did you want to talk about?" he asks, and I suddenly find myself tongue-tied. "My father.. he um," Fuck why 1s this so hard? How do I dump someone I am not even dating. "Let me guess, your father said to dump my ass so you can marry Boyd?" he asks "But technically, we aren''t even a thing, so I wouldn''t be dumping you," I tell him. He raises an eyebrow at me "Then what are we?" he asks, his eyes shing dangerously, yet the smirk on his lips tells me he is toying with me "Friends," I offer awkwardly. He seems to think for a second "I don''t like that title," "T''m not being your fuck buddy," I deadpan "Good because I want you, not a fuck buddy," he tells me, turning toward the oven to check the steaks he is cooking "And you''re not dumping me because you are scared of your father." "T have a boyfriend," I remind him "Had a boyfriend. He is not your boyfriend. He is a fleabag," I raise an eyebrow at him, and he shuts the oven door before turning the stove down "Well, my not boyfriend this is me officially dumping you before shit gets more awkward," I tell him, and he chuckles "You say that like you believe you can stay away from me," he chuckles, moving around the ind bench. He stops in front of me "Someone''s got tickets on themself," I mock and heughs, gripping my chin I swallow thickly as he leans down and captures my lips with his hot, demanding mouth. His taste is intoxicating, his tongue sweeping inside, searching for mine. I gasp into the kiss and lean into him, cing my hand on his chest, and I feel the steady beat of his heart He pulls away, breathing raggedly, and I am left panting. "Do you always kiss friends like that?" he purrs. My face heats at his words "I might not be able to stay away from you, but that doesn''t mean we''re good for each other. It''s this sire bond once it wears off, things will go back to normal," I argue, my voice firm despite the lingering heat from his kiss Zayn smirks, moving back to the kitchen and dishing out food before cing a te of food in front of me. "You''re not dumping me, Cleo That''s not how this works." I sigh, picking at the food. "Zayn, we''re causing drama in the packs. It''s not just about us. I have responsibilities, and I''m supposed to... to marry Boyd."N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights. He remains quiet throughout the meal, his silence stretching into an ufortable void. I can''t help but feel the tension building, the unspoken words hanging heavy between us Finally, once I''ve finished eating, I stand up, knowing he can''t use feeding me as an excuse to stay any longer now, and my chair scrapes against the floor. "I should go back to my dorm sses start early tomorrow." "T''ll drop you off before sses," Zayn says, his voice devoid of any emotion "No, Zayn, you''re not listening!" Frustration boils inside me. "I can''t be with you. This isn''t right." He steps closer, his presence overwhelming With one swift move, he pulls me into a searing kiss, leaving me breathless. "You will be with me, Cleo," he whispers against my lips, his eyes burning with intensity. "Because I''ll kill anyone who dares to touch what''s mine." I push against his chest, my heart racing. "You can''t just im me, Zayn. I''m not a prize to be won." He leans in, his breath hot on my ear. "I already did, Cleo. The moment Iid eyes on you, you became mine. And nothing, not even pack politics, will change that." His words send a shiver down my spine. The mix of danger and desire in his eyes 1s intoxicating. Our argumentes to a halt when Zayn pulls me in, his grip firm on my waist. His ice-cold gaze softens as he closes the distance between our lips with a predatory certainty. I don''t fight him this time. Instead, I allow myself to be consumed by the maism of his touch, the raw need radiating off of him He tastes like temptation intoxicating, addicting, a taste that instantly lights an infernal fire within me. His tongue deftly explores the contours of my mouth as if it''s territory he needs to conquer and im for himself "Zayn," I gasp into the kiss, shivering under his intense gaze, the way his eyes devour every flicker of response engraved in my features His hands wander down my spine, tracing each curve and dip before settling at the small of my back and pulling me closer until there''s no space left between us. I melt into him involuntarily, drunk on desire and drowning in the heated haze My mind whirls with conflicting emotions. On one hand, I can''t deny the maic pull between us that defies all logic and reason. But on the other hand, the weight of our duties and obligations threaten to suffocate any chance of happiness we might have I take a deep breath and meet his gaze head-on "Zayn," I say firmly, trying to convey the gravity of the situation. "We need to think about more than just ourselves. There are consequences to our actions." He sighs, a mix of frustration and desire evident in his eyes. "I understand that," he replies. "I just don''t care," he growls, his lips iming mine again His hands grip my hips, lifting me and sitting me on the counter and after a few seconds I give in, my hands gripping his tank top to pull him closer and I feel him smile against my lips. His lips move lower, trailing lower My heart races as he nibbles on my jawline and ear, leaving a trail of shivers in their wake. His scent-masculine and wild-envelops me entirely. My body arches into his touch in a silent plea for more when he grips the fabric of my shirt and rips it apart, revealing mycy ck bra. The cool air hits my warm skin, sending goosebumps down my spine I moan softly at the sensation as his lips press against my corbone, his teeth grazing over my pulse point just enough to make it throb deliciously He smiles against my skin before pulling back slightly to look at me once again. "Tell me to stop, tell me you don''t want this?" he murmurs and I swallow thickly "Tell me to stop and I will," he whispers as one of his hands finds the hem of my shirt, pulling it upwards, revealing my stomach before he peels it off. He groans softly against my skin, his warm breath tickling me as his teeth graze it yfully, nipping softly. "Beautiful," he whispers against my neck Something inside me melts at his touch-it''s a feeling I''ve never experienced with anyone else, a sense of belonging and longing that makes me want to give in to himpletely "So what''s it gonna be?" I open my mouth to answer, but no wordse out while he waits patiently "Fuck it," I growl jerking him closer and he purrs against my lips the sound sending thrills through me. My lips crash against his, my hands moving to graze over his abs as I give in, my father will be furious but for now he won''t know. "Good girl," Zayn mumbles against my lips dragging me closer. He grips my thighs lifting me and I wrap my legs around his waist The consequences I will think about tomorrow because right now, all I can think about is how good he feels Chapter 61 Zayn hoists me higher as he climbs the stairs, and for a frightening second, I worry he''ll drop me since he isn''t exactly watching where he is walking with his mouth trailing down my neck "16 steps," he murmurs, feeling me tense "I won''t drop you," he chuckles, pulling away. I suck in a shaky breath when his eyes meet mine We reach the top floor and his room, and he kicks the door shut behind him. His strong arms never once let go of me as he moves to the bed andys me down on it gently, hovering over me, his eyes burning with desire "I want you," he groans before crashing his lips back on mine again, tongue pushing past my parted lips with all the desperation I''m feeling for him right now. One of his hands moves to cup my breast through my bra, his thumb brushing over my nipple, sending shockwaves of pleasure through me. I moan into his mouth as his other hand slides beneath my pants, cupping my pussy through my panties He growls against my lips at my arousal, kissing his way down to my neck once more "Zayn," I whimper pleadingly as his hand tugs at my pants, and they''re suddenly gone "Stop, I''m not stealing virginity," he purrs. I sit up on my elbows, looking at him "You''re not?" I ask him, wondering why we are up here then."I rather you get your wolf before I steal that, besides I know right now, this is a fuck it moment because you''re angry at your father," he leans down, kissing me, forcing my shoulders backPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "If I''m gonna fuck you, I don''t want the fear of your father on your mind; I don''t want anyone on your mind Cleo, except me," he nips at my lips "Just you?" I chuckle, gripping his hair. He kisses me, his tongue plundering my mouth almost violently before he pulls back, making me groan "When I finally do take you, I want your mind consumed with the sensation of me being inside you." he nips at my lips. My face heats at his words while his fingers find my slit "You are something else..." I trail off incoherently when his fingers tease the outer folds of my core "And you are everything," he purrs as he shoves his finger inside me, watching my face. His eyes flicker as I squirm at the sensation "Let me taste you," he growls, his eyes moving down to his hand between my legs as he watches his finger slip out of me, but he doesn''t shove it back 1n like I expect "Deep breath," he whispers before kissing me, and I feel him force another finger inside me His tongue invades my mouth, teasing every inch while his fingers work up friction, making my skin warm when his lips trail down my jaw "Let me taste you, I want you to explode on my tongue." His voice is rough and husky as he asks, and my face heats further at the thought of his face nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 00005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! down there When I don''t answer, he kisses me, sucking on my tongue, and I groan at the sensation "Let me show you the true meaning of satisfaction as I lick and suck every piece of that sweet pussy." His words send shivers down my spine, igniting an intense hunger within me. I thread my fingers through his hair, pulling him closer. Our bodies press against each other, the heat between us bing almost unbearable "Is that a yes." he breathes against my ear, his voice dripping with anticipation. "Don''t think, Cleo, just feel," he purrs, flicking my earlobe with his tongue. "And I''ll make you feel, baby, what it''s like to be worshipped." I shiver as his breath skates across my neck. "Say yes," he purrs "Yes," I moan, surrendering myselfpletely to him Zayn''s eyes darken with desire as he takes in my words. He trails his lips along my jawline, leaving a trail of fiery kisses in his wake With a swift motion, he removes my bra, exposing my aching, hard nipples. His mouth descends upon them, sucking and nibbling on the sensitive flesh. Waves of pleasure course through me, making every nerve endinge alive I arch my back off the bed, desperately seeking more of his touch. Zayn trails kisses down my abdomen, and he grips my hips, pushing me higher up the bed "Are you ready?" he asks softly, his eyes locking with mine "Yes," I whisper breathlessly He slowly grabs my thighs, pushing them apart, revealing my throbbing core to him. A surge of anticipation courses through me as I feel his warm breath against my skin as he settles between my legs. Zayn''s fingers gently part my folds, teasingly brushing against my clit "Please, Zayn," I whimper, unable to contain myself any longer. Zayn smirks, his eyes flicker darkly "T love the way my name rolls off your tongue." He leans down, pressing his lips gently against my clit. "And I''m not stopping until I hear you scream it," he growls Zayn wastes no time plunging his tongue into me, sending shockwaves of pleasure throughout my body. I grip the sheets tightly, my back arching off the bed as he expertly explores every piece of me with his tongue The sensations overwhelm me, and I feel myself nearing the edge of ecstasy. Zayn''s tongue intensifies its movements, pushing me closer and closer to the brink "Let go for me," he growls, his voice sending vibrations through my core while his tongue swirls and flicks my clit I surrender to the sensations, shuddering as pleasure radiates through every fiber of my being. Zayn continues to torture me pleasurably; he sucks my clit, his tongue making my eyes roll into the back of my head when my vision goes white, heat floods me, and I shatter; Zayn''s tongue is relentless, prolonging my release until it bes almost unbearable When I finallye undone, a wave of pure bliss washes over me, and he doesn''t stop until I scream his name, leaving me breathless. My body trembles as he climbs up my body before pulling me into his arms as he holds me close, kissing my flushed skin. I''m going to be in so much trouble tomorrow, but for now, it''s so worth it Chapter 62 Chapter 62 Zayn As Cleo''s breathing slowed and her body rxed against me, I couldn''t help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. Her head rested on my chest, her blonde curls tickling my chin, and I couldn''t imagine a more perfect moment. Yet beneath the surface, there was a gnawing fear that tomorrow would bring an end to this idyllic bubble we have created I know Cleo will revert back to being standoffish. Her father has far too much influence over her but that is to be expected since he 1s her father I made a silent promise to myself to savor every second with her, to memorize the pattern of her breaths against my skin and the feeling of her warmth seeping into my body. She was where she belonged, in my arms, a ce I wanted to covet her away from the rest of the world. But for now, she was safest not knowing who I am to her. Not yet, anyway "Are you awake?" my brother calls through the mindlink "Yes, what''s up?" I reply while ncing down at Cleo "We have an issue, meet me in the living room," he tells me and I sigh heavily not wanting to move but knowing I have to. Carefully I slip out from beneath Cleo, tucking the nket back around her not wanting her to lose my warmth and wake up Climbing out of bed, I head for the door and to the living room. The room 1s dimly lit, the only source of lighting from the moon peeking through the curtains. I can see my brother Vance, his arms crossed and his tall frame leaning against the mantelpiece. The scowl on his face deepens as I enter the room "What''s going on?" I ask, crossing my arms over my chest "You know damn well what''s going on," he snarls "No, I don''t," I retort, "Tell me what the problem 1S "You just dered war with not one but potentially 3 packs and you brought her here You can''t just keep her here are you insane, what if her fatheres looking for her? Have you even told her or does she think she is some little pet you''ve decided to keep?" Vance demands, his wolf eye''s shing silver with anger "You dare speak of your future Luna like that," I shoot back at him. "She deserves better than that." Vance huffs out a breath. "This isn''t about what she deserves, this 1s about pack business. She is not safe here. You are putting the pack in unecessary risk, you need to tell her and im her or you need to let her go until she shifts Zayn!" My wolf howls in protest at the thought of losing Cleo, even temporarily. "I don''t think I can," I admit Vance pinches his nose between his fingers "You''ve really made a mess of things Zayn. You should have told her." "Told her what? She has no wolf," "You''re her mate!" he groans in frustration "Yes and her father''s rival, as if she would have believed I was her mate." "Then popsicle boy, you could have told her that at least, Alpha Grayson has used Alpha Joseph of attacking Deacon; he never kept his dislike for boy quiet." Vance argues "Shadowcrest and Lakeview are on the verge of a pack war. It''s only a matter of time before Alpha Joseph forces her home to keep her safe If he finds her here..." He trails off. "You should have told her about Deacon at least." "Again she wouldn''t believe me, what reason would she have when the only information she has about me was what her father fed her." I try to reason "The video footage." he growls annoyed nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Showed her boyfriends escorting her to the car, and me following them out minutester and killing him, it never showed what Deacon was doing to her." I exin and he curses "The phone footage then" "Again nothing saying I didn''t take that footage of her after I killed Deacon. She had no reason to trust me back then." "And now?" he asks "She has enough ying on her mind with the entire arranged marriage shit with Alpha Dane and ymore pack." I remind him "So what''s the n then? Please tell me you have one, Zayn, because everything can get out of hand really quickly at this rate." "For now, I need to keep her safe. They find out she is my mate; Alpha Samuel will use her to try to take me out." "He''s best friends with Joseph," Vance states "Is he, though?" I ask. "Only because of Linda, not for any other reason. My rtionship with Samuel is only out of desperation. His alliance with Joseph..." I try to think of why he tolerates Joseph because how can you be friends with your ex-wife''s mate? I''m not blind, and I know he had a hand in Cleo''s mother''s death. I just don''t know why or how, but it makes sense. And I still remember the argument he had with my father the week before their pack was attacked "We''ll keep patrols at the university to keep an eye on her, but for now, you are best keeping your distance from her, Zayn. If you''re serious about protecting her, you need to figure out something fast." "What do you mean?" "Alpha Greyson told Aunt Andrea that Alpha Dane and Joseph are still going ahead with the n for the marriage alliance," Vance says, stepping closer and away from the window "When?" Task, my mind racing with possible options to stop it "The day after shees of age," he responds "Why the rush, though? It makes no sense," I mutter out loud, more to myself than to Vance "Joseph owes a massive debt to Alpha Dane," he exins "How much?" I question, trying to gauge just how desperate Joseph must be. Vance shrugs in response "No idea. I wasn''t there," he admits. "But that''s how I found out about Deacon, from Aunt Andrea." My heart drops at the mention of his name. It''s a reminder of the pain I''m going to cause when she realizes Iam behind Deacon''s death. But it''s also a reminder of how important it is for me to keep her safe now "It''s also why Greyson believes it was Joseph who killed Deacon," Vance continues, "to get him out of the way for the alliance." "So he is going to dere war against Joseph?" "I think so," "TII speak with Greyson," I tell him. "Organize a meeting with him." "What do you n on telling him?" "Everything. I''ve never had issues with Greyson, and he hates Samuel; if I am going to war, I will need his pack on my side." I tell VanceThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. "TII organize it and send you the information," Vance tells me before walking out just as I hear footsteps upstairs "Fuck!" I curse now making me wonder if I can convince Cleo to remain here but I know I can''t, she''ll refuse. She is too stubborn Chapter 63 Cleo I wake to the soft light filtering through the curtains, casting a gentle glow on the contours of Zayn''s face. His steady breathing isforting beside me, his chest rising and falling with a peacefulness that belies the chaos of our lives. The warmth of his body seeps into my skin For a brief, precious moment, the world outside this room ceases to exist the looming threats and my father''s irond expectations all fade into nothingness. I allow myself to revel in this illusion of serenity, nestled against Zayn, the Alpha whose presence promises protection and provokes an insatiable longing within me that I can''t quite exin But reality is a demanding beast, gnawing at the edges of my consciousness, reminding me that I can''t stay here, hidden away in the cocoon of Zayn''s arms; as much as I crave the escape from my own life right now, I know I''ll have to leave, eventually. The pull of my responsibilities and the gravity of my father''s unspoken yet inescapable demands w me back to the surface, reminding me of how much trouble I''ll be in if he finds out I''m here I stir slightly, careful not to wake him, my gaze lingering on the lines of his face the sharp jawline softened by sleep, his dark hair that falls haphazardly over his forehead. I trace the arc of his brow with my eyes,mitting it to memory. His gray irises are hidden now, veiled by longshes that flutter slightly as he sleeps. I wonder what visions dance behind those closed lids when his brows furrow. As much as I like Zayn, I still hardly know anything about him? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. Right now, I am a serial killer''s wet dream, trusting blindly, yet Zayn feels like home; I don''t know if it is the sire bond or if I am starting to fall in love with the man. He''s so different from the persona everyone else sees him as, so different to Deacon Deacon would never have stood up against my father the Zayn has; he wouldn''t havee to check on me if my father forbade it, as he did in the past; it wasn''t until I was begging my father to let me see Deacon that he allowed it, making me realize I''ve done nothing but chase after Deacon not once has he chased after me. Yet Zayn didn''t just tell my father to say no. He was willing to dere war over me against not one but two packs With a sigh, I slip out from under the covers, my bare feet touching the cold floor as I sit on the edge of the bed, anchoring me to the present and reminding me of how much trouble I will be in The absence of his heat leaves me exposed and vulnerable, but I wrap the sensation around me like armor. Today, I will face my father and the countless eyes that watch, waiting for me to stumble "You''re up early," Zayn''s voice is a husky whisper, his fingers reaching out and locking around my wrist. He moves beside me, gray eyes slowly opening, their intensity capturing me in them, and he pats the spot beside him in the bed, ripping the covers back "Don''t make me drag you back. I wasn''t done cuddling you," he growls yfully, the corners of his lips tugging slightly. "I need to get to school," I remind him His eyes sh ck to his wolf for a second "You need to get your butt back in bed," he tells me. I raise an eyebrow at him, his words not a demand but more yful "Ten minutes, then I need you to run me back to my dorm," I tell him. Just as I move toy back down, he grabs me, jerking me toward him and trapping me beneath him and the nket. "Stay, you don''t have to leave Cleo," he whispers His hand brushes a strand of hair from my face, tucking it behind my ear with a tenderness that squeezes my heart. When he leans in, his lips find mine I melt into the kiss for a brief moment, allowing myself to drown in the sensation, in the heady scent that 1s uniquely Zayn. But the chains of responsibility tighten around my chest, reminding me of the world that awaits beyond this bubble I find myself in when around him "L can''t," I whisper against his lips, voice barely audible. His brow furrows as he leans back, watching my face intently. "Why can''t you?" he demands. "You''re 19 years old, Cleo, an adult, technically. You don''t have to answer to your father," Zayn exins "An adult, yes, but not in werewolf society; I''m still under his protection until I get my wolf." I remind "You don''t need his protection; you have me." he frowns, his thumb brushing my cheek gently "The silence from him... it''s the calm before the storm, Zayn. You know it is." Zayn''s arm beneath me grips me tighter as if he could shield me from the inevitable with his embrace alone. The muscles under his skin are coiled strength, the power of his aura evident as it rushes out blindingly fast, snatching the air from my lungs. I gasp, and he jolts like he didn''t realize he lost control momentarily. "Shit," I shake my head, knowing he didn''t mean it His sigh is a deep rumble, echoing the unrest that''s building between us. The frown that creases his brow seems out of ce on Zayn''s usually confident face. He sits up in one fluid motion, his muscr arms trapping me in an embrace that shows what I feel for him isn''t one- sided "Let me worry about your father," he says, his voice a low growl. "I can handle your father." His gray eyes lock onto mine, fiercely reflecting the seriousness of his words But as much as his presence is a balm to my frayed nerves, I can''t surrender to the sense of security his words offer, knowing it will cause pack wars Chapter 64 Reluctantly, I pull away from his warmth, feeling the cool air kiss my skin where his touch lingers? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. "T have to go back to college, Zayn," I insist, sliding out of bed and wrapping myself in the thin barrier of a sheet. My heart races, betraying the conflict within as I meet his silver gaze. "I can''t risk my pack." "What risk, Cleo?" he asks. I purse my lips "And if my father deres war?" "Then he''s more stupid than he looks. I would annihte his pack, and probably single-handedly. Sorry, your pack is quite small," Zayn chuckles "Exactly, Zayn. My father would dere war He was willing to risk our pack by refusing your protection. Despite that, though, he deres war on your pack. My pack will stand with him They''ll get hurt." I sigh heavily. This is such a mess Zayn watches me, silent and brooding, his eyes tracking my every move like a predator. But instead of pouncing, he reclines against the headboard, his dark hair in disarray. There''s a raw edge to him now, as if he''s waging his own internal battle "I don''t like you being away from me," he admits, his voice rough with emotion ''You say that like I am your only friend?" "If I say you are, will you stay?" he asks. I roll my eyes at him, looking for my discarded clothes As I dress hastily, the weight of his stare 1s as tangible as the fabric slipping over my curves, igniting a familiar heat despite the urgency thrumming through my veins. I pause, ncing back at him, my resolve momentarily faltering as I''m reminded of the depths of this alpha "Zayn..." [need him to drive me home, or I''ll bete for my first ss, but it''s clear he doesn''t want to. "Please, I still need to go to school; I have sses," I tell him "Fine, since I am not allowed to kidnap you, I will drop you back-" I smile, and then he speaks again. "For now, your father keeps getting under my skin. I may not give you back next time," he warns me "And you said you weren''t a serial killer and could trust you?" I remind him "T never said anything about killing you. I just wouldn''t give you back. I''d keep you all for myself." heughs but rises, pulling on some jeans and a ck shirt I follow him downstairs, where he grabs his keys and my hand, leading me out to his car The drive back is quiet, neither of us willing to disturb the peace, knowing that will be thest of it for a while The engine purrs to a halt, and the world outside Zayn''s car blurs past insignificantly as he pulls me against him when we arrive back at my dorm. His kiss is a searing brand, igniting a fire that threatens to consume us both. "T''ll call you," he breathes against my lips, his voice rough with the effort of parting "Make sure you do," I reply, the taste of him still dancing on my tongue. Reluctance ws at me, urging me to ignore everything else and stay in his presence He brushes a thumb across my cheek, leaving a trail of heat in its wake. "When will you start working for me?" There''s hope in his eyes "You''ll still protect our borders even after everything with my father?" "If it means seeing you, then yes," he tells me I press my forehead to his, feeling the weight of the choices I have to make. "I''ll check my ss schedule and let you know; I might drop out of a ss or two." The wordse out more strained than I intend, tangled up with the knowledge of what''s at stake my future and my pack''s future. Yet once I am alpha, I will be able to make treaty agreements without my father''s input, so this will do for now "I need to go," I murmur, even as everything inside me protests "Wait," he says abruptly, capturing my hand "Ring me when you finish ss. We''ll go get dinner." "Zayn, we''ll get caught." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "TI pick you up for dinner," he smiles wickedly Iugh, shaking my head. Sneaking outst night was one thing. Again, tonight might be asking for trouble Climbing out of the car, I head to my dorm to get ready for my first ss. The halls are deserted as I walk back; the students are still asleep or only just waking for the day, so no one sees me The key in the lock turns with a soft click, but the moment I push the door open, the chill of an aura rushes over me. The room feels different- charged with anger. My eyes flicker to my bed, and there he is. My father, sitting like a judge presiding over his court, his jaw set in lines of disapproval so deep they might be carved from stone. Storm clouds gather in his dark eyes as they fix on mine, and my heart plummets into an abyss "Dad..." My voice is a breath, a whisper of dread that can''t mask the quake of fear that rushes through me "Quiet, Cleo," he snaps amand that rings with authority and silences any protest I might muster. The two hulking enforcers behind him are statuesque in their stillness, yet the threat they pose 1s palpable even in their silence My gaze slides to them, noting the way they turn to look out my window, pretending not to listen or witness whatever is about to go down. I take an involuntary step back, feeling the walls close in around me "When Lydia told me you were seeing Zayn, I hoped she was wrong, especially after the shit storm he caused at the council meeting staking im to you!" His words slice through the tension, each one a cold de against the warmth I felt with Zayn only moments ago Chapter 65 "Lydia..." I start, but the name tastes like betrayal on my tongue, sour and sharp, not that I expected anything else from the evil wench. Yet still, her deceit stings because I know she did this out of spite over Deacon, making it more cutting than I would have imagined. The mere thought of her sly, self-satisfied smile makes my insides twist with hatred. "You''ve embarrassed me after all the drama he caused the other day; now this, you look like you are defying me and picking his side!" My father uses. I nce at the two enforcers, wondering what their purpose here is, yet they don''t meet my gaze, instead ignoring what is going on "Dad, please" I try again, desperation edging my voice. The plea hangs unfinished, my words faltering under the weight of his re and aura "Enough." He stands, and the motion has the finality of a gavel''s fall. "You will end this.. toying with Alpha Zayn, or suffer the consequences. You are promised already, and running around with him makes me look like a weak alpha who can''t control his own daughter!" "Consequences?" The questiones out with a choked noise "Your future, our pack''s stability, your ce in this family. You''ve put all of that at risk." Each phrase is a heavy stone added to the burden already pressing on my shoulders. I struggle to keep myposure, to remain upright under the onught "Dad, you can''t mean " "No, I don''t want to hear excuses. End it, Cleo!" His voice booms, and I flinch. His expression 1s unyielding, a mask of merciless fury. "You defy me once more." he doesn''t finish But he cuts me off from saying anything more with a dismissive wave of his hand, silencing me more effectively than any shout could. "Save your breath, Cleo. I don''t want to hear it." The finality in his tone warns me not to argue right now "From now on, you''re under guard at all times." I nce at the two enforcers with him "Do you have any idea what you''ve done?" My heart pounds a desperately against my ribs Each beat echoes the gravity of his words. I search for something to say, some plea that will soften the edge of his anger, but the presence of the enforcers a silent, oppressive force- strangles my voice "Seeing Zayn isn''t a crime," I muster the courage to argue He stands, towering over me, his stature alone a reminder of the power he wields. "Have you no respect for me? It''s about what''s expected of you, of us." His eyes, the same light blue as mine, now hold the chill of a winter storm. "Your actions put everything at risk." The room feels smaller, the air thinner, as if my very existence has be an offense. My gaze flickers to the window, where thest traces of dawn are giving way to the harsh light of day, mirroring the reality I''m forced to face. "Do you hear yourself? All this is because you made a deal with Alpha Dane and refused Zayn''s protection! Why do I have to be the sacrifice for your damn ego? It''s wrong!"T snap at him My father listens to my rant stone-faced. "Right or wrong, you''ll do as you''re told." He steps closer, his proximity a clear threat. "You will marry Boyd. That''s final." "Dad, please" My plea is cut short by the look in his eyes, a harsh reminder that this isn''t a negotiation "Understand this, Cleo," he continues, his voice lethally calm. "You belong to the pack before yourself. Before whatever fleeting desires you think you have. You are alpha first. We don''t always get to do what we want." "This is yourst warning, Cleo. You are to end whatever this is with Zayn. You will marry Boyd, and so help me, if you step one foot out of line, I will give the Pack to Lydia," my father warns, his voice a venomous whisper that wraps its icy fingers around my throat I can almost feel the demand behind his threat, the way it ws at the fragile veneer of control I''ve managed to maintain. Lydia''s jealousy and drive to steal my pack has hung over me for years. A bitch that now threatens to devour everything I hold dear-and all I have left of my mother The fight drains from me, leaving a hollow emptiness behind. I nod, the gesture mechanical, as thoughts of Zayn flood my mindPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Good. Now get ready for ss; these two will wait at the door for you; you do not leave their sides outside this dorm room." With that single word, he turns and strides from the room, his enforcers following. The door clicks shut behind them, the sound final Alone, I copse onto the bed, Zayn''s lingering scent woven into the clothes I''m wearing. The room feels smaller somehow, the air thick as my mind races at the ultimatum I''ve been given If I don''t end things with Zayn, my father will disown me. Give the pack to Lydia. A coldness seeps into my bones as I contemte the ramifications My mind still reels at the amount of trouble Lydia has caused recently. I know her intentions; the pack would fall into ruins under her watch. I have no idea how I will end this with Zayn, not when my heart already belongs to him. Forcing myself out of bed, I look for some clothes and get dressed quickly before grabbing my books and bag and heading out the door, only to groan when I notice my father''s enforcers waiting outside the door for me Locking my door, I stomp past them I shuffle down the hallway, my boots clicking against the cold tile, feeling the scrutinizing gaze of the two enforcers at my back. Their presence is a suffocating cloak I can''t shake off, a constant reminder that my every move is monitored and judged. It''s not that I''m prone to trouble; it''s just that trouble-namely, Lydia- has a liking for finding me Chapter 66 "Watch your step," one enforcer murmurs as a student darts in front of me, nearly colliding with my shoulder. My new guard 1s alert, vignt, but I barely hear him over the internal monologue cursing my father''s punishment My gaze flickers to the faces blending into the sea of students. Whispers tickle my ears, words woven with curiosity and a hint of fear. They see the enforcers, they see me, and their Imaginations spin wildly. I can already imagine the shit circting around the ce already "About time." The voice cuts through the noise, sharp and unwee. Lydia leans against Maya''s dorm room door, arms crossed, her smirk as taunting as the glint in her eye. She thrives on this, the power y, the show of superiority in the most public of areas, the bitch just loves trying to humiliate me "Lydia," I greet her, my tone t, unwilling to give her the satisfaction of seeing me riled up She pushes off the door and saunters towards me, her heels clicking loudly on the floor. The other students around us quickly move out of our way, giving us a wide berth I take a deep breath and force myself to stay calm. I can''t let her get to me, not now. Not when I have so much at stake "What are you doing here?" I ask, my voice steady Lydia rolls her eyes and raises an eyebrow "You know perfectly well why I''m here." I resist the urge to roll my own eyes at her predictable response. "Enlighten me then." "IT see your father finally realized his little princess isn''t safe roaming free, huh? About time he put you in your ce." she says, and I realize she is here to gloat about getting me in trouble with my father, why else? The enforcers stiffen like statues on either side of me, their eyes scanning for potential threats at our audience to our brewing confrontation Lydia''s smirk doesn''t waver, her gaze sharp and piercing "I wouldn''t be under guard if you weren''t speaking shit, Lydia. What have I ever done to you?" My voice echoes slightly in the corridor, and I feel a hot flush of anger color my cheeks She leans in, close enough for me to catch the faint scent of her perfume an attempt at intimidation that I refuse to acknowledge. "You should have thought about that before choosing Zayn over Deacon," she says, her voice a low hiss "T''m not choosing Zayn over Deacon," I shoot back, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside me. "And what I do with Zayn is none of your business." Lydia''s eyes narrow, and I see the sh of her own frustration. She''s always been good at dishing it out, but taking 1t? Not so much. She steps closer, viting my personal space, a challenge in her stance. I know she is trying to provoke me, anything to make me look bad to my father "Everything you do 1s my business when it affects the pack," she counters, her words clipped and coldPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "Then maybe you should spend more time worrying about your own actions rather than obsessing over mine!" Lydia huffs, ncing around. "And since when do you care for our pack when the only thing you''re good as is spending pack money." I retort, leaning in until we''re almost nose to nose nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! My heart races, blood pounding in my ears Lydia has always known how to push my buttons, and right now, she''s mashing them with the force of a sledgehammer "Obsessing, I''m trying to stop you making a mistake with that mongrel, he did god only knows what with Deacon, and here you are defending him!" Lydia snarls I press my lips together, feeling the familiar twist of frustration in my gut. My fingers itch tosh out, but I rein in the urge. "Not this again, Lydia. I don''t know where Deacon is, but wherever he is, he isn''t looking for me and clearly he ain''t looking for you either!" The words snap like a whip through the tense air "Hey, let''s just take a breath here," Maya interjects, her voice soft and soothing, trying to wedge herself between the storm brewing in Lydia''s eyes and my own ring temper But Lydia doesn''t seem to care about the crowd we are drawing as she points an using finger at me "You were thest one seen with him, and now you''re covering up for that bastard Alpha Zayn." Her usation pierces the hallway. "I know he did something to him; he was seen following Deacon out moments after you both left." "Bullshit. We checked the tapes. If you''re so worried about him, go look for Deacon yourself I''m done with the dramatics, Lydia." I turn to leave, my patience worn thin, but her next words freeze me in ce "How dare you! You call me dramatic yet your actions have caused pack wars. You''re exactly like your whore mother, stirring up trouble!" Lydia spits venomously I whirl around, my fists clenching at my sides as thest word slithers out of Lydia''s mouth. The venom in her tone, the acid dripping from each syble, burns through any restraint I have left My vision tints red, and the halls fade away until all I see 1s Lydia''s smug face. Her words slice through me, igniting a fire that rages through my veins. With a feral snarl tearing from my throat, my hand shoots out, fingers tangling 1n her hair I yank her closer and my hand tightens in her hair, pulling her so closer until our noses almost touch. Her eyes widen in shock, but I don''t care All I see is red, all I feel is rage "You do not get to talk about my mother like that," I hiss through gritted teeth, my voice low and dangerous Lydia tries to pull away, but I hold her firmly, my grip on her hair unrelenting and only grows tighter "Let go of me!" She screams, paning her tone. My father''s enforcers stand frozen not knowing what to do, clearly not expecting me to grab her "Cleo.." Maya urges clutching her mouth with both hands, but everything 1s moving way too fast and I can''t seem to calm down. She shouldn''t have mentioned my mother "Ah!" Lydia''s scream pierces the air, high and shocked, but it''s like background noise to the inferno within me. My other hand balls into a fist, and then she''s flying forward, her face connecting with a sickening crunch against the brick wall Chapter 67 Zayn The roar of my engine cuts through the quiet as I pull into Alpha Greyson''s territory, the familiar scent of pine and earth greeting me. As soon as my boots hit the gravel, I''m met with Greyson''s boomingughter as hees out his front door and down the steps. Greyson''s light brown hair 1s windswept, his strong jawline defined as he nods in acknowledgment. His piercing blue eyes seem to glint with amusement, but there is a hint of something else lurking behind them "Heard you riled up Alpha Dane and Joseph at the meeting the other day?" His voice carries across the distance, and even though it''s lighthearted, it does nothing to ease the knot in my stomach. Since I am having to ask a favorThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. "News travels fast," I reply, shutting the car door with a thud that echoes in the open space. The scent of pine and impending rain mingles in the air, a storm brewing just like the one inside me Greyson''s lips curling into a smirk, his nod indicating both amusement and a hint of skepticism. The lines around his eyes crinkle, revealing his age "Indeed," Greyson nods Greyson crosses his arms, his posture rxed but his eyes sharp as flint. "I bet that got under their skin. Joseph looked like he was ready to tear someone apart when he left." "Wouldn''t be the first time," I mutter, thinking of how easily tempers re when packws and personal desires sh "True enough. So, tell me, what''s brought you to my doorstep today?" Greyson asks, tilting his head, his keen gaze dissecting my every intention My gaze drifts across the sprawling packhouse, an imposing structure shadowed by the dense forest that encircles it. Alpha Greyson stands before me, his presence asmanding as ever "You need my help, don''t you?" he asks before I can even answer "T might, which is why I came here." Alpha Greyson nods slowly, regarding me carefully before looking away "Whatever you need, you have my support." "You haven''t even heard what I have to say," I remind him Greyson''s expression sobers instantly, the lines of his face hardening into a hardened resolve. "I don''t need to. If it''s going against Joseph and Samuel, you know I want in. Especially after what they did to ra." His tone 1s like steel "You truly believe Joseph had something to do with ra''s death?" My voice is a low growl, barely contained, as the memory of my aunty wailing for her friendes to mind when she learned of her death Greyson''s eyes harden, like two chips of flint ready to spark. "You doubt me?" His tone slices through the tension I shake my head, casting the doubts away like dead leaves in a storm. "No, of course not." I nce back at Greyson, finding his steel gaze unwavering. "Andrea isn''t fond of them either," I confess. "She wanted me to cut the treaty agreements with Samuel but didn''t want to leave ra''s daughter unprotected." "Understandable," Greyson nods, his eyes reflecting a storm brewing within. "Cleo needs all the protection she can get, doesn''t she? Especially after hearing about this marriage alliance with Alpha Dane." There''s a snarlcing his words, and it resonates with the anger coiling in my gut I can stop it, a surge of possessiveness gripping me so fiercely it''s almost crippling. Images of Cleo, her light blue eyes wide with fear, sh through my mind, and my wolf prowls beneath my skin, eager to im what''s ours I narrow my eyes in confusion, a frown creasing my forehead as I try to piece together Greyson''s words. "What do you mean?" "Rumor is that Alpha Samuel was the one who came up with the idea," Greyson says. He moves closer and leans against the hood of my car, arms crossed over his broad chest. "Now, why would he suggest such a thing to Joseph?" The question hangs heavy in the air, making me think for a second "Of course, Linda jumped all over the idea Now, why would she do that?" Greyson continues to probe, his voice sharp, not hiding his hate for Linda "Because she''s always weaving her web of maniption, that''s why," I snap, the pieces falling into ce with a rity that chills me to my core. The muscles in my jaw clench as I piece together the nefarious puzzle. "So her daughter inherits the pack. Therefore, Samuel does," I answer, my frustration growing. The power y is clear as day, and it sickens me Greyson''s eyes narrow, and he leans in, his voice low and dangerous. "Exactly. But I''m curious how you became involved in this entire situation," he inquires, his gaze sharp and my lips tug in the corners I clench my jaw, meeting Greyson''s probing gaze. "Be ready for war, old man," I growl "Because if you''re right about Samuel, it looks like it''s me and you against the rest." Greyson''sughter rolls across the space between us. The sound isced with something feral, the promise of a fight he''s been craving "Good thing I''m on the winning side, then." He states. "But you still didn''t answer my question This seems out of character for you. You generally try to keep peace within the city nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! What''s made you dere war? Has to be more than morals." "Sometimes, peace isn''t an option," I admit, my voice low and steady, betraying none of the chaos brewing inside me. "Especially when those you care about are threatened." The image of Cleo shes through my mind her smile, her strength, the softness of her skin under my touch. The thought of her being pawned off ignites a fire in my veins that no amount of reason can extinguish Greyson studies me, his eyes narrowing as if he sees straight through me. "Ah," he says, the word drawn out and knowing. "So it''s personal." "Isn''t it always?" I counter, the corner of my mouth twitching with a humorless smirk "When ites to protecting what''s yours, the rules change. You know that better than anyone." I turn to leave, my hand wraps around the handle, the metal cool, when I stop looking back at Greyson "Tell me, Greyson," I push past the lump in my throat, "if you had your chance over again with ra?" I watch his jaw clench and his nostrils re. The air between us thickens with unspoken understanding His voice, when ites, is like gravel dragged through dark memories. "I would bring this city to its knees to protect her and Cleo." "Well, there''s your answer, Greyson, because I''d do the same for Cleo," I say, my voice steady Chapter 68 Greyson''s response is immediate and visceral; augh erupts from his throat, deep and resonant, filled with recognition "Indeed." His eyes glint, and there''s a fire there that wasn''t present moments ago. "Because the only woman worth going to war over is your mate." It''s the truth that has been etched into my bones since the moment I recognized Cleo as mine "Exactly," I respond, heat flooding my veins, thinking of Cleo with an intensity that borders on obsession. "And I''ll tear apart anyone who tries to im her." "Love makes us do the unthinkable," Greyson muses, his tone suggesting an old wisdom mingled with raw instinct. He knows the stakes, the unspoken rules of this game we''re ying It''s more than just territories and power-it''s about the heart''s relentless drive to protect its counterpart "Even before she''s fully mine," I add, the admission rough in my throat. The thought of Cleo, untouched and unaware of the bond, ignites a ferocity within me that''s hard to contain "Ah, the sweet torture of waiting for the mating bond to snap into ce," Greyson acknowledges, a knowing smirk tugging at his lips. "But when it does, Zayn, you''ll know no bounds. Trust me." My jaw clenches at the mention of the bond The mere idea of iming Cleo, marking her flesh with my teeth, branding her soul with my essence-it''s intoxicating, maddening "Your secret''s safe with me," he says, a smirk forming on his lips. "Cleo is safer that way, for now."Greyson meets my gaze, the lines around his eyes deepening as he nods once "T know it is," I reply "Tll be ready when you need me." But then his brow furrows, a wrinkle of concern fracturing his otherwise hard expression. "But what if he makes her marry Boyd before she gets her wolf?" My hands clench involuntarily, knuckles whitening as I imagine Cleo bound to another "She won''t be marrying Boyd. That will never happen. They can make all the wedding arrangements they want; it will be their funeral," I state firmly, turning back to my car, eager to get back to Cleo I can feel my wolf creeping beneath my skin, eager for a fight, while Greyson''s piercing gaze holds a quiet determination that matches my own "So what''s your n?" he finally breaks the silence, his voice low and almost hesitant I take a deep breath, trying to calm the anger bubbling inside me before answering. "I don''t have one yet," I admit. I open my door "Well, when you do, let me know." I nod once about to climb into the car when he speaks again "Almost forgot, I meant to ask you. What about Deacon? I have had that bitch Lydia snooping around here. I haven''t seen the kid since before he went missing, but I thought I felt-" Greyson''s words trail off, and I can tell he''s piecing it together Fuck. I forgot Deacon was part of Greyson''s pack Greyson looks at me, searching for confirmation. "Did he deserve it?" "He drugged Cleo with Lydia''s help. He was going to..." I can''t even finish the sentence, the thought making my blood boil "Good enough for me. As long as it wasn''t cold blood." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "He deserved it, that I assure you," I say, feeling the weight of Greyson''s gaze on me Greyson swallows thickly, his expression pained yet understanding. "Does Cleo know?" I shake my head "Does she remember?" Again, I shake my head "T''ll make sure everything is cleaned up on my end. And will make a statement about him going rogueter today," Greyson decides, a n forming between us I sigh in relief, grateful this didn''t turn ugly Greyson knows I''m not a liar, and I had every reason and right to since she is my mate. Now, all that''s left is to make sure Cleo is safe, no matter what it takes "Thanks, Greyson. I owe you." "When the timees, you know where to findThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. me I climb into my car, leaving Alpha Greyson feeling lighter and more determined than ever 2 2k 2k 2 2 2K 2 ~Cleo~ The moment her face hits the brick, blood sprays, sttering the cold surface as her body slumps "Wha--," she gasps, her voice gurgling through the blood of her broken nose "Never speak of her again," I growl, my voice barely human I don''t know where ites from, but it''s like every little thing that has angered me over the "Stop this, Cleo!" one of the guards shouts, his arms wrapping around my waist and pulling me back. The world snaps back into focus, and I see Lydia crumpled on the ground, both hands cupped over her face, blood seeping between her fingers "Get off me!" I snap at the guard, still thrumming with residual anger "Lydia!" Maya''s voice cracks through the chaos, her steps hurried as she rushes to Lydia''s side "Look what you did!" Maya uses, her eyes wide with shock "Me?" I scoff, my chest heaving. "She brought this on herself." "Enough, Cleo!" The guard''s grip tightens on my arm, his voice a harsh whisper against the roar of my pulse. "You need to calm down, Cleo, or we''ll be forced to call on your father." The mention of my father 1s like a bucket of ice water over my head, dousing the mes of fury that had been consuming me. My hands tremble, the tips of my ws still extended, slick with Lydia''s blood Chapter 69 I blink, trying to clear the red haze from my vision, and I finally see her-Lydia, crumpled against the wall, her face a mask of blood-red agony "You''re going to pay for that, Cleo," she gasps between sobs, her eyes bright with unshed tears and hatred. Her threat slices through thest wisps of rage within me, leaving a cold, hollow space in its wake realizing what I''ve done "Go cry to my father, Lydia. Make sure you tell him what you said, though!" The words call back at her as I keep walking Upon reaching safety, I shove the door open and slip through, mming it shut behind me. The guards, those watchful hawks, remain outside, their presence a reminder of the gilded cage I''m trapped in But before I can sigh in relief, a hand mps over my mouth, silencing the scream that instinctively rises. My elbow shoots back, connecting with a wall of muscle-a familiar firmness that halts my panic. "Gotta do better than that, Love," Zayn''s voice rumbles against my ear, hisughter a low vibration that sends a shiver down my spine "Zayn!" I gasp out his name, spinning in his grasp, my hands syed against the hard nes of his chest. His gray eyes dance with mischief, a spark of wildness that mirrors the tumultuous storm within me "Missed me?" He smirks, the arrogance that so defines Alpha Zayn Holt written all over his infuriatingly handsome face "Like a thorn in my side." But even as I say it, my body betrays me, leaning into his touch, craving the heat of his skin on mine "Is that why your heart''s racing? Or just the adrenaline of smacking Lydia about?" He chuckles as his thumb strokes my cheek, wiping away an invisible smear of her blood "You heard?" "Someone live streamed it," he tells me. Great, my father 1s going to hand me my ass I jab a finger toward the door, my pulse racing with a mix of rm and excitement. "You shouldn''t be here," I hiss, acutely aware of the danger his presence poses "Rx, Cleo," he drawls, closing the distance between us in two easy strides. His smirk widens, and there''s a predatory glint in his eye that both rms and thrills me. "They won''t hear a thing. And talking was never on the agenda." Before I can muster another protest, his hands are cradling my face, thumbs stroking my cheeks with a tenderness that contradicts his brazen nature. Then, he''s leaning down, his lips mere inches from mine, and I''m caught in the gravitational pull of his kiss as his lips brush mine My fingers tangle in the fabric of Zayn''s shirt, pulling him closer as our kiss deepens. The world outside the whispers, the guards, Lydia-dissolves into nothingness. There''s just Zayn and his intoxicating scent. My hands, driven by a desire that feels bone-deep, slip beneath his shirt, craving the warmth of his skin against mine "Easy, Love," he murmurs against my lips, his voice a deep rumble that resonates within me He takes my wrists gently but firmly, easing my hands out from under his shirt. "Soon," he promises I want to protest, to pull him back to me and lose myself in the heat of his embrace, but the reality of my situation presses in. "You can''t stay here," I whisper, my wordsced with an urgency that mirrors the frantic beating of my heart. My eyes dart to the door, half expecting it to burst open and my world to shatter into chaos Zayn''s gray eyes lock onto mine, steady and unshakable. "Let them try to take me away," he says, the corner of his mouth lifting in a half- smile that does dangerous things to my resolve nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Zayn, this isn''t a joke." My voice cracks, betraying the fear I''m desperately trying to keep at bay. "If they find you here..." "Shh," he soothes, brushing a thumb across my cheek. "They won''t. You worry too much." I let out a shaky breath, leaning into his touch despite myself. His confidence is infectious, but it''s a fleeting balm. The stakes are too high, the risks too great. And yet, with Zayn so close, with his scent enveloping me and his hands on my skin "Zayn..." I begin, but the rest of my warning dies on my lips as he leans in, capturing my mouth once more with an urgency that leaves no room for words. Every part of me screams to push him away, to protect us both from the fallout that would surely follow-but the sire bond, the maic pull between us, makes resistance near impossible As his hands roam over my body, every touch ignites a fire that threatens to consume me. It''s reckless, it''s dangerous-it''s everything I''ve been warned to avoid. And yet, I don''t want him to stop I grab his wrists, trying to pull him away from me. The heat of his skin seeps into mine, urging me to forget everything but the here and now "Zayn, seriously. If they catch you in here..." He justughs, a deep sound that only deepens my desperation worried my father''s enforcers will hear him. It''s augh that knows no fear, no consequence. "What''s your guard gonna do,e submit to me?" His eyes dance with mischief, and I can''t help but picture the scene "Stop joking," I hiss, ncing nervously at the door even though I know tt''s solidly shut. "No, they catch you, they''ll tell my father." My voice trembles His hands, which had been moments ago mapping the terrain of my body, still against my ribs. His eyes lock onto mine, the golden flecks in them igniting with something fierce, something defiant. "And I told you, I don''t fear your father, so you shouldn''t either," he replies confidently, his thumb tracing the curve of my hip bonePlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! But the words that spill from my lips nexte outced with a cold dread. "He threatened to give my pack to Lydia," I confess, the fear evident in my voice. The very thought coils in my stomach making me feel queasy knowing she would have her filthy paws on my mother''s pack "That''s my mother''s pack!" I remind him. Zayn''s expression hardens, the yfulness that danced in his eyes a moment ago now gone. He pulls me closer, his breath hot against my ear. "I know, Cleo. Let him give it to her if he so chooses. You''ll get it back, you only have to challenge her for it." He lets me go, falling onto my bed while I ponder what he said "By challenging her?" I ask, the idea slowly taking root "See, you''re stressing over nothing. Now, get here," hemands softly, patting the bed beside him "Why are you even here?" I question, still processing everything "I missed you. Isn''t it obvious?" he says, pulling me down to straddle hisp "Tt hasn''t even been half a day," I deadpan, trying to maintain some semnce of control "And even that is too long," he chuckles, his lips finding my neck Chapter 70 Cleo Zayn''s lips trace a fiery path down my neck, igniting a trail of desire that pools deep within me. His hands are everywhere, deft andmanding, coaxing moans from my lips, which he does his best to muffle. The world outside my bedroom fades away into the electric touch of the man I''m tangled with on my crappy rumpled dorm sheets. Zayn shoves me back on the bed; his eyes flicker as he moves over the top of me But reality crashes back to both of us when my phone res its insistent ring, slicing through the haze that swept over us. Zayn pauses, and my head turns to the side where my bag 1s. I push on his chest, and he growls at the interruption but reluctantly allows me to get up and grab it? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. Climbing out of my bed I snatch it from where it rests on my bag and books. My heart sinks; I know without looking who it will be. With a heavy sigh, I nce at Zayn, and he takes that opportunity to pull me back onto hisp so Iam straddling him "Don''t answer it," he groans, his lips moving toward mine. I press my finger gently against Zayn''s full lips, pausing him mid-kiss. He nces up, eyebrows knit in annoyance at the interruption "Hold on," I whisper, holding up the vibrating device between us so he can see Dad''s name shing on the screen "Your timing sucks, Joseph," Zyan mutters under his breath and I re at him telling him to shut up before pressing answer. "Hey, Dad?" "Where are you?" he doesn''t even give me a chance to answer. "You need to be at pack training. Now," his voice is curt, brooking no argument "Seriously? Now?" I pull away from Zayn, but he grabs my hips, holding me in ce. "Can''t it wait?" "No, Cleo, it can''t.m sick of this tiff between you and Lydia," Dad growls through the phone, his alpha tone seeping through the line, making me shiver "Maybe if Lydia hadn''t called Mom a whore-" I start, my voice rising with anger. He hasn''t even heard my side of the story and is making assumptions already "Enough!" he snaps. "I don''t know who to believe anymore, Cleo. You''ve been caught out lying too many times." "Are you serious?" I feel a hollow pit form in my stomach. "Dad, Lydia lies like it''s as natural as breathing." "I don''t care. You are hardly role model material right now. Today, it will be sorted out properly once and for all. We need to stand united, and you two look on the verge of going to war with each other. Be there at 4 PM." He hangs up before I can argue further "Damn it," I curse, throwing the phone onto the bed. It''s already 3:30 PM-the sinking feeling in my gut tells me this will end badly, but what choice do I have? "Your father being a dick?" Zayn''s voice,ced with concern, breaks through my frustration "Yeah," I admit, running a hand through my tousled hair. "He wants me at pack training to sort out the drama with Lydia." "Lydia again?" Zayn''s gray eyes sh with a mixture of irritation and something else. "That girl is nothing but trouble for you." "Tell me about it," I say, pushing myself off hisp. My movements are jerky and rushed. I have to get ready, have to face whatever ridiculous resolution Dad has in mind "Don''t go,e back to mine." Zayn''s hand catches mine, stilling my frantic movements. His thumb brushes over my skin, sending shivers down my spine despite the dread coiling in my belly "T have to, you know this." I remind him, and he hangs his head and curses "Fine, just be careful around her." "Always am," I respond, though my bravado feels like it''s wearing thin these days. "Don''t worry about me. I''ll handle it; I am not your problem." "Like hell you aren''t," he says, the edge in his tone making me pause. "You shouldn''t go alone." "Zayn, this 1s pack business. I have to deal with it. My father would flip his lid if you showed up with me." I slip my hand from his grasp, feeling the loss of his warmth immediately "Pack business or not, it sounds like a trap Lydia has you walking into," he insists, standing to tower over me. His presence ismanding, reassuring, and yet utterly infuriating "Since when are you my keeper?" I shoot back, the emotional turmoil bubbling into defiance "Since I started dating you, Cleo," he retorts, his gaze intense "You''re being ridiculous," I tell him "Am I? Because you''ve had nothing but issues for weeks now with that bitch, and every time I''ve spoken to you since your father has been forcing you into situations he has no right putting you in." I swallow hard, my heart pounding. "Just... stay out of it, alright? This is something I need to do on my own." His jaw clenches, and for a moment, I think he''ll argue further. But then he nods, stepping back with a frustrated huff. "Fine. But if things go sideways, I''ming for you." "Let''s hope it doesn''te to that," I reply, though part of me thrills at the idea of being someone worthing for. Deacon certainly wouldn''t have dropped everything toe to my aid out of fear of my father The look he gives me as he turns to leave 1s filled with unspoken promises and dark warnings "See youter," I say, but he''s already climbing out my window. He stops perched on the windowsill and motions with one finger for me to go to him. I move toward him, only for him to grab the front of my top and yank me closer, crashing his lips against mine briefly. "Training grounds?" I pull away. "I just wanna know in case you call me toe get you," he adds. I eye him suspiciously "Or just say the word, and I''ll march you out that door while telling your guards to suck each other''s dicks and kidnap you?" I huff Chapter 71 "It was worth a try," he chuckles "You really would, wouldn''t you?" I tell him, and he smirks "IT can order them to fuck each other if you''d prefer?" he tells me, and Iugh, shaking my head "Go before you get me in trouble." "You ring me if something goes wrong," he tells me, and I nod. Not that I would; I can''t run to Zayn every time, andtely, the amount of times I''ve needed rescuing is bing embarrassing "See you soon," he pecks my lips before jumping to the ground A part of me wants to run after him, to bury myself in his arms and forget everything going on. But obligation and pride anchor me in ce I steel myself for what''s toe, knowing it won''t be pleasant if Lydia is involved Seconds tick by like hours as I race around and slip my training gear on. A knock shatters the silence. I grab a bottle of perfume and douse myself in the floral scent, masking the lingering traces of Zayn''s musky scent that clings to my skin. When I open the door, my guard stands there, nostrils ring as they take in the heavy notes of jasmine and rose "Ready, Cleo?" one of them asks, his gaze probing "Let''s get this over with," I reply, stepping out and locking the door behind me The car ride is silent and suffocating. Outside the window, the scenery blurs, but my focus sharpens on the growing sense of unease. We arrive at the training grounds, and I see the packs gathered-Bluesteel, Lakeview, ymore-all here, all training, which isn''t weird, but usually today isn''t ymore pack training day; they usually train with Lakeview just not on the same days as our pack, but Lakeview trains daily, so I''m not surprised to see them here "Damn," I mutter under my breath, noting Alpha Samuel''s presence. Today isn''t ordinary at all if Lydia has gone running to Daddy My father emerges from the crowded stadium grounds, his face contorted in anger. The sight of him, so furious, sends a chill down my spine-not of fear, but frustration Climbing out of the car, I shut the door "Father," I start, but he''s already upon me "Exin yourself, Cleo!" he demands. "Lydia''s got a broken nose, and now Samuel is threatening to cut ties with us!" I roll my eyes, unable to help myself. "She''ll heal," I scoff. "Wolves heal faster than their egos." "Enough!" He seizes my arm with a grip that has no room for argument, pulling me toward the heart of the training grounds and inside the stadium. "Fix this. Samuel won''t stand for your bullying any longer." Bullying? I want tough, to rage, to scream Instead, I grind my teeth and follow because sometimes being future Alpha means swallowing your pride and facing the music- even if that means forcing a fake apology from my lips for the troll I have to call my stepsister "Fine," I say, letting my anger simmer beneath the surface. "I''ll handle it." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 00005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! But inside, my mind races when I realize ymore Pack isn''t training but sitting in the grandstands. As I step onto the training field, I realize that this meeting isn''t just about Lydia or our petty squabbles. But something else is going on And deep down, I know Zayn was right. This feels like a setup, and I''ve walked right into it The moment I step onto the training field, the tension is palpable. Lydia stands there, decked out in gear that looks foreign on her like amb donning wolf''s clothing for a masquerade Her smirk 1s as out of ce as her attire, and it grates on my nerves "Training for once, Lydia?" I can''t help but quip, eyeing her suspiciously "Preparing for the inevitable," she retorts with a smug lift of her chin. "Unlike some." Beside her, her father, Alpha Samuel, appears as if a storm 1s about to break. His eyes are narrow slits, his jaw set in lines of disappointment and barely-contained anger. The air between him and my father crackles with hostility as wee to a stop next to them "Your daughter has crossed the line this time, Joseph," Alpha Samuel growls, his finger jabbing in my direction "Lydia provoked her," my father fires back, his voice rumbling from deep in his chest. "She insulted Cleo''s mother-my ex-wife." "Is that true, Lydia?" Samuel turns his sharp gaze onto his daughter "Of course not, Father," Lydia lies through her teeth "Ask my new guards," I retort, refusing to let her deceit slide. "They were there." I motion to them where they stand, leaning against the hip- high fencing that is supposed to protect spectators Samuel signals sharply with his hand, and my guards approach, their posture rigid and alert "Is what Cleo ims true?" Samuelmands Under Samuel''s piercing scrutiny, they confirm my ount without hesitation "Damn it, Lydia!" Samuel explodes, throwing his hands up in exasperation. "I''m at my wits end with this petty crap between you two!" From the edge of the gathering crowd, Alpha Dane, who always seems to be aroundtely eavesdropping,es forward. "Why not settle it with a fight?" he suggests casually "Lydia has a wolf. Cleo does not," my father scoffs, dismissing the idea immediately "Ah, but Cleo has been trained," Samuel counters, mulling over the suggestion with a gleam of malice in his eyes. "Could be an even match." "Even?" Iugh bitterly. "Right, because going tooth and w against fists is fair."This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. "You im your daughter trained with wolves in training before," Dane chimes in, his question directed at my father "Training 1s not the same as fighting for real," I snap before my father can reply. My skin prickles with anticipation and dread. I''ve sparred with wolves before, but a real fight? That''s different altogether; in training, they aren''t allowed to bite or rip me apart; it''s all strategic, notbat. And I am not stupid enough to believe I would stand a chance against a wolf in a real fight; the rogue attack at the alpha meeting was proof of that Dane just shrugs, his indifference stoking the fire inside me. "A fight is a fight." He states Chapter 72 My father''s face is drawn tight, the weight of his position and the expectations of our pack etched into the furrows of his brow. He''s caught, trapped by his own pride and the pressures around us. I know he''s considering it, the possibility of letting me prove myself or perhaps letting me be sacrificed to maintain peace, and that infuriates me "Joseph, think carefully," Samuel goads him "This might be the solution we need." A solution that smells like a trap, oneid out by Lydia. But now, standing here amid the circling alphas and their calcting stares, I know the truth This isn''t settling a tiff between me and Lydia, but Samuel is trying to prove my father''s pack is better off in his daughter''s hands and not mine The tension in the air crackles like a live wire, every wolf''s gaze locked on the unfolding drama. Alpha Samuel''s voice slices through the thick atmosphere, Alpha Dane''s suggestion hanging heavily between us all "Let''s have a duel," he deres, the words resonating. "A fair fight to submission, not harm. We all stand as witnesses-no death blows, no permanent damage. Let the young Alphas demonstrate their skills through strength and control." His eyes bore into mine, challenging, daring me to back down. And then they slide to my father, who stands rigid, caught between fury and the unspoken rules of our society and his need to protect his daughter "Joseph," Samuel taunts with a smirk that sets my teeth on edge, "if Cleo is truly destined to be your sessor, let her show her skills. Let her prove her right to lead, not by birth, but by worth." My heart thunders in my chest, anger and fear mingling with a fierce desire to wipe that smug look off Samuel''s face. I can feel the weight of my father''s stare, the silent plea for me to agree Yet something inside me refuses to cower or to show any hint of weakness when regarding Lydia. If it''s a spectacle they want, it''s a spectacle they''ll get. If my father is willing to toss me to them, he can deal with the aftermath and live with the guilt because I know Lydia won''t listen to any rules put out "Fine," I spit out, my voice ringing clear in the sudden hush. "Let''s just get this over with," I growl Whispers ripple through the gathered packs, the scent of excitement and anticipation rising like a storm. While Alpha Greyson from the Lakeview pack seems to edge closer restlessly, his interest 1s piqued by the promise of a showdown "Agreed," my father finally says, his voice steely. "But we do this our way, monitored closely. It ends at submission, Samuel!" Alpha Samuel nods, a predatory gleam in his eye as 1f already savoring victory "Prepare the ring," Samuelmands, and the space before us clears as wolves step back, forming a crude circle in the dirt Lydia strides forward with an arrogance that makes my blood boil, her confidence bolstered by Samuel''s conniving. She looks at me with distaste, as if I''m merely an obstacle on her path to power "Ready to lose, Cleo?" she sneers, relishing the moment I pay her no attention, trying to will myself to step into that ring, knowing she''ll shift and rip me to pieces The alphas take their positions around the ring, their sharp eyes missing nothing when I hear my father open up the mindlink "No shame in submitting Cleo; just submit the moment she shifts. Samuel knows this is an unfair fight and is just being a prick. I will deal with the fallout. I don''t want you hurt," he tells me, and I scoff "No, if you didn''t want that, you wouldn''t have allowed it to get this far. I''m not submitting to this bitch. She''ll have to kill me first," I reply, and I notice my father gives me a panic-stricken look, and he hesitates at the edge of the makeshift ring created by bodies "Remember, non-lethal, first round is hand to hand, second round anything goes, just no lethal force." Samuel reiterates, though his tone suggests he cares little for my well-being I step further into the circle, kicking my shoes off, the dirt cool beneath my feet as I face Lydia She''s already shedding her jacket, her eyes locked onto mine with a sly smile on her face "Begin!" Samuel barks, and with that single word, Lydia lunges Our challenge is one of violence and cunning, a physical debate where each blow willnd. Her moves are sharp and ruthless, but I counter with the precision of one who knows how to use my hands, and I can see Lydia fears catching one of them "Submit, Lydia!" I pant, my knuckles connecting with her jaw with a satisfying crunch? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. "Never!" she spits, wiping blood from her lip "T''ll die before I bow to you!" nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Then you''re a bigger fool than I thought," I reply, dodging her next swing "You submit!" she spits at me. I swing at her, and at the same time, she kicks me in the nk She falls to the side, and I cringe, feeling my ribs bruise instantly. She is quick to get back up while I stagger My fists fly, connecting with Lydia''s guarded frame. She''s quick, a fact that I had not expected, and her blocks and counters are sharp but a little sloppy. However, it seems my stepsister has been preparing for this moment after all, making me wonder who she''s been training with "Didn''t think I''de unprepared, did you?" she sneers, her foot sweeping toward my legs in an attempt to knock me off bnce I jump back, dodging her attack, and feel the rush of adrenaline fueling my movements. My breathes out in short bursts, my heart thundering in my chest "Training with the enforcers, huh?" I grunt, wiping a bead of sweat from my brow as I circle her. "Guess you''re not as helpless as you pretend to be." Lydia''s only response is a vicious grin beforeunching herself at me again. Our bodies collide in a flurry of movement, each of us trying to gain the upper hand, but she heals quickly; I''m not healing at all, and I''m growing tired. I manage tond a solid punch to her midsection, and for a brief moment, I see something akin to pain sh in her eyes when I feel her ribs break But then, everything changes. She starts to shift Chapter 73 With no warning, Lydia''s form begins to shift, her body contorting as fur sprouts across her skin. The crowd gasps, murmurs rising like a storm around us. The rules were clear-no shifting allowed until the second round and yet here she stood, a fully transformed wolf with gleaming teeth bared at me. I suck in a breath and take a step back, waiting for her father to call her out or for us to break for round two Surely, they don''t expect me to just continue from the moment she shifts "What the hell is going on?" Alpha Greyson''s voice booms over themotion, and I can''t help but feel a sliver of relief at his intervention "Joseph, you''re putting your daughter at risk!" he bellows, stepping forward. His staturemands attention, and his concern for me is evident despite the chaos as he shoves through the crowd "Stay out of this, Greyson," one of the Alphas retorts, their loyalty to tradition over safety clear in their stern voices "Rules are rules! She can''t fight a wolf in her human form," Greyson argues, his hand slipping into his pocket, retrieving his phone with an air of authority Dad pulls me aside, his grip firm on my shoulder. "Keep your distance, watch her movement; you know how to handle a wolf-" he says hurriedly, his eyes flickering with a father''s worry Before I can respond, the sound of another "What''s happening here?" he demands, his voice cutting through the noise "An unsanctioned shift during a title fight," Greyson replies, his eyes never leaving mine, silentlymunicating his disapproval Alpha Dane and Alpha Samuel move toward Alpha Greyson and Beta Vance, who must be training with the Lakeview pack, while my father says nothing, allowing Samuel to deal with Greyson. Dad and Greyson have always had a strange rtionship "Damn it, what the hell is going on here?" Vance''s voice booms over themotion of Greyson and Samuel arguing; his brow furrowed in confusion and irritation "Back off, Vance," Alpha Dane snaps. "This doesn''t concern you." But Greyson intervenes once again, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Oh, but it does," he says, almost too casually. "We''ve got ourselves an alpha fight. Cleo and Lydia are going at it." Vance scoffs, disbelief etched into every line of his face. "You''re kidding, right?" But there''s no humor in Greyson''s eyes as he shakes his head "Don''t worry, I already called Zayn," Greyson adds, just as my father''s growl ripples through the air, thick with his disapproval "Zayn has no ce here," my father barks out, his re searing. "He''s nothing more than a mutt trying to interfere in matters that don''t concern him." "Actually," Greyson corrects, his tone shifting to match the deadly lilt of my father''s, "any alpha sworn in or not is subject to oversight by all the city''s alphas. You know that, Joseph. Andst I checked, Zayn''s head of the council, so he has every right to oversee this bullshit." As if summoned by the very mention of his name, Alpha Zayn enters the fray, his strides purposeful, his gray eyes stormy nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "You wouldn''t be breaking thew you helped write, would you, Joseph? The one you penned when you used me of murdering my own father?" Zayn calls as everyone moves to get out of his way My father''s face contorts with anger, and he turns on Greyson, who stands his ground with aThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. smirk that makes my skin crawl. "You all need to stop sticking your noses where they don''t belong!" "I''m sure ra wouldn''t have agreed with you," Greyson sneers, "1f she were here. But no, that harlot you call a mate made sure she''d never get a say about anything concerning her pack, didn''t she?" Confusion crashes over me like a tidal wave. My mother, she was spoken of so little, and now this? What did Linda have to do with Before another thought can form, my father erupts, his fury unleashed, but Alpha Samuel steps in, a wall of calm in the chaos "Linda had nothing to do with ra''s death," he asserts, though I''m not convinced anyone believes him "Are we doing this or what?" Lydia interrupts, strutting forward in just a shirt she has stolen from somewhere with a smug tilt to her lips "No, you aren''t," Zayn deres, his gaze locking onto Lydia with enough intensity to set the grass aze. "Cleo hasn''t shifted." Lydia''s hands fly up, her exasperation clear as day. "There''s nothing in the rules that says an unshifted alpha can''t challenge a shifted one," she retorts "Did you challenge her, Cleo?" Zayn asks, turning his piercing silver eyes on me. I open my mouth, but no wordse out-only silence Yet as his gaze runs over me, I see the flicker of anger in it at my bleeding face "Thought so. This isn''t happening," Zayn concludes, about to turn away when my father''s voice invades my mind,manding me to speak "Tell them you challenged her, Cleo; I will not be made to look like a fool by this prick." I re at my father when he speaks again. "Or you step down," he warns. Seriously, his ego is bigger than his care for his daughter. I grit my teeth The weight of their stares squeezes the air from my lungs. I step forward, my resolve faltering under the heavy expectations of everyone "I... [challenged Lydia," I admit, my voice barely a whisper, and Zayn''s entire body tenses and he stops, turning back to me "See? All settled," Samuel says with a nod, and Lydia practically leaps towards the ring "Wait," Zayn interjects, his eyes burning into mine. "You challenged her?" he knows I''m lying I stand mute, my heart pounding in my chest, betraying the truth without uttering a single word. Zayn growls, storming toward me and grabbing my arm, my father moves to intervene, but Alpha Greyson bes a wall between Zayn and him Zayn''s grip on my arm is firm, his eyes searching mine for any sign of surrender. "It''s suicide, Cleo," he says through clenched teeth "You don''t have to lie for him." "Admit it, and we can put an end to this madness," Alpha Greyson adds,ing over to us while Vance keeps my father back Chapter 74 I yank my arm away, frustration boiling over "Stop interfering! You''re making things worse, I snap at Zayn "Cleo, your mother wouldn''t want this," Greyson persists, but I cut him off "Maybe that''s exactly why I''m doing it!" My voice breaks as I speak; the weight of my mother''s absence is like a stone in my chest, and everyone is hellbent on using her against metely. "If I step into that ring, at least my father can''t banish me. I''ve done what he wanted." The image of my pack-my home-slipping through my fingers if I refuse this fight makes me stubborn, I won''t let that bitch get her hands on my mother''s pack As I turn to leave for the ring, Zayn''s hand finds my arm again, pulling me back. "Don''t expect me to stand by and do nothing if you''re losing," he warns, his gray eyes stormy "That''s exactly what you''ll do," I retort, my heart pounding in a fierce rhythm of defiance. "I am not your problem." I remind him His next words hit me like a physical blow. "T''ll pull my men from your borders if you do this." We had a deal-his protection in exchange for.. something else, something I haven''t actually delivered on yet. "Consider it broken if you step into a title fight," Zayn growls, the muscle in his jaw ticking "You''re all the same," I mutter, shaking my head, my insides twisting with anger and betrayal. "All of you just want to control me."? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. Zayn''''s gaze hardens, and his eyes flicker at my words "Control this, Zayn. Go fuck yourself," I spit out, the wordsced with venom. I storm off, leaving him standing there, his expression unreadable "Last warning, Cleo," he calls after me, but I ignore him "Pull them then!" I throw the challenge over my shoulder without stopping "T''m not talking about my men this time, Cleo," Zayn replies, and I hesitate, confusion momentarily breaking through my resolve "What are you talking about then?" I ask, suddenly worried "Get in that ring, and you''ll find out," he says, a note of dark promise in his voice My father''s call slices through the tension, demanding my presence. I turn away from Zayn, ignoring the mix of disappointment and anger in his eyes. I march toward the makeshift ring a simple dirt circle of onlookers that feels more like an arena than ever now Lydia has already shifted, her wolf form sleek and menacing. The surrounding alphas and their packs form a tight circle, their attention fixed on the impending fight "Let''s get this over with," I mutter under my breath, stepping into the circle that''s about to kick my ass But before I can brace myself for her attack, Zayn 1s beside me, his presence a wall against the chaos. Our eyes lock, a tumultuous storm of emotions swirling between us. He''s close enough that I can feel the heat radiating from his body and smell the pine and earth scent that is uniquely his Zayn leans down. "I warned you," Zayn whispers, his lips so close that they brush against mine with every word. "This is on you. I warned you not to get in this ring." "Zayn, don''t-what-" I start, but he cuts me off with a searing kiss, pushing me out of the ring with a force that leaves me breathless. He steps in front of me, facing both Lydia and the other Alphas and my father, who is ring daggers at him for kissing me, and so is Alpha Dane Zayn strides into the circle, his presencemanding the immediate attention of all "Under the Protector''s Right, I, Zayn Holt, head nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! of the council and Alpha of the ck River Pack, invoke my right to stand in this challenge on behalf of Cleo," he deres, his voice echoing with a power that sends a shiver down my spine I''m stunned, my mind racing. This isn''t what I wanted, nor have I heard of it before. The murmurs around us grow louder as Alpha Samuel steps forward, his disbelief mirrored in his tone, "This is ridiculous. You aren''t even in the same pack. You can''t possibly mean to Can he do that?" Samuel turns to look at Alpha Dane and my father Before he can finish, Alpha Dane interjects, his own frustration clear. "This is unheard of, Zayn The challenge was meant to settle a dispute, not create a spectacle." But Zayn, unflinching, meets their protests calmly, "Thew exists for this very reason to protect those who hold the future of our packs in their hands. I will not stand by while Cleo''s safety and leadership are undermined." As if on cue, Alpha Greyson steps up beside Zayn, solidifying the gravity of Zayn''s im. "I stand with Zayn. This isn''t about spectacle; it''s about upholding the very foundations of our society. He has every right to stand in on her behalf whether she is pack or not." "You want to challenge my daughter?" Samuel scoffs "But it''s okay for you to toss your daughter into a fight with an unshifted alpha; by all means, Samuel take her ce." The silence that follows is heavy, charged with Zayn''s challenge Panic sets in, and I try to intervene, realizing the spiraling consequences of Zayn''s actions. "Zayn, no, please. This isn''t what I-" "Are you really willing to risk your council title for her?" Dane scofts from across the makeshift arena "Step into the ring and find out," Zayn challenges, a dangerous glint in his eye Dane, fueled by ego and the backing of my father, steps forward, ready to escte the challenge into a full-blown conflict nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Dad!" I yell, seeing him step in next to Dane, but he res at me "I told you to end things with him." my father snarls The air is thick with the tension of impending violence "Zayn, this is stupid," I protest, reaching for him, but he brushes my hands away "No, what''s stupid is you thought I would let you get in this ring," he counters, his voice low, a storm brewing in his gaze "Samuel backs out, too chicken to fight Zayn," someone murmurs from the crowd, and I feel a surge of hope-maybe this madness will end without bloodshed But it''s short-lived. Alpha Dane''s voice cuts through the murmurs like a knife "You can''t be stupid enough to challenge two alphas," Dane counters, removing his jacket and tossing it to his son. The audacity of his move draws gasps from the onlookers, but Zayn chuckles a dangerous, thrilling sound that sends shivers down my spine "Zayn, please, for me, don''t do this." Before I can argue further, he grabs me, and his lips crash onto mine, a searing kiss that leaves me breathless and disoriented. It''s raw and demanding, a im, a promise "You are exactly why I''m doing this," he whispers. And then I''m stumbling back, pushed out of the ring by his strong hands "Stay out of this, Cleo," Zaynmands, his silver gaze locking onto mine onest time before he nces at Alpha Greyson. "Grab her; she doesn''t step a foot in this ring," he tells Greyson, and before I can even move, Vance and Greyson grab each of my arms. Zayn sends me a wink, then turns to face the other alphas "Last chance to walk away, boys," Zayn taunts them, rolling his shoulders in anticipation Chapter 75 "Like hell," my father snarls, his eyes on me, filled with a mix of fury and disappointment when the mindlink opens up, and my father''s voice is suddenly in my head "You made your bed, chose whose side you''re on. Now watch how real alphas handle their problems." "Dad, please," I beg, feeling tears burn behind my eyes. My heart races, torn between fear for Zayn and the furious desire to jump back into the fray to stop my father I look at Zayn, but he''s focused on Dane and my father, who is circling him with predatory grace "Let them sort it out," Vance leans down and says when Samuel suddenly shrugs off his jacket, tossing it at Lydia, clearly sick of being called a chicken by the other packs, or maybe because he knows with three of them, they can overthrow Zayn "They''ll kill him," I whimper, looking at Greyson, who has a silly smile on his face "There is a reason he is head of the council, Love," My brows furrow "Birthright," I tell him, knowing Zayn took that title from his father "Yes, but his father had to fight these very same men for that title," Greyson tells me before his eyes dart to mine. "You forget who took down the alpha of alphas in this city," he nods toward Zayn "For decades, my father remained unchallenged, yet Zayn challenged him and won," Vance adds I swallow "Until now," I mutter when Zayn nces at me over his shoulder "Keep your eyes open, love," Zayn says, his words meant only for me. "Watch and learn what happens to those who cross me." "Zayn, no!" I call out. Alpha Greyson''s and Vance''s grip tightens on me, but it''s toote. I can only watch as the man I''ve fought so hard to resist defends my honor with fists and fury, proving his ce among the alphas "You want a challenge? You''ve found it," Zayn replies, his tone cool but his fists clenched in readiness "Let''s see what you''re made of," Dane taunts, a cocky grin on his face Zayn doesn''t waste a second,unching himself at Samuel with lightning speed. The impact reverberates through the room, the sound of fists meeting flesh echoing off the walls Samuel stumbles back, recovering quickly as he retaliates with a swift kick. Zayn dodges, his movements fluid and precise As they sh, Vance whispers, "It''s not just about strength; it''s about strategy. Zayn knows they can''t all attack at once without possibly hurting each other. He''ll use that to his advantage." Yet, despite his words, panic has my blood surging in my veins as I watch. The tension 1s palpable as blows are exchanged, each strike resonating with power and brute force nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! Greyson watches with a knowing smile, his gaze unwavering. "Zayn knows what he''s doing. He''s been in tougher fights than this. He was trained by his father, have some faith. Your man knows what he''s doing." Suddenly, Samuelnds a solid punch on Zayn''s jaw, the force of it causing Zayn to stagger back Just as my father attacks him, but Zayn must have sensed it because he pivots at thest second, and my father crashes into Samuel Samuel and my father collided and hit the ground, giving Zayn vital minutes to correct himself Zayn regains hisposure, his resolve shining through as heunches into a series of counterattacks. Each hit 1s precise and calcted, showcasing his skill and experience and showing why he is the alpha of alphas of this city and why he holds the leading council seat Dane and Samuel exchange nces, realizing they underestimated their opponent. But it''s toote Zayn unleashes a flurry of strikes, his movements a blur of speed and precision. Dane and Samuel are pushed back, struggling to keep up with his relentless assault, and Lydia shrieks when her father hits the ground, his head bouncing off the ground "Is that all you''ve got?" Zayn taunts, his voice dripping with confidence Samuel, in a fit of rage, shifts and tackles Zayn I hold my breath and don''t even realize I''ve tried to run in until Greyson rips me back. Zayn shifts just as Samuel tackles him to the ground. His teeth and ws send blood spraying everywhere, and I can''t tell whose it is as they rip into each other violently. Lydia screams, the sound chilling my blood, and my eyes dart to her before she rushes off The next second, Samuel is tossed from the ring, and people jump back as his wolf skids across the ground andnds in a heap. Zayn''s wolf, Zarek, is magnificent, towering over Alpha Dane, who doesn''t bother shifting nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 00005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! Instead, he falls belly down on the ground, submitting like a coward Zarek looks at him and huffs out a breath, kicking dust at him with his back paws. He turns to face my father. My heart nearly stops in my chest when I see my father''s face contort, and he shifts "No!" I scream, knowing my father won''t submit to him Greyson''s grip on me tightens, but an overwhelming panic propels me to twist and sink my teeth into his arm. Startled by my unexpected retaliation, he momentarily loosens his hold, granting me the opportunity to break free But Vance''s grip is still strong until I punch him in the nuts, cringing with him, but desperate times call for desperate measures Their wolves circle each other, predators about to fight to the death. The snarls that leave them as they rush at each other make me panic. In a frenzy, I sprint towards the center of the ring, kicking up plumes of dust in my wake. Despite the haze obscuring my vision, I strain to see through it until it eventually settles, revealing a chilling sight that sends shivers cascading down my spine Suddenly, I am met with a new horror: two wolves on a collision course right where I standAll content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. I suck in a breath, clenching my eyes shut, when I hear their snarls cut off. Opening my eyes to see my father''s wolf skidding to a stop while Zarek is poised to lunge straight at my face, all teeth and ws, I see the recognition on his face just as I brace, flinching at the contact. His body collides with mine Chapter 76 A bone-chilling scream escapes my lips as Zarek''s ws tear through the flesh on my arms, leaving a searing trail of agony along my arms As the world spins and shifts around me, I brace for the impact of the unforgiving ground beneath me. Yet to my astonishment, instead ofnding on the hard ground, I find myself cushioned by Zarek''s massive body, softening the blow and sparing me from further harm A furious growl tears out of my father and I gasp to see him stilling after Zayn, Zarek though is quick and I slip off himnding on my stomach on the ground. I cover my head as they sh above me. Yet no harmes to me with Zarek above me, almost like he is aware of where I am underneath him and is careful enough not to move, just taking the brunt of my father''s attack. Blood sprays all over me and I can tell it''s a mix of Zayn''s wolf and my father''s "No! Stop it!!!" I scream, loudly before screaming louder, my throat bes raw and hurts as I scream myself hoarse trying to make them stop But it''s to no avail they keep fighting, growling, and snapping viciously at each other, tearing at one another''s fur and skin and I am unable to move without being trodden on or caught in the middle, I can only cover my ears Finally, Zarek throws my father''s wolf down with a growl. I can feel his roar of dominance, his aura crushing as it rings out, I can feel every ounce of it in my bones as he bares his fangs and growls deep in his chest, stepping over me as he stalks my father My father''s wolf whimpers softly in submission, a whimper I''ve never heard from his powerful wolf before. Zarek doesn''t ease up though instead he sinks his teeth into my father''s shoulder, not enough to kill him but enough for him to know who the Alpha 1s here I scramble backward, staring in horror as blood pools around them both, Zarek shakes out his fur and my father is forced to shift back to heal when a loud screech from the stadium speakers has everyone clutching their ears. The sound is horrendous as someone sounds an rm through them. We all look up to the speakers when the huge screen turns on. Confusion washes over everyone as I try to figure out what is going on "Someone shut that off," I barely make out someone screams out when the ring suddenly stops and so does my heart in my chest when I see an image of myself. At first, it takes a second for my eyes to focus on what I am seeing when the image flickers to a more vulgar one Murmurs break out and I feel the blood drain from my body at the next one, my breasts on disy, my underwear gone and my legs wide open My eyes dart to my father as he sits up and turns to see what everyone is looking at. Zarek shifts back, giving control to Zayn, who screams at someone to shut it off. Vance and Greyson are already running for the control room but it''s toote. Everyone can see it, and there is no doubt who it is, my face 1s clear along with the rest of me My father sputters and his eyes dart to me, the shame and confusion I feel makes me throw up My stomach upturning as I try to figure out where these photose from. Zayn rushes toward me, grabbing my hair as I throw up on the dirt. Suddenly, the screen cuts out just as I look up to see my father walking out of the stadium. "Dad!" I gasp, trying to get to my feet, but Zayn grabs me "Cleo, leave it," Zayn growls, but I shrug him off, chasing after my father. Yet before I even near him, he spins around to face me and I almost run right into him The moment he does, his hand connects with my face, and the sting burns right through every inch of me. I blink back tears as my head whips to the side, the next second all hell breaks loose when Zayn attacks my father. His fists rain down on my father with a fury that makes his wolf look like a calm puppy, my father can only try to block him while I stare stunned wondering how everything got so out of hand when my eyes fall on Lydia as Vance drags her from the control room Greyson rushes over grabbing Zayn and ripping him off my father. My father sits up, choking on his blood, before he heals swiftly. Zaynnds on top of Greyson as he is ripped away. My mind 1s whirling, spinning uncontrobly just like my life 1s at this moment. The look of disgust on my father''s face speaks louder than his next words "This! Him! You''d pick him over your pack!" he shakes his head getting to his feet. I move to stop him, to try to exin what even I don''t understand "Cleo!" Zayn calls and I stop ncing at him to see him shake Greyson off and stand, my father also stops watching me. "Choose, Cleo! Choose, tell him you choose your pack over him," my father orders yet Iam numb, coldly so as I nce between them "I choose neither," I tell him, walking toward the exit when my father speaks. "Then you leave me no choice. As Alpha Shadowcrest pack I stand you down as future alpha," my father states Clenching my teeth, I blink back tears but turn to face him, if he''s going to banish me he can do it to my face. My father''s lips tremble but by the hard set of his jaw, I know he''s made up his mind. "I banish you from my pack and dere you a rogue." he finishes "Then so be it," I gasp as pain slices through me, I almost drop to my knees in front of him, but defiance and betrayal burn hotter than the agony I feel as my tether to the pack breaks. I re at him before walking out of the stadium only to hear Zayn racing to catch up to mePlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. Chapter 77 Cleo The cool afternoon air hits my face like a p as I step out of the stadium, my chest heaving with sobs that threaten to break free at any moment My whole world had just been turned upside down-I am officially alone, abandoned by the man I called father for neen years Somehow, my feet carry me away from the mess behind me, and away from the whispers and res of everyone who saw those horrific images I stumble around outside, the grounding fast toward me, and I lean against the brick wall for support before my legs give outpletely, dropping me onto the cold pavement Humiliation, anger, grief-they all rush through me in an uncontroble torrent. Hot tears stream down my cheeks, creating streaks in the dirt and blood that coats my face-a result of Zayn and my father''s fight above me "Cleo!" Zayn''s desperate voice cuts through the thickening fog in my mind, but I can''t bring myself to look at him, not now. His footsteps "Cleo " "Go away!" I choke out, the words like shards of ss in my throat. My eyes are swollen, my vision blurred by the onught of tears. I can barely make out his form as it approaches, a shadowed silhouette against the waning light "Look at me," he demands, but there is a tremble in his voice that betrays his own turmoil "Why?" I spit out bitterly, pressing my back against the bricks as if I could disappear into them. "So you can gloat? So you can see the mess you''ve made?" Zayn is suddenly kneeling before me, his muscr frame somehow making even this position seem powerful,manding. "I didn''t do this. I didn''t want this for you." "Then what did you want, Zayn?" My voice rises, fueled by a rage I don''t fully understand "Because right now, it feels like you wanted to destroy everything!" "Everything I''ve done..." he starts, but I cut him off "Everything you''ve done has led to this! I asked you not to get involved!" I gesture wildly to my tear-streaked face, to the empty space around us nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! where my life seems to have fallen apart. "You think because you''re some all-powerful Alpha that you can just¡ª" "Damn it, Cleo, I''m trying to protect you!" His shout echoes off the wall behind me, and for a moment, we''re both stunned into silence. Zayn''s gray eyes meet mine, and the intensity within them pins me in ce. "This isn''t about power or me one upping your father. It''s about you Can''t you see that?" I shake my head, and he reaches for me "Stop," I choke out, batting his hands away Shame and confusion coil tightly within me as Zayn remains crouched in front of me, his eyes softening slightly. "I get you''re angry, upset, and want someone to me, but I''m not it," His fingers are cool and gentle on my hot skin, an unwee contrast to the heat of my embarrassment His touch is hesitant, a reminder of the chaos I''ve just left behind. "I''m so sorry this happened." A tremor races through his words, betraying the iron strength I know he possesses The raw honesty in his tone stirs something inside me, yet I can''t allow myself thefort of his apologies-not now. I push him back, needing distance, needing air. My legs find their strength, and I rise, heart pounding against my ribcage like a trapped bird desperate for escape from its owner''s cage "Enough, please just stop Zayn, stop with the act, stop acting like you fucking care!" I manage to stand, trying to loom over him even though I''m only 5''4. It''s futile; he''s a tower of muscle and resolve, dark hair tousled from the fight, his presence overwhelming as he stands there chest bare and in just a pair of sweatpants nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Can''t you see? This was never about what you wanted or didn''t want!" Anger res up again, burning away the tears, recing them with a bitter taste in my mouth. "You couldn''t just stay away, could you?" "Stay away?" Hurt flickers across his face like a shadow "Yes! Stay the fuck away!" I shove Zayn, my hands striking his chest like bricks, the force of my betrayal driving each blow. "Don''t make out this isn''t what you wanted! I asked you to stay away, to not step in! This is exactly what you wanted!" My words are a whip,shing out with venom and despair He staggers back, a look of hurt shing across his rugged features. "You think a sorry is enough?" I cry, my voice breaking under the strain of anger and tears that refuse to stop They blur the world around me until there''s only him, the source of my pain, and the target of my fury. He flinches, a visible wince, as 1f my usations are physical blows beating against him and inflicting injury The taste of salt from my tears and bitterness floods my mouth as I confront him with the truth he can''t escape. "You just ruined my life! You fucking sired me and now I wonder if it was your n all along when you healed me." He growls his own anger showing at my words "Was it you who gave her those photos?!" I scream, my fingers curling into fists, wanting to strike, to hurt, to unleash the storm within him He is the only one that would have had a chance to take them, how else would she have them? "Were you bored and wanted to humiliate me?!" The sob that follows cuts through the tension, a raw sound that bares my soul to the man who stands before me, the man whose actions have unfurled my worldPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. Zayn''s face hardens, his jaw set in a defiant line as he grabs my wrists, halting my assault. His grip 1s firm but careful, trying to contain the rage without causing more damage by unleashing his. "Cleo, listen to me," he begins, his voice low, a growl simmering beneath the surface, "Everything you''re thinking it''s wrong I could never-" Chapter 78 "Let go of me!" I wrench my arms away, stumbling back against the cold brick wall. It scrapes against my skin, a wee distraction from the turmoil inside me. "How can I believe anything you say when everything since you came into my life has gone to shit?" Tears blur my vision as I try to back away from Zayn, the sting of betrayal burning hotter than the humiliation on my cheeks "No, that wasn''t me, Cleo, I swear..." His voice cracks with desperation, his hands reaching out then retreating as if he''s afraid to touch me afraid I''ll shatter "Then exin it! Exin everything!" My demand is a scream, raw and ragged, slicing through the tension between us. "Where is Deacon? Where did those photose from!?" Zayn''s jaw clenches, his gray eyes stormy with emotions I can''t decipher. "Who the fuck cares where Deacon is, he isn''t here is he!" "Is that what this is, part of what? Is this some game to you?" My body trembles, anger and fear wrestling within me "Why the fuck have you been stalking me? Everywhere I turn you are, getting up in my business knowing the conflict you''re causing me" I press him, my voice cracking under the strain. "I may be sired to you, but you''re a full-blooded alpha. You have your aura, you can reject the sire bond, order me away!" My words are a challenge, thrown into the space that divides us "Was this your n all along?" I''m shouting now, my vision narrowing until there''s only Zayn who listens to my outburst calmly and the whirlwind of my thoughts. "You hate my father! I feel so fucking stupid, naive! I should have known better than to trust you!" Grief morphs into fury, and I growl, ws slipping from my fingertips He steps forward, his presencemanding even as his voice softens. "Cleo, I could never use you as a pawn against your father." My breathes in ragged gasps as I search for an answer, any form of relief that might exin the madness crashing down around me "You''re a liar!" I spit at him and something seems to snap in him because Zayn bes a storm, his fury encapsting him like a cloak, and when he reaches out, his fingers encase my jaw with a grip that''s bothmanding and careful "Where is Deacon?" The low growl emanating from Zayn carries a weight that drops my heart to my stomach. It rumbles with barely restrained anger, threatening to unleash and break me further His steely eyes lock onto mine, the gray hue swirling like the tumultuous clouds that forewarn of a violent storm. In our bubble of intensity, the world around us fades, the escaping crowds from the stadium be nothing more than a distant murmur, background noiseAll content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. "Right where he belongs," Zayn continues, his thumb brushing against my cheek as if to soften the harshness of his hold. Confusion knots inside me, trying to make sense of what feels like a puzzle missing half its pieces nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I blink away tears that threaten to fall, not just from fear or frustration, but from the raw emotion that Zayn invokes within me. My heart races, pounding against my ribcage, each beat crying out for something I can''t quite understand- something dangerous and all-consuming His hands still hold my face. "The photos?" he breathes out, and his voice is a blend of hurt and disbelief. "You really think I had any part in that? Cleo, you know me better than that." His eyes sear into mine, twin infernos of sincerity. "I would never expose what''s mine to the damn city." My heart hammers against my ribs, threatening to burst from the sheer intensity of his stare Zayn has always been possessive, his protective instincts primal and sometimes overwhelming But this? This usation strikes a chord too deep, too raw even for him His thumb caresses my jaw, and the gesture feels like both a plea and a promise. "And why haven''t I pushed you away, broken the sire bond? Because I love you, Cleo. I love you with a ferocity that frightens even me." His confession pierces through the fog of my doubts. My mind races, trying to reconcile the man before me with the chaos of betrayal that clouds my judgment, making me question everything and everyone His grip tightens slightly, his voice lower, darker. "So be prepared for a life of being stalked because I will shadow you to the darkest corners of this world and beyond." His vow slices through the tension. "Should you fall, I will be there to catch you. Should pain find you, I will obliterate its source." His jaw clenches, his eyes burning with some emotion that scares and thrills me simultaneously nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "This isn''t about titles, power, or territories," he continues, his voice a growling whisper as he leans in closer. Our breaths mingle, almost like a shared breath that stokes the mes of desire within me. "If it''s my title that makes you think I''d betray you like that, then I''ll cast it aside without a second thought. If going rogue is what it takes to be with you." My chest tightens, my pulse thrumming in my ears. I can almost taste the urgency of his need, the fervor of his words. The air between us crackles with electricity, charged "Because I love you, Cleo, more deeply and fiercely than I ever thought possible." His lips are inches from mine, his heat enveloping me "Tell me what you need, what you want. I''lly it all at your fucking feet. Just say the word, Cleo, because there is nothing I wouldn''t do for you, no line I wouldn''t cross, no sacrifice I wouldn''t make." I swallow thickly around the lump that is forming in my throat "Is that what you want to hear?" He demands "Zayn," I gasp, overwhelmed by the torrent of emotions he unleashes within me. The barriers I''ve erected crumble beneath the force of his words, his presence an intoxicating drug that leaves me craving more yet I know that is the sire bond "Show me," I challenge, my voice a whisper that belies the angry doubt that still refuses to let go that this mess is because of him. He tilts his head to the side watching me for a second "Prove it," I challenge, my voice steady despite the storm of emotions raging inside me. My heart hammers against my ribs, a frantic drumbeat that echoes the turmoil in Zayn''s eyes "Mark me," I say, locking gazes with him, my resolve is unwavering as the steeliness 1n his gaze. "Do it knowing I''ll soon have the power to cast you aside, but you you''d be irreversibly bound to me." Chapter 79 His fingers brush against my skin, tracing the line of my jaw with a touch that sparks fire amidst the ice in my veins. It''s a paradoxical sensationforting yet disarming and I''m lost in the dilemma of it all His hands find my waist, grip firm, pulling me against the hard nes of his body. I can feel the heat radiating from him, despite the chill in the air that''s trying to slip between us. It''s not enough to cool the fire he stirs within me the fire that''s been smoldering since the day I met him "Mark you?" He breathes out, stunned, then a slow, predatory smile spreads across his face "Do you think that will scare me off?" his breath hot against my ear, sending shivers down my spine as he pulls back. His smirk is gone, reced by an intensity that holds me captiveThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. Zayn''s gaze darkens, a shadow of something intense and indescribable flickering in his eyes "You want my soul forever tied to yours, my heart in your hands?" His voice is low, a murmur that vibrates with power and menace He chuckles, a sound that holds more weight thanughter should. "You break it, you break me... Can you live with that?" His question sends a shiver down my spine, the reality of what I''m asking dawning on me in its full, daunting spectrum. I haven''t got my wolf yet, and until I mark him, I hold the ultimate power to reject him, just like my father did to my mother. Alphas never relinquish such control, and here I was, demanding Zayn to surrender his But before I can retract my demand, reconsider the gravity of my request, he continues, not giving me a chance to take it back, and suddenly, I''m desperate to do just that, understanding the enormity of what he''s considering sacrificing for me -a sacrifice I now realize wasn''t fair of me to demand "I''d give you the world, and you ask for my heart like you think it would scare me, make me buckle," heughs again, but there''s no humor in it, only a deep, resounding truth. "What you don''t realize is you had it all along. From the moment Iid eyes on you." His fingers trace the line of my neck, while his other hand tilts my face up to meet his. His eyes search mine, seeking answers to questions unspoken, fears unvoiced. And then, with a gentleness that belies the ferocity of his nature, he brushes his lips against mine "It''s always been yours, I don''t fear being chained to you, you can have it, it belongs to no one else." Without another word, he sinks his teeth into my neck, pulling me impossibly closer. A squeak escapes my lips, not from pain but from the overwhelming sensation of our hearts syncing, his soul binding to mine while mine remains free to wander. I can feel him entirely, and the moment he jolts as if pained, I realize the weight of what''s happening-his soul attaching to mine 1n a bond that''s irreversible for him even if I reject him he will always have the lingering after effects of my soul once owning his He staggers slightly, pressing us both against the brick wall, and it''s suddenly unclear who''s supporting whom. When he finally withdraws, his lips are stained with my blood, marking me nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! in the most primal way known to our kind Even now, marked, I hold the power to reject him, a power he''s willingly given me. He will always be sired to me, in some way, echoing the tragedy of my mother and father. If only Alpha Greyson had marked her, perhaps she would still be here Suddenly, the power I hold over Zayn feels too immense, too dangerous. It terrifies me, not because I have it, but because of the profound implications for him-how by giving it to me, he''s exposed his heart, betting everything on us, on me. And in this moment, I realize I don''t want this power. The realization hits me hard, the weight of his sacrifice anchoring me to him with a bond that goes beyond blood, beyond marks. It''s a bond forged in trust, love, trust I don''t deserve from him Not after everything I''ve done "Zayn..." I falter, words sticking in my throat "T''m sorry... I didn''t understand-" He silences me with a finger to my lips. "No more ''what ifs,'' no more doubts, and no more apologies. We are what we are, and right now I''m yours." Guilt floods me as I stare up at him knowing what he gave me, some part of me screams what he did was reckless, yet another part of me screams how right it feels. Then there is the nagging thought of how selfish I was to demand he give me it "Why are you sad?" he asks and my brows furrow at his words. "You can''t feel me, but I can feel you, don''t feel guilty Cleo. As you said IT am an alpha, I have my aura, you haven''t forced me to do anything, you gave me a choice, so I chose you." "Then why do I feel like you''ll hate meter for Ta "Hate you?" heughs like it is the most idiotic thing I''ve said. "That''s thest thing you could ever make me do. How could I hate you for being the one thing that''s ever made me feelplete?" His hand shifts to cradle my cheek gently, his thumb caressing my skin with a tenderness that belies the strength in his arms. "This mark," he continues, his voice softening, "I didn''t give it lightly, and I don''t give my heart lightly, either." He leans in, his forehead resting against mine, our breaths mingling. "I chose you, Cleo, with every fiber of my being. This mark, it ties me to you, yes. But more than that, I knew what I was giving you by marking you." The warmth in his gaze thaws thest of my doubts, filling the spaces between my heartbeats with something new, something exhrating. "I could never hate you for making me feel alive, for making me love so deeply. You''ve awakened a part of me I didn''t know existed. And for that, I could never hate you." He smiles then, a genuine, heart-stopping smile that lights up his entire face. "T love you, Cleo And I''ll spend every day making sure you never doubt that. This mark, it''s not a chain. It''s the start of a bond, and one day, hopefully soon I will wear it proudly when you return it." In that moment, any lingering guilt or fear dissolves under the weight of his words, his love. Zayn''s mark isn''t just a im-it''s a gift, one he is trusting I will return one day "Come on, let''s get you home." Zayn presses his lips against my forehead and wraps his arm around my shoulders, tugging me toward his car Chapter 80 Cleo Morning light filters through the sheer curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. Yesterday is now a haunting memory I wish wasn''t mine I''m ufortably aware of the pulsing sensation on my neck - the mark that Zayn branded into my skin. It''s both a deration and a binding, like a ring etched with fangs instead of diamonds. My fingertips graze the tender spot, and a shiver runs through me, not from pain but from the depth of what it represents Turning my head to the side, Zayn 1s not in bed, making me wonder where he is yet my mind is also stuck on yesterday. How my entire life was turned upside down and now I have no idea what I''m doing Sitting up against the mountain of pillows. The thoughts in my head are a jumbled mix of anxiety and excitement, each one colliding with the others like atoms gone wild. For once I have no obligations or restrictions yet at the same time I have no idea what to do with this weird freedom, but is the pulsing of my neck truly freedom or just another cage? One I willingly climbed into I swing my legs off the bed and pad across the floor, catching my reflection in the full-length murror. Dark blonde hair tousled, light blue eyes staring back at me with an intensity I hardly recognize anymore "Morning," Zayn''s deep voice rumbles from the doorway, his eyes taking in the sight of me with an intensity that ignites my skinPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "Morning," I echo, acutely aware of the power I hold over him now. If I reject him, he''ll be weakened, vulnerable. The thought makes my stomach churn I turn to find him leaning against the doorframe, his muscr build outlined by the soft light, dark chocte locks framing a face that could make angels sin. His gray eyes hold a glint of silver as they meet mine "Are you just going to stare at yourself all morning?" Zayn''s voice cuts through my reverie, low andced with amusement "Maybe," I retort yfully, but my heart skips a beat. "There''s a lot to take in." "Come here," he says, and there''s amand wrapped in his velvet tone that I can''t resist I cross the room to where he stands. He reaches out, his fingers tracing the mark on my neck with a tenderness that belies his strength. A sigh escapes me, a sound of surrender that feels right at this moment "Zayn..." My voice 1s a breathy whisper as the countless emotions swirling within hunts for an outlet "Shh," he hushes gently, pulling me close. "I know. It''s a lot. You''re safe here, Cleo. Just let things happen naturally." His lips find mine, and the world narrows down to the point of contact between us. The kiss deepens, sparking a fire that threatens to consume me, fueled by the raw energy of this one sided bond, yet I still can feel him, the sensation is odd, unnatural to me. I struggle to differentiate my emotions from his like they bleed into each other, it''s just a trickle since I haven''t marked him but odd all the same "Zayn," I murmur against his mouth, "what if..." "Whatever you''re worrying about, it can wait," he assures me before capturing my lips once more But the fears linger, shadows at the edge of the bright me we''ve kindled. What have we done? What does the future hold? "Let''s not think about that now," Zayn whispers, sensing my inner turmoil, his hands roaming over my body in a way that makes it impossible to focus on anything else. Eventually, he pulls away, leaving me breathless. "Get dressed. I have pack members downstairs," he tells me "Is everything okay?" I ask him and he shrugs "Nothing I can''t handle, just pack fears; word travels fast so I now have a house full of curious pack members, well the ones that help run the pack with me." he tells me. I nod and get dressed before we both head downstairs together, but the atmosphere in the packhouse 1s charged with tension. The air thick with whispered conversations that die down as we enter "Zayn," Vance approaches with a heavy sigh, though his concern is etched into his features, "the pack... they''re nervous." I can feel their eyes on us as we enter the huge living room. Whispers slither through the room, coating my skin like frost as I take in the people here, there are about dozen, who must Zaynmunity council, each pack has one so it isn''t something I am unfamiliar with. I am just shocked seeing them all here, my father never allowed pack members to just freelye and go from the house. Which defeats the purpose of a PACK house, it''s supposed to bemunal, a safe ce for pack members so it''s good to see Zayn''s pack has held onto older traditions that aren''t used much in today''s society where we have technology "Alpha Samuel has dered war," one voice rises above the rest,ced with fear "Joseph too," another confirms, casting a wary nce my way "Are we to be strengthened by this union or torn apart?" a female pack member questions, her eyes piercing into mine "Why hasn''t she marked him back?" another member mutters, not quite under his breath. The question hangs heavy in the air, and I feel the sting of judgment. Zayn sighs heavily, like this wasn''t how he nned his morning "Settle, you''re panicking for no reason! So enough, it''s too early in the morning for this kind of headache." Zayn''smand slices through the murmurs, and silence falls like a guillotine. "And Cleo''s choice to mark me, Stanley, 1s hers alone, and it will not be questioned." He turns to me, his gray eyes softening However, with every conflicted gaze that meets mine, I understand the gravity of our situation- the precariousness of a bnce tipped by him marking me and the war that seems to be brewing Zayn stands watching them debate and argue in his living room like this is a normal thing, he 1s the calm in the eye of the storm. He addresses his pack, his voice resonant and firm. "Alpha Greyson has offered his support. We''re not alone in this." Chapter 81 "Support is one thing," Stanley interjects, his brow furrowed. "But what about our businesses? If we''re cut off from trade with other packs, we''ll suffer." I bite my lip, watching Zayn handle each worry with the grace of a true Alpha, yet still managing to dominate the room, too. I feel like an unwanted bystander listening to the mess I''ve made Needing to escape, I slip away, grabbing the keys to Zayn''s car, which he told mest night I could use. Needing to get my clothes and books, I head to campus, leaving Zayn to handle his pack. The college campus is quieter than usual, a contrast to the turmoil back home. But as I insert my key into the dorm door, it refuses to turn. A cold knot forms in my gut-I try again before huffing, knowing I will need to check with the administration. Wandering down to the front of campus, I pass a few sses, yet I am thankful most are in ss. I don''t think I could handle their res today. Entering the front office, I close the door gently "Miss Carter?" The administrator at the desk looks up, pity etched into her features. "Hey, Samantha, my key isn''t working," I tell her, holding it up. I watch as she bites her lip nervously, ncing down at herputer she pushes her sses up her nose and slides one of her fiery red locks behind her ear as she types my name into the system I watch as her brows furrow before she nces up at me where I stand, looking suddenly nervous. "I''m sorry, but your tuition has been canceled. Your enrollment... you''re no longer a student here." "By who?" My voicees out sharper than intended "Your father," she replies, her gaze dropping. He cut my tuition. I knew he would, but I wasn''t expecting it to be done by the next day. What if I had nowhere to go? What would I have done? Does he truly hate me that much? Tears sting my eyes, but I refuse to let them fall I storm out, mming the car door behind me as I slump into the driver''s seat. How could he? My entire future is gone with a single decision; I stare at the campus office, trying to figure out what to do That''s when I notice my own car is missing from the parking lot. Panic res up inside me like a wildfire. Everything is spiraling out of control, he''s even taken my car. I can''t even retrieve my belongings from my room "Hey." Zayn''s sudden appearance beside the car startles me, concern etched across his handsome face as he opens my door, scaring the living daylights out of me. I clutch my chest in fright, wondering when he got here. ncing at the clock on the dash, I realize I have been lost in my thoughts in the car for over an hour. "What''s wrong?" he asks "Everything," I choke out, the walls I''ve built to contain my emotions crumbling down "Zayn, I have nothing left, he''s taken everything now andpletely cut me off." I confess, the weight of my world is heavy on my shoulders "No school, no car... my own father..." I feel humiliated knowing I will have to ask for his help further now, because I don''t even have a ce to go if Zayn gets bored with me or wants me gone "Shh," he soothes, pulling me out of the car into his chest. His heartbeat is steady against my ear, a grounding rhythm in the chaos. "You have me," he tells me "Is that supposed to fix everything?" I retort, even as I cling to him, desperate for his soothing scent "Maybe not," he admits. "But we''ll figure it out Now get in," he tells me, and I sigh. I slip into the passenger seat when I notice Vance''s car next to Zayn''s. Vance waves. I nod back as he leans across the seat when Zayn leans down, speaking to Vance for a moment nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Head back to the club." I hear him tell Vance Vance gives us a curt nod and disappears, leaving us alone. As Zayn takes the driver''s seat, I can''t help but stare out the window, feeling adrift in a life that''s suddenly unrecognizable. "I have nothing left," I admit, the weight of my new reality pressing down on me. "No money, nowhere to live... I feel like such a burden to ?? you Zayn''''s hand finds mine, his grip reassuring "You''re not a burden, Cleo," he says firmly. "If you want, you cane work for me or just stay at home until you figure out what you want to do. You have options." His words are meant tofort, but they remind me howpletely my world has tipped on its axis. We drive in silence, the hum of the engine a soothing background sound to the chaos of my thoughts. Once back on pack territory Zayn drives past the packhouse and pulls up at a massive oval field, dotted with figures moving in synchronized patterns-his pack training "Tll be back," he says, stepping out. "Just need to drop off this patrol roster for Andrea to give ?? out I nod and watch him climb out of the car and head over to his pack. My gaze flits across the field where his pack spar and sprint, their forms a blur of power and grace. When Zayn returns, I can''t contain my curiosity "Why aren''t they training in the city?" I ask "Because I won''t risk exposing my pack to other packs right now," he exins. "Not until things settle down." "Shouldn''t you be training with them?"? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. "You''re still gettingfortable with all of this, so we''ll train back home until you''refortable training with the rest of the pack." As we drive back to the packhouse, I''m acutely aware of the man beside me his presence has been constanttely. His scent envelopes me, a mix of pine and something that is uniquely Zayn, grounding me in the here and now "Thank you," I murmur, unsure of how else to express the gratitude and tumultuous emotions churning within me "Don''t thank me yet," he replies with a wry smile that doesn''t quite reach his eyes. "We''ve got a lot of training to do, and I won''t go easy on you." "Wouldn''t expect anything less," I respond, the corners of my mouth lifting in spite of the situation Chapter 82 The engine purrs to a stop and the world outside Zayn''s car fades as we pull into the packhouse grounds. The familiar sight of towering trees and a sprawling house greets me, but this time, it feels different. It''s not just a ce I''m visiting: it''s my new home My heart thrums in my chest as Zayn leads me inside. The door shuts with a soft click behind me "Go get changed; Andrea dropped clothes over before I left to find you. They are in the walk-in closet." Zayn tells me, his voice a calmmand that somehow makes the chaos inside me still for a moment. I nod my head once and he wanders into the living room. In the privacy of Zayn''s bedroom, I rifle through the clothes, my heart in my throat. The closet is filled with leggings, t-shirts, jeans, hoodies, and dresses. I change into the first thing I see, ck leggings and a loose sweatshirt. A quick look in the mirror reveals I look like a mess, but I have much more significant problems right now Leaving the room, I find Zayn has moved all the furniture aside in the living room and has already changed out of his jeans and button-up and 1s in all his shirtless glory, abs rippling with muscles as he stretches like he just woke up looking sexy as hell for good measure My gaze trails over the ridges and valleys of his abs, and I''m caught-snared in the sight of him "Enjoying the view?" His voice rumbles, teasing and warm [roll my eyes, feigning indifference. "Seen better." "Sure you have," he chuckles, stepping closer, pulling me into the cleared space. "Let''s get started." "I''m shocked you are seriously going to make me train with you. After everything?" I ask, even though the heat of his body draws me in like a moth to me. "Haven''t I been embarrassed enough? And now you want to hand my ass to me "You can hold your own. And it''s about being prepared." He grasps my wrists gently, his silver wolf eyes glinting. "And I need you prepared with everything going on." "Fine," I concede, my pulse dancing as he keeps hold of me, guiding me through defensive stances. Each touch ignites sparks along my skin, and each brush of his fingers against mine sends shivers up my spinePlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "Good, now try to pin me," he instructs, a yful edge in his tone "Like I could," I scoff, but the challenge lights a fire within me. I''ve seen him fight three alphas, yet he''s pretending that I could actually cause him harm We move around each other, partbat, part me evading his reach. His body is a force of nature, and every move is precise and potent Yet, he allows me close and lets me think I might have a chance. Our bodies collide, and I find it invigorating. He may have skill, but I''m a lot smaller and faster as I escape his grip and duck under his arm with augh. I kick the back of his knee, and he drops to one knee, and I pounce on him "Got you," I pant as I manage to jump on his back. Heughs "Got me how?" heughs, but he only has to lean forward, and my feet no longer touch the ground. Reaching back, he grips my arm; a shriek leaves my lips as he rips me over his shoulder. The air leaves my lungs in a rush as I hit the foam mats "T got you," heughs. My breath hitches as I look up into his eyes, molten gray "Seems you do," I murmur. "Helps you have a lot more reach than me!" "And heaps taller, I could wear you as a backpack," he snickers. I re up at him, and he pushes off the ground to stand when I turn, kicking his legs out from under him. He hits the ground hard, and I scramble to pin him while he stares at the ceiling, having the air knocked out of him "Fine, you aren''t short, you''repact-You ''re fun-size," In one swift motion, he rolls, reversing our positions with an ease that leaves me breathless. Now pinned beneath him, I can''t help but marvel at his agility, so at odds with his size. His eyes, gleaming with a yful glint, meet mine. "Seems the tiny predator has be the prey," he muses I try to throw him off as he pins my hands above my head, his lips tugging in the corners as he watches me struggle against him before I give up with a huff "See? Size does have its advantages. Height for reach and weight," he shifts slightly, emphasizing his point without putting his full weight on me "Well, I thought you were supposed to be showing me how to defend myself, not show me how utterly defenseless I am against someone your size?" Iugh and squirm beneath his weight His eyes, dark and intense, lock onto mine with a gaze that couldmand the moon. "You might think being smaller puts you at a disadvantage," he murmurs, his voice low and husky, sending a thrill through me. "But remember, you have the big bad wolf always ready to defend you." His smirk 1s a shadow, ying at the edges of his mouth, but his eyes-oh, they burn with a lethal promise. "Let theme for you," he says, his voice low and cold. "They''ll quickly learn I''m thest shadow they ever cross." My hands roam across the expanse of his chest, tracing the lines down his abs. Zayn''s breathing grows ragged, matching the erratic beat of my heart "You''re really not helping my training here," I say, my voice shaky, as I try to focus on the task at hand and not the sinful thoughts creeping into my mind "No?" he asks, his eyes twinkling with mischief "I could always..." His lips brush against my ear, sending shivers down my spine. His lips press below my ear gently, his lips grazing his mark on my neck; my back arches at the sensation it causes, like I could suddenly feel him everywhere at once, his lips travel along my jaw before meeting mine Our lips meet in a sh of passion, tongues fighting for dominance. He tastes like wildness and promises, I drink him in greedily. The room spins, and everything narrows down to the feel of his body pressed against mine, the sound of our mingled breaths Chapter 83 My hands tremble with anticipation as they reach for the waistband of Zayn''s pants, my fingertips gently tugging at the fabric. But in an instant, his body freezes, and he pulls my hands away, his lips trailing down my neck. Confusion furrows my brow at his sudden rejection "What''s wrong?" I manage to pant out, my voice heavy with desire Zayn groans, his head resting on my shoulder as he tries to catch his breath. "You''re barely a week away from your birthday, Cleo," he breathes out, his voice filled with longing and restraint. "I''d rather wait until you have got your wolf." His words hang in the air, leaving me bewildered and hurt. He marked me and imed me as his own, yet now he denies me? The conflicting emotions swirl within me, leaving me feeling like a mere pawn in some game I''m not privy to "What does that have to do with anything?" I ask, my voice trembling with frustration Zayn sits up, guilt etched across his face. He runs a hand through his tousled hair before meeting my gaze. "I told you this before, Cleo, not until you get your wolf," he states, his voice filled with sincerity My heart sinks as the words leave his lips, and I try to hide how much they truly sting. The vulnerability in my voice betrays me as I stutter out my confusion. "I don''t understand," I whisper, my voice catching in my throat. "You marked me...but won''t have me? What am I to you then? Just a ything when it suits you? A Weapon against my father? None of this makes any sense. What has waiting for my wolf got to do with it when your mark is on my fucking neck!" The room descends into a heavy silence, the weight of my words hanging in the air. Zayn watches me; his expression is unreadable, but he remains silent, unable to find the right words, or maybe he doesn''t have any more excuses Frustration and anger surge within me, and with a swift motion, I push him away and rise to my feet "Cleo!" Zayn pleads. But I refuse to listen Instead, I head for the stairs before remembering I can''t escape him in his room either. So, instead, I make my way towards one of the spare rooms, hoping to escape the embarrassment that engulfs us As I shut the door behind me, the hollowness of my heart echoes in the stillness. Tears well up in my eyes, blurring my vision as I desperately try to make sense of it all But even at this moment, I can hear Zayn''s footsteps approaching, growing louder with each passing second. Panic grips me, pushing me to lock the door. The walls seem to close in around me as I struggle to catch my breath "Cleo," he pleads again, his voice soft as he tries to turn the handle, finding the door locked. But T remain silent, unwilling to expose myself to further disappointment His fist bangs lightly on the door, rattling the frame as he speaks through gritted teeth. "Cleo, I can exin." I don''t respond and close my eyes, trying to block out the world around me. Finally, after minutes pass, I hear his footsteps retreat, and I can breathe again. I copse on the bed, curling into a ball as I tug the nkets up wanting nothing more than to go to bed to get this day over with HHHHH The next morning, sleep evades me, shes ofst night''s humiliation reying in my mind. I need to get out of this room; I need distraction. I quickly dress in jeans and a long-sleeved shirt before leaving the room. My bare feet pad quietly down the hallway as I make my way downstairs. In the kitchen, I find Zayn sipping a steaming cup of coffee, his eyes finding mine from down the hall where he sits at the ind bench His silver orbs are filled with remorse, but it''s toote for apologies now. I don''t want to hear any excuses or half-hearted justifications. I just need space from him in this situation. His jaw clenches as he sees me fully dressed. "Cleo," he says my name warningly, but I ignore him and head straight for the front door, only to hear his chair scrape across the floor "Cleo, where do you think you''re going?" he demands, his voice authoritative as he catches up to me in the foyerThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. "I''m going to look for work since I can''t go to school," I say coldly, cing my bag over my shoulder with a resolute thud. "I can''t stay cooped up here all day." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Not until we talk," he growls out, his hand wrapping around my wrist, stopping me dead in my tracks I whirl around to face him and meet his gaze head-on. "There''s nothing to talk about, Zayn! You made your feelings crystal clear yesterday!" Angerces my words, my green eyes zing with unshed tears "You''re not going alone," he growls out, his jaw flexing as he stares me down, challenging me to defy him further. And while a part of me wants to push him, the other part of me knows I''m no match for him until I get my wolf. So, I know I have no choice as he tightens his grip on my wrist. He leads me back to the kitchen and motions for me to sit. "I am at war with nearly every damn pack in this city because of you right now. You can''t just wander off and leave the damn pack!" "I''m sorry about yesterday, I wasn''t trying to hurt your feelings, but I have made it clear, Cleo, that I won''t mate you until you get your wolf," he starts, but I cut him off before he can continue "It''s fine, Zayn, I don''t want to hear any more excuses; it''s fine, I get it." I lie through gritted teeth, forcing a fake smile on my face. I don''t get this man at all! Chapter 84 He narrows his silver eyes in disbelief but doesn''t press further as he finishes his coffee in one gulp and ces the mug in the sink. "Put on a jacket, it''s cold outside, and we''re leaving." "We?" T ask hesitantly, looking at him suspiciously "We are going together; you want to work, you can work with me, but until this shit is settled with your father and the other alphas, I don''t want you wandering off without me," he growls out impatiently, gesturing at the door. "You want a distraction, fine. I''m giving you one; take it or leave it." I swallow but grab my jacket before meeting him back at the front door where he stands in his suit trying to fix his cufflinks, yet he appears to be in a terrible mood, which isn''t helping when he looks on the verge of shifting. Moving closer, I take them from him, flipping his hand over, I do his cufflinks "Why are you so cranky?" I ask him, and at first, he says nothing until I nce at him when moving to do the other one. "My wolf is furious with me; he is fighting me," Zayn admits, and I stare at him "Why?" Task quickly, fixing the other cufflink "For upsetting you, he didn''t like you weren''t sleeping in our bed," Zayn states his words,ing out in a growl at the end as his wolf tries shoving forwardThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?. "Your wolf is angry I wasn''t in the bed?" I ask him "You forget I have marked you, Cleo; our wolves are possessive, animalistic sides of us; he kept me up all damn night wanting me to drag you back to the room like some barbaric caveman. He thought you were rejecting him." he rubs his temples. I bite my bottom lip at his words, not knowing what to say Zayn reaches for his keys, but I snatched them from the hallstand. "I''m driving. I''m not getting in a car with you if you''re on the verge of shifting." I tell him. He clenches his teeth but says nothing. Instead, he turns to open the door We walk out to the car when it urs to me that I have no idea what he does for work; all I know is that he has an office in the city. "What are you doing for work anyway?" I ask him, hitting the key fob "Real Estate, property development, I have all the city pack businesses, and I own a few clubs and bars. The proceeds go back into the pack." "So how much do you own exactly." Zayn seems thoughtful for a second. "My pack or me in general?" "Both?" "Half the city, between my father''s assets that were passed down and what my pack owns," he tells me as I open the driver''s door and climb in, and so does Zayn, mming the door behind him "That was not me!" Zayn growls when his ws suddenly sh his seatbelt when he goes to pull it on. "Zarek, you stupid mutt!" he snarls angrily. My eyes widened at him, and he was talking to himself. Well, his wolf "She is right fucking there!" he snarls as fur sprouts across his hands. I raise an eyebrow at him, worried this will be a very embarrassing all-day thing in his office "Sorry, he''s being a..." His words cut off as Zarek presses beneath his skin "Zarek, knock it off, or I won''t sleep in our room tonight either." I snap at him, knowing he is about to shred Zayn''s suit, and I want to get out of this house but can''t without Zayn. Zarek instantly settles, and Zayn sucks in a breath of relief. While I stared at him, bewildered that his wolf so easily listened to me "He never listens to me like that," Zayn mutters "Maybe because you called him a mutt." I retort, starting the car Zayn chuckles and shakes his head. "Ready?" I ask him. He nods, motioning for me to go; the tension in the car is thick the entire way to his office building. I park the car and climb out in front of arge building with his name at the top. Z.H. corporation. "I can honestly say I have never been to this side of the city," I tell him as I park his car nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "It''s only ten minutes from your university. How have you never been here before?" he asks. I shrug. "Dad always told me this side of the city was rougher, so I avoided it," I admit, wondering why my father would say that when this would have to be the nicest part of the city and it was barely a few minutes away from the city center "He lied," Zayn states coldly as we walk into the lobby. The second we walk in, all eyes are on us, and instinctively, I stop, but Zayn drops his arm across my shoulders, tugging me closer Zayn led me through therge lobby, my gaze darting everywhere as people greeted him left and right. I felt like an outsider, a trespasser in this world of glitz and mor that I didn''t belong in. When we reach an elevator, Zayn uses a swipe card and then presses the level he wants to go His office took my breath away-panoramic windows looked over Nightshade City''s expansive skyline. On one wall was a mahogany desk with a sleekputer setup, while another showcased various awards and pictures of Zayn shaking hands with important-looking people His scent permeated everything, iming this space as his own. Despite the grandeur, it felt impersonal and cold-like him when he wasn''t around me "So... what do you want me to do?" I asked tentatively as he settled behind his desk, shuffling through papers "Make yourselffortable," he motions to the lounge. I sit heavily on it. For some reason, I was expecting it to be some cozy little building, not an actual skyscraper. However, I am now left twiddling my thumbs, watching him as he logs into hisputer Chapter 85 "Sitting on your lounge and watching you is not what I had in mind for work," Zayn sighs heavily "Considering I wasn''t nning oning in here today for now, it will do; just give me a second, and I will give you something to do," he tells meExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. I walk around the room looking at all the pictures, ones with his family and him as a child to him graduating from university to a picture of him and... me? My heart stopped "What?" I find myself picking up a photo of me "This was at the pack meeting when I met you." he states, walking up behind me. "what are you doing with it?" I demand "I took it while I was sitting across from you." He smirks before returning to his desk "That''s creepy!" I huff as I put it back on his desk. "So, what do you want me to do, Alpha Zayn ?" I ask sarcastically as he res at me for using his title like that "My files are right there. Sort them by date, will you?" he points to a mountain of files at the end of the desk "Are you serious?" I ask incredulously. He simply raises an eyebrow at me, waiting for an answer. With a huff, I grab the first pile and sit down on the lounge, dumping them on the small coffee table that was vacant in his office. The next few hours pass by boringly slowly as I look through papers after papers on mergers, takeovers, shares, and deals. I didn''t understand it all, but I dated them. I did manage to do just fine until lunchtime came around "Hungry?" He asks, not looking up from hisputer screen. I stood, my back stiff and sore from sitting in one position for so long, before grabbing the next pile of files "Starving," I tell him "Let me finish these emails, and we''ll go get something," he tells me. I nod, taking thest few documents back to the coffee table. When I notice my mother''s name. "What''s this?" I ask him; he nces at me before standing up and, shutting down hisputer, anding over to me while I try to decipher what it is; it looks likend title transfers, but that isn''t my mother''s signature that much I do remember, I used to always be jealous of her handwriting "Zayn?" I ask, holding up the documents before noticing the one behind it. I see the official title changeover for my father and Linda "Show me," Zayn tells me, and I hold out the paper to him, his eyes narrowing before he snatches it off me "Were you going through my drawers?" he suddenly uses, shocking me. I stare at him "What? No, it was in the pile. What is that?" I ask, reaching for the paperwork, but he pulls it away. "And why do you have it?" I demand Zayn grits his teeth when I reach for it again, and I snatch it from his grip "Ive been looking into the rogue attack, that is, thend transfer from when your mother handed the pack over to your father and Linda." Zayn finally says "That''s not my mother''s signature," I tell him nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "I know. Alpha Greyson had some documents of her, and wepared them," He admits "Do you recognize the handwriting?" he asks, and I shake my head "No, it''s not Linda''s or my father''s," I tell them, yet the signature looks like it was done by someone else; the pen used seemingly different despite the color being the same, like it was filled out with a ballpoint pen and the signature was done in some sort of marker pen "No, but that''s not the same pen used up here," I tell him, pointing to the signature. Zayn also nods. "Why do you have this?" I ask him "I started looking into your mother''s death after I met you, but that was approved by the council for transfer a couple of days before the rogue attack. I tried to get the footage from the council for that day, but we are having trouble locating it because I know that isn''t your mother''s signature, but she would have had to sign that at the council with a witness. Unfortunately, the witness is dead." Zayn tells me. My brows furrow when I see the witness''s name, and I gasp "Your father...." Zayn nods, and I shake my head. "This doesn''t make any sense," I tell him "I know, but Alpha Greyson and I are looking into it," we''ll figure it out; I wasn''t expecting you to see that. I thought I put it away. Clearly, I forgot." he says, angry at himself "Why were you even looking into her?" "L was trying to find a way out for you. I was hoping to find something to stop your father from marrying you off so it wouldn''t turn into this mess it has now," he admits "Come on, I will show you around this side of the city and we''ll get something to eat," He says, grabbing my hand and dragging me along with him "But..." "We need more information, we have no idea who signed that without the old footage or without the witness to confirm if your mother truly did go into the council to sign that, but I know my father I know he wouldn''t have witnessed it, if it wasn''t her." Zayn tells me "So, what now?" I ask him "We carry on until we can prove otherwise and I know the other packs are up to something, right now we just need to bide our time and figure out what it is going on while we also try to figure out who signed this." He tells me, tossing the file on his desk and grabbing my hand. We make our way to the elevator and soon we are driving through the city center "Where are we going?" I ask him as he heads down a road leading to the club where Ist saw Deacon "To get something to eat, then I am dropping you home." he states Chapter 86 I huff, annoyed, but don''t add anything, knowing there 1s no point in arguing with him. I peer out the window as we pull up at the club "Do you really think Deacon went rogue?" I ask him "Alpha Greyson believes so, and he is Deacon''s Alpha; I think he would know," I nod my head, yet I can''t understand why... It makes me wonder if my father scared him off "You still hung up about that loser?" Zayn asks, and I purse my lips but shake my head "No, I just think none of this would be happening right now if he were here. Instead, he runs off, and I worry my father is behind it, butPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. at the same time, I wonder how Lydia got those photos," I admit, my mind working overtime "You didn''t recognize him..." Zayn coughs, and my brows pinch "Mydy parts on the big screen, yeah, I recognized those parts," I tell him, yet I have no memory of that night at all." Zayn leans over and squeezes my hand "That is probably a good thing," he tells me "Ts it, though? Maybe if I remembered who it was, I might know where Deacon went." I tell him. He sighs heavily and I nce at him "You found me, right?" Zayn swallows, looking straight ahead. "Yes, you were out of it," "And you didn''t see who it was?" I ask skeptically?" "No, they took off, and I was too worried about you to chase after them." "Then how do you know he didn''t..." I trail off, but surely I would have been sore, right? "I got there in time. You had no scents on..." Zayn grits his teeth "I would know if he had: he didn''t," he tells me, and I chew my lip nervously "Where?" I ask the questions I should have asked ages ago, the ones I didn''t really want answers to, but find myself now questioning everything about that night, about my life since then, and since the rogue attack that took my mother from me "In the parking lot, I think you were trying to drive home when he grabbed you," Zayns tells me, and I peer out at the parking lot when Zayn grips my chin, turning my face toward him. He leans in, his lips brushing mine gently before pulling back slightly "Nothing happened, I got there in time, and I took you home; that is all you need to know," he whispers, his thumb brushing along my jaw gently, and I nod, "But how did Lydia get those photos?" I asked him, and he let me go nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "That''s a question we''ll have to ask her," he tells me, and I wonder if I can ask her, I wonder if my father has asked her? Surely he would be questioning her, too? Maybe once he does, he''ll see reason and actually believe me I open my mouth to speak, about to ask more about how we''ll handle Alpha Samuel and this situation with Lydia, when Zayn cuts me off, leaning forward and iming my lips with his once more. This time, it''s harder and more demanding. His hands are in my hair, holding my head firmly as he steals away my breath I moan into the kiss, feeling him press closer to me. He pulls back slightly, his forehead resting against mine as we both catch our breaths. He looks at me with hooded silver eyes that seem to see into my soul, and it sends shivers down my spine. "Food first, then questions," he murmurs against my skin We enter the club and take our seats at a secluded table in the corner, away from the other patrons. The ce is dimly lit with red and purple lights, giving 1t an atmospheric feel that goes well with the intimate vibe. Our booth is big enough for six people, but we make it work for the two of us. The soft jazz music ys as our orders are taken. I can''t help but notice how everyone looks at Zayn; some lustfully, some nervously, some curiously - it''s all new to me. He seems used to it, though, not showing any signs of difort or awareness towards their gazes, yet I notice each one, which makes me want to hide under the table Our food arrives soon enough: steaming tes of pasta and garlic bread, juicy steaks paired with crispy fries, and a side sd for me. The smell is heavenly as it wafts through the air towards me; my stomach grumbles in anticipation. My mouth waters at the sight of everything on our tes before us "Smells amazing," I murmur between bites of my sd as Zayn tears into his steak like it''s nothing The rest of our meal passes by in a blur; we devour our food like we are starved, yet the longer we are here, the more everyone''s stares get to me, I know most are his pack members, but I find it odd how even with everything going on the other packs people still show up to his club even if nervous Once the dishes are cleared, we both lean back against the booth, both of us full nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "So what now?" I ask, ying with my napkin nervously "We go home," he says simply, finishing his ss of water "I mean about tomorrow...and the whole Lydia thing," I rify, and he growls lowly "What do you want me to say, Cleo? We''ll figure it out, but for now, there isn''t much we can do until we have more information," he tells me Zayn takes my hand in his,cing our fingers together and squeezing gently as he pulls me from the booth, and we head back out to the car Yet when we reach the doors leading out, he suddenly stops, making me nce at him to see he 1s in the mindlink. His eyes are zed over, and I wait for him to finish. Only when he does, he looks quite panicked as he urges me faster toward the car "Who was that?" I ask him "Aunt Andrea, the pack is being attacked by rogues; we need to get back home," he tells me, and we race out to the car and jump. I buckle up as he speeds off back home, my heart pounding in my chest with unease, knowing how dangerous rogues are Chapter 87 Yet nothing could have prepared me for the sheer brutality that awaited us as we ventured back into pack territory. As we approached the pack gate, a thick haze of smoke from the decimated buildings engulfed us, causing my stomach to plummet to my toes 1n dread. Zayn''s grip on the steering wheel was so tight, his knuckles turned bone white, his jaw clenched as we race around the corner towards his territory With screeching tires, he brought the car to an abrupt halt in front of the ravaged pack house, and we both leaped out, our eyes scanning the destruction The sight of twisted debris and charred wood sent shivers down my spine, a haunting reminder of the savagery that had taken ce here "Zayn!" Andrea''s voice, filled with both relief and anguish, pierced through the eerie silence as Zayn searched for where her voice came from We run through piles of debris and charred wood, searching madly for any sign of life until we finally find her - coughing and wincing in pain. Andrea''s weary eyes met Zayn''s as he scooped her up gently in his arms, cradling her fragile form against his chest. Without wasting a moment, he carried her back to his car, her gasps filling the air. But before she could even utter a single word, Zayn''s voice trembled with concern as he demanded answers, "Where''s Vance?" he demands to know before she can even speak "T don''t know," Andrea managed to whisper through ragged breaths. "He was helping guide everyone to the bunkers beneath the packhouse... We... we were ambushed, the doors wouldn''t lock to the bunkers, the power was cut, I had to remain outside to manually lock it, he was covering me... he..." Her voice trailed off as she scans around her looking for him, the weight of her words hanging heavily in the air, as we absorbed the enormity of the situation and judging by the state of her she had to have been caught in the fray Suddenly, a faint whimper resonated nearby, Zayn rushes towards the sound, and I race to catch up to him when we find his brother. It wasn''t Vance who emitted that pitiful sound; it Was a rogue, one whom Vance had apprehended and was now dragging back to the packhouse "Vance," he growls, voice rough and full of distress. "You okay?" He runs his hands over Vance''s body, feeling for any injuries; he seems to be covered in blood but none of it being his "I caught one, the rest fled, our men have driven them east," he tells us "Well take him down to the basement," he says calmly, but there''s an edge to his voice that makes it clear he doesn''t want any arguments when the rogue man starts wailing "Please, I will tell you anything, you don''t need to torture it out of me," Zayn pauses and looks at Vance. "How many?" he asks Vance. My brows furrow Vance''s response offers a glimmer of reassurance amidst the chaos. "None," he states firmly. "They mainly made a mess, set fire to a few houses, and injured a handful of men. No deaths." The man looks at Zayn pleadingly, his face is cut from Vance''s ws and his hair is that bloody and matted. Yet, despite the disfigurement, his blue eyes shimmer with fear, a reflection of the terror that has consumed him Through sobs that echo with remorse, the man''s words stumble forth. "No, not kill. Only scare you," he manages to choke out. "It was a warning. He said we only had to scare you all." His admission hangs in the air, making me confused on who ordered them to attack, it could be anyone with Zayn being at war with half the city Zayn''s piercing gaze fixates on the mysterious man for a fleeting moment, demanding answers The air crackles with tension as he demands, "Wh (@) 9) " The man, his voice trembling with fear, pleads for mercy. "I don''t know! I was merely given orders. We were never told his name, only that he 1s from the small pack on the other side of the city-the one with the snotty blonde woman." His words hang in the air, each syble resonating with a deep sense of unease Small pack... My father''s pack. The realization hits me like a thunderbolt, and I exchange a wary nce with Zayn. The gravity of the situation dawns upon us both simultaneouslyAll content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. "Your father!" Zayn''s voice isced with raw anger. While I only feel disbelief. I bite my lip, murroring his thoughts "Please, that is all I know," the rogue begs, his voice quivering under the weight of his fear Andrea steps forward, her touch gentle as she rests her hand on Zayn''s arm nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Zayn, we are not monsters," she reminds him, her voice carrying a note ofpassion as she looks at the rogue man, not with hatred but pity Yet the look on Zayn''s face betrays an internal struggle, torn between his instincts and the desire to maintain his humanity "What reason does he have to lie?" Andrea adds firmly, her eyes searching Zayn''s troubled furious expression Zayn''s response is swift and cutting. "Depends on what he was offered for doing this," he snaps back, his wordsced with a bitter skepticism The man interjects hurriedly, his voice tinged with desperation "Food, he offered us food, thends are bare this time of the season, nothing left." My eyes drift over the rogue taking in his emaciated frame, it also makes me think back to the rogue attacks in the city over the past year how they''ve gotten worse. Are things really getting that bad outside the city borders and desperation is sending them in Yet, despite everything I have been taught about rogues-wild and uncontroble creatures-this man before us appears no different from any other. His appearance is marred by dirt and blood, but his eyes hold a flicker of humanity that defies the stereotypes I''ve been raised to believe "Zayn, I think he''s telling the truth," I whisper and his gaze cuts to me "They attacked our pack," he reminds me "We killed no one, no one!" The man wails and sobs and I swallow the lump in my throat nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! threatening to choke me "They''re starving, you can''t say you wouldn''t have done the same if in his ce, especially if you haven''t been in his situation," "How can you say that? Your mother was killed by rogues," He tells me like I have forgotten her suddenly "That was different Zayn and you know it, this would be different if they killed people but they haven''t, everyone got to the bunkers, and our men pushed them back. Like he said no deaths, I thought they were attacking but they could have easily killed me and didn''t, I was outnumbered once I lost Vance," Andrea says looking at the man Zayn averts his gaze, jaw clenching tightly as he considers her words. His eyes flick back to the pathetic man before him, who is now shaking in fear, awaiting his fate. I chew my bottom lip trying to think of something to say but nothinges to mind Zayn however chooses not to answer Andrea instead waving one of his men over as they start appearing out of the tree line having driven the rogues out "Send out teams to scout the northern borders keep an eye out for any suspicious activity increase training sessions with our warriors and send word to Alpha Grayson of our newest addition please," he says as he still has a death grip on my hand. I look up at him in question, remaining silent "I don''t want any slip-ups if your father sends more our way," he says gruffly before turning away rubbing a hand over his face. The pack member rushes off when Vance asks "What about him?" I nce at the rogue "Take him inside, I want to be sure before we let him go," Zayn states and my stomach sinks "Zayn?¡± Vance and Andrea ask simultaneously "I want to be sure." Zayn states leaving no room for argument Chapter 88 Cleo Zayn''s fury at the attack is obvious when Vance and Andrea hesitate, neither of them look like they want to punish or torture this rogue for information, yet Zayn is blinded by his anger When Vance hesitates a second too long, and Zayn moves toward the rogue man, who whimpers and starts begging However, Zayn''s grip on the rogue''s arm is irond, his knuckles white with tension as he drags him inside the pack house. The air is thick with Zayn''s aura which is menacing and the scent of the rogue''s fear which emanates from his pores in a thick musk scent "Zayn, stop," I plead, my voice steady despite the hammering in my chest. "He''s scared, look at him. Please don''t hurt him, he''s too scared to lie to you!" "And that is precisely why he would lie, Cleo! Especially knowing what he says decides if he lives or dies!" I shake my head, racing to catch up to him The rogue''s eyes flicker to me, wide and brimming with a raw desperation that clenches my heart. He''s not much older than I am, his face gaunt, dirt smudging his skin like a secondyer "Please, Zayn," I urge, stepping forward to ce a gentle hand on Zayn''s tattooed forearm, feeling the thrum of power beneath the surface of his skin as his skin ripples. His aura sts me and I gasp, my hand dropping, and I nearly do too before he realizes what he did "Cleo!" he blurts, letting the man go, he staggers and stumbles onto his knees at the abruptness of Zayn no longer dragging his weight. "I didn''t mean that," he murmurs, reaching for me, but I p his hands away, only for Zayn to lift his hand to the rogue. "Look what you made me do!" he snarls, about to backhand the poor man, but I move, stepping 1n front of him. Zayn only Just pulls back in time "No, you''re letting your anger rule you, stand down, Zayn, or I am leaving!" I growl at him, before covering my mouth with my hands at what I did. Zayn startles at the sound too "Cleo, he..." Zayn starts, but I re at him "Leave him, hunger makes you do crazy things." I snap at him, grabbing the rogue man''s arm, I help him up. He looks at Zayn warily, yet doesn''t move a muscle, using me like a shield. Zayn growls at his hand clutching the back of my shirt. Turning, I push the man toward the kitchen instead of the basement "Cleo!" Zayn snarls. "What are you doing?" "Feeding him!" Zayn''s silver eyes lock onto mine, searching, probing, before he exhales sharply, the tension uncoiling from his frame "Fine," Zayn grunts. "But if he tries anything-" "He won''t," I interject quickly, giving the rogue an encouraging nod. "Will you?" The rogue man looks between us, his Adam''s apple bobbing nervously. "No, Alpha... I''ll tell you whatever you want to know. We just needed help, our pack is starving." "Pack?" Zayn raises a skeptical eyebrow, his alpha aura dominating the room "Other rogues, like me. I guess we aren''t a pack, but by remaining together we haven''t lost our minds, or I hope we haven''t, maybe we have? We aren''t like the other rogues." Zayn watches him carefully, cautiously "Other rogues?" I repeat, my mind racing with possibilities "Alpha Dean and Alpha Samuel, they got rogues doing their dirty work. They ordered the attack at that hotel alpha meeting a couple of months back, we don''t associate with them, they''re not safe, they have mostly lost their humanity." Zayn''s jaw clenches, the mention of Alpha Samuel and Alpha Dean sparking a dark fire behind his eyes "Come on," I tell the rogue man, leading him towards the kitchen, so I can make him something to eat I motion for the man to sit on the stool at the ind and open the fridge, looking for something to make him. I pull out ingredients to make him a sandwich. Zayn leans against the door watching me, but his aura isn''t as angry and violent anymore, but I can tell he doesn''t trust the rogue at all, refusing to take his eyes off the man. The rogue''s eyes darted around the kitchen, his posture tense, like a cornered animal. His gaze settles on Zayn, and I can see the flicker of recognition in those haunted depths, a silent plea for some semnce of mercy I addyers of turkey and cheese, tomato slices, cucumber, lettuce - everything I can think of not knowing what he likes, maybe I should have asked if he had allergies, I think to myself, but surely, he would have mentioned he was allergic to these things, since he is watching meAll content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. ncing at the man, he doesn''t seemfortable around us, which I can''t me him for when Zayn was only threatening to kill him moments ago When the sandwich is ready; I slide it across the counter to him, he hesitates for a second, so I grab him a bottle of water from the fridge, all while being very aware of Zayn''s eyes watching me His hands shake as he tries to open the bottle of water, taking huge gulps of it down like he hasn''t had anything in days "Thank you," he mumbles around a mouthful of food, staring at his sandwich "Eat, we''ll talk after," I tell him before feeling Zayn''s chest press to my back, the rogue''s eyes dart to him behind me when he speaks "Eat, I won''t hurt you," Zayn tells him before pressing his lips to my shoulder. The man takes a bite, he eats slowly like he is savoring every bite "So, what''s your name?" I ask "ke," he mumbles around food. "Cleo, right?" He asks before taking another bite "Correct," I tell him "How long since yourst meal?" Zayn asks ke "Three days," he admits, and I chew my lip "So why did you agree? You had to know it was suicide?" Zayn coaxes out Chapter 89 The rogue man swallows his food before answering, "Mitchel the Alpha''s Beta said our Alpha would take us back, that we coulde home. I haven''t met him, but mom didn''t want us to go, she said she won''t ever bow to him." "Him? You mean Alpha Joseph?" Zayn asks when I point to the other half of the sandwich, telling him to eat. He shakes his head. "I''ll save it for my sister," he murmurs I look at Zayn, but he doesn''tment about ke''s sister. "You said you didn''t know who sent you?" Zayn states "T don''t, it was the first time I have seen the Alpha, I only know the Beta''s name because of Jamie," he states "And Jamie epted the deal? Where is Jamie?" The man looks away "Dead, your Beta killed him when we were trying to escape." Zayn points to the sandwich "Eat, you''ll have food to take home," Zayn tells hin "Tell us about the other rogues, the ones you''re scared of," Zayn demands, his voice a low rumble that resonates "We call them the bandits," the rogue murmurs, his voice hollow. "Theye, killing our people, taking what little we have." He shudders, the fear palpable in each word. "We''re not safe even from our kind." I can''t help but feel a surge of pity for these outcasts, their eyes reflecting a mix of hope and dread as they watch us from a distance. Families huddle together, their children peering out with wide, curious eyes. I couldn''t imagine having to live like that "What else?" Zayn asks The rogue swallows quickly. "They... they don''t take prisoners," he rasps, the fear palpable in his tone. "They''ve killed some of us. It''s a sort of warning-to stay in line or else." "Or else what?" Zayn prods, moving closer so his entire chest lines my back "Death isn''t the worst thing they threaten us with, they''ve taken a few of the women when we''ve refused them," the rogue whispers, casting a wary nce at Cleo before returning his focus to Zayn. "We live like ghosts, most of us are banished families clinging to the fringes of Nightshade City, the majority of us were from his pack or so mom says, I don''t remember not being rogue. That Alpha... Joseph? He gave us an ultimatum: scare your pack, or remain exiled forever." "Banished? Why?" I ask, stepping forward with a creased brow, only Zayn tugs me back against him and I sigh. "You said you''re from my father''s pack?" Task The man''s face drained of color, and he stumbled back a step, as if the very ground beneath him had shifted. "You''re... you''re the Alpha''s daughter?" "Your father..." The rogue hesitated, his eyes widening as if he''d just pieced together a puzzle "When his mate your mother was killed, he banished my mother for not submitting to him along with those that refused." "Submission is not loyalty," Zayn growls, his silver eyes shing with a dangerous light. "It''s control, fear. That''s not how you lead a pack." "Wait," I say, my voice quivering with a mix of anger and curiosity. "You knew my mother was killed. But why would my father banish you for not submitting?" "Because we refused to be his pawns," the rogue states, his own anger surfacing. "Just like he''s using Alpha Dean and Samuel to manipte the packs now." The rogue''s revtion hit me like a physical blow, my breath catching in my chest as I struggle to reconcile this new piece of the puzzle. Zayn''s grip on my shoulder tightens "Tell us more," I demand, trying to keep my voice steady. "What do you know about my mother''s death?" The rogue man looks between Zayn and me, his eyes darting nervously, as if the truth he harbored was a dangerous secret itching to break free. "I only know what my mother told me, I had a head injury a few years ago, I lost all earlier memories," he tells us "What did your mother tell you then?" Zayn asks, his curiosity now piqued with all this information "Her mother... she was a visionary," he began, his voice a husky whisper. "She saw the potential for peace, for unity between packs. She and Alpha Greyson had been discussing a merger, one that would have strengthened both packs against enemies; my mother believed Greyson was her true mate." "Did your mother tell you anything about my father?" The question spills from my lips before I can stop it "Alpha Joseph..." He hesitates, swallowing hard "He didn''t take kindly to the idea. Said he was alpha, and that if your mother wanted to leave he expected her to give up her pack for him and his new Luna, something about her owing him for something?" the man asks, his brows creasing like he isn''t sure on thest part My heart raced, pounding against my rib cage like a caged animal desperate for release. The implications are staggering. My mother''s death, the banishment of these rogues-how much of it was orchestrated by my own father? But it now has me questioning if he had something to do with her death nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Did he kill her?" The words tasted bitter on my tongue, and I could feel Zayn''s silent growl vibrating through his chest, the sound feral and protective "No," The rogue shakes his head, adamant yet somber. "But when she died, he seized the chance to tighten his grip, to make sure no such union could threaten his rule again. That''s why we refused to submit. My mother was one of her warriors. She also said those rogues killed her The ones that attacked the city a couple of months back. If you need information, you can meet her." "But you said they answered to Alpha Samuel?" I ask. The man nods, and I look at Zayn, trying to make sense of this mess "Well then, I guess you need to take us back to your mother," Zayn statesExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. "You won''t hurt them?" ke asks. Zayn shakes his head "TI do one better; your rogues help me; I''ll help them." Zayn offers, and the man looks at me nervously "He''s telling the truth?" He asks, and I look at Zayn "His word is good," I tell the man, and he nods slowly before pushing out his stool to stand "Okay, I will take you to them, but you can''t hurt them; we are mostly families there, women, children; the only men left were sent here, but your people killed most of us off," he admits, his lips quivering "I''m not about to hurt women and children, I may be an asshole, but I''m not a monster," Zayn tells him Chapter 90 Cleo It took us forty-five minutes for the rogue to lead us to the ce the rogues had turned into their own campground, deep into the forest, down an almost concealed hiking trail. The path was narrow and overgrown, with branches whipping at our faces and underbrush snagging at our clothes as we pushed through the dense foliage I clutched Zayn''s hand tightly, my heart hammering against my chest as we made our way deeper into the wilderness Finally, the rogue stopped and gestured towards a fallen tree, indicating that we should climb over it. We followed his lead, stepping carefully over the thick trunk and emerging from the treeline into a small clearing. The sight that greeted us was both shocking and heart-wrenching A group of men, women, and children, all dressed in tattered clothing, were scattered around the clearing. Some were huddled around small fires. Others were sharpening their knives or tending to their meager possessions Everywhere I looked, there were signs of struggle and desperation- their makeshift tents were falling apart, the firewood was scarce, and there was a distinct smell of unwashed bodies and rot As we move closer to the group, I can''t help but notice the hollow look in their eyes, the weariness that seemed to weigh down every movement. This 1s a wastnd of despair, hidden from the world''s eyes. And yet, here they were, surviving against all odds, a ragtag I clutch Zayn''s hand even tighter, feeling a surge of sympathy for these lost souls. How had they ended up here, and what had they endured to stay alive in this harsh environment? I can''t imagine the struggles they have faced, it is unfathomable to me that people have been forced to live this way The heavy scent of despair saturates the aur, wrapping us in a suffocating embrace as Zayn and I cautiously enter the roguemune. My heart constricts painfully at the sight of dpidated tents and ramshackle shelters, hastily assembled with desperation etched into every cobbled-together area. My green eyes are wide with a mixture of horror and empathy sweep over the faces of those surrounding us- emaciated figures, their gaze hollow and haunted, mere shadows of wolves clinging to threadbare hope Silenced by the overwhelming scene before us, words evade me as I take in the dire living conditions. The ground beneath our feet yields uneasily, almost akin to swamnd, a stark contrast to the city just within reach. The abrupt realization that while we live luxuriously in warmth andfort, this makeshiftmunity opperates with nothing and forced on the fringes of society shakes me to my core. The very earth seems to cry out in silent protest against such injustice "Zayn," I murmur, my voice trembling with raw emotion. Zayn''s bewildered gaze meets mine, joined by Vance and his men, all struck speechless by the stark varianceid bare before them. Despite being in close proximity to the bustling city, here lies a forgotten families living off scraps of what our city discards. Our own nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! kind turns a blind eye to their plight, condemning them to endure inhumane conditions exposed to the elements while trying to care for children Amidst this destion, children flit about with carefree abandon, theirughter piercing through the veil of suffering like fragile rays of sunlight through storm clouds. Their innocence is untouched by the harsh reality that envelopes them-the legacy of neglect passed down through generations within my mother''s old pack making me realize these kids don''t know any different to how they live now, it saddens me ke waves us forward, urging us towards the center where a group of women are cleaning fish that have been caught. There are hardly any men in sight, but those who remain immediately stand as we approach. Zayn raises his hands in a cating gesture, as 1f he wants to convey to the men that he means no one here any harm ke rushes ahead, eager to exin why we are there. The men who linger are cautious, aware that they cannot very well stop Zayn''s men when the few men we have brought with us already outnumber what''s left of the men here. "Zayn, they''re not a threat," I whisper, and he nods slowly, understanding my concern "I know," Zayn replies, motioning for his men to stand down ande over. Vance is the first to join him, but he has the same horrified expression that I do, as muddy children rush around. "They''re barely surviving," I whisper, my heart aching at the sight of the desperate people Zayn''s jaw clenches, and the silver of his eyes darkens to a stormy hue as he surveys the ce "This shouldn''t exist," he growls, the Alpha power in his voice making the air vibrate around us. I''m sickened that my father would cast out so many, knowing the dangers of rogues-actual rogues-and if all these people hadn''t stuck together when they did, they''d probably be just as crazed as the rest of the rogues. They''ve somehow formed a pack of the packless We continue to observe the scene. The desperation they feel is palpable, and it''s clear that they have banded together to survive in a world where many struggle to do so. The image of the women cleaning fish, the children rushing around, and the men standing guard 1s one I won''t soon forget. It serves as a stark reminder of the harsh circumstances faced by those who have been abandoned by their own kind. At the same time, it hit me harder that my father dered me a rogue, and didn''t care if this was the sort of life I lived. If it weren''t for Zayn, I could very well be in their ce We can''t turn our backs on them now, but the challenge of helping them reintegrate into society while ensuring they don''t be a danger to others will be a difficult one whilePlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. they adjust Chapter 91 "How many people are here, ke?" Zayn asks, and he turns around. Only now he has a child in his arms. She clings to the shirt Zayn had given him, though the jumper she now wore, it swallows her small frame "This is Piper, my sister." My brows raise, and I look at Zayn, who seems toe to the same conclusion: if our roles were reversed, we would have all done the same thing, especially when looking into the eyes of a child. Piper appears to be about 9 years old; her blonde hair is matted with mud, grass, and twigs "Roughly 70 of us are here." "All from Alpha Joseph''s pack?" Zayn asks ke shrugs, looking at one of the other men. A man with salt and pepper haires closer; he''d have to be the oldest here. "No, some of us are from Alpha Samuel and Alpha Dean''s pack; very few, the majority are from Joseph''s," he answers I tilt my head to the side, looking at the man in front of me. He appears to be in his fifties, with salt and pepper hair and deep wrinkles etched into his face. His eyes are a piercing blue. There is something about him that seems familiar, but I can''t quite put my finger on it "You look like your mother, Cleo," he tells me, and my brows pinch, and I worry they would hate me for what my father did to them "We''ve been biding our time on returning when you''d have your pack," he tells me, and I chew my lip "You''re from my mother''s old pack?" he nods slowly "I was one of her Beta''s, Beta Noah," he answers, and my heart breaks. That means he was one of the people closest to her that she trusted. Trusted to keep her safe when recognition smashes like a ton of bricks, how had I not wondered what happened to him? "You saved me that day," I tell him, and he smiles sadly "She''d never have forgiven me if I saved her over you," he nods once and tears prick theers of my eyes as I nod. Yet, I wonder if he''d change his mind now after living like this for so long. I look at Zayn. "Please, we can''t leave them here," I tell him "We aren''t; I have nowhere to ce them; my pack is already overcrowded, but I will call Greyson," he tells me, wandering off and pulling his phone from his pocket. I move toward ke "Oh right, I will take you to my mother," I shake my head "No need to, we believe you. But tell her to pack what she needs," I tell him. ke stares at me "Zayn is organizing to take you all back with us He''s calling Alpha Greyson." "Alpha Greyson?" The man steps forward, Beta Noah. I turn to him, nodding "You don''t like Alpha Greyson?" I ask nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "No, we do. Your mother was his mate. We were all supposed to be merging packs when they got together until your father''s mate intervened." "What?" I gasp in shock "Alpha Greyson was your mother''s true mate, not your father; she was going to merge packs, and we would have be one pack. Linda apparently carried on about that; she didn''t want that. Your mother agreed to let him and Linda keep her pack and only take those of us who wanted to leave with her and take you." Beta, Noah tells me "How many are from the original pack?" "Most of us, but we never had a chance to merge. The same day she signed the pack over to your father, Linda had her killed. Those who refused to submit were cast out, which is all of ?? us Zayn nods, pulling out his phone with swift fingers. He moves away just enough for privacy, but I still catch snippets of urgency in his tone There''s no time for pleasantries, not when lives hang in the bnce Minutes stretch into an eternity until Greyson''s SUV kicks up dust on the horizon. When he steps out, his expression turns somber, mirroring our own shock as he takes in the squalor before him Zayn and he shake hands, and Greyson looks over at me, "Please tell me you can take them." "We have enough space and housing, but I will need to screen them," he murmurs. Zayn goes to say something, but Greyson looks at him. "Don''t worry, I''ll take them all; I know your pack is overcrowded since you took in thatst pack." Greyson tells him, and I look at Zayn, but hePlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. doesn''t borate on what Alpha Greyson mentioned, I''d have to ask him about itter "Thank you, Alpha Greyson," I breathe out, relief flooding through me, though it can''t wash away the sorrow etched into the faces around us "Let''s get those buses arranged," Zaynmands his men who start moving to help pull down tents, and Greyson nods, already dialing numbers and issuing orders with the authority thates from years of leadership Themotion stirs themune, drawing curious, wary faces from their shelters. Eyes wide with a mixture of hope and uncertainty, they watch as salvation rolls in on wheels- buses that promise warmth, safety, and a future "Come on," Zayn yells out, his voice louder than I anticipated, carrying across the broken ground "There''s room for everyone. You''re safe now." Chapter 92 "Is this real?" ke steps forward, skepticism written in the lines of his face. "Will you really take us in?" "Not us, Alpha Greyson. We haven''t the room, but everyst one of you ising back to the city until you''re all housed and settled within Alpha Greyson''s pack," Zayn affirms, stepping beside me, his presencemanding attention and inspiring trust "Get your things," I tell them, my tone gentle yet insistent. "It''s time to go home." And they move, slowly at first, then with growing urgency as reality sinks in. They''re leaving this ce behind. They''re being offered a new start "Thank you," they whisper, their voices a haunting melody that will stay with me forever As the buses pull away, we stand hand in hand, watching until they disappear from view before helping the rest of Zayn''s men clean up thest parts of the makeshift tent city so nature will take back over and, eventually, the ce will be undisturbed. In the quiet that follows, Zayn pulls me close, and I lose myself in the heat of his embrace, in the wild, intoxicating scent that is purely him "Come on, let''s get home; I am starting to feel like a swamp monster," I say, my voice muffled against his chest, my body humming with a current that only he can elicit Zayn pulls something from my hair. "You look like one, too," heughs, his lips pressing against my temple. We both snatch up a ck bag, stuffing it in the dumpster that sits on the edge of the road leading to the old hiking trail ok 2k 2 2k ok I almost groan, stepping under the shower spray; my skin feels icky, and dried mud covers nearly every inch of me. Steam curls around us like a living thing, heat clinging to our skin as the shower drowns out the rest of the world. Zayn''s silver eyes glint in the steam-filled bathroom, reflecting the light like precious metal. In their depths, I see the untamed, fiery energy of his wolf, Zarek, just beneath the surface. The muscles of his arms flex as he moves, his strong hands carefully tracing the curves of my body as he helps to clean off the mud "Zayn," I whisper, my voice barely audible above the rush of water, yet the worryced in that one word is evident. Guilt gnaws at me, and I feel bad knowing my mother''s people were forced to live like that for years because of Linda and my father "Yes, we''ll go check the rogues at Alpha Greyson''s tomorrow. You don''t need to feel guilty, Cleo. You didn''t do this to them." I nod slowly, but his words don''t make me feel any better He leans in, his lips brushing against the sensitive flesh of my neck, sending shivers down my spine. "Stop, Cleo. You were a child Stop ming yourself." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "I''m not; I know that. I just wonder how I forgot about Noah; I never questioned anything, never noticed my own people were missing." I mutter "You were a grieving child, and no one wants to think the worst of their family or to believe their family was capable of such a thing." I sigh, turning to rinse the shampoo from my hair Zayn''s lips crash against mine, and I sputter under the water. Heughs, pulling me closer, his face going into my neck. "Hm, I can help you take your mind off it, though," he purrs. I push on his chest, and his eyes sparkle with mischief "You have no idea how much I want you." I swat his chest before reaching my arms around his neck and standing on my tippy-toes to kiss him. He kisses me back, his lips traveling down my neck. The water cascades over us, a soothing rhythm that matches our heartbeats. Zayn''s hands are strong and sure as they glide over my wet skin, the warmth of his touch sending shivers of pleasure through my body. His fingers trace the lines of water droplets that cascade down my skin, leaving a trail of heat in their wake Desire coils tightly in my belly. I tilt my head back, offering him more ess, and he takes it, his mouth exploring the column of my throat His tattooed arms encircle me, strong and sure, pressing me closer to the heat of his chest. I can feel the warmth of his breath against my skin as his lips trace a path along my neck, sending shivers down my spine. Every touch, every kiss, ignites a fire within me, fueling my desire even moreExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Let''s take this... to the bedroom," I breathe out, my fingers entwining with his ck hair, tugging gently Without a word, Zayn lifts me effortlessly, carrying me through the misty veil of the bathroom into our bedroom. The cool air hits my damp skin, but his body is an inferno against mine, keeping the chill at bay. Heys me down on the bed, his lips trailing fire across my corbone. My heart hammers against my rib cage, anticipation tightening every muscle. His eyes darken with desire, and he kisses me passionately, his tonguepping at my lower lip before nipping it gently Zayn''s hand travels down to where I ache for him most, dipping a single finger inside of me, eliciting a moan from my lips. He groans against my mouth, as he slowly adds another finger to join the first, stretching and teasing me. I arch my hips. upwards, desperate for more when he pulls his fingers from me "N..No..." I gasp, my voice husky with need He chuckles, "Patience love," His dark hands are stark contrast against my pale skin as he cups my breasts, his thumbs flicking over my hard nipples. I arch my back, desperate for more "You''re so beautiful," he whispers reverently, taking one pert peak into his mouth. The sensation of his tongue and teeth on my sensitive skin sends a wave of pleasure coursing through me. My nails dig into the sheets as hezily licks and sucks his way to the other breast, teasing and tormenting me mercilessly My breath catches in my throat when he pushes between my legs, exposing me to his hungry gaze. He spreads my legs apart, and I feel myself dripping with need for him. His silver eyes darken with lust as he stares at my core, his arousal hard against his abs Chapter 93 "So beautiful," he rumbles before he lowers himself between my thighs. His tongue flicks out andps at my folds, making me moan loudly "Zayn," I pant, my hips bucking against his mouth. He chuckles against me, gently nipping at my inner thigh before tracing his tongue along my most sensitive spot "You taste so sweet, love," he mutters before diving back in. My back arches off the bed as he hits the right spot, his tongue swirling around in slow, hypnotic circles The pressure builds within me, coiling tighter and tighter until I can''t take it anymore. "I.. I''m going to-." His tongue and fingers work against my most sensitive spots, driving me closer and closer to the edge "That''s it," he growls, his eyes locking with mine as I break apart in his arms, my climax washing over me like a tidal wave He crawls up my trembling body, his arousal is hot and insistent against my dampness, and kisses me, forcing me to taste myself on his tongue He pulls away, leaving me breathless, and I wrap my legs around his waist. "Cleo!" Zayn growls. My fingers trace the scar down his left nk before my fingers wrap around his cock, and I try to pull him closer He hesitates only for a moment but presses his body against mine when his hand moves to pull mine away from his cock and he reaches back to unlock my ankles from behind his back "Hands to yourself," His voice is rough,ughced with a restraint I know 1s for my sake, but I don''t get why he wants to. We already live together, and I don''t think things can get any more serious than they are, so his hesitation confuses me But just as his hard length drags across my core, he quickly repositions himself, a shadow crosses his face. He hesitates and then pulls back, leaving an aching void where his warmth once was "Zayn?" Confusion and a sudden fear grips me Why is he stopping? "Cleo, I-" He runs a hand through his wet hair, frustration etched into every line of his body. "T can''t do this. Not now. It''s not about desire, believe me. It''s...timing, respect. We should wait until you have your wolf." "My wolf?" The words taste bitter. "We live together, Zayn. What are we waiting for?" "Tt''s not about the physical or our living conditions, Cleo. I respect you too much to rush this," he says, his eyes pleading for understanding "Respect?" I sit up, wrapping the sheet around me, suddenly feeling exposed and vulnerable My heart feels like it''s cracking open, raw, and bleeding. "It doesn''t feel like respect. It feels like rejection."All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. "No, that''s not what I meant." Zayn reaches out, but I flinch away, the movement sharp and involuntary "Then what, Zayn? Help me understand because right now I''m lost. If you don''t want me, why the fuck am I here?" I say, my voice is trembling nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "IT want you, Cleo. More than I''ve ever wanted anything. But I want us to be right. You said so yourself before that what you feel could be a sire bond. I would rather wait for your wolf so you know for sure." "Real?" I echo, anger ring hot in my chest "What could be more real than this?" "Please, just trust me." There''s a hint of desperation in his voice, a plea for patience I''m not sure that I possess "Trust," I mutter. "There appears to be a lot of that going around, doesn''t it? What are you afraid of? I will go running and screaming that you slept with me while I have no wolf; oh, the fucking scandal!" "You''re being unreasonable," he mutters, pushing off the bed. "I''m protecting you!" "Protecting me or protecting yourself?" I challenge. "Are you scared that I''m a mistake or Just another pawn in your game against my father?" "Damn it, Cleo, you know that''s not true!" His tattooed arms tense, muscles coiling beneath his skin, evidence of his frustration or perhaps restraint "Then prove it! Show me, Zayn!" My green eyes sh, demanding and seeking an answer that seems to slip further away with each breath "Proving it isn''t about sleeping together," he says firmly. "It''s about building something real, somethingsting. Can''t you see that?" nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 0005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Can''t you see that every time you pull away, it makes me feel unwanted?!" Tears blur my vision, but pride keeps them from falling. "Every time you stop, it feels like you regret even touching me!" "Stop saying that," Zayn growls, and for a moment, Zarek, his wolf, seems to flicker behind those silver eyes. "You are not a regret You could never be a regret." "Then why does it feel like you''re using me?" The usation hangs heavy between us, a suffocating cloud of doubt. "Is this just revenge against my father? Because if it is, I swear-" "Revenge?" He steps back as if struck, hurt shing across his features before they harden like stone. "Do you seriously think I would go this far for revenge?" "Wouldn''t you? As soon as things get serious, you retreat, like I''m some sort of... mistake you''re trying to correct." My voice cracks, revealing the fear beneath the anger "Being with you is the one thing I''m certain of," he insists, yet his posture wavers, betraying his words. "It''s not a big deal. You''re making it one There 1s nothing wrong with waiting; thest couple of weeks have been hard enough with the dramas with your father without me having to fight you on this, too." Zayn tells me "Or is that it? The disgraced alpha''s daughter, painted a whore for the world to see; suddenly you''re embarrassed." "Stop putting words in my mouth. I never said that." He rubs his temples and sighs heavily, as if the weight of the world rests solely on his shoulders. "Cleo, I am not arguing with you over this; I want to wait. You should want to, too You re making a big deal out of nothing. You should have your wolf." "Tm an adult; I don''t need my wolf to tell me that." Chapter 94 "ording to humanws, not werewolf ones, and the fact you''re arguing with me over this shows your maturity," his words sting more than if he pped me. Tears prick my eyes He clicks his tongue and curses under his breath, realizing what he said. "I didn''t mean it like that, I..." he reaches for me, but I pull away He stands up, his muscles tensing, the struggle in in his posture. "I think... Ineed to clear my head. I should check on the club and handle some things in the city."All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. "Go, then," I spit out, feeling the sting of tears in my eyes. "I wouldn''t want you to be caught with jail bait." Not that I am, legally, I am an adult; it'' s just an unspokenw for she-wolves to wait until they have their wolves, a way of ensuring women remain pure while the men can do what they want. He knows it, and I know it. They say it''sw, but it isn''t written formally, and quite frankly, if I can vote on city stuff and within the pack councils, Iam a legal adult. Getting your wolf is kind of like hitting puberty, or in our case, adulthood, in a sense and 1s frowned upon since the exchange of fluids can influence she- wolves just like saliva can force a sire bond when healing, yet I never sired to Deacon, and now being with Zayn for thest few months, I know my feelings for him are real, so 1s it so wrong? "Damn it, Cleo, that''s not fair," he growls, the sound almost inhuman, his wolf clearly close to the surface He turns toward the door, and I reach out, grabbing his arm to stop him. But he spins around with such force that I release my grip, stepping back in shock. For a fleeting second, I see the wolf in him pushing forward, fighting for control My hand shoots out to grab his arm, a desperate attempt to get him to stay. "Zayn, please " But he spins around so fast, I lose my footing, and it''s not just Zayn who faces me it''s Zarek too. His wolf is there, just beneath the surface, with silver eyes zing with an intensity that nearly knocks the breath from my lungs "Let go, Cleo," he growls, the deep rumble resonating with a power that''s both terrifying and enthralling "Zayn..." The word escapes as a gasp, my fingers still clutched around his firm bicep, feeling the tremors of the beast within him He shakes his head, a shudder rippling through him, a battle unfolding before my eyes. "T can''t stay. I''m struggling to keep control." "Wait." My plea hangs between us, drenched in desperation "No. It''s better if I go. There''s something I need to do anyway. I need to check on the club after the rogue attack." His voice is strained, coated with the effort of restraint "Take me with you," I insist, the thought of being left behind adding anotheryer to the rejection already weighing me down "Damn it, Cleo, I need to be away from you for a damn moment." He pulls away, and the absence of his touch feels like ice spreading through my veins nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 00005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "If you want me to leave, just say it." I spit the words out, anger unfurling "That''s not it," he says, but the conviction I crave isn''t there. "Right now, I can''t trust myself around you, not with Zarek, this close to the edge, he marks you. There is no going back; I have already marked you. Isn''t that enough until you get your wolf?" "Fantastic." Bitterness taints my tone a cocktail of hurt and defiance. "So I''m to be punished because your wolf can''t handle proximity?" "Dammit, Cleo, it''s not like that!" Frustration creases his brow. "I''m trying to protect you." "From what? From you?" Myugh is hollow and void of humor. "Or are you protecting yourself from me?" "Stop twisting my words!" He''s shouting now, the walls echoing with the sound of his annoyance "Fine!" The finality in my voice scares even me "Go check your club. Do what you have to do." I wave him off, moving toward the bathroom to finish my shower "Enough, Cleo. I get your wolf is close toing forward, and it''s making you unreasonably angry, but I have mine, and you''re pushing his buttons." It''s a warning wrapped in resignation, and it stings more than any rebuke "Just go, Zayn," I tell him, and he moves toward the walk-in closet to get changed nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! He pauses at the door, his silhouette a dark reminder of everything we''re on the brink of losing. Without another word, he walks out, and I''m left with the echo of our heated argument and the fear that this time, he will tell me to leave. The moment I hear the door m shut downstairs, guilt and humiliation m into me violently, and I wish I could take back everything I said ~Zayn~ The thumping bass of the club vibrates through me as I push my way through the sea of bodies The club''s neon lights are a pulsating heartbeat My wolf, Zarek, snarls beneath my skin, restless, yearning to go back to our mate "Zayn!" Vance''s voice cuts through the noise as I reach the bar and order a drink. His dark hair is a stark contrast against the shimmering backdrop of our club. I nod at him, signaling to talk in private. I down the drink in one go, feeling the burn trail down my throat, and the girl behind the bar slides me another one, and I head toward the VIP section upstairs, where my office 1s We weave through the crowd to the quieter back office, the scent of musk and alcohol clinging to the air. Once the door shuts, the sound muffles into a distant throb "You alright? You look furious," Vance says, leaning against the desk. The dim light casts shadows across his concerned face. "What happened?" he asks Chapter 95 I sink into a chair. The weight of my restraint 1s heavy on my shoulders. "Cleo and I had a fight." He crosses his arms. "I want her to see the bond for herself. To feel it, to recognize it... without me forcing it upon her." Vance raises an eyebrow. "You''re running out of time, Zayn. And she''ll know once she has her wolf, anyway. Why not just tell her? Let the mate bond do its work." I drink my ss of whiskey "Ts this about tradition because no one follows tradition anymore? I know mom liked the idea, but it is unrealistic?" He probes, refilling my ss "Partly." I take a smaller sip this time, letting the whiskey linger on my tongue. "But it''s more about respect. Cleo''s been sheltered, kept away from pack politics and wars. She views the world with a purity that''s... rare." "Rare or naive?" Vance interjects "Both," I concede. "Which is precisely why I want her toe to me out of love, not obligation or some predestined fate. I want to wait until she epts the bond because she feels it, truly feels it." "You don''t seem convinced, since when did you care about waiting? I''m sorry, brother, but it sounds more like you''re trying to protect your virtue, not hers," heughs. "Which the entire city knows that''s been gone a while," heughs I chuckle because he''s right, but maybe that is why I want to do things differently with Cleo. If I had known I would find my mate this early in my life, I would have waited for her, too "To the rest of the city, it looks like I kidnapped her and turned her against her father, and I am not stupid. She questions that herself," I say, worry edging my voice. "Her 19th birthday is close. It''s a rite of passage for she-wolves. She needs to feel the connection organically. I don''t want any doubt in her mind when I im her if it''s a sire bond or in the city''s eyes that I forced a mate bond with her." "She would still recognize her mate if it weren''t you, I don''t get it, a mate bond will always overpower a chosen bond, marked or not." I lean back, rolling the empty ss between my hands "I know that, I..." I put my head in my hands "She has already let me mark her, yet still believes I am rejecting her by not sleeping with her." Looking at Vance, I see it clearly on his face, he does not understand my reasoning. Now I am starting to doubt it myself "Alright, Alpha," Vance concedes with a sigh nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "But be careful. If your wolf takes over..." "Zarek is restless, but he understands." I stand up, the scar on my nk pulling slightly-a reminder of battles fought and those yet toe. "I need to do right by her. By both of us. I want her to mark me when we reach that part, toplete the bond fully; I don''t want to spoil it for her. It''s how it should be, and I know she won''t mark me until she has her wolf." "Good luck convincing him to be patient until her birthday." "He''ll manage." I say, but the certainty doesn''t quite make it to my own ears "Come on, you can drink, and I''ll drop you home afterward. At least then I won''t have to worry about Zarek going crazy on her if you''ve passed out." "I have meetings tomorrow. I''ll have a few more, but then I should head back." I admit, and he nods, sliding the bottle of whiskey over to me 28 2K 2 2k ok ~Cleo~ The tter of pots and pans echoes through the empty kitchen as I rummage for the right skillet? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. The sharp scent of rosemary and thyme fills the air, a fragrant attempt to mask the tension that still lingers from the fight with Zayn. My hands shake a little as I ce the pan on the stove, the me springing to life with a click and whoosh I''m not the best cook-I know that-but it''s the gesture that counts, right? A peace offering in the form of a cooked meal since that is the only thing I can possibly offer him. The silence in our home is suffocating, each tick of the clock stretching the distance between us. Zayn could walk through that door at any moment, or he might stay away until morning. There''s no telling when he''ll return, but I feel worse knowing he left his own house to get away from me My fingers fumble with a tomato, slicing it more clumsily than I''d like to admit. I wish I could slice away the regret just as easily, peel back theyers of ourst conversation, and start fresh The sizzle of garlic in the pan is a small victory as I toss in the chopped vegetables. I hover over the stove, stirring with more vigor than necessary I let out a deep breath, watching as the steam dances upwards, mingling with the fading daylight. My thoughts drift to Zayn, his touch, a lingering promise of raw passion and untamed desire, always leaves me aching for more and also distracts me from the task at hand The sizzle of the pan esctes too quickly, the pan catching on fire, the scent of charred meat and vegetables recing the rich aroma I had intended, and I race to shut the stove off and try to rescue the steaks; the mes rise higher. I drop it in the sink, turning the tap on. My heart sinks as I peek into the skillet-my attempt at a perfect steak, now an overcooked b, ckened beyond recognition. With a frustrated groan, I slide it into the trash. Grabbing a tea towel, I open the sliding door off the side of the kitchen that leads outside and try to waft the smoke outside, hoping not to set off the fire rms Chapter 96 Thankfully, they don''t go off, but now I am left with attempting to find something else to cook "Damn it," I mutter, scouring the freezer for anything else suitable, but it''s mostly roasts, which need to be thawed out, or meats I don''t recognize, but they certainly aren''t steak Wait-the basement I remember there''s another freezer down there, probably stocked with something salvageable, and I make a beeline for the door leading downstairs Mid-step, my phone buzzes alive with Zayn''s ringtone a flutter of relief that has butterflies swarming my belly, knowing he can''t hate me if he 1s ringing. I fumble for the device, answering the call with a quick swipe "Hey," I breathe out, anticipation knotting my stomach "Cleo." Zayn''s voice is a soothing balmced with regret. "I...I''m sorry about earlier. That shouldn''t have happened." My chest warms at his words, and I quickly apologize. "It''s okay. I''m making dinner-as a truce?" "Truce epted," he says, a soft chuckle vibrating through the line. "Tm on my way home. Vance is driving me. Apparently, he doesn''t want me driving since I had a few drinks." "You''re drunk?" I ask him while feeling for the light on the wall "No, but he insisted. Just... don''t set the ce on fire while you''re at it." I can''t help butugh despite my culinary mishap moments ago. "No promises," I reply, yful yet sincere. "But I''ll try for your sake." "Good," he murmurs, and I can almost see the smile tugging at his lips, those silver eyes glinting with mirth. "T''ll be home soon; we are just pulling up at the gates now." As I find the light switch, I step onto the cool concrete steps of the basement, and I focus on the task at hand "So, what are you cooking?" Zayn asks "I have no idea yet," Iugh nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! The chill of the basement wraps around me like a cold embrace as I make my way to the old freezer tucked in the corner. The scent of damp earth mingles with the anticipation of Zayn''s return, igniting a fire within me that contrasts sharply with the frigid air Boxes are stacked on top the freezer, and I quickly remove them, setting them down. "Hang on a second; I need to set the phone down," I murmur to Zayn, a smile ying on my lips. My fingers wrap around the freezer''s handle, and I pull it open with a decisive tug. "Just put me on loudspeaker; at least then I will definitely hear the fire rm go off." Iugh softly into the emptiness, thinking of Zayn''s yful warning The icy breath from the freezer hits my face as I peer inside, searching for something to salvageExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. this dinner disaster. But theughter dies in my throat, a gasp escaping me instead. My eyes widen, and my heart hammers against my rib cage-a primal drum of shock and fear. There, beneath a bag of frozen peas I just moved, lies a body- pale, stiff, unmistakably human "Cleo? Are you there?" Zayn asks, and I snatch up the phone "Zayn, yeah, Iam-" My voice cracks, but he cuts me off. While I can''t take my eyes off from the horror in front of me "Hey, I just pulled up. You better not be burning down the kitchen again," he teases through the phone, his voice a soothing balm that suddenly feels like poison I can''t speak. I drop the phone; it tters on the concrete floor, the sound echoing in the hollow space. My gaze is locked onto the body, onto the familiar features now frosted over. It''s Deacon My Deacon, who disappeared without a trace, 1s now found in the most horrific ce imaginable Why is he here, in Zayn''s basement, frozen and lifeless, hidden in the depths of this chilling chamber? His once vibrant eyes are now zed over, his skin a ghostly pallor, besides the blood and bruising that paints his skin. The frozen stiffness of his limbs tells a haunting tale of his final moments, which seemed brutal because of the amount of blood covering his body like frozen icicles Why is he here? The realization ms into me, leaving no room for doubt. When I remember Zayn''s callous words over thest couple of months, how he seemed unfazed by Deacon''s disappearance, sure he didn''t like Deacon, but he did almost seem mocking of it. This was Zayn''s doing. A dark, twisted betrayal disguised by the man who imed to want to be my mate. He knew all along where he was. He knew and even helped me put up missing posters when his body was here all this time. Zayn''s actions were not only callous, but malicious and deceptive - a deliberate attempt to manipte me into believing Deacon had run away, despite knowing the truth all along My knees buckle, and I copse beside the phone, my mind racing and my heart splintering. The world tilts and the shadows of the basement seem to close in around me, suffocating, as the truth ws its way through my shattered illusions. When I hear the car outside pulling up, I know I need to get out of here The weight of my betrayal, the gut-wrenching realization that I had been deceived by the one person I thought I could trust, threatens to consume me Forcing myself to my feet, tears stream down my face as the full weight of my foolishness and the magnitude of Zayn''s betrayal hits me. I feel like a puppet, manipted and used by someone I loved and trusted. My mind swirling with a mix of anger, grief, and disgust. How could I have been so blind? Lydia was right all along, and I foolishly ignored her warnings. Now those same warnings echo in my mind, haunting me with the truth I had refused to see. The realization that Zayn used me, manipted me, hits me like a tidal wave, leaving me questioning everything he has ever said or done Chapter 97 The depth of his deception is beyondprehension, and I can''t help but wonder what else he has lied about My heart clenches with the realization that I may not have truly known him at all. The foundation of trust we built is shattered, and I''m left wondering what else he has lied about and what other secrets he''s hiding. All this time, while I''ve wondered where Deacon was, he was right under the very house I have been fooling around with his murderer all this time. Disgust washes over me The evidence was there, but I didn''t want to believe it. Now, I can''t help but question everything Zayn has ever told me. The chill of the basement is nothingpared to the ice flooding my veins as I stare at Deacon''s lifeless form, his face pale and haunting beneath the frost as I m the freezer door shut, looking for another exit frantically, but the only way out is up the stairs right next to the front door "Cleo!?" I hear him call out upstairs before hearing the door shut. "Your phone must have cut out," he yells out before everything falls silent As I stand frozen in the basement, my heart pounds in my chest like a relentless drumbeat The air feels heavy with betrayal and my mind races with a whirlwind of emotions. Fear grips me as J realize that I am trapped, caught in a web of lies and deceit. Every fiber of my being screams for escape, but I am paralyzed by the weight of what I have discovered. The suffocating darkness of the basement mirrors the suffocating grip that Zayn had on my heart, and I can''t help but wonder if I will ever truly be free from his maniption "Cleo?" He says, though there is nervousness in his voice this time, when I hear the door to the basement creak, and I know I''ve been caught ~Zayn~ I stare at the phone. "Cleo?" I say while unclipping my seatbelt Vance looks at me. "What''s wrong?" Vance asks "Nothing, the phone cut out; I think she dropped her phone. I better check she isn''t burning down the house." Iugh, opening my door. Vance drives off as I fiddle with the keys, unlocking the ce and stepping inside Silence greets me like an unwee omen as I step into the foyer, my pulse quickening with a strange foreboding. "Cleo?" I call out, my voice echoing off the walls, unanswered I nce around as I step into the vast mansion foyer, its empty halls echoing with my footsteps Worry gnaws at me as I call out Cleo''s name, but there is no response. The silence is suffocating, amplifying my concern for Cleo''s safety I clutch the phone tighter, still nk like the phone is connected; it''s just dropped service "Cleo?" I call out. My heart hammers against my chest as I press the end-call button. Something''s wrong nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Damn it," I mutter under my breath, tossing my phone on the nearest table. I make my way through the silence, every nerve in my body on high alert. It''s too quiet-the kind of quiet that has my wolf on edge. I check the kitchen, but she isn''t there, before making my way back into the hall. I take a deep breath and scan the living room-no sign of her. I creep into the hallway, my heart pounding in my chest "Cleo?" I call out, wondering if she is upstairs or ying a prank My eyes dart across the room, and they settle on the basement door, slightly ajar. I stop in my tracks, my gaze going to the open door. I take a deep breath and slowly walk towards it. My stomach knots as I take in the scene before me A cold shiver runs down my spine. I never leave that door open. Panic courses through me I know before I even move that she is in the basement With heavy, urgent steps, I rush toward the doorway, taking the stairs two at a time down into the dimly lit basement. The basement is dimly lit, with flickering overhead lights casting eerie shadows against the cold concrete walls The air is heavy and musty, carrying a sense of foreboding that sends a chill down my spine. As I descend the stairs, the silence bes even more palpable, intensifying the feeling of dread that hangs in the air. The sight that meets my eyes steals the air from my lungs There''s Cleo, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs, her blonde hair cascading over her face like a curtain hiding her pain. She''s staring at something-or someone-in front of her. My fists clench as I follow her gaze to the closed freezer Cleo, usually vibrant and full of life, now appears fragile and broken, her vulnerability emitting an aura of despair. Panic engulfs me asAll content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. I realize the gravity of the situation, my mind racing with dark possibilities. As my eyes meet Cleo''s, the realization dawns on me that she has already looked inside the freezer, and that she knows what I did "Cleo?" My voice cracks, rough with barely contained rage and fear, but I''m careful to keep my distance, remembering how much she hates being cornered when upset. Her green eyes, usually so vibrant, are dull with betrayal and hurt, and it ws at me. I step closer, and she steps back, frightened of me "Don''te closer," she snarls, her eyes narrowing as she res at me "I would never hurt you, Cleo," I tell her, trying to remain calm when all I want to do is grab her "You think killing Deacon didn''t hurt me?" she scofts despite her heartbreak "You looked in the freezer..." I know she did She just admitted, but it wasn''t a question, but just an acknowledgment of what she found in it "Stay back!" she hisses, her voiceced with betrayal as I reach for her. "Don''t touch me, Zayn!" Chapter 98 Themand slices through me, a direct hit to my heart. But I respect it because that''s what you do when you love someone you give them space, even when every instinct tells you to pull them close "Okay, okay," I whisper, raising my hands in surrender, my skin itching with the need to shift to let Zarek take over and handle this mess "I can exin," I try to tell her, and she nces at the freezer "You lied." I shake my head. And something changes in her demeanor, her face twisting with fury "Tt''s not like that, Cleo. You know I would do nothing to hurt you," I tell her, trying to get closer when her eyes dart around the basement in panic, looking for an escape route, but I can see she also knows the only one means having to pass meAll content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. "He''s been here all this time?" she asks, her voice breaking "Come upstairs, I''ll exin," I try to grab her, but she makes my hands "Get away from me!" Her voice is sharp, like shattered ss, and it stops me cold I reach out, trying to brush her arm with the tips of my fingers to offer some semnce offort. But she recoils as if my touch burns her skin. "Don''t touch me!" Cleo screams, her eyes wild with hurt She makes a break for the stairs, but I can''t let her go, not like this. My hand wraps around her wrist, pulling her back, and her reaction is immediate and violent. She swings at me, her fist connecting with my jaw as I grab her, only for her nails to rake across my cheek, and I taste blood "Stop, Cleo! I''m not your enemy," I try to reason, but she won''t hear it "Let me go!" She kicks out, connecting with a spot that sends agony exploding through me. I double over, releasing her instantly as her foot connects with my balls. I growl, and she darts up the stairs while I try to catch my breath "Vance," I mindlink quickly, fighting through the pain. "Lock the ce down. Now." I tell him, rushing up the stairs after her I reach the top just in time to see Cleo darting toward the keys of my car that isn''t here. Her movements are swift, almost a blur, desperation fueling her "Dammit, Cleo, listen to me!" I shout, but she''s already snatching the keys and spinning toward the exit nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Stay away from me, Zayn!" Her voice breaks, a harrowing sound that tugs at my soul But I can''t stop the need to protect her from herself and from what she is refusing to let me exin. I chase after her, catching glimpses of her blonde hair as she maneuvers through the house with frantic energy "Please, Cleo," I call out, my own voice strained with emotions too tangled to unravel. "We need to talk. Just... stop running." But she doesn''t stop. She never does. And as she reaches for the door and rips it open and I grab her from behind, trying to haul her back into the house when she bites me viciously, drawing blood before swinging her head back. It connects with my nose, and I feel the crunch of her breaking it. I let her go and curse The night swallows her whole. Cleo''s fleeing form pauses, realizing my car isn''t here. Her blonde hair whips her face as she looks for another way before she takes off down the driveway. Zarek presses against my skin urging me after her. My men, hearing themotion, starting out of their houses, seeing me chasing after her and moving to help Two of my men block her off, and another grabs her; she struggles and starts screaming like she is being murdered, the sound tearing at me, hearing how terrified she is "Stand down!" I roar, mymand slicing through the night air as my men move to intercept her. They hesitate, confusion etched on their faces, but they obey, stepping aside They let her go instantly, but Cleo isn''t slowing down. She spins and delivers two precise and powerful blows that send Jax and Kieran to the ground with thuds that resonate within me "Dammit, Cleo!" I shout after her, my voice rasping with desperation Ignoring the pulsing pain where she bit me, I give in to the primal surge within, allowing my bones to shift and my skin to stretch. The world blurs, senses heighten, and my wolf takes over with a growl that rumbles from deep within She''s almost at the gates when he reaches her, the scent of her fear filling his nostrils. I can''t let her leave, not like this, and Zarek reluctantly hands me back control as he shifts "Help! Someone" Cleo''s scream pierces the night just as she grabs the gate. But before she can climb, I''m there, enveloping her struggles with myrger form "Shhh," I whisper fiercely, mping a hand over her mouth. "Cleo, stop. I won''t hurt you." Her teeth sink into my hand, the sharp pain igniting a re of anger in Zarek. I fight it, fight him, as she struggles in my hold. She struggles even harder, her desperation and fear palpable. I take a deep breath, trying to remain calm, and step towards her. I cup her face in my hands and look into her eyes, pleading with her to understand but she refuses to listen, refuses to see past her grief Chapter 99 "Stop this, Cleo! You''re safe with me." My words are a growl, the human part of me clinging to control by a thread. "Don''t do this..." But she does, and I feel Zarek''s dominance surges forward, wanting to im her to force her stay The scent of her fear and her sharp teeth are sweet with defiance, snaps the fragile leash I have on Zarek. He lunges forward, a snarl ripping from his throat as he pins Cleo against the cold metal of the gate. The primal urge to im her, to mark her as mine, thrums through every fiber of my being "Zayn!" Cleo''s voice is muffled against my hand, but the terror in her green eyes slices through the haze of my wolf''s instincts. "Please, don''t!" "Vance!" I scream mentally through our pack link, the urgency breaking through even as Zarek''s growls fill the air. I''m losing myself to him; my wolf is too strong and too desperate to keep her here and him marking her, there won''t be any escape from me I hear the rapid patter of paws before I see Vance''s dark form blur into sight. His wolf, massive and bristling, barrels into Zarek with a force that sends us both tumbling away from Cleo. Teeth sh, and pain sears along my nk where Vance''s fangs sink into Zarek''s hide Vance''s wolf snarls, and he positions himself between Cleo and me, a protective barrier that Zarek rages against "Mine," Zarek growls back, but Vance''s wolf doesn''t relent "Control it, Zayn!" Vance''s human voice echoes in my mind, insistent and fierce. "You need to control him, Zayn!" he says, like he believes I am not trying hard enough, but Zarek is in panic mode, thinking his mate 1s leaving him, rejecting him Cleo scrambles away, her breathing in ragged sobs. She''s cornered, terrified, her gaze flickering between the two wolves locked inbat. I can feel her heart pounding, the rush of her blood calling to the very core of my wolfExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. "Stand down, Zarek," Imand, fighting to infuse the order with all the authority I possess Vance''s wolf tears into Zarek, who attacks back while I struggle to control my wolf as Kieran and Jax move to help him, but they don''t shift. I feel the change in Zarek, realizing if he attacks them while they aren''t shifted, he can seriously hurt them With a final, grudging retreat, Zarek backs down as I yell at him to stop fighting me. Vance doesn''t move, his body a living shield as he watches Zarek warily, ready to strike again if necessary "Give him control, Zarek. Before you lose her for good," Vance urges through the link, his words ashing reminder of what''s at stake Shifting back is agony-bones realigning, flesh knitting together as I force the shift back while Zarek tries to stop me. I stand naked and vulnerable in the chill night air, silver eyes fixed on Cleo''s trembling form "Cleo," I rasp, my voice hoarse with the remnants of Zarek''s fury. "I would never hurt you." But the words hang heavy, tainted by the shadow of what has just unfolded. The distance between us feels like a chasm, one forged by fear and mistrust, and I''m uncertain if it can ever be bridged again "You killed him," she chokes "Tt was justified; even Alpha Greyson agreed," I tell her, but she shakes her head "You lied, and said you had no idea when Lydia and I asked. Fuck''s sake, you even helped me fucking look for him!" she screams. I move toward her, but she scrambles to her feet, ready to run, but Vance''s wolf cuts her off, and Jax and Kieran nk her She panics, spinning toward me. "Please, you need to listen," I tell her as I grab her. She thrashes, hitting and kicking me, but she stands no chance against me without her wolf; she knows it, and I know it. But still, she tries "You''re a liar, you''re a fucking liar. I hate you!" "T have proof," I tell her, crushing her to me, my chest pressing against her back as I lock her wrists together at her chest with my hands "You''d say anything, wouldn''t you? How can I believe a single thing you fucking say now?" she screams, struggling harder. My canines slip out, and my anger gets the better of me as I squeeze her with my teeth going to her neck "He was trying to rape my mate!" I snarl at her, and she freezes. "I wasn''t going to let him hurt you," I murmur. She shakes her head, not wanting to believe me, not wanting to believe my words "I can prove it. I have video footage from the club," I tell her, knowing Vance is smart enough to have kept a copy in case we ever needed it Her entire body trembles in my arms, and I can feel her shock, though I am not sure what is shocking her most, learning I am her mate or that her ex tried to rape her. She stares at me in disbelief, her eyes wide. I take her face in my hands and look into her eyes, my heart aching for her pain. I know I need to tell her the truth; I have no choice now. I just hope she believes me Chapter 100 CI ? Nothing makes sense to me anymore. I feel like I can''t trust anyone at the moment as I sit on the sofa in the living room while Zayn waits to be sent some video footage that will apparently prove killing Deacon was justified, yet death is never the answer. There would have been other options, but I just can''t picture Deacon ever doing that to me. It makes me question everything more. I have known Deacon for years and Zayn for three months, yet he expects me to believe Deacon is capable of something so vile I''m torn between the Deacon I know and the watching of the supposed evidence Zayn says he has. It''s difficult to trust my instincts when my emotions are clouded by doubt and confusion. I never thought I would find myself in such a predicament, questioning the character of someone I thought I knew so well. It has me questioning Zayn and his intentions, why would he keep this secret and help me search for my boyfriend, only to then say this? Zayn''''s phone rings loudly and he starts downloading the supposed footage "Ts that it?" I ask as he stares down at his phone He clenches his jaw, watching whatever it is. I stand up and he curses under his breath. "What is it?" Task. Zayn looks up at me, his face a mask of emotion. He quickly shuts his phone screen off, looking angrier The air is heavy with tension as Zayn paces in front of me, desperation evident in every movement. His silver eyes lock onto mine, pleading for understanding. "Cleo, please, just listen to me," he begs "Show me, you said you have proof!" I tell him, and he looks like he is about to toss his phone, his anger growing by the second. "T have it, but please, baby, you need to believe me, the footage-" I hold my hand out for his phone, ignoring his words; he said he has proof, and I want to see it My heart hammers in my chest, betrayal gnawing at me like an insistent beast. I cross my arms defensively and re at him. "And why should I? You have lied to me from the start Now give me the phone, Zayn, or I am leaving." I snap at him. He takes a step back, his face a mask of confusion. I take a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves, and then speak again "What have you got to hide? Just show me." "Because I love you, and this isn''t helping!" he exims, his voice cracking. He reaches out to touch my arm, but I yank it away, unable to stand even the slightest contact with him right nowPlease check at N/?vel(D)rama.Org. "Love? Is that what you call this?" I scoff, feeling my vision blur with unshed tears "You''ve done nothing but lie to me, Zayn! And for what?" He clenches his fists, the muscles in his tattooed arms and chest trembling with barely contained emotion. "I did it to protect you. I swear, Cleo, everything I''ve done has been for you." "But how can I trust that, Zayn? This whole situation has left me questioning everything, including your love for me. I need more than just words to believe you now." "I was trying to protect you!" "Protect me? By keeping secrets and manipting me?" I shake my head, anger and hurt swirling together into a maelstrom of emotions that threatens to overwhelm me. "How can I trust anything you say anymore? You helped me look for my boyfriend, knowing he was dead. Do you understand how sick that is? How fucking callous and cold!" "Please, just give me a chance to exin." Zayn''s voice is barely above a whisper, the raw vulnerability in his eyes threatening to break through the walls I''m desperately trying to build around my heart. "I''ll do anything to make this right." "Anything?" My voice wavers as I look into those silver eyes, searching for any hint of deception. But all I see is pain and longing the same feelings that are tearing me apart inside "Anything," he promises, his voice thick with emotion "Then give me that damn phone," I demand, my own voice trembling Zayn''s tense form paces in front of me, agitation rolling off him in waves. He holds his phone tightly. The video footage paused on the screen, disying Deacon leading me to his car. "Just watch it," Zayn insists, silver eyes pleading, desperation etched onto his handsome face He passes me the phone and I peer at the screen that is paused still. Gathering my courage and with a deep breath, I press y, knowing I am about to witness my ex''s death. Tears roll down my cheeks as I watch the footage, knowing this is thest moment I spent with him, ording to Zayn The footage rolls, capturing the tense scene as Deacon guides me towards his car. Yet I have no memory of this, and it is clear that I am blind drunk. Nothing appears overtly suspicious; I lean against him as he unlocks the vehicle, and I start sliding along the car side before Deacon catches me. Deacon appears to beughing as he opens the back of his car and sets me on the tailgate. I can''t see anything going on because of the tinted windows, but Deacon doesn''t appear to be doing anything sinister from the angle. Not that I can see much since there are so many cars in the parking lot Zayn suddenlyes into the picture and moves toward Deacon, who even seems carefree as he addresses Zayn,ughing The poor quality of the video and theck of sound make it difficult to discern the motive behind this attack. This chaotic scene leaves me questioning the reliability of Zayn''s ims Zayn and Deacon say a few words, but nothing in Deacon''s behavior suggests he is doing anything wrong; he even motions towards me in the car andughs. Zayn nods, scratches his chin, and then turns into a savage Chapter 101 My heart sinks as I watch Zayn m the car trunk lid on Deacon''s head, his face contorted in anger. Zayn steals Deacon''s phone, the screen lighting up as he stands at the back of the car before moving out of the camera''s view, yet I see him pocket the phone as he looks toward the club. He then nervously nces towards the entrance as if fearing he''s being watched. In one swift motion, Zayn grabs me from the back of Deacon''s car and stuffs me into his car A car pulls up beside us, and my breath catches in my throat as I recognize the driver - it''s Vance. He seems equally apprehensive, tossing Deacon into the trunk of his car and stealing a worried nce around. He seems to be hoping no one is watching. Zayn then shoves me into his vehicle, and the scene ends, proving nothing. What did he expect to show me with this footage? It wouldn''t be the first time Deacon and I slept in the back of his car when we were too drunk to drive home "See?" Zayn says, stopping the video. "He was trying to hurt you, Cleo. I was protecting you." My mind races as conflicting emotions surge within me. I want to desperately believe Zayn''s exnation, but doubt gnaws at the edges of my thoughts. The evidence before my eyes seems to contradict his words, leaving me torn between trusting who I know as Deacon and giving Zayn the benefit of the doubt I shake my head, anger boiling inside me. "This proves nothing, Zayn! It just shows you attacking him. How do I know you didn''t set this up?" Zayn''s face falls. "Cleo, why would I do that? I have Deacon''s phone. It has the pictures he sent to Lydia. I can show you." My anger res even more. "You could have sent those pictures! How am I supposed to believe anything you say now? You had his phone and were using it; I saw you!" "Cleo, please. You know me. I would never-" "Wouldn''t you?" I ask. My voice is barely a whisper as tears threaten to spill over. "Or were you just trying to control me? To ruin my father?" "Never! That''s not who I am, Cleo." His voice is desperate, his eyes filled with anguish. "I would never hurt you like that. And I never meant for any of this to happen. You know me. You have to believe me." "That''s the thing, Zayn... I don''t know you! I barely know you at all, and this entire time, you''ve been lying to me." My voice trembles with the weight of betrayal. "I need to leave." Zayn''s eyes widen 1n shock as I tell him I''m leaving. He steps closer to me, his hand reaching out to touch my arm, but I take a step back. I can''t let him touch me, not after what I''ve just discoveredAll content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. "Leave? No, Cleo... Where will you go?" His voice 1s filled with worry and fear, and I can see the pain in his eyes. But I can''t let that sway me "Anywhere but here," I reply, my voice trembling slightly. "I can''t stay with someone I can''t trust." The hurt on Zayn''s face only deepens, and I can see the desperation in his eyes as he pleads with me. "Please, Cleo. I''ll do anything to make things right. I can''t bear the thought of losing you. Despite myself, my heart aches at his words. I know that deep down, he has grown to love me, but I am not sure that was his intention from the start. But love isn''t enough to make up for the lies and betrayal He runs his fingers through his hair, desperation etched deeply into his features, as Zayn''s pleading gaze seems to bore a hole straight through me. The way his silver eyes seem to shimmer, reflecting the unshed tears of someone so vulnerable and desperate for my understanding, is a sight that sears into my heart, leaving it twisted and wrenched in a painful, aching way "Damn it, Cleo," Zayn swears, his hand moving through his dark hair in a frustrated, restless gesture. "You''re just going to walk away? Just like that?" His words hang in the air, heavy with the weight of our history together. My heart aches, and I struggle to maintain my resolve The internal conflict raging within me like a storm of emotions - love, betrayal, pain, and guilt. Especially knowing I have been an idiot fooling around with Zayn when all along he is the reason Deacon 1s missing I take a deep breath, trying to calm the turmoil within me. "Zayn," I begin, my voice wavering despite my determination. "What choice do I have? You''ve given me every reason not to trust you." The image of Deacon dead and locked in the freezer shes through my mind, filling me with an overwhelming mixture of anger and betrayal Zayn''s face falls at my words, his eyes filled with pain. "But Cleo, you have to understand...I never meant for any of this to happen," he pleads, taking a step closer to me. His silver eyes are dark with emotion, and I fight the urge to reach out andfort him "You never meant for it to happen? What about Deacon?" I snap, unable to control my anger any longer. "Did you mean to him to be missing? Did you mean to kill him?" Chapter 102 Zayn''s shoulders sag as he looks down at the ground. "No, of course not. I lost it when I found out what he was doing. I am not some psychopath that goes around killing people, Cleo, not without reason," he murmurs quietly "Then why didn''t you tell me what happened?" I ask, tears stinging at my eyes. "Why did you let me believe that everything was fine when it wasn''t? How could you let me sleep upstairs knowing he was underneath us? Your story makes no sense! None of this does!" I scream at him He looks up at me then, his eyes filled with tears of his own. "Because I knew you wouldn''t believe me, you didn''t know me, and you saw the video. What does that prove besides me losing my temper?" he admits softly "Absolutely nothing, but the only truthful thing you''ve said so far is that I don''t know you. And you are right about that!"I turn to leave when he speaks again "Stay here, then I''ll leave," he tells me, and I scoff "Please, Cleo!" he begs, taking a step closer to me. His silver eyes are dark with emotion, and I fight the urge to reach out andfort him. "Let me do this for you. Just let me keep you safe." "Safe?" I scoff, feeling the bitterness rise within me. "Do you think I feel safe with you now? After everything?" "Look, I know I messed up," he admits, his gaze locked on mine. "But I was trying to protect you, Cleo. I swear, I would never hurt you." His words wrap around my heart like a vice, squeezing it painfully. But I can''t especially knowing Deacon is frozen below our feet. "I don''t know if I can believe that anymore, Zayn," I whisper, my voice breaking "Then let me prove it to you," he pleads, his hands gripping my shoulders. I shiver at the intensity of his touch. Memories flooding back to me. "Stay at least until your birthday, please." "TI..." [ hesitate, my resolve wavering. But then I remember the lies and the betrayal, and I force myself to pull away from him. "No, Zayn. I can''t Not until I know the truth."All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. "Please, Cleo," he whispers. His breath warm against my neck as he pulls me close once more His lips brush against my skin, sending a shiver down my spine. "I can''t lose you." "Stop," I choke out, tears forming in my eyes My whole body trembles with desire and frustration, my emotions warring within me. "I can''t do this, Zayn. I don''t know whom to trust anymore, and you were the one person I hoped I could count on." But the distance between us feels insurmountable, the gulf of lies and secrets too wide to bridge. My body trembles with the effort of holding back tears - and the undeniable urge to run into his arms and forget everything. He must see the conflict on my face because he sighs heavily nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 00005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Alright," he relents, stepping back and releasing me. His silver eyes are filled with pain, but he swallows hard and nods "Fine, but I''m not letting you sleep on the streets or without guards." But he ignores my protests when I tell him I don''t want guards, dialing a number on his phone. "I''m booking you a room. You''ll be safe there. I won''t have you on the damn streets, Cleow As I watch him make arrangements, the cold knot of betrayal tightens in my chest. The man I once thought I knew seems like a stranger now How could everything have gone so wrong? Suddenly, Zayn 1s speaking calmly to the person on the other end of the line, arranging everything for me A short whileter, I find myself standing in the lobby of a modest hotel, a room key card in my hand. The receptionist gives me a sympathetic look, but I ignore it. My jaw set as I march toward the elevator, Zayn chasing after me trying to convince me toe home with him As the doors close, Zayn forces his way into the elevator. I let out a shaky breath, trying to process everything that has happened "Seriously, Zayn, this is not giving me damn space." "Just let me walk you up, Cleo." He argues, pressing the button to the second floor We step out of the elevator but he insists on walking me to the door, we walk along the balcony stopping at my door The cold key card in my hand bites into my skin as I swipe it through the reader. The door clicks open with a soft beep. Stepping inside, the room is small but clean. Its peaceful atmosphere is a stark contrast to the turmoil raging within me. I drop my bag on the floor unceremoniously and Zayn tries to talk to me, but I shut the door in his face. He bangs on the door while I sit on the edge of the bed, burying my face in my hands How did ite to this? How did everything spiral so far out of control? Eventually, he gives up and realizes I am not going to speak to him, at least not tonight, and I move to the window. I see Zayn talking to one of his men downstairs pointing to the room, before he climbs into the car. I sigh, knowing he assigned me a babysitter, when the door to the Chinese restaurant opens, drawing my attention across the road to see my father staring after Zayn''s car. I suck in a breath, then his gaze goes to me 1n the window. I stagger back, letting the curtain close, wondering if he saw me, though I know he did He looked directly at me The bitter sting of betrayal threatens to suffocate me, and I struggle to keep my emotions in check An hourter, a knock on the door startles me from my thoughts, my pulse pounding in my ears Chapter 103 My eyes dart around the room, searching for something to use as a weapon if need be. With a shaky breath, I wipe away the tears clinging to myshes and stand, opening the door cautiously "Dad," I breathe out in surprise as I find my father standing there. My father stands before me, his normally stoic expression now softened with concern. His eyes meet mine, filled with a mix of sadness and understanding. I take a deep breath, my heart racing. I can feel my tears welling up as I take a step forward and wrap my arms around my father He hugs me back tightly, and I feel a wave of emotion wash over me, half expecting him to shove me away, yet growing up, there was no ce I felt safer than on his shoulders or in his arms. That was until all this mess since that stupid Alpha meeting. When I step back, he holds up a bag of Chinese food "Hungry?" he asks, and his stern face softens slightly when he sees me. His graying hair and tired eyes give him an air of vulnerability I''ve never seen before "Cleo," he says gently, his voice betraying his own hurt. I nod and he passes me the bag. He sits down next to me, and we eat in silence After a moment, he says, "I''m sorry," and his voice cracks with emotion "What are you doing here?" The question tumbles from my lips unbidden, my defenses crumbling in the face of his unexpected presence "I saw Zayn banging on the window of your room, Cleo, so I figured I''d check on you," he replies, stepping into the room and closing the door behind him. "I came to make sure you''re alright." He takes a deep breath before continuing. "I really didn''t mean to interrupt you, especially after... But I knew you wouldn''t take my calls, and Zayn won''t let you near me. I Just wanted to make sure everything was ok." He smiles weakly, his expression a mixture of guilt and something else "Well, I''m sure you see that I''m not?" The words burst forth, raw and using. "Everything I believed in has been shattered. I don''t know whom to trust anymore." "Trust me," Dad says softly, reaching out to ce aforting hand on my shoulder. "I know what''s best for you." "Is that why you banished me?" I ask him. He drops his head, looking ashamed "T did that out of anger, I never should have, Cleo. By the time I came to my senses and returned you were gone, you went with him." "Zayn said he was trying to protect me," I murmur, the weight of my uncertainty heavy in my voice "Zayn has his own agenda, Cleo," my father replies, his grip on my shoulder tightening "You need to focus on what''s best for you and our pack." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "How can I do that when I don''t even know what''s true?" The desperation 1n my voice is palpable, the ache in my heart unbearable "Give it time," my father advises, pulling me into a tight embrace. His familiar scent washes over me, bringing with it a sense offort and safety that I haven''t felt in so long. "Things will be clear eventually." After a few moments, I reluctantly let him go "How did you get past Zayn''s man downstairs?" T ask him "Knocked him out," I ce my hands on my hips "Really, Dad?" he shrugs "T put him in the garden, it''s not like I left him on the stairs to be trampled." I roll my eyes, and he moves to the small kitchte and grabs some forks before handing me a stic dish full of Chinese. "So are you going to tell me what you and Zayn were arguing about?" he asks, and I shrug; I don''t trust anyone right now, least of all the men in my life, and that means my father, especially after learning about the rogues my father banished But at the same time, he is my father, and I know he loves me in his own way. Even if he struggles to convey that, especially now that I am older The dim light of the room casts shadows on my father''s face, highlighting the deep lines etched into his forehead. I can see the weariness in his eyes, but there''s also a glint of determination that I''ve always admired "Tell me everything," he says, his voice low and firm. I take a shaky breath, preparing myself for the tough conversation ahead "Zayn showed me this video," I begin, my heart racing as I recount the events from earlier, but keeping out the part where Zayn killed him, instead telling him Zayn scared him off, I don''t know why I don''t share that info, I just can''t bring myself to throw Zayn under the bus for murder. As I speak, my father listens intently, his expression unreadable? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. "Deacon was trying to hurt you?" he asks, his brow furrowing with concern "Zayn ims he was protecting me," I reply, frustrationcing my words. "But I don''t know what to believe anymore." My hands tremble as I clench them into fists, tears threatening to spill over once more "Sweetheart," my father says gently, reaching out to touch my arm. His calloused fingers feel rough against my skin, yet oddlyforting. "I understand your confusion, but you need to trust yourself. What does your gut tell you?" "Everything is so tangled," I admit, my voice cracking. "I want to believe Zayn, but I can''t shake this feeling that there''s more to the story." Chapter 104 "You''ll figure it out," he promises, pulling me into a tight embrace. The warmth of his body envelops me, and for a moment, I allow myself to forget the pain and doubt that consume me. I take a deep breath, trying to gather my thoughts I can feel the warmth of his embrace radiating through me, and I realize I need to trust myself and move on because, at the end of the day, whatever Zayn and I were started as a lie and ended on the truth, no matter how painful that truth is Despite what the Rogues told us, there are two sides to every story, and I n on finding out what both sides are. Maybe somewhere in the middle, I will find the truth, but I won''t find out by doing nothing. My father''s appearance is unexpected, but 1t might be a way for me to figure out what truly happened all those years ago "Thank you, Dad," I whisper, my throat tightening with emotion. "I just... I need to know the truth, and what evidence Zayn had wasn''t enough; I need more than a video that is obscured and without audio." He takes a deep breath and looks away. I can tell he 1s struggling to find the right words. He takes a moment before he finally speaks "But what if the truth isn''t what you want to hear? What if Zayn is lying? What if he did set all this up to get back at me?" he replies, releasing me from his embrace. I take a deep breath and bite my lip "I can handle it," I say firmly. I need to know the truth I sigh heavily; that scares me the most because I truly don''t know Zayn the way I should, not enough to say he didn''t have a hidden agenda "But first, let''s get you out of this ce and back to the pack." "Back to the pack?" I ask hesitantly, my heart skipping a beat at the thought. "After everything that''s happened?" "Sometimes, the only way to find the truth is to face it head-on," he says, his voiceced with conviction. My brows furrow. "We can still fix this. You can still be alpha. Instead of putting your life on hold, take your birthright, Cleo. I don''t want the pack to go to Lydia, but with you gone, who else am I to hand it to?" he mumbles thest part. I chew my lip, unsure because after all these weeks, one thing I know for sure 1s that I can''t trust him either, but I know what to expect from my father. Everything with Zayn came at such a shock and so quickly out of the blue that I can''t trust him either "Zayn ims I am his mate," I tell him, but this seems to take him by surprise. His brows scrunch together, and he seems to think hard for a second "Well, I guess you''ll know in a couple of days." he shrugs "And if he is?" I ask him "Do you think he is? Though if he is, that might exin his actions because I know if our roles reversed and this was all happening with Linda, I would destroy this city for the bond. Bonds won''t allow you to ignore. Some have sessfully, but even taking a mate, you still recognize those bonds; it just depends on how long you''ve been with your chosen one to see how strong that bond remains." "And if he is my mate?" "Nothing stops a mate bond, but you can survive a broken one; I promise you that." "Like Alpha Greyson and Mom?" I ask, gauging his reaction. He swallows thickly nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Yes, he survived, but he never got over it Maybe because he and your mother never made the bond official, they hadn''t marked each other ?? yet "So you admit Mom and Greyson were mates?" I ask him, wondering how much he is willing to tell me My father sighs heavily. "I guess we are having this chat now. I was hoping it could wait until we went home, but if you need to know first, I guess I can tell you," he states, and it is so strange seeing him talk about my mother for so long he refused to allow her to be mentioned because of Linda "Tt was never a secret, you never asked. You could have looked that information up in the council if you wanted. But yes, they were mates, they were wanting to merge packs." "What would that have meant for you?" "Not much. Your mother and I had an arrangement; the pack would be hers, but I could still run this side of it, and nothing would have changed." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Coming home? What does that mean? Won''t that breach your treaty with Alpha Dane?" I ask him He pulls me into a hug, his familiar scent of pine and earth calming me slightly. His arms wrap around me, providing a temporary refuge from the chaos outside. "Come back to the pack Apologize to Alpha Dane, and we can work out the stuff with the marriage agreement to marry Boyd. We can make this right."? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. My heart lurches at his words, the prospect of marrying Boyd making my stomach churn. My voicees out in barely a whisper, raw and desperate. "But, Dad... I don''t love him. I don''t know him." "Sometimes, love grows with time, and you didn''t know Zayn either but took a chance with him," he murmurs, rubbing my back soothingly "You don''t have to say yes right now. We need to know if Zayn is your mate first because a bond won''t allow you to marry another, but let''s just get you home for now. Let''s just focus on your birthday and getting your wolf in two days, the rest we can work out." I nod, feeling relieved that I don''t have to make a decision right away Chapter 105 I know that I need to take the time to get to know if Zayn is my mate like he ims and my father is right. I''m safe here for now. We still have time to work this out Thoughts swirl in my head, a maelstrom of doubts, fears, and conflicting emotions. I want to argue, to tell him that the idea of marrying someone other than Zayn terrifies me because Zayn 1s where my heart is. But my father''s presence, his unwavering support, anchors me or maybe roots me in this idea that we can work out past grievances, that I can figure out everything about Deacon and Mom, and about where my ce truly is. Maybe he''s right Perhaps this is my chance at redemption and at making Mom proud. I take a deep breath, determined to make the best of this chance. I make a decision to trust my father''s words and to take him up on the offer. It''s my chance to make things right "Okay," I choke out, swallowing the bile that threatens to rise in my throat. "I''lle home, but that isn''t a yes to marrying Boyd." "Good, that is fine." He releases me from the embrace and steps back, his gaze searching my face for any hint of hesitation. "Let''s just get you home." ok kk Dad helps me pack everything up I have here, which isn''t much, just one backpack, which makes it easier. We also cleaned up the little mess we made from dinner before walking down to his car, where I noticed Zayn''s guard knocked out cold. I slide into the passenger seat of my father''s SUV, the leather cool and unweing against my skin "Will Linda be angry about you bringing me home?" I ask him "Tt doesn''t matter what she feels, I am alpha, and youre my daughter. She doesn''t get a say in this." Inod slowly, and Dad ces the key in the ignition. The engine roars to life, a growl that resonates with my own unease as we set off toward Shadowcrest territory. Trees blur past the window, each onerger than thest, as we near my old pack on the outskirts of the city, nearest the forest "Everything will be alright, Cleo," my father reassures from behind the wheel, his voice steady like the constant thrum of the road beneath us. I take a deep breath, feeling the anxiety knotting in my stomach. I''m not ready for this, but I don''t have much of a choice. I just have to trust that Dad knows what he''s doing and won''t hurt me again The knot in my stomach tightens as images of Alpha Dane''s stern face, and Boyd''s expectant eyes invade my thoughts. I try to focus on the scenery, but the lush greenery of my childhood now feels like a backdrop to a stage where I''m forced to y a role I never auditioned for "Remember, you''re doing this for the pack," I murmur to myself, though the words taste bitter on my tongue As we crossed the invisible line marking our territory, memories cascaded through my mind The forest that surrounded our pack was once a ce of joy and freedom, where I ran carefree as a young girl andughter echoed off the trees nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! But those days were long gone, reced by the weight of responsibility and the sharp sting of betrayal My father nced at me, concern etched in the lines of his face. "Are you okay?" he asked I forced a smile, knowing he could see right through it. "Fine," I replied, the lie slipping out easily. But in reality, I was far from fine. The events of the past week had left me reeling, and my heart felt heavy with the weight of it all As we neared the pack house, my thoughts turned to the marriage treaty. And knowing I will have to see Alpha Dane, I just hope my father sticks to his word and doesn''t force anything because if he does, I may have no choice but to go rogue and risk insanity. Yet, I couldn''t shake the feeling of foreboding that had settled in my gut, a sense that this meeting would not end well; how could it be after everything that happened? But I push those thoughts aside and focus on the present. We were here, and there was no turning back now The tension between us simmered, thick and palpable, as we drove the rest of the way in silence. The familiar gates leading into our small gatedmunity finally came into view, and I couldn''t help but feel like amb being led to the ughter My phone buzzed 1n my pocket, and I nced at the screen to see Zayn''s name illuminated. A pang of longing hit me, but I pushed it away. I couldn''t afford to think about him right nowAll content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. As we pulled into the driveway of my family''s home, I took a deep breath and prepared myself for the chaos that awaited me. It was going to be a long night "Wee home, Cleo." My father''s voice breaks through my reverie as we pull up to the house. It looks just how I remember 1t: imposing, grand, and yet utterly lifeless "Thanks," I mutter, stepping out of the car onto the concrete driveway and peering up at my childhood home. Despite the familiarity of it all, an unease rolls through me I follow my father into the house, my gaze drifting over familiar surroundings. Every portrait hanging on the walls, every piece of furniture seems to whisper my life growing up here a life that now feels like it belongs to someone else entirely The moment we step into the foyer, Lydia and Linda are upon us, their eyes shing with a mix of shock and anger that I''m back. Linda''s hair is pulled back into a severe bun, and her ck dress is pressed and impable as always Chapter 106 She looks like a stern governess from a child''s nightmare, and I can almost feel her disapproval radiating off of her as she looks at my father for an answer, she doesn''t say a thing, but Lydia in her daisy pajamas hasn''t got Linda''s self-control "What are you doing here?" she demands, her voice sharp and using "Why are you here?" she demands, voice sharp like a whip "Lydia," my father growls, his voice resonating with the authority of an Alpha. "Watch your tone. Cleo is here because this 1s her home." Her lip curled, unsatisfied. "But after everything "Enough!" My father''s snarl cuts through the air "You''re on thin ice already. Don''t push me further or pack up and go live with your father at Bluesteel." Lydia''s eyes widen in shock at my father''s harsh words. She looks like she wants to argue but wisely keeps her mouth shut I swallow back a mix of emotions, feeling like an outsider in my own home. But I push them aside and focus on the reason why I''m here Linda goes to no doubt back Lydia, but one growl from Dad shuts her up quickly Lydia quickly nces at Linda, and whatever silentmunication passes between them, I don''t know, but she stomps upstairs, mming the door behind her. Linda follows behind her, casting one more disapproving re over her shoulder. As soon as the door ms behind them, my father sighs, running a hand through his graying hair "I''m sorry about that," he mumbles, "You know how they can be." "Your room is still the same; nothing else has changed, and your stuff still remains untouched," he tells me, and I nod slowly "Try to rest," my father suggests, his voice softening. "We''ll speak more tomorrow." "Sure." I nod, though sleep is thest thing on my mind. My old room awaits me, preserved in time as if it''s a shrine to the girl I once was before everything became soplicated and out of my control. I push open the door wider and I am greeted by a wave of nostalgia so strong it nearly knocks the breath from my lungs I sit on the edge of my bed, tracing the patterns on the quilt with my fingers. The fabric still holds faint scents ofvender and pine the same scents that used to lull me to sleep. But tonight, they do nothing to calm the storm raging inside me I let out a frustrated sigh and lean back against the pillows, staring up at the ceiling. Everything is so different now. My room, once my hiding ce from Lydia, my safe space, now feels foreign and unfamiliarExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. As the night stretches on, I find myself unable to sleep. Every tick of the clock is loud and incessant like its ticking down to when the other shoe will drop. I don''t know who to trust I can''t stop thinking about Boyd and the suffocating life that I would have if I epted this arranged marriage. A life where I would be nothing more than a pawn in a power y between packs. But at least I would be able to take my pack back... Or so I try to remind myself But deep down, I know that it''s not just about reiming my pack. It''s about my freedom, my autonomy, and my right to choose who I want to spend the rest of my life with I toss and turn 1n bed, trying to quiet the storm raging inside me Closing my eyes, I try to push away these thoughts and focus on finding a solution. Maybe there''s still a way out of this predicament Maybe Dad will understand and let me get out of it, and maybe he has changed But deep down, I know that it''s wishful thinking. The moment our families agreed upon this marriage, it became a matter of honor for both packs. To back out now would be seen as a weakness and an insult, and I won''t be forgiven for a second time. But how can I marry Boyd, and what will happen if Zayn is, in fact, my mate? I can''t ignore a mate bond I toss and turn in bed, my thoughts still swirling around my head like a never-ending storm Every time I close my eyes, Iam bombarded with images of Boyd''s smug face and the thought of being trapped in an arranged matriage My phone vibrates again, and this time, I can''t ignore it. Zayn''s message stares back at me, and something within me shatters Zayn: Are you okay? Why aren''t you answering? How can I tell him that I''m anything but okay? I take a deep breath before responding, trying toe up with a way to downy the situation without lying Me: I''m back home The word feels foreign on my fingertips as I type it out. A wave of sadness washes over me as I realize that this is no longer my home. Not really I switch off the phone before I can receive his response, the weight of the world pressing down on me until I''m gasping for air As much as I want to run away from all of this, a part of me knows that there''s no escaping it My pack needs me now more than ever, especially with our recent losses. And if there''s any chance of saving them, then I have to y along with this arranged marriage But what about Zayn? What if he 1s telling the truth about us having a mate bond? Does that mean he senses that something is wrong? Or maybe he does, and that''s why he keeps messaging me Sleep is elusive, a cruel joke yed by the universe. Instead, I lie awake, staring at the ceiling and trying to piece together the fractured parts of my heart and the tiny splinters of what I know to be true and what I thought and wished was Chapter 107 As the first light of dawn creeps through the curtains, I rise from the bed, determined to face whateveres my way. I will find the answers about my mother, and I will endure. For my pack, for my family, and for the sliver of hope that refuses to die within me, my father will change his mind about me having to marry Boyd, or hopefully, Dane 1s still adamant about not going ahead? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. I dress quickly into jeans, a cami, and a hoodie before slipping my feet into my slippers. In the mirror, I could see the dark circles under my eyes, evidence of another restless night spent worrying about my future. But I pushed those thoughts aside, determined to focus on the task at hand No one is in the kitchen when I have breakfast; the ce is pretty quiet, making me wonder if Lydia and Linda are even there. After breakfast, I found my father in his study, surrounded by the familiar scents of coffee and old leather. He looked up from his paperwork as I entered and gave me a small smile "Morning," he says when I step into his office. I''m curious about the rogues and themune we found, and I also want to see if my father will lie about sending them to attack Zayn''s pack "Morning," I tell him while sitting down with a coffee. He watches me, closing hisptop "T wanted to ask you about the roguemune," I begin, trepidation knotting my stomach. "I spoke to one, and he said you banished them?" My father''s expression turns serious as he leans back in his chair, steepling his fingers in front of him. "Yes, I did," he confirms "Why?" I press on, trying to keep my tone calm and neutral "They refused to ept Linda as Luna," he says "Thad to cast them out. They never joined another pack; I thought they would have, or at least joined Greyson''s," He says "We couldn''t risk our pack''s safety for a group of werewolves who refuse to follow ourws and submit," my father replies firmly. "It''s unfortunate, but it had to be done." "Why would they join Greyson''s?" I ask, ying dumb. My father sighs and rubs a hand down his face before sitting back. "Because your mother and he found they were mates just before she passed, they nned on joining the packs, as I saidst night, but they were convinced I had something to do with her death." "What would have be of you?" I ask him, and he shrugs "T exined thisst night already, Cleo. I know what you''re doing. You''re looking for holes in my story, but you won''t find any. But as I saidst night, your mother said I keep the house, nothing would have changed, but legally Greyson and your mother would own it, I could still remain as Alpha." he tells me. Well, if that was the deal, I couldn''t see my father or Linda conspiring against them if nothing was going to change except on paper. I''m relieved and yet skeptical at the same time. My father has always been ruthless when ites to protecting our pack and their territory especially after nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! witnessing that firsthand at the alpha meeting that day but I also know my father did love my mother. They were together for years and I couldn''t see him hurting her "Did you send them to attack Zayn''s pack?" The question tastes like poison on my tongue He sighs heavily, nodding once. "I just wanted you home, Cleo. When I ran into one of them hunting at the back of thends, I offered them a deal, but then they never showed back up here." I don''t bother correcting him and telling him they are at Alpha Greyson''s pack now and that he has taken them in Anger and betrayal war within me, but before I can voice them, he speaks again. "Have you considered Boyd''s proposal?" I shake my head, the mere thought suffocating But before I can question him further, there is a knock at the door "Come in," my father calls out Lydia enters, carrying a pile of paperwork for my father to sign "Mom needs you to go over these," she drops them on the desk. She greets me with a cold re before walking out and leaving us alone again "I know this is difficult for you, sweetheart," my father says gently after Lydia leaves "I''m not sure what Zayn or the rogues told you, but you''ll see my intentions have always been for the best of our family and the pack. Linda may be my mate, but that doesn''t mean my love for your mother died the day I met Linda." "So, about apologizing to Dane and the marriage agreement?" "But what about love? Shouldn''t that matter?" I ask bitterly, hating that I have no say in anything anymore He sighs and reaches out to pat my hand reassuringly. "Love doesn''t alwayse first in these matters. Your happiness 1s important, but the good of our pack muste first." "Just think about it; I won''t force your hand, but please think about it." my father presses. "Alpha Dane has invited us for dinner." I nod my head in agreement, knowing that my father is right. I must put the needs of the pack before my own. I pause to consider his words. I take a deep breath and nod in agreement. "T''ll think about it," I say Chapter 108 The day wore on, each second stretching out like a lifetime. The sun slowly sunk in the sky, casting an orange glow over the city. As darkness fell, we made our way to a restaurant in the heart of the bustling city streets not too far from the city center, and I recognize the restaurant as being owned by Alpha Dane Despite the tense situation surrounding us, the restaurant atmosphere was surprisingly warm and weing? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. The aroma of roasted venison and wild herbs filled the dining room, enveloping us 1n the rich scents of the countryside which 1s far from the city. Surprisingly Boyd didn''t seem that hostile, almost eager for tonight when we met them in the restaurant''s foyer. Linda chatting happily to his mother like this dinner isn''t about me apologizing to Alpha Dane Alpha Dane led us to a table made of polished mahogany, his presence dominating the space As we took our seats, the waiter approached our table, a polite smile on his face. He took our orders and disappeared into the kitchen. As we waited for our food, Alpha Dane turned to me For a few moments things are awkward and I keep my head bowed, letting my father take the lead because I really don''t want to apologize to a man that is trying to force my hand to marry, and who also vited me. Trying to steady my breathing, my father gently nudges me forward in my seat drawing my attention. With a hesitant nod, I look at Alpha Dane, feeling his cold eyes trace the lines of my face and I suddenly want leave or p him, but I choose civility over violence knowing this is not the ce or time "I''m sorry, Alpha Dane," I manage to say, the words crawling out of my throat as 1f they''re coated in thorns. "About the drama I caused and the shame I''ve brought to both packs. I apologize for my actions and for leaving the pack." There is a tense silence as Alpha Dane takes in my words. My heart pounds in my chest as I wait for his response. Finally, he speaks, his voice as unforgiving as steel "Very well," he says after a pause. "You''re back now, and that''s what matters." Relief washes over me and I let out a shaky breath. The tension in the room disperses slightly at Alpha Dane''s eptance of my apology nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! The waiter brings out our food-tes filled with sulent venison steaks and roasted vegetables. Despite the tempting aromas wafting towards me, my appetite has vanished under the weight of guilt at everything with Zayn and unease at this entire dinner As we eat in silence, I can feel Alpha Dane''s eyes on me asionally. It''s clear that he still holds some resentment towards me and is choosing not to voice it yet My father gives me a reassuring smile and puts his hand on my shoulder before following Alpha Dane out of the restaurant to have a smoke, and I use that chance to escape to the restroom, so I don''t have to try to make small talk with Boyd, who has done nothing but stare all night As I return to my chair, the tension in the room seems to have dissipated. The waiter brings out a tter of decadent desserts, but I have no appetite for them. As much as I try to distract myself with the boring conversation with Linda and Boyd''s mother, my mind keeps wandering back to the conversation between my father and Alpha Dane who I can see talking through the windows I can only imagine what they are discussing my return, my apology, the current state of our packs. I wonder if Alpha Dane is considering punishing me for my actions or if he will let it go and not force my hand, though dad promised it would be my choice Linda''s voice cuts through my thoughts as she excitedly talks about hertest project with the city museum fundraiser. I give her a half-hearted smile and nod, pretending to be interested. But inside, all I can think about is how much I want this night to be over nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 05s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I nce over at Boyd, who has been eerily quiet throughout dinner. His eyes are fixed on me, his expression unreadable. It makes me uneasy knowing that he has been watching me this whole time As my father and Alpha Dane return, Dane''s voice cuts through the tension. "I must say, Cleo, your return... It''smendable. Your mother would be proud." He pauses, letting the words sink in. "Your pack going back into a woman''s hands- it''s a powerful statement." "Thank you," I manage to say, my voice barely above a whisper. Yet, I don''t like where this conversation is shifting or how the tone of the dinner has changed My father beams beside me, nodding in agreement. "Her mother always wanted Cleo to run the pack. And I''m d things worked out," he adds, his eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that feels like a silentmand and my brows furrow in confusion as I wonder what is going on, what happened outside in the time he and Alpha Dane were speaking Dane nods solemnly before turning to address the rest of the group. "I believe it is time for us to discuss the future of our pack." His eyes sweep over each person at the table beforending back on me. "Cleo''s return has brought some...plications. None that can''t be fixed, of course." I swallow hard, the weight of their expectations pressing down on me. I haven''t agreed to marry Boyd yet. What is he talking about? But as I look at my father, the man who has shaped much of my destiny, I know that this path is the only way to secure my pack''s future. The rest- I''ll have to figure outter Chapter 109 Boyd stands next to my father, his broad shoulders and confident stance a stark contrast to how I feel. My father clears his throat, breaking the tense silence. "We have agreed on the betrothal of my daughter and Boyd." "Oh, this is wonderful news," Linda and Boyd''s mother exim. What?! I am about to stand up and refuse when my father leans down, his hand mping on my shoulder. I turn my face to look at him. "You promised," I whisper "I''m keeping it, but y along; we can push the wedding back until we know if Zayn 1s your mate,¡± he whispers, "I am biding your time; only Zayn can stop this wedding. It''s out of my hands." I swallow thickly. "Agree for now; I need time to work something else out if he isn''t your mate." I bite my tongue The words hang heavy in the air, suffocating me. Betrothal? I can''t even imagine a life with Boyd, let alone being tied to him forever. But my duty to my pack and my family prevents me from protesting. As the only daughter of the alpha, it is my responsibility to secure alliances and ensure the survival of our pack. Marrying Boyd is the only way to do that. I just need to pray my fatheres up with another way out of this marriage "L want answers. Why is this out of your hands?" I hiss under my breath; if I am ying along, I want to know why "Once home, now go stand with your fianc¨¦." Boydes over, and I stare at his outstretched hand with disgust. My heart sinks as I take his hand and nod, the weight of my decision settling heavily on my shoulders. This is the path I must take for the sake of my pack. The rest-I''ll have to figure outter "I''m d you made the right choice," Boyd says I want to rip my hand from his and punch his smug face, but I refrain "Indeed," I murmur, my voice barely above a whisper, my mind racing with thoughts of escape, of Zayn, and the life that could have been. But those dreams are slipping through my fingers, reced by a reality I never chose Boyd leans in, whispering promises of a bright future together, but his words feel hollow. Boyd leads me to a table filled with our families, where we are met with cheers and congrattions. I force a smile, trying to ignore the ufortable weight of Boyd''s arm draped over my shoulders "Congrattions, my dear," Boyd''s mother gushes fakely as she pulls me into a hug. "I can''t wait for us to officially be family." My stomach turns at her words, but I ster on another fake smile and nod in agreement "Let''s toast to new beginnings," Alpha Dane announces, raising his ss. The sound of crystal clinking echoes around us, a chorus of assent to a union I have not consented to. The rest of the evening is spent 1n a blur of food, drinks, and well- wishes from pack members Boyd never leaves my side, his possessive grip on me only getting tighter as the night goes on His touch is possessive, not tender; his gaze calcting, not warm. I can sense his desire to im me, to mark me as his own before everyone, but I shrink from him, unwilling to y the part of the doting fianc¨¦e when he keeps ring at the mark on my neck left by Zayn Finally, the festivitiese to an end. Boyd asks to drive me home, and I stare at my father pleadingly, who 1s quickly distracted by Alpha Dane. "It''s fine, I can get a lift home with Dad and Linda." I tell him "Nonsense, I will drop you home," Boyd says, steering me out of the restaurant, and he leads me back to his car. As soon as the door closes behind us, he lunges forward, pressing his lips against mine without warning My body stiffens in shock before I push him away forcefully. "What do you think you''re doing?" I snap Boyd just smirks at me. "Rx, sweetheart. We''re going to be married soon; there''s no need for this prudish behavior." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! I scoff at his words and shift away from him towards the window. "There''s nothing prudish about not wanting to kiss someone who has shown nothing but disrespect towards me and my wishes. You know I don''t want to marry you!" His smirk turns into a scowl as he grips my chin painfully with his fingers. "What you want doesn''t matter. Our fathers have a deal. You will learn your ce once we''re married," he growls before shoving me away from him and starting up the car Ignoring his threat, I focus on the passing scenery outside until we finally arrive at my pack''s territory. As soon as we step out of the car, Boyd pulls me close to him again, showing off our ''happy couple'' act for anyone who might see us I feel sick to my stomach, but keep up appearances for my father''s sake. After all, he is trying to find a way out of this. He pulls up seconds after us, and relief floods meContent provided by N?velDrama.Org. My father looks at me, his smile tight but approving. "You''re doing the right thing," he says, helping a drunk Linda out of the car I don''t respond, just turn to gaze away, my vision blurring when Boyd speaks. "Oh, you were quicker than I thought; I figured you and Dad would have gone over formalities," Boyd states, clearly not happy that my father rushed home "Linda wasn''t feeling well," Dad says, and Linda gives him a look, but I see my father''s grip on her arm tighten "I''ve had a few too many drinks," she quickly states. Boyd nods and turns to me, and smiles, leaning in like he may try to kiss me Chapter 110 I turn my face, refusing to let his mongrel lips touch me. Boyd leaves and Dad waves to himExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. Linda makes her way inside "Did he try anything? I rushed home as quick as I could, I am pretty sure I got done by every speeding camera on the way here." My father asks "What do you think?" I growl and he sighs Then my phone vibrates. A message from Zayn, each word a dagger to my heart Zayn: Is it true? Did you agree to marry Boyd? I let the phone slip from my hand and back into my pocket, unable to confront the truth in his question. But Zayn doesn''t relent a second message follows, heavy with a threat that sends a chill down my spine. We head inside to the living room. I sit in the armchair by the window Dad falls heavily into the other one by the firece. My phone vibrates again Zayn: Answer your phone. You aren''t doing this, Cleo A tremor runs through me, fear and longing warring within The phone rings insistently, Zayn''s name illuminating the darkened living room. My finger trembles as I press the reject button, the beep of the call being declined "Everything okay?" My father''s voice isced with concern "It will be," I mutter, the lie tasting bitter on my tongue. I lean my head against the back of the armchair, trying to anchor myself to something real, something tangible. But even the solid chill of the room can''t dispel the heat that res within me when I think of Zayn-his silver eyes, tattooed arms, the scar down his left nk. And most of all, his wolf, Zarek, wild and untamed, a perfect mirror to Zayn''s soul My phone vibrates again, and without a nce at my father, I retrieve it from my pocket, my fingers trembling. Zayn''s words ze across the screen, igniting a wildfire in my chest Zayn: I will wipe out every pack in the city before I allow you to marry him "Who is it?" my father asks, his voiceced with suspicion "Nobody," I lie, clutching the phone so tightly my knuckles turn white "Give me that damn phone," he demands, reaching over "No!" I snap, surprising both of us with the ferocity in my voice. I shove the device back into my pocket, away from his prying eyes. The air between us crackles with tension, and for a moment, I''m not just his daughter; I''m a defiant she-wolf challenging the alpha "Fine," he grumbles. "But remember where you are, Cleo. You have responsibilities now; I know that''s Zayn; if you need me to handle him, let me know. We can''t have him getting involved right now; I need him to back off." "Why?" I ask when Linda calls out. He nces down the hall and sighs "Not now, tomorrow, but I''ll find a way to get you out of this. I just need you to y nice for now." "Get some sleep. You''ll need it with tomorrow being your first shift," my father says, his tone softer now, but it does nothing to ease the stone in my gut "Thank you," I mutter, climbing the staircase to my room Hourster, lying on my childhood bed, the moon spills its cold light through the window Every shadow seems to whisper Zayn''s name, and every creak of the house echoes with the promise of another message. My skin tingles with the memory of his touch, the roughness of his calloused hands against my flesh, and the way he could ignite a fire within me with just a look Zayn has been blowing up my phone all night, I have ignored every call when suddenly a messagees through that has my blood turn cold in my veins Zayn: I will wipe out every pack in the city before I allow you to marry him If you do this and I have toe to stop your wedding, I will make sure I paint your wedding dress red with your fiance''s blood You''ve been warned, Cleo. You are mine and only mine I gulp. Something about his words feels more threatening than if he said it to me, maybe because It''s sote at night, and he 1s still raging over it Chapter 111 Zayn A couple of hours earlier The incessant tapping of my fingers on the mahogany desk couldn''t drown out the chaos in my head. Nightshade City loomed outside my office window, a concrete jungle under the cloak of dusk, indifferent to my turmoil. The report I was supposed to be reviewing blurred before my eyes, each word a taunt reminding me of Cleo''s absence Learningst night her father was watching when I dropped her off pissed me off. I didn''t think he was stupid enough to try anything with my man keeping watch. I was wrong. He knocked him out, and God only knows what he told her to convince her to go back home with him "Vance," I growl lowly, my voice a rumble that filled the spacious office, "any updates from the border patrols?" "Quiet as the grave," Vance replies without looking up from his own stack of paperwork His dark hair is mussed from running his hands through it in frustration-a mirror image of my own restlessness, and I know my mood has him on edge "Good." I sigh, pushing myself back into my chair. But peace is far from my grasp. My wolf, Zarek, stirs within me, pacing relentlessly, sensing my unease. I try to focus on the numbers and figures, but my thoughts betray me, slipping to memories of her-Cleo, with her wild green eyes and that defiant tilt of her chin. Herughter echoing in my mind feels like a knife twisting in my chest "Hey, turn that up, will you?" Vance''s voice cuts through my reverie as he nods toward the television mounted on the wall that 1s muted I nce up, irritation ring at the interruption, but it dies on my lips as the screen fills with an image I know all too well-the Shadowcrest Pack insignia. The headline beneath sends a chill down my spine: ''A Pack Engagement.'' "What the hell is this?" I spit out, standing so swiftly that my chair toppled over with a crash Vance finds and fumbles with the remote, raising the volume just in time for the poised newscaster to deliver the blow."¡ªand it seems the young heiress of the Shadowcrest Pack, Cleo, has returned to her father''s side to prepare for her uing engagement." "Engagement?" The word is like venom on my tongue. My vision goes red, a howl building deep within me "Zayn, calm down. We don''t know the full story..." Vance''s attempt to soothe me was futile "Full story?" I snarl, the sound more beast than man. "She left, and now she''s parading around, ready to bind herself to that sniveling worm?" And yet, here I was, brought to my knees not by an enemy''s de but by the betrayal of my mate nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Let''s not jump to conclusions. There has to be an exnation," Vance says, though doubtces his words "Exnation?" Fury thunders through me "She''s made her choice, returning to that damned pack. To him." My fists clenches so tightly my knuckles whitened, the urge to shift and let Zarek loose almost overwhelming "Zayn, think this through. You know Cleo doesn''t want to marry Boyd," Vance says, stepping closer with caution etched on his face The images flickering on the screen burn into my retinas-the headline screaming Cleo''s impending engagement. The sight of her standing beside him, her radiant smile mocking me from afar, is more than I could bear I swipe at the papers on my desk, scattering them across my office. My hands, shaking with a potent blend of anger and heartache, I throw the crystal decanter belonging to my father. It crashes against the wall, shattering into shards that reflect my fractured soul "Zayn!" Vance''s voice cut through the chaos, but I was too far gone. The primal roar that erupts from my chest is not human-it is the sound of a wounded animal, Zarek, pushed to his breaking point Overturning the mahogany desk with a strength born of my torment. The polished surface splinters, just like my self-control. Monitors toppled, technology sparking, and the scent of destruction mingles with the musk of my rage "Zayn, you have to stop!" Vance attempts to intervene, but Iam beyond reason. My vision blurs red, the world narrowing to the betrayal that seared my every nerve ending. I wanted to tear apart everything in sight "Zayn, listen to me!" Vance grabs my shoulders, his grip firm, grounding. But his words are distant echoes in the eye of the storm that rages? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. within me "Look at yourself!" he implores desperation threading his tone. "This isn''t you. You''re letting it consume you." And then, as suddenly as it had begun, the fury abates, leaving a hollow emptiness in its wake. I stand in the ruins of my office. My breaths came in ragged gasps, each one a battle between man and beast My gaze locked on the broken ss that littered the floor. "I need to see her. She can''t marry him." "Zayn, think about what you''re doing," Vance said cautiously. "You can''t just barge into Shadowerest. It''s her father''s territory." "Her father fucking sold her again," I spat out the words like venom. "He has no right. She is mine-my mate." My fists clench again, but this time with purpose "Then let''s be smart about this," Vance replies, his voice steady now. "You go in there. You''re just going to scare her," Vance tries to reason, but I snatch up my phone and try ringing her. I keep ringing, but she doesn''t answer, so I text "Zayn, stop!" Vance says, reaching for my phone, but I snarl at him, and he backs away from me Chapter 112 Cleo The next morning My father promised me an answer today, and all night, I was up trying to find the reasoning behind his decisions and why he needed me to y along, yet I came up empty. The moment Lydia and Linda left for the day to go goddess, knows where, I went hunting for my father I didn''t have to search long before I found him in the study. His yelling at someone over the phone was a dead giveaway. I found him in his office, and my heart sank when I saw his face He was wearing a serious expression, and I knew something was wrong. There''s a faint scent of coffee and cologne lingering in the air, but it''s overpowered by the smell of stress and tension emanating from my father. It''s almost suffocating He hangs up when I enter, and I fall into the seat across from him while he runs his fingers through his hair and sighs heavily My father''s face 1s tense and drawn, and his brow furrowed with worry. I can see the exhaustion in his eyes, the lines of stress etched into his features. His fingers run through his hair 1n frustration, and his shoulders sag as he exhales heavily "So?" I begin, but he leans back in his chair, his dark eyes watching me. He steeples his fingers under his chin like he is trying to work out where to begin. "You promised me answers," I remind him, and he nods reluctantly. The air isExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. thick with the musty scent of old books and secrets. "Why am I suddenly engaged to Boyd? I don''t understand. Why would you even agree to that in the first ce?" He shuts hisptop screen, a silent signal that he''s giving me his full attention-an act so rare it heightens my anxiety even more "Cleo, I know this is a lot to take in, and I wish I could have protected you from it for a little longer. But you''re my heir now, and you need to know the truth." His words hang heavily in the air like an ominous storm cloud, dampening the musty scent of old books and secrets that permeated the room "What truth?" I press, my heart pounding a little bit louder in my chest than before. "Why me? Why not Lydia?" The look that shes across his face is equal parts pain and fury, but it''s gone as quickly as it came. "I should have told you earlier-prepared you better for this day, but I was selfish. I wanted to keep you innocent for as long as possible." "Wait, how long has this been nned for?" "Roughly 2 years now," he answers, and my brows raise. Two years and he never said anything? My breath catches in my throat at his admission My father was never one for disys of affection or vulnerability. But the seriousness in his eyes tells me that he means every word he says He gets up and pours himself a ss of bourbon, gesturing to me with the bottle. I shake my head no; I couldn''t stomach it right now if my life depended on it. He takes a long swig before cing the ss back down on his desk with a thud that rattles 1ts very foundation "Cleo, when your mother was alive, she would have killed me for the mess I''ve made. I''m supposed to keep you safe no matter the cost, and this is part of that. Not only that, but I can''t risk the pack." He begins, his voice trembling slightly with emotion, as though even after all these years, losing her still affects him just as much as the day it happened "T never wanted this for you, and I will try to find a way out of it." His voice is gentle, but there''s an undercurrent of steel in it Reluctantly, I watch him carefully, my hands clenching the armrests "Your engagement to Boyd was never suggested initially, but it is the only way to ensure we don''t lose the pack." He pauses, rubbing his temples as if to ward off a headache or perhaps the guilt gnawing at him. "If you back out right now. We will lose the pack, Cleo." "The pack?" I echo, incredulous. "How can marrying Boyd be keeping the pack? It''s our pack." He leans forward, sping his hands on the desk. "Alpha Dane has... leverage over me, Cleo. If we do notply with his wishes, he will use it to destroy our pack and my position within the council; the pack will be dismantled or taken as coteral." "You''re being ckmailed?" My heart races, fear and anger swirling in my gut. "You would trade me to keep your secrets?" "Secrets," he murmurs, almost to himself, "that date back years before you were even born, until not too recently." There''s a haunted look in his eyes now, one that chills me to the bone "Years?" My mind races, trying to piece together the fragments of overheard conversations and whispered rumors, but Ie up empty. "What did you do?" "Some more pressing and recent than most. It''s not just what I''ve done, but what could be revealed." His gaze holds mine steady and imploring. "Cleo, I need you to trust me Marrying Boyd is the only way to ensure the safety of our pack-your future, your mother''s legacy." "And what of my happiness? My choice?" "Choice 1s a luxury we can''t afford right now." He stands,ing around the desk to ce a hand on my shoulder. "I know this 1s hard to ept, but it''s necessary, at least until I find some way out of it or something to use against Alpha Dane." "And if you don''t, I''m what? Just stuck and married to that fool?" The question hovers between us, with heavy implications. "Or is this Just another sacrifice on the altar of power and politics, another leg up for you?" Chapter 113 "Both," he admits, and the honesty in his voice stings more than any lie. "But mostly, it''s a father trying to protect his daughter from the fallout of his own mistakes." "Protect me by marrying me off?" I stand abruptly, knocking his hand away. "By binding me to someone I barely know, let alone love? Someone who isn''t my mate?" His expression softens, and for a moment, I see the burden he carries the weight of leadership, of decisions made I''m not privy to. "Love can grow, Cleo. And Boyd... he''s not a bad man, an idiot, but not bad." "Maybe not, but he''s not..." I trail off, realizing that who I am going to say is the one person I want to be with but can''t. My thoughts drift momentarily to Zayn''s touch, the way my skin sings under his caress, the heat of his skin. But those memories feel like a world away now "Cleo," his voice is low and burdened. "What I''ve done... it was to protect us, to shield our pack from an unseen storm, I made a mistake but at the time I was out of options." "L want to know what you did?" He moves back to his chair and sits heavily in it "T''ve been the treasurer of the council for over a decade until that was handed over to Dane, not long before Zayn took over from his father." He begins, and I know exactly what he''s done "You stole the council funds, and he caught you, didn''t he?" I ask him, and he turns his gaze away from me "Among other things, but yes, Alpha Dane put the money back, then your mother died, and Linda came into the picture. I couldn''t keep up with the bills or payment arrangements I had with him and..." "You did it again. You wiped out the council treasury for the city." He nods, looking at his hands "It''s also why I refused Zayn''s pack protection; I couldn''t afford it. We needed protection, so I went to Samuel. Linda convinced him. But I didn''t realize Samuel was also paying the extra to put our borders on his patrol list. Samuel became another person to whom I owed money I was trying to protect the " "Don''t! You weren''t trying to protect us? By stealing from the verymunity we vowed to serve?" My words are sharp as ws, unsheathed by betrayal "Every Alpha faces trials that threaten the fabric of their pack. Sometimes, survival demands difficult choices." He stands, moving closer with the predatory grace thatmands respect even now? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. "Difficult choices?" I echo incredulously. "Or reckless gambles? How 1s it possible to blow through that much money?" "Just listen to me! Let me try to exin," Hismand slices through the tension "The treasury funds were meant for emergencies, for development, for aiding others But what of our own people? Our pack was bleeding, Cleo. We faced crises that demanded I do something, so I used the funds, the council was defaulting on taxes to the human government, I thought I could recoup the money in time." "Then why hide it? Why not seek counsel?" I demand, fists clenching at my sides "If the council knew the depth of what I owed, they''d strip us of ournd and appoint overseers I couldn''t allow that. The werewolf council came under fire for tax evasion to humans, the government''s; we have to pay a certain amount each year to ensure the council remains under pack control," His eyes burn with anger that frightens me. My mind reels at the revtions, and I''m torn between understanding his actions and feeling betrayed by the secrecy "You should have told me," I say, my voice shaking with emotion. "I could have helped you "T couldn''t risk it," my father replies, his voice almost a whisper now. "If the Council found out, they would have taken everything from us Our pack would be left with nothing." "But you took everything from them," I say bitterly. "You betrayed their trust." "I know," he says, bowing his head in shame "But I had to do something. Our pack was suffering, and I couldn''t just sit back and let it happen." I can see the desperation in his eyes, and suddenly, all my anger dissipates into worry for him and our pack "How much do we owe?" I ask, trying to sound calm even though my heart 1s racing "Enough that if we didn''t pay it back, we''d lose everything. Alpha Dane helped cover up the initial amount." My father replies grimly "We''ll figure something out," I say firmly. "We''lle up with a n to get the money back, thene clean, Dad. Zayn is on the council, Greyson; they''ll back us." I tell him, but he shakes his head. "Zayn definitely won''t if he finds out." "What do you mean?" I ask, confused. He shakes his head "L kept getting extensions. Eventually, they caught onto the fact that the city hadn''t paid in years. I had no choice at the time. Cleo and I would have lost our pack''s ce on the council I can''t ask Greyson for help, the..." "Is your pride worth more than asking for help?" I can feel the heat rising in my cheeks "Pride is all we have left. Without this alliance, the pack faces bankruptcy and the pack will be dismantled. It is already past that point. The only thing ensuring the pack remains in our family is with you marrying Boyd." He steps forward, crowding my space, the scent of pine and authority enveloping me Chapter 114 "Boyd will bring stability, resources..." He trails off, studying me as 1f seeing me for the first time. "And perhaps, in time, you may be happy with him." "Happy?" Theugh that escapes me is hollow, mocking. "And what of my mate when I find them? Can''t you see how wrong this is?" "Right or wrong, it''s necessary." He turns away, his shoulders sagging. "It''s the price of peace, the cost of safeguarding our people and ensuring we don''t lose our pack and way of life." "Even if it means sacrificing your daughter''s happiness?" I whisper the enormity of the situation pressing down on me like a physical force "Especially then." His voice 1s barely audible, and when he looks back at me, there''s a sheen of unshed tears in his eyes. "Because that''s what leaders and alphas do. We bear the burdens so others don''t have to." I want to rage against him, to fight and w for my chance at happiness. But as I stand there, watching the man who raised me, who''s battling demons I''m only just beginning toprehend, my spirit falters "Tf it''s money, there are other ways. What else has he got over you?" "Besides that, something that will send me to prison for the rest of my life. Is that what you want, Cleo?" he asks, and I swallow "What?" I ask, and he looks away "There is a reason Zayn was forced to kill his father. Misguided, but I am that reason. I had no choice; this is why I wanted you away from Zayn. If he knew, he would kill you as revenge I thought he figured it out when he started showing interest in you; I thought maybe Dane let it slip." "Let what slip?" "Tt doesn''t matter right now. I just need you to do this until I find another way or find something to ckmail Dane back with." Images of Alpha Zayn, with his silver eyes and tattooed arms, sh before my eyes, igniting a painful yearning deep within my chest. Was it all a lie? "Listen to me, Cleo." My father''s voice cracks with urgency. "Dane is offering a way out a chance to stop a war between packs. He''s giving us a lifeline, one we can''t refuse right now." "Lifeline?" I scoff, anger ring. "Or a leash for him to control us both?" nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading!All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org. "Control is better than destruction and the dismantling of our pack. If we refuse, Dane will expose everything." His gaze hardens. "Our pack will be torn apart. We''ll lose everything." The weight of his words crushes me, but defiance sparks hotly in my veins. "So we bow to him? Let him dictate who I share my bed with? Who marks me?" "It''s not just about us!" Father''s voice thunders through the room. "Think of the pack-our people''s lives and homes at stake." "Is there no other way?" I plead with him; this can''t be the only option, surely "None that doesn''t lead to war or worse." He steps closer, his presencemanding even now "Sometimes duty muste before desire." He reaches out to cup my face, a gesture so tender it unravels me. "You have to do what''s necessary." "I..." My protest dies on my lips, the reality of our situation settling in like a winter''s chill "This is the only thing you have left of your mother, Cleo. You''re not just any wolf-you''re an Alpha''s daughter. You were born to lead and make difficult decisions." Tears blur my vision as the weight of my impending fate anchors me to the spot "True love 1s selfless. It puts the needs of others above 1ts own." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Don''t fucking guilt-trip me, Dad. You''re not the one being forced into a marriage," I spit at him "Promise me you''ll consider this, Cleo. For the pack."His voice is agonized, but the resolve in his eyes doesn''t waver. My heart splinters under the weight of the impossible choice before me: "T don''t know if I can love him," I finally whisper. The admission is painful on my lips, seeing the disappointment tn his eyes "Love is... overrated." He sighs. "Respect, loyalty, and a partnership built on shared purpose that''s whatsts." I want to argue that he''s wrong, that love should be all-consuming Yet, I understand the magnitude of the sacrifice he''s asking of me. Vaguely, I nod, as 1f agreeing to even consider this atrocity isn''t an affront to everything I believe in "T promise," I whisper, sealing my fate with the word, the very essence of my freedom slipping through my fingers like grains of sand. Relief washes over his features, yet the sorrow in his eyes reflects my own As I leave the room, each step feels heavier than thest, my mind reeling from the enormity of the decision before me. I am to be bartered away; my happiness is a currency for peace and to ensure I don''t lose my mother''s pack or see my father behind bars Yet, 1t has me curious about what my father did that he believes Zayn would kill me for revenge, but that revtion now has me questioning whether Zayn knows and whether this was his n all along to divide us and watch our pack crumble to expose the truth And yet, despite the turmoil within me, I know my duty-to protect my pack, to honor my family, to be the leader I was raised to be, even if it means standing beside Boyd instead of Zayn Chapter 115 I never thought I would spend my birthday picking out a wedding dress so I could marry someone I can''t stand, and all for a marriage agreement because my father 1s being ckmailed. Yet, as I stand in the wedding dress shop, I feel overwhelmed. Linda offered toe with me, though I think more out of ensuring I pick a dress and not run off. I refused This was hard enough without her unting it in my face. The only plus side of today 1s that sometime tonight, I will get my wolf, and maybe I won''t feel so lonely in this decision The chiffon of the wedding gown whispers against my skin like a lover''s secret, and I spin slowly in front of the mirror, watching the fabric billow around me. Nightshade City buzzes just beyond the boutique''s windows, alive with a heartbeat that seems to mock my own erratic pulse "Stunning," the assistant coos, sping her hands together as 1f in prayer. "You look like an absolute vision, Cleo." "Thank you," I murmur, but the words feel hollow. The reflection staring back at me is a carefully constructed facade - blonde hair cascading in soft waves. These green eyes should sparkle with joy but instead flicker with uncertainty, all hidden beneathyers of white, a symbol of freedom now ensnared "Are you okay, honey?" The assistant asks, tilting her head, her brow furrowed in concern I smile tightly and nod, trying to convince both the assistant and myself that I am fine. But the truth is, Iam far from it. My heart is heavy with the weight of this decision, and the thought of spending the rest of my life with a man I don''t love makes me feel sick I force a smile, my teeth biting into my lip "Just... overwhelmed." The truth 1s moreplicated, tangled like the intricatece on the bodice of this dress. It''s supposed to be the happiest day of a woman''s life, isn''t 1t? But how can it be when every choice feels like a betrayal? "Would you like to try another one?" Her voice cuts through my reverie, and I nod, desperate for distraction "You''ll love this one, though it may need some adjustments." I nod, feeling like an outsider observing my life unfold. Sarah leads me back to the dressing room where another dress is waiting for its final alterations "It''s going to be perfect," she assures me with a smile But no matter how many times I hear those words, they do little to ease the knot in my stomach. As I stand there in my ill-fitting dress, surrounded by people who are nning a wedding that means nothing to me, I can''t help but wonder how different things would be if I had just stood up to my father But it''s toote for regrets now. The deal has been made, and backing out would only bring more disgrace upon our family name something my father cannot afford As I retreat to the changing room, the silkiness of the gown I slip off feels like an unearned caress. I''m ying dress-up, pretending to be a blushing bride when I''m anything but Shadowcrest Pack - my pack - would never understand "Beautiful dresses can''t mask ugly truths," I whisper to my reflection, watching as another version of myself emerges in a dress with more beading, more promise "Everything okay in there, Cleo?" The assistant''s voice is muffled through the curtain "Almost ready!" I call back, my voice steady despite the storm raging within I step out once more, presenting myself for inspection. The new dress hugs my curves. I think of Boyd, the man I''m bound to marry, and then, unbidden, Zayn''s image shes in my mind "Your father will love this one," the assistant assures me, oblivious to the war waging in my chest "Perhaps," I say, my thoughts spiraling "Let''s go with this one," I decide suddenly, surprising even myself. "It''s perfect." "Excellent choice," she beams, not noticing the way my hands tremble as I move to sign the check when she stops me. "No, Alpha Dane is covering it," she assures me and I chew my lip but nod I''m stuck in the boutique for hours while she fixes the measurements of the dress, yet going home without it isn''t a choice since Alpha Dane 1s speeding the wedding up to this weekend. He wants a prompt wedding now I''ve agreed so I can''t try back out, leaving me little hope of my father finding me a way out of this messExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. When I do leave, though, I can''t bring myself to head straight home. Instead, I weave through the thrumming city streets, my freshly acquired wedding dress, a silken promise of a future I''m not sure I want. The cacophony of honking cars and chattering pedestrians is a wee distraction until I barge into someone by ident nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "What do you think you''re doing?" A voice growls from behind My heart stutters to a stop as I whirl around The world narrows to those silver eyes, burning into me with an intensity that leaves me breathless. Zayn "Zayn," I gasp "Running into you isn''t exactly what I had nned, but it''s fitting," he says. His tone is a sharp de that cuts deeply. His ck hair frames his face, and he has equally dark eyes, and I know Zarek is just below the surface "Cleo." His voice is deep and rough, sending shivers down my spine "Following me now?" My attempt at levity falls t between us, the air charged with something dangerous. He steps closer to me and reaches out to tuck a stray lock of hair behind my ear My skin tingles at his touch, and my heart races even faster His closeness is intoxicating, and for a fleeting moment, I forget about everything else - the arranged marriage, the pressure from my pack, everything but him Chapter 116 "Wouldn''t have to if you''d just talk to me, but no, I wasn''t until I spotted you going into that store." He steps closer, and I''m acutely aware of the solid mass of him, wall of muscle and his raw alpha power But then realityes crashing back and I take a step back from him, cursing myself for being so weak. "I should go," I say quickly. "I have somewhere to be." "You''re marrying him, Cleo? Really?" "Zayn, it''s not that simple" I start, but the words tangle on my tongue "Make it simple for me, then." His voice is a low rumble, and I can almost feel the vibration of his wolf beneath his skin "Please, I can''t do this here," I plead, ncing around at the curious eyes starting to take interest in our heated exchange "Then when, Cleo? When will you stop running from what we are? I told you we are mates, yet you agree to marry someone else?" His question slices through the noise around us, leaving nothing but the truth exposed and raw "Being mates doesn''t mean we can just... ignore reality. There are consequences, alliances, expectations... besides, nothing is even confirmed until I get my wolf tonight." My voice trails off, the enormity of it all pressing down on me "Damn the alliances! Damn what everyone else expects!" His frustration echoes my own, but where I am caged by duty, he''s fueled by rage "Zayn, you know I can''t-" "Can''t or won''t?" He challenges, stepping even closer, the heat of his body mingling with mine "Both!" The word explodes from me, a confession and a condemnation. The tension coils between us, a live wire ready to spark into me "Tell me why. Give me a reason that''s worth more than this," he whispers, his breath hot against my skin "Because if I don''t, everything falls apart. My father, the packs, it''ll be war, Zayn." The weight of my decision presses upon me, a suffocating shroud "A war will start if you walk down that fucking aisle Cleo," he warns me, and tears burn my eyes at his words. No matter what, I am disappointing someone "I have no choice. You don''t understand," I say, my voice barely above a murmur "Then let me fight for you, for us," he offers "T don''t..." My resolve waivers, and the pull towards him 1s as undeniable when I remember my father''s words about him betraying Zayn, and it once again has me questioning Zayn''s actions and intentions "Stay with me tonight. Just tonight," he murmurs, his lips hovering perilously close to mine? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org. "Zayn, I can''t." The finality in my voice is a lie I wish I could believe The rough brick wall scrapes against my back as Zayn''s hands cage me on either side, his silver eyes zing with an intensity that both frightens and thrills me. The city noises fade into the background, drowned out by the rapid beat of my heart "Damn it, Cleo! Do you have any idea what this is doing to me?" His fingers graze my cheek, and I lean into the touch despite myself "Watching you prepare to marry another man? I am your mate!" My heart clenches at his pain, mirrored by my own. "Do you think it''s easy for me? To turn away from what I want most in this world?" "Then don''t!" There''s a desperate edge to his voice now, a plea hidden within themand His lips are mere inches from mine, and the air between us crackles with raw energy. The desire to close that distance is overwhelming, to lose myself in him and forget everything else. But reality is a cruel master, and it holds me back "Tell me why, Cleo! Why Boyd?" The demand is a guttural growl, his silver eyes reflecting turmoil that mirrors the chaos churning inside me "I... [don''t know," I whisper, my defenses crumbling. "His pack is strong, and our alliance... it would bring peace." It sounds hollow even to my own ears "Because the packs... they''re on the brink," I say, my words rushing out as I struggle to keep my resolve. "Marrying Boyd-it''s more than I can tell you. You lied to me; I can''t even trust you to help because I''m not even sure how much you know or if you even mean a single word you say to me!" Tears sting my eyes, but I force them back. "I don''t give a damn about Boyd or your father''s politics. I care about you. Us." nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 0005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! "Us..." I whisper, my heart splintering. His scent envelops me, a heady mix of pine and something indefinably male, intensifying the ache "Cleo, I can protect you. I will protect you. No one will ever harm you, not on my watch." His voice is a low growl, leaving no room for doubt of his sincerity "This isn''t about me, Zayn!" Anger and frustration well up inside me, spilling out before I can rein them in. "It''s about the packs. About people who''ll get hurt if I don''t do this!" Zayn steps back as if struck, raking a hand through his hair "Let me help you," Zayn tells me "Like you helped me look for Deacon when you knew where he was all along?" I ask him. I know it was a cheap blow, but at the moment, I don''t trust anything or anyone My fingers tremble against the heat of his skin, betraying the longing that seeps into my every pore His muscles tense beneath my touch, his breath hitching. For a moment, I see the man beneath the Alpha, vulnerable and torn. But then he steps back, the connection severed as if by a knife''s edge "But don''t expect me to stand by and do nothing while you walk down the aisle with another " man The air between us cools almost immediately, the tension now ufortable and heavy with unspoken words Chapter 117 "Don''t say I didn''t warn you. I will let you y pretend for now, but you will see I am not lying, and when you do, don''t even dare ask me to spare your father because the answer will be no." He grows, pushing off the wall and stalking away "Do you think you are better than him?" I ask, and he stops; the sound that leaves him draws the attention of the entire street "Excuse me?" He snarls, and I see Zarek press beneath his skin, his eyes changing slightly, and his entire body seems to vibrate as his auraes out violently "My father, do you think you''re better than him?" He stares at me but calms slightly, and I realize he thought I wasparing him to Boyd Yet before he can say anything. "You''re not. My father lied to me, and you may think I am foolish for going back to him and my pack, but at least I know what to expect from him. You, I don''t; you lied from the beginning, proving I don''t know you at all. Then you have the audacity to get angry that I leave. Isn''t the saying better the devil, you know? Because that''s just it, Zayn. I don''t know you, but what I do know is you''re a liar." "Which will make it all the easier when I kill him because you''ll realize I was the only one who told the truth. I may have hid the fact that I killed your boyfriend, but I never lied about the reasoning for it. I just didn''t want to upset you. I hid that you were my mate, but I knew you wouldn''t feel the bond and that you''d question it. But the main reason I hid it? It was because I wanted you to feel and realize we shared a bond. I didn''t want to ruin it on you." "Ruin it?" I scoff. He ruined it when he lied Zayn grips my face Zayn''s fingers wrap tightly around her jawline, his knuckles turning white as he forces my chin up to meet his intense gaze. The pressure of Zayn''s grip on my face is almost painful, but I can feel the intensity of his emotions through his touch, which 1s shaking "Yes, because the day Iid eyes on you was the greatest and worst day of my life," he tells me. I swallow and try to pull away from his grip, but he doesn''t allow me to "The greatest, because I found my mate. And the worst because I realized you couldn''t feel the bond. Yet I''ve never felt my heart race so fast, never knew loving someone so much could hurt until I thought you were ignoring me." He whispers "The moment Iid eyes on you in that conference room, I knew you were mine and knew I would never love anyone else. I knew then I wouldn''t just kill for you. I''dy my life down for you without even thinking." He whispers "Zayn..." guilt gnaws at me at his words, but I fail toe up with anything else "Even now, when you''re about to betray our bond and marry him, I''d still die for you, despite that at this moment, I hate how much I love you." He shakes his head "You think I lied, yet I marked you, giving you the power to destroy me. Does that sound like a rival alpha getting revenge?" "I marked you," he continues, his tone rough with barely contained fury, "not to bind you, but to offer up my soul at your feet-because that''s what you hold now. Not just my heart, but my soul; my very existence 1s tied to loving you." His jaw clenches as he locks eyes with me, his gaze holding mine hostage. "I''ve handed you the power to destroy me. Tell me, does that sound like a man who merely seeks revenge? Or like one damned and determined to love you, regardless of the cost?" nning your weekend reading? Ensure you''re on 005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just a click away, exclusively avable on our site. Happy reading! He then lets me go, turning to leave when he stops again. "Happy Birthday, Cleo," I chew my lip, and he leaves, storming off toward his car, which I just noticed across the road. Yeah, happy birthday, I think to myself dryly. This 1s by far the worst birthday of my life My heart races as I watch Zayn storm off, his words still ringing in my ears. I can feel the weight of his emotions, the intensity of his love and pain, and it overwhelms me. But at the same time, I can''t help but feel anger towards him for lying to me I take a deep breath and make my way back to my car. As soon as I get in, tears start streaming down my face. This is supposed to be my birthday, a day filled with celebration. Yet here I am, feeling more confused and broken than ever I feel like shit, but it still doesn''t change the fact that he killed Deacon. Still won''t change the situation I''m in, even if I wished his words could. As I head back to my father''s car with my dress, I can''t help but rey Zayn''s words in my mind. The conflicting emotions swirl inside me, leaving me feeling torn and confused. The entire drive home, all I can think about, is the angry look on his face and my impending shift. Once home, I am relieved to find Lydia and Linda still not home, and I sneak off up to my room. My mind is still reeling from Zayn''s confession and his anger towards me. It''s like a war inside me, with one side trying to justify his actions while the other side screams that he killed DeaconExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org. Chapter 118 I sit on my bed, staring at nothing in particr, as tears continue to fall down my cheeks when I groan knowing I need to hang my dress. As I hang my dress on the hanger, lost in my thoughts, I suddenly hear a knock on my door Startled, I turn around to see my father standing there with a small smile on his face "Hey, sweetie," he says as he walks inside and leans against the doorframe. "Are you excited about getting your wolf tonight?" I nod slowly, trying to muster up some enthusiasm. The truth is, I am excited about finally shifting and discovering my wolf form But at the same time, I can''t help but feel anxious and scared about the whole process My father notices myck of excitement and walks over to sit next to me on the bed "What''s wrong?" he asks, cing aforting hand on my shoulder "T don''t know...I''m just nervous about shifting by myself," I mumble, avoiding eye contact My mother always said when I was little that she would be there for me when I shifted for the first time. That I wouldn''t have to suffer in silence like she did. But now that she''s gone, I feel like all I''ve been doing is suffering in silence. And tonight will be no different "It''s normal to feel nervous," my dad reassures me. "But remember, you are not alone. Your wolf is a part of you and will guide you through this." I nod slowly, trying to take his words to heart But deep down, I know it won''t be the same without my mother by my side As the time for my shift draws closer, I can feel my anxiety rising. My father offers to stay with me instead of attending the meeting with Samuel, but I refuse. I don''t want him to see me naked and vulnerable during such a moment Plus, I know his presence would be a constant reminder of the marriage treaty hanging over us "No, I''ll be fine," I assure him, trying to put on a brave face. "I''m going down by the river, where Mom originally told me she would take me." My father nods understandingly, but there''s a sadness in his eyes that mirrors my own. We both miss my mother dearly and wish she could be here for this important moment in my life "T''ll see you when you get back," he says before giving me a hug I nod and head out towards the river. As I walk, my mind is filled with conflicting emotions - excitement about finally shifting and fear of what might happen When I reach the quiet and secluded spot by the riverbank. The cool air brushes against my bare skin and sends shivers down my spine. My heart is pounding as I close my eyes and take deep breaths, trying to calm myself down; I sit on a rock, wondering how long it will take. I''ve heard horror stories of people being stuck in the shift for hours and others of it being really quick. Yet, as the moon rises, I find myself growing more anxious as I check my phone What if I don''t have a wolf? That thought scares me more than the idea of shifting. ncing at my phone, I see the time is nearly 8PM. I am about to turn my phone off when I get a text from Zayn Zayn: How 1s the birthday girl? I chew my lip, debating if I should reply. Yet when I don''t, my phone suddenly rings in my hand, and I sigh before answering it "If you are ringing to scold me, don''t," I tell Zayn "That''s not why I am ringing; I saw you saw my message, but didn''t reply. I take it you haven''t shifted yet?Content provided by N?velDrama.Org. I hesitate for a moment before answering Zayn''s question truthfully. I know he would be able to tell if I lied anyway "No, I haven''t shifted yet," I admit, my voice trembling slightly Zayn lets out a sigh on the other end of the line Tears prick at the corners of my eyes as the weight of everything - my mother''s absence, the pressure of shifting, and the looming marriage treaty - bes too much. "I just want my mom," I whisper, feeling foolish. Zayn is quiet for a second "Your father isn''t there?" I sniffle "No, he has a meeting with Samuel. Besides, I don''t want him to see me naked." I admit, wiping my face on the sleeve of my shirt "Where are you?" "By the pack border on the river," I sigh, resting my head against the boulder I''m leaning on "T''ll be there soon," he tells me. And I sit up "You can''te here, Zayn; you can''t cross the borders. My father will lose it." I tell him "Like he can stop me, you shouldn''t be shifting alone. I''ll see you soon," he tells me before hanging up. I stare at my phone screen "Shit," I mutter under my breath Ugh, men. He never listens to me. I sigh, but deep down, I know I am d he ising Finally, after what seems like an eternity but is only minutester, I feel a presence behind me and open my eyes to see Zayn in human form, panting slightly as he catches his breath. He quickly scans the area before giving me a reassuring smile "Hey," he says softly, crouching down in front of me and taking my trembling hand in his