Chapter 4

He's transformed, dressed in a sleek black blazer suit that accentuates his broad shoulders and chiseled features. He looks like he's getting ready for a high-stakes occasion, and he exudes an air of confidence and power.

His hair is styled perfectly, the dark strands swept back to reveal his sharp jawline and prominent cheekbones. His eyes, a piercing blue, seem to gleam with appreciation as he takes in my appearance.

"You're pretty," he says, his voice low and smooth. "The blue crystal gown suits you."

I feel a flush rise to my cheeks as he pushes off from the doorframe and walks towards me, his movements fluid and predatory.

"Thanks," I manage to say, trying to sound nonchalant despite the butterflies in my stomach.

Lucien stops in front of me, his eyes roaming over my face and body.

"Honestly, you look stunning," he says, his voice sincere. "I'm glad you're wearing that gown. It will make a statement tonight."

I raise an eyebrow, curious despite myself. "What occasion is it?" I ask, trying to sound casual.

Lucien's smile is enigmatic. "You'll see," he says, offering me his arm. "Shall we?"

Lucien leads me to the balcony, and I'm taken aback by the breathtaking view. The balcony is adorned with intricate carvings and ornate railings, and the lighting is warm and inviting, courtesy of the soft yellow bulbs that line the edges. The maids stand with their heads bowed, their eyes cast downward as they await our instructions.

The meal is arranged on a beautifully set table, with fine china and crystal glasses that sparkle in the soft light. I'm shocked by the spread before me, the dishes looking exquisite and aromatic. My eyes widen in surprise, and for a moment, I wonder if I should reconsider my opinion of Lucien. Maybe he's not the bad guy in my heart after all.

Lucien pulls out a chair for me, his movements gentlemanly, and I take a seat, feeling a mix of emotions.

"What's the meaning of all this?" I ask, trying to keep my tone neutral.

Lucien smiles, his eyes gleaming with amusement.

"Just a little evening dinner for my new mate," he says, his voice low and husky. "Or doesn't she feel it already?" He looks at me expectantly, his eyes locked onto mine.

I feel a sudden stir inside me, my wolf reacting to Lucien's words. She's excited, eager to bond with him, and I can sense her enthusiasm. But I'm not ready to give in just yet. I try to ignore her, coughing instead of responding.

Lucien chuckles, his eyes crinkling at the corners.

"Let's dig in," he says, taking his seat across from me. "I have a surprise for you after dinner. Something I think you'll enjoy."

I'm intrigued despite myself, my curiosity piqued. What could the surprise be? And what does Lucien have planned for me tonight?

I decide to steer the conversation in a different direction. "What do you know about my father?" I ask Lucien, my voice firm.

Lucien's expression changes, a frown crossing his face before he forces a smile. "From what I've learned, your father is a nice and good man. He's well-respected in the community."

“Sure, well respected.” I sneer looking away. "If you actually knew my father, you wouldn't hesitate to dispose of me and never accept my wolf bound," i says, my voice smooth.

“No. I wouldn’t. I love regardless of your past that’s why I came personally to take you. I can’t afford to let you get mated to anyone from me.”

I raise an eyebrow, intrigued. "Are you sure about this?" I ask, my tone skeptical.

Lucien's smile widens, his eyes gleaming with conviction.

"Yes, I'm positive," he says. "I've obsessed over you, and I want you only for myself. Forget about the past, let it stay in the past. I know what I want and that’s you."

I decide not to press further, sensing that Lucien is determined to have his way.

After dinner, the maids clear the table, leaving us alone. I start to feel a chill in the air, and Lucien notices. He stands from his chair and offers me his suit jacket.

"Let me keep you warm," he says, his eyes sparkling with affection.

As he wraps his jacket around my shoulders, I feel a sense of comfort. He takes my hands, pulling me up, and gets down on one knee. What was he doing? I asked inwardly my eyes opening in shock.

"Will you accept me as your mate?" he asks, his voice filled with emotion.

My omega wolf, Lena, stirs inside me, urging me to say yes. I hesitate, but Lena’s persistence wins out.

"I, Aria Thornveil, accept you, Lucien Veyrien Hale to be my mate," I say, the words tumbling out of my mouth.

The wolf bond glows, connecting us, circling around me and going to circle around Lucien, Lucien's face lights up with a smile. But as he rises to his feet, his expression changes.

"Since you're filled with food, my rejection won't break you much, but it will hurt you," he says, his voice cold.

I'm confused, unsure what he’s saying. But before I can process his words, he says, "I Lucien Veyrien Hale rejects you Aria Thornveil to be my mate."

The bond severs, crushing me, and I scream in pain. I feel the hate in the bond as it severs, burning my heart. Lena growls out, mourning the loss of what could have been.

I fall on the floor.