ログインDove povI sit on my couch, chewing on what little is left of my thumbnail.I barely know what time it is. The sun came up a while ago, the cool melding into warmth. I haven't bothered to sleep, especially with messengers coming in and out of this house, bringing me new information.As soon as I realised what may have happened to Dev, I went straight to Varian, but he already left yesterday to travel to a nearby city for business. He's already on his way back to me.Something has happened to Dev. I know it...The front door slams open suddenly, the sound so loud I gasp. My sister rushes in, her expression stricken, followed by her wife."We came as soon as we got your message." Eden reaches for me as I stand, enveloping me in a hug.I nestle my face into her shoulder, emotion I've been pressing down rushing suddenly to the surface. I've been so concerned with covering all my bases that I haven't stopped to think about what it truly means for my friend to be missing.Every part of me is
Dove povI wake to the scent of Varian everywhere.Stretching my limbs out, I yawn, turning my head to see my mate stirring next to me.Despite having gone to bed so late after the ball, I feel surprisingly refreshed. The moment I slipped into bed and melted into Varian's arms, I fell asleep quickly.I smile gently as I watch him wake, warm rays of sunlight passing drowsily across his face. He's so soft and dozy when he wakes, his expression slack and unworried.I wish he could be like that all the time,without the burden of being Alpha on his shoulders."Morning," I whisper hoarsely.He turns his head to face me, dark hair all soft and messy against his face. I roll onto my side, so I can admire him closer."Sleep well?" His voice is rough and unused."That's the best I've slept in a long time," I admit. I can still feel the vague pull of fatigue, but only because it was already nearing on dawn by the time I closed my eyes. Now, I estimate it's close to midday. Thankfully, no one has
Dove povVarian paces in front of me, his body coiled with tension.I made Varian's driver bring me straight to his home after I disentangled myself from Matthias' many offers for me to stay the night. I fell asleep on the drive, and when I awoke, Varian was gently pulling me into his arms to carry me inside.My eyes found their way closed again as I pretended to slumber. Feeling him carry me with no effort at all before he rest me down on the plush couch in his suite pleased me more than I would like to admit.I pretend to stir only moments later, when he stepped back to admire me.Now, I've told him about Matthias' claim that his brother, Kalin, is alive, and he hasn't stopped pacing, to the point he's going to wear a line into the carpet."He knows," he declares. "He knows you and I are working together."I stretch out on the couch, kicking my heels off onto the floor. Varian is still in his ball attire, although he's lost the jacket and his shirt sleeves are rolled up to his elbow
Dove povMatthias leads me through his home and to his office.There's a thick lump in my throat as I close the door, sealing us in. Did Varian and I take it too far just now? Have we pushed Matthias too far?He approaches his desk, his shoulders tense. Slowly he turns, leaning back against its solid frame."That was clearly a success.""The seducing him part was easy, but the finding of information wasn't," I say with feigned disappointment.I'm not sure why I'm so nervous. I did what Matthias asked, yet he's looking at me like I'm stained, dirty. It's as if he can see Varian's handprints on me in black ink."And here you were doubting his attraction to you." He shakes his head, the thought preposterous to him.I sigh wistfully. "I suppose it's my fault for not remembering how predictable males are."His stiff expression melts away, replaced by a roughish smile. He likes to tease as much as he likes to be teased, which is ultimately how him and I ended up together in the first place.
Dove povSlipping my hand into Varian's, I allow him to lead me deeper onto the dancefloor.People turn to watch us as I'm pulled into Varian's arms. The music is light but slow as we fall into a smooth shifting rhythm.There is nothing innocent about the way he holds me. This is a man who wants everyone to know he intends to do terrible things to me tonight.I can only imagine the guests confusion. They've gone from seeing me at Matthias' side, to in Varian's arms."Everyone is watching," I say into his ear,clutching tightly onto his shoulders while his hands smooth down my waist."Exactly." His breath fans against the side of my face. "Including your lover."He turns us so Matthias is in my view. His expression is surprisingly indifferent, but I imagine there is a whole host of emotions simmering beneath the surface.I quickly turn Varian again, unable to bear being watched like that."He is not my lover," I say sharply, digging my nails into his shoulders.He doesn't even flinch. M
Dove povI wade through the corridors, following the gentle drift of soft music.The ball started over an hour ago, but I've only just arrived. I spent the first part of the evening debriefing with Varian and coming up with a plan that won't end in Matthias killing me in a fit of rage.Slipping through a side door, I step outside. Matthias dwells into the shadows, waiting for me.He turns as I approach, his eyes warming. He's dressed in a full tuxedo and his hair is slicked back. I might think he was handsome if I didn't know how poisonous his true character is."I don't think I can find the words to explain how beautiful I find you tonight," he murmurs, his eyes devouring me.I look down at my scarlet red gown. Dev through it together so quickly I was sure it would either not fit or the seams would come lose the moment I slipped it on. But as usual, he created a masterpiece."Thank you. My friend made this dress." I adjust the gloves that come up to my elbows, feeling grateful for eve
Dove Pov"Right." He shakes his head a little. "I also forgot to mention one small matter.""What?" I steady the precariously balanced tower of folded clothing that I've been continuously adding to. If it tipped over, it may very well be my last straw."I shall be looking for someone to marry very
Dove povLaundry bag slung over my shoulder, I cross the room.My muscle ache, fatigue burdening each step I make. Dumping the ample bag into the tub, I watch the wave of laundry topple out before I pour a bucket of cold water in after it.Unsurprisingly I'm on laundry duty once again while my cowo
Dove Pov"I wonder who they let in," I mumble absentmindedly."Anyone who fits the theme, who dresses scantily and has no respect for themselves." Eden opens the newspaper again, the corners flopping over.Tilting my head ever so slightly, I attempt to read the small text. I want as much informatio
Dove POVPepper and herb scented smoke wafts up from the pan as I watch the slab of steak sizzle in the butter.The front door opens, a billow of cool air joining my sister as she rushes in. She tugs her coat off, bracing it on the hook next to mine before she plucks her boots off her feet."Hey Do







