CHAPTER TWO

Seraphina's POV

"So, you're a witch, huh? What coven?" Killian asked, his hand gliding from my shoulder down the length of my spine before planting a kiss.

"South Park," I replied flatly, ignoring his blatant attempt at intimacy.

"The wolves in South Park are elegant. I suppose the witches share the same trait because you're stunning," he said, leaning in again for another kiss.

"There’s something about you... I just can’t stay away," he murmured, gently turning my face to meet his eyes. "I’m obsessed with you, Seraphina."

Before his lips could reach mine, my phone rang.

"Sorry, I have to take this," I said, stepping away politely.

"Alright. I’ll be in my chambers," he said with a lingering glance before walking off.

Once I was sure he was gone, I checked the screen and answered the call.

"It worked," I said with a sly smile. "He can’t keep his eyes off me, not even for a minute."

"Excellent," came the deep voice on the other end. I couldn’t see his face, but I knew he was smiling too.

My mind drifted to how it all began...

That night in the coven the flickering candles, the thick scent of herbs and Malakar, head of the witches, standing before me with a dark potion in hand. Our eyes met, her face unreadable.

"Once you drink this, there’s no turning back," he warned.

I stared into the cup, its contents thick and black like tar.

Do it now, or the plan dies here.

Without another thought, I downed it in one gulp, slamming the cup onto the table and locking eyes with Malakar, who now wore a knowing smile.

Suddenly, a sharp pain tore through my chest. I clutched it, stumbling into a chair as I struggled to breathe.

Then, just as suddenly, the pain vanished.

When I looked up, Malakar was still watching me.

"It is done. Killian will be yours now," he said.

Now, standing in Killian's home and still on the phone with Malakar, a wave of excitement coursed through me.

"Now that I have Killian wrapped around my fingers," I said confidently, "it's time to avenge my father's death and take over the Nightrun Pack."

"But you know it won’t be easy," Malakar reminded me.

He was right and that was one of the reasons I respected him. He always spoke the truth, no sugarcoating.

He’s not just a coven leader, he's a Lord among witches. Powerful. Ruthless.

"It’s simple, really. Everyone thinks I…."

I paused mid-sentence. Footsteps.

It was Aria.

She walked past me with her bag slung over her shoulder, her expression carved in stone.

This was my moment.

Now or never.

"Aria!" I called, quickly rising to my feet and hurrying to catch up with her at the door.

She stopped, turned, and pierced me with a glare. "What do you want?" Her voice was low and cold.

I sighed, fiddling with my fingers as I stepped closer. "I’m sorry for everything that happened today."

"You took what was mine," she snapped, eyes burning with fury. "We both know Killian isn’t your mate. You’re a damn witch!"

"No, Aria!" I cut her off.

"Don’t say that. Killian is my mate. We share a bond. Yes, I’m a witch but I never wanted things to turn out like this."

I reached out to hold her hand, but she recoiled.

"Despite everything, you're still the lead security analyst of this pack. Without you, we’re vulnerable. I need you."

"You’re lying!" she shouted. "I don’t believe you!"

"I want you to stay," I said softly. "I truly regret what I’ve caused you, Aria."

Her eyes flickered with hesitation.

Tears welled in mine as I finally managed to hold her hand. "Killian and I are bound. If we’re separated, things could spiral out of control. Please understand I never meant to push you out. You matter to this pack. You matter to me."

Silence stretched between us as my words hung in the air.

"We can still work together, Aria."

She sighed. "Fine. I’ll stay."

Relief flooded through me, and I wrapped her in a warm hug.

"Thank you," I whispered. "My heart wouldn’t be at peace knowing I ruined what could’ve been a strong bond."

She gave me a small smile.

"I’ll stay... but I won’t live in the pack mansion. I can’t stand to see the two of you..." she trailed off, awkward.

I smiled knowingly.

"Don’t worry, Aria. There won’t be any of that."

She nodded, and I helped her carry her bags back inside.

As she climbed the stairs with her things, I sank back into the couch, a triumphant smile tugging at my lips.

So gullible.

Once I’m done with her, nothing will stop me from taking this pack.