The Stars Never Favor Me

Suddenly, the door swung open."Awake?" A lazy voice drawled. I looked up and met a pair of cold, indifferent eyes.He walked over and reached for my blanket.My voice came out hoarse. "...Wait."He narrowed his eyes, leaning in close. "What's wrong, owner?""I'm too tired. I need to rest." I said softly."Can't do that." His tone was light, almost dismissive. "Owner, you took us in, so you're responsible for us. We haven't been fed at all. If you rest, what are we supposed to do?"With that, he grabbed my chin and leaned in—right before his lips touched mine, I shoved him away with all my strength."Melissa's coming to pick you up this afternoon!"The man in front of me froze.Even the two leaning against the doorframe went still.George tilted his head. "Which one?"I shook my head. "All of you.""Don't joke like that, owner."George said.I wasn't joking.If they didn't want me, I'd give them exactly what they wanted.But to my surprise, they didn't look happy at all—their faces just

George got up and answered the door.The moment it swung open, Melissa's bright, cheerful face appeared."Hey, everyone! My sister already told you, right? You all belong to me now."The wolves who had been crowding around me—Brian and Kevin—both moved away and stood beside her."You're all so gorgeous," she said, genuine admiration in her voice."Have you packed?" Melissa asked. Before anyone could answer, she waved a hand. "Actually, never mind. I doubt my sister could afford much for you anyway. Just come to the villa—I'll get you all new things."Kevin gave a lazy grunt in response.Brian glanced at Melissa, then turned his head to look at me.I covered my neck and kept my face blank.All eyes landed on me.Melissa noticed. She walked over, all concern. "Don't worry, sis. I'll take way better care of them than you ever could."When I still didn't react, she tilted her head, playing the generous sister. "Want me to leave one behind to keep you company? You seem pretty upset."George

The butler from the Martin family estate stood at my door, back straight and tone formal. "Miss, Mr. Martin says you've had your fun. It's time to come home for your arranged marriage."His tone left no room for argument.I refused. "No."The butler smiled—thin and practiced. "Miss, this is Mr. Martin's wish."As he spoke, several bodyguards stepped into view behind him.I let out a cold laugh. "Aren't you afraid I'll stab the groom on my wedding day and then off myself?"The butler's smile faltered.He recovered quickly. "Mr. Martin also said—if you agree to the marriage, you'll receive five percent of Martin Group's shares."My hand, already reaching for the door, paused.The butler seemed to have expected my reaction. "The car is already waiting downstairs. Oh, and Miss. Melissa said to bring Mr. Howard along."I glanced back at Andrew. Our eyes met.His dark gaze was unreadable as always.But for some reason, a chill ran down my spine.---Back at the Martin estate, the sprawling

Finally, the day of the grand wedding arrived.The most prestigious hotel in the city. Over thirty thousand white roses cascaded from the dome, crystal chandeliers piercing through the waterfall of petals like something out of a dream. Ivory damask draped every long table, rows of champagne flutes standing at attention, catching the light in pale golden hues.Every corner was breathtaking.Big spenders, huh.I took one look around and was ushered back into the dressing room.Over the next three hours, the guests kept pouring in. Even from backstage, I could hear the faint hum of congratulations and well-wishes. My parents came to check on me several times, making sure I was actually going through with it.I studied my reflection in the mirror—perfect makeup, flawless hair.Then I glanced at the clock.The ceremony was about to begin.I'd already taken care of the makeup artist and assistant beforehand. While the crowd was still thin, I gathered my heavy gown and slipped out.My assista

Andrew sat beside me.He lowered his eyes, his thick lashes casting shadows beneath them."So, you actually want to marry me—instead of that groom?" I asked."Yeah." His voice was quiet."Pretty quick thinking on your part," I remarked.The moment he realized I wasn't there, he'd slipped away. That fleeting shadow—besides me, no one else probably recognized it."Your scent is faint," he said, his tone carrying a hint of meaning.Ah. The terrifying thing about beastmen was their impossibly sharp sense of smell.I let it go without prying. "I'm going to stay abroad for a while. I'll come back when the time is right."Andrew pressed closer, his cool breath wrapping around me. His lips brushed the side of my neck—this time, he didn't bite."Okay," he said.Huh.They said wolves were the loyal ones—the ones who imprinted on their owners.Funny how this cold-blooded snake seemed even more devoted.---Over the next while, the Martin household was in complete disarray.I'd switched to an inte