LILA Sasha and I sprinted until my breath threatened to abandon me. As we reached a bustling area, I slowed down and plopped onto the sidewalk, tugging Sasha to a halt beside me. "Please, stop, stop," I panted, "I feel like I might faint." Sasha squatted in front of me, exhaling audibly. "We didn't run that far, and you're panting like a deer." I shot her a reproachful look. "Don't forget I'm human with limited stamina." Playfully, I swatted her arm. "You nearly got me into trouble." Her lips curled into a mischievous smile. “But admit it, it was so much fun." She joined me on the pavement, and I couldn't help but agree. I wasn't familiar with this clan, but it clearly surpassed both my own and the vineyard farmers' clans in sophistication. Crescent Hill Pack was undeniably vast, with Blaise's clan reigning as the largest and the pack's capital. Sasha asked, "Can I make it up to you?" I hesitated. "No. I need—" Then, the realisation hit me. I owned a car; we had used it to get

BLAISE Saturday arrived swiftly, each moment making my heart race with anticipation. The wine was prepared for the market, and elites from across the globe were converging for the launch. I had bolstered security measures, anticipating any threat from Drax or rogue bandits. Every precaution had been taken to ensure tonight proceeded flawlessly, and Sasha's assurance somehow instilled confidence in me. I stepped into the room, bustling with beauticians, eager to assess their progress. This marked our first public appearance, and it was crucial that she exuded readiness, as much as I did. It should be flawless, devoid of even a hint of insincerity. Our interactions needed to be natural yet not overly affectionate, to avoid any impressions of a strained relationship. I had briefed her the previous night, doing my best to put her at ease since werewolves could easily discern emotions in others. I also provided her with responses for those prying into our private lives, aski

AUTHOR'S P.O.V. Erick carefully carried Agatha from the rooftop, steering clear of the party area to avoid raising any suspicion that might disrupt the festivities. Earlier, he had dealt with the culprits, Joey and his group of friends who had dared to harass Agatha. He had swiftly subdued them and stashed them in the restroom. If they were discovered, they would likely concoct any excuse to hide their foolishness. Certainly, they wouldn't confess to antagonising a Calloway woman at her cousin's party; their fathers wouldn't want any conflicts with Alpha Blaise Calloway. His wrath was feared by all. He guided Agatha into her room, which was adorned with an overwhelmingly girlish pink decor, almost blinding in its brightness. Agatha, still in shock, clung to him until he reassured her that she was safe. After much persuasion, she reluctantly released him, and he granted her some privacy to take a shower. Upon her return, she appeared much improved, and Erick retrieved a first aid kit

LILA The courtroom was heavy with anticipation as the judge's words echoed through the air. "... based on the evidence and the law, I find the defendant, Callo Wines, not guilty of the charges levelled against them..." A wave of relief washed over me, mirrored in the expressions of everyone around me. As the judge delivered his verdict, it felt as though a tremendous weight had been lifted. The judge, his tone imbued with a sense of dignity, continued, "While this verdict lifts the legal burden from the winery, it is my hope that ongoing investigations will uncover the saboteurs to ensure that such an unfortunate incident is not repeated. This court is adjourned." Nate, Sasha and I exchanged triumphant glances as we were instructed to stand. Sasha had simplified everything for us by providing other witnesses from other countries who stood in for us in court. We kept their identities secret until the court appearance to protect them from potential harm and

LILA The coming Full Moon Festival had the entire werewolf community buzzing with anticipation and excitement. The full moon festival was the biggest werewolf celebration and people always got new things, just like humans at Christmas time. Blaise, always one to indulge in opulence, had already informed me that I would be going to shop for some new dresses for the festivities. I couldn't help but ponder why I needed new dresses when there were perfectly good ones in my closet, unworn. But then, a man like Blaise would like any means to show off his wealth. In the warmth of the kitchen, I shared a coffee with Cassie, absorbing her tales about Agatha. Despite Agatha's apparent distaste for Cassie, she still desired her presence at night. The lingering shadows of the harassment incident from two weeks prior seemed to haunt Agatha still. Cassie confessed that Agatha's bed was a far cry from the cold floor and stiff mattress she was used to. The matter of bedding was now on my list