*MacKenzie*”I’m sorry, but it was unavoidable, and the prick asked for it himself.” Conrad apologized a million times as we rode back to my cottage in his car.I hummed, gazing over the window at the darkening sky above the mountains. I wanted to cry, scream, or hit something. I wanted to do something to eliminate that tension in my body, but none of the above seemed right or enough to help me.”I slapped him. I struck him.” I whispered, grazing my thumb over the slightly swollen palm."He deserved more. The things he said,” He paused for a minute and took a deep breath. "A true friend would never be so rude, even if his heart was broken. So, trust me, he deserved more than a slap. If it were me, I would tear his throat out and watch him bleed out on that wooden floor.”I turned my head to look at Conrad. His words were harsh and unimaginable, but his expression was calm and collected as if what he said was nothing out of the ordinary. I stared at his profile and analyzed the words R

*Conrad*I watched them walk, talking like chatterboxes, laughing, smiling, almost bouncing on their heels. Just by looking at these sugary faces, I wanted to vomit. I knew my Mother, and I tried to steal MacKenzie before she could approach her, but unfortunately, she was faster. I was left with hopes that she would release my mate until dinner.”Why such a sour face, pretty boy? It would be best if you were happy that your mother and girlfriend get along so well. Not to mention that she probably likes her more than she likes you.” Caris patted me on my shoulder mockingly.I sent her my best annoyed face, hoping it would shut her up and make her leave. And it did, but not before she gave me a few more comments about my Mother stealing my girl. I wanted to growl at her but knew it would not work. Although her bear, Tanga, reacted instinctively to her superiors, she was quite a rebellious girl, and she let me know it more than once.”I’ll be in the hospital wing. She better get Kenzi ba

*MacKenzie*I didn't know how to react. My common sense told me to hide behind Conrad, but my curiosity told me to feast my eyes on that gorgeous man for as long as it was allowed. And I just did that, waiting for the two best friends to catch up before I stepped forward. The entire day was full of surprises. First, Claire practically kidnapped me from the bakery and dragged me to her place to gush over the fantastic news about my relationship with her son. Secondly, she turned from a tremendous future mother-in-law to a rigorous teacher, presenting me with every possible book about being perfect Luna.Thirdly, I had to undergo a quick makeover while pretending I wasn’t exhausted after being rushed the entire day. Lastly, an unexpected guest stole the show, making him the center of attention—mainly the female part.”I am so glad I could finally meet you, Miss Allard. Conrad kept you a top secret from everyone, so I had to show up and meet you.” He stretched his hand, and I placed min

*MacKenzie*”Can I have this dance, Luna?”I felt a slight tap on my shoulder, and when I turned around, my eyes widened as I gazed at the tall and smiling Dragon King offering his hand. I gulped, nodded at his offer, not trusting my voice, and placed my cold hand in his hot one.”Don’t worry, I won’t bite.” He chuckled as he led me towards the dancefloor.My feet were screaming at me to get rid of my shoes, but I clenched my teeth and ignored the pain where the blisters started to form while dancing with Conrad. The party was already ending, and I was glued to Conrad’s side the entire time. He never let go of me on the dancefloor or at our table, as he kept me on his lap throughout every meal.”I please, Your Majesty, do not swirl me around. My feet are already in pain as I stand; I wish to use them tomorrow to escort me to work.” I pleaded, hopeful not to offend him with my request.He looked down at me quizzically before he lifted our joined hands, put his other hand on my back, an

*Caris*I picked the last lovage leaves and placed them in the basket. My back was killing me because of staying in one position for too long. I was no longer the youngest woman, even though my appearance might not suggest it. Being a bear shifter has advantages and several inconveniences, including painful bones.”Ahhh.” I moaned through clenched teeth as I straightened up, and my lower back cracked.”You better know what you’re doing, Claire. Helping you in those greenhouses is way more exhausting than any training with your son. I have never suffered so much my entire life.” I whined aloud.Unfortunately, I didn't receive any response. I was left alone in the greenhouse as Claire returned to her apartment to prepare her magical potion for MacKenzie. I picked up the basket and carefully walked between the flower beds towards the exit. I shook my head when I thought about this poor girl who had no idea what kind of mother-in-law she would have.”You better prepare for the woman from