As the footsteps drew nearer, the familiar scent of citrus and vanilla filled my senses, instantly recognizable as my mother's fragrance. "Mother," I muttered under my breath, my heart yearning to run to her embrace. But an invisible force seemed to hold me back, keeping me rooted to my seat.Despite the pull towards my mother, I couldn't shake off the weight of Kessler's intense gaze, his eyes locked on me with a mixture of emotions. As my uncle and mother settled at the table, I couldn't tear my eyes away from her. But she completely ignored me, leaving me feeling invisible and insignificant in her presence."How are you, my niece?" my uncle's voice broke through the tension, an attempt to lighten the atmosphere. But I couldn't muster a response, my disdain for his efforts evident in my silence. As the table was set and dishes were served, my thoughts raced with concern for my mother. What had my uncle done to her? She sat staring at the food before her, her expression distant and

Lyra POVI was shocked to find myself in Kessler's room, wearing my red nightie, all set to seduce him. I couldn't afford to be weak and helpless. I had to take action to save my mother.Despite his efforts to hide it, I could see the effect I had on him. The bulge in his trousers gave him away. I couldn't help but smile, knowing that I had stirred up emotions in him. Through the bond we shared, I could feel his desire surging, his gaze burning with the intensity of wanting to devour me in an instant.As I stood before him, a surge of confidence washed over me. I knew that I had his attention, and I intended to use it to my advantage. But beneath my bravado, a flicker of fear remained.Concealing my anxiety, I stepped closer to Kessler, closing the distance between us. His eyes bore into mine, a mix of desire and restraint swirling within "Lyra, go back to your room," he commanded, his voice laced with desire even as he tried to maintain control.Ignoring his words, I shook my head d

Kessler's POVI was in meetings with Alpha Baynes of the Crescent Pack, and one of the reasons Annie tagged along. To be honest, I was stunned by Lyra's bold behavior last night and the commanding aura she oozed.Watching Annie bow to her command was something else. My mind wandered to how her body had pressed against mine. Her nipple pointed out from her skimpy red nightie. Despite I tried to control my emotions, I knew I failed miserably. She was one incredibly attractive woman that held me spellbound.As the meeting progressed, I found it increasingly difficult to focus. Lyra's seemed to fill my thoughts.The thought made my third leg twitch in my trousers. If I hadn't found Lyra at the lake, I might have considered Annie as my mate. But it would have been purely out of convenience, not because I felt anything for her. She's just a spoiled brat, and I couldn't stand the idea of being with her."And to know that the rogues are extending West of our pack, it's a great concern," Alph

Kessler's expression softened as he looked at me, concern evident in his eyes. "I heard you crying out in your sleep," he explained gently. "I wanted to make sure you were okay."Still shaken and unsure of how to respond, I hesitated before finally speaking. "Thank you," I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper.He nodded in response, and a sense of relief washed over him. Watching him stride to the door, I feel a pang of regret. Despite everything, there was still a part of me that longed for his presence.I got up and went to the bathroom, splashing some water on my face as I stared at myself in the mirror. After drying my face with a towel, I walked back to my room.Instead of wallowing in self-pity, I realized I needed to do something spontaneous. For once, I had to set aside all the emotions I'd been holding inside. I needed to forget about my uncle, my mom, Kessler, Tristan, and even Annie. It was time to break free from the rollercoaster of emotions they had put me through.

But on second thought, I decided not to. What evidence do I need again? They were lovers, but for how long, I can't tell.Again, I was tired and hungry. I didn't have an idea where Julie was; we might have lost each other while I was occupied with my uncle and my mother.I promised myself to have fun and wouldn't let anything get in my way. So, I made my way to a restaurant. I had blocked all mind links so no one could get to me.I just want to be on my own for now, so I ordered a bowl of tomato basil soup and a grilled cheese sandwich.My stomach growled with anticipation as the food arrived, and I felt pleased. I muttered a thank you to the waiter and eagerly dug into my meal.Once done with my food, I took to the city without having anywhere in mind to go. Today's events had left my thoughts in disarray.First, Kessler's engagement to Annie. He marked me and chose to engage someone else. I rubbed the mark slightly, feeling some sparks.My mind raced with thoughts. How could my mothe