ALPHA ONYX: Chapters 1-10

Book 1

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Chapter 1:The Detour.

~Avaluna Chesmore

My name is Avaluna Chesmore, but I go by Luna. I was born and raised in the quaint town of Shirton, located in Oxford, England. To call it small would be an understatement—it's more like a tiny speck on the map with a population of just 1074.

For as long as I can remember, my nose has been perpetually buried in books. There's something about them that brings me immense joy. Through their pages, I can embark on extraordinary adventures and become anyone I desire. Books have become my sanctuary, a means of escaping the mundane and dreary existence of my everyday life. In those pages, the world opens up to me like a vast ocean, and I relish in exploring its depths, much like my love for seafood. Who doesn’t like some good ol’ succulent Dungeness crab, delicately paired with a rich, velvety butter?

Mm-mmmm!

I found contentment in the idea of embracing my life in Shirton, appreciating the quietude and solitude. Picture me as a spinster, accompanied by a delightful pack of dogs. Now, why a spinster, you might wonder? Well, it's certainly not because I'm lacking in the looks department.

At least, I don't think so.

Let me give you a glimpse of my appearance: I proudly rock thick, curly platinum blonde hair that flows down to my mid-back. Yeah, I used to be a proper brunette, but this platinum look suits me down to the ground, if you catch my drift.

Some of my mates out there know exactly what I'm on about. No matter the colour of your hair, we all fancy living on the edge from time to time don’t we?

The day I strolled into my house with my new look, my dear mum nearly keeled over in shock. Ah, those were the good ol’ days! My hair perfectly complements my metallic grey eyes and lovely warm ivory skin. And let's not forget my irresistible features—a cute button nose, pink cupid's bow lips, and a heart-shaped face. But I've got to give a shoutout to my mum for blessing me with a nicely-rounded bum— grateful for that.

It mostly has to do with those Spanish genes on Mum's side and maybe a little too much, fried food. No need for any judging, I never claimed to be skinny now did I? Just keeping it real.

115 pounds isn’t the bloody end of the world, mate. Maybe, just maybe, I'm hovering around the 120-ish mark... Alright, alright, you got me, it's more like 137! No need to twist my arm. But hey, I've learned to embrace it. The only thing I sometimes wish for is a few extra inches, but hey, I love myself just the way I am.

Nothing some stilettos can’t fix.

At 5 feet 3 inches, I confidently strut my stuff, fully aware of my undeniable beauty. My mummy said so. She wouldn't dare fabricate such compliments, would she? Let's just leave that question unanswered, shall we?

Anyway, back to my original point. To be honest, none of the lads around here have ever caught my fancy. They simply don't measure up to the “Prince Charming” figures in my beloved books. And let's not forget, they're a bunch of horny blokes who haven't a clue how to treat a proper lady.

Now, I'm not deluded or anything of the sort. I fully understand that the characters in my books are figments of my imagination. But there's this lingering belief within me that somewhere out there, my perfect man exists, patiently awaiting our destined encounter. I know it sounds peculiar or far-fetched, and I can't blame you for thinking so, mate. Hell, even my own family finds it odd. Hence, my decision to remain a spinster. Good Lord, I'll end up departing this world as a virgin! Perhaps I should save my parents the worry and join a nunnery.

Mum would undoubtedly have a heart attack, but Papa would secretly relish the idea.

Yep, I had it all planned out, but life has a funny way of throwing unexpected curveballs. As fate would have it, Papa's job transferred him to Seattle, Washington, in the USA. Initially, I despised the idea of moving, but over time, it grew on me. It's been a solid eight years since the relocation, and I can honestly say I have no regrets. Needless to say, I didn't end up joining a nunnery, and I most certainly will not be departing this world as a virgin.

Cue the confetti!

Now, as for my family, my older brother Avin made the decision to move back to Shirton. And my sister Avery tied the knot last summer with some pompous hotshot lawyer. The chap is an absolute knobhead, pardon my language. I don't typically throw around such profanity, but in this case, it fits like a glove. You know what they say, if it quacks like a duck and walks like a duck, it surely can't be mistaken for a flamingo.

As for yours truly, the baby in the family, I must say I'm rather fortunate. I have an incredible boyfriend who is caring, loving, and simply wonderful. We met at college, during our freshman year and have been together for nearly a year now. While he may not fit the exact mould of a “Prince Charming,” he's pretty bloody close and undeniably attractive. Imagine smooth honey-blonde hair, eyes as captivating as the sky on a summer's day, and ruggedly masculine features that make heads turn. And let's not forget his killer physique, which he maintains through rigorous workouts and his passion for American football. He's the quarterback and a true dreamboat—a quintessential all-American boy. Then there's me, an absolute wizard when it comes to school. I'm talking straight A's across the board, no less. I've got my noggin filled with knowledge and my academic prowess is a sight to behold. Top of the class. A badge I wear with pride. I have it all planned out. Ethan's gonna be working at his old man's law firm, while I'll be making waves at one of the top-notch publishing houses in town. Once we've graduated, tied the knot, Ethan made partner, and I've become a successful publisher, we'll be popping out two little ankle-biters. A proper lad and a darling little girl.

I have it all figured out—

“Babe? Babe? Are you still with me?” Ethan snaps his fingers in front of my face, pulling me out of my habitual daydreaming.

“Uh... Yeah, sorry,” I reply, offering a sheepish smile while instinctively nibbling on my bottom lip—a telltale sign when I'm caught spacing out.

He chuckles, his voice dripping with affection. “You're adorable, you know that?” A rush of warmth flushes my cheeks.

Leaning in, he places a gentle kiss on my forehead before resuming his lively chatter about his mate Ryan, whom he deems a complete twit with an astonishing knack for laziness. I settle comfortably into my seat on the bus that was heading back to Seattle after a blissful two weeks soaking up the sun on a beach in the Bahamas. Ethan's stories just went on and on… I nod intermittently, interjecting with an occasional "he didn't" or "No way.”

“Attention, ladies and gentlemen! We apologize for the inconvenience, but due to an accident on the highway, we will be taking a detour. Rest assured, we are still on track to arrive on time,” the bus driver's voice boomed through the speakers.

Ten minutes later, in the middle of Ethan’s sentence, the driver announces once more, “Welcome to Brandonville Mall. Please take this opportunity to stretch your legs and use the restroom. The bus will be departing in twenty minutes.”

We all filed out of the bus and headed towards the food court in small groups.

“Grab me a slice of meat lovers. I need to use the restroom,” I said.

Using the bus restroom has always been a dreadful experience for me; it just feels so dirty, and I was secretly afraid of being splashed when that cursed bus decided to go over a hump or hit a bump. I'm talking about a full-on splash zone situation. It's enough to make a person question their life choices.

Oh, Victoria's Secret! Hmm, maybe I'll pop in on my way back. They seem to be having a sale. Sneaky buggers. They make you traipse past all these stores just to use the loo. It's their way of reeling you in. Crafty devils.

After taking care of business and washing my hands, I turn to leave when someone grabbed me from behind! It was like a scene straight out of a horror flick. My girly screams were promptly muffled, leaving me in a state of utter shock and terror. My heart was pounding like a jackhammer as my mind raced, trying to make sense of what was happening.

Absolute madness, it was!

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Chapter 2: Kidnapping Wanker.

His touch sent a strange tingling sensation rippling through my body, I couldn’t help but wonder what in the world was going on. Was it anxiety creeping up, making my heart pound like a drum? Or was it fear, the kind that makes your skin crawl? And then, my mind, in all its daftness, jumped to the possibility that this bloke might just have some bizarre connection to that show “Black Lightning.” I mean, who knows, right?

But all the pondering in the world didn’t matter in that moment, because I was caught in his grip, struggling and squirming like a bloody fish out of water. I’ll tell you one thing, mate, this fella had muscles for days. His grip was like a vice, unyielding and stubborn as a mule. Bloody hell, he was stronger than a herd of wild bulls, I swear it.

“Stop fussing. I won’t harm you,” he reassured me with a voice so deep and resonant, it could make any girl weak at the knees. And, well, I’ll admit it, I was no exception.

His velvety voice had a hint of hardness and danger, matching the intimidating aura that practically oozed from every pore. Pressed against my back, he felt like an impenetrable brick wall, strangely warm and tingly. It would almost be comforting if it weren’t for the fact that we were in the Women’s bathroom!

Every fibre of my being screamed that this bloke was a rapist. I made one last attempt to let out a scream, but it got swallowed up by his palm, leaving me feeling utterly helpless. I kicked my legs and flailed my arms like a mad woman, but it was like battling against a solid rock. The man didn’t even flinch. His grip tightened, pressing down with a force that made me fear I’d be squashed like a measly bug.

An idea sparked within me, a desperate plan. If I couldn’t scream, maybe I could bloody well take a chunk out of him.

Worth a shot…

I refused to go down without a fight, even if it meant biting like a crazed animal.

“You bit me!” he growled a feral sound that sent shivers creeping down my spine. I kid you not, it was an actual bloody growl. Or maybe, just maybe my imagination was playing tricks on me?

With a vice-like grip, he cupped my face, squeezing it tightly, transforming me into some sort of fish-faced spectacle. I whimpered under the pressure, and he eased his grip ever so slightly.

“Don’t make me hurt you,” he threatened through gritted teeth.

His commanding no-nonsense tone brought all my frantic attempts at escape to a screeching halt. There was no doubt in my mind that he wouldn’t hesitate to follow through on his threats. He didn’t strike me as someone who made idle threats, not one bit. He scared the last shred of rebellion I had in me right through the door.

Coward!

“Good girl,” he spoke firm as ever. “I’m going to release you now. But if you scream, I’ll cut out your tongue. Do you understand?”

I nodded my head in compliance, seeming the only sensible option at that moment.

He released his grip on me slowly, and in a moment of sheer foolishness, I let out a piercing scream. It seemed to catch him off guard, if only for a moment, giving me just enough time to deliver a swift knee right where the sun don’t shine, and make my grand escape.

He dropped to one knee, clutching his family jewels, growling and groaning in pain. I didn’t stick around to witness the murderous anger that would undoubtedly follow. No, sir-ree. Adrenaline surged through my veins as I bolt through the mall, heading towards the food court.

Why on earth would they stick the bathroom at the opposite end of this bloody place?!

My heart pounding in my chest, I scanned the crowd and relief flooded me when I spotted Ethan sitting with a few other people from the bus, enjoying their meal and sharing a laugh.

Thank the heavens above!

I exhaled a breath I didn’t realize I was holding. But in the blink of an eye, I spun around too quickly, crashing into what I thought was a wall—except it wasn’t a wall at all. And it didn’t feel like one either.

 This “wall” possessed well-toned arms and smells like… well, that’s a thought for another time. Before I could stumble backwards and fall breaking my neck on the escalator, his rough hands gripped my hips, pulling me forward. In a swift motion, he spun me around, faster than my poor mind could comprehend. My back collided with his rigid, solid chest, but this time there was something discreet and cold pressing into my lower back.

I immediately recognized the owner of those giant, irresistibly sexy arms, by the tingling sensation that danced across my back. There was something about him, an aura of predation that made me feel like a vulnerable baby gazelle and him the undisputed king of the bloody jungle.

“Please don’t hurt me,” I whimpered, my voice barely audible.

“Too late for that, don’t you think?” he gritted through clenched teeth, still seething with anger.

Even Superman would envy his speed. I gulped, my fear intensifying.

“I-I’m sorry. Please?” I pleaded, my eyes darting around the bustling food court, desperate for someone, anyone, to notice the dire situation I was in.

Come on! I’m being held at gunpoint here, people! And on top of a frigging escalator, for crying out loud.

“Oh, you’re not sorry yet. But you will be,” he retorted, his voice chillingly calm and dangerous.

My heart pounded in my chest, the gravity of the situation sinking in.

“P-Please, let me go. I-”

He cut me off, his words dripping with menace, “We’re going to try this a different way. I assume someone over there is special to you.”

I knew exactly where his gaze was fixed, even without looking at the despicable prick. My body tensed, confirming his suspicion. I couldn’t see his face, but I could sense that smug smirk of his.

“You don’t want to be responsible for a bullet in their head, would you?” he taunted.

“N-No,” I stammered, shaking my head, a single tear rolled down my cheek. “Good now move.”

When we reach the bottom of the escalator, he turned us in the opposite direction. Part of me felt a glimmer of relief, knowing that Ethan and the others were safe from this nutter, but the majority of me was consumed by sheer terror.

I pleaded with him, but my words fell on deaf ears. One hand gripping my hip firmly and the other concealed in his leather jacket, clutching his weapon as he guided me through the bloody mall. I dared not look at the git, still bewildered by how no one seemed to notice my distress. Everyone was engrossed in their own world, glued to their phones, and laptops, and oblivious to the danger lurking in plain sight. This is the world we live in, where a law-abiding citizen can be kidnapped in broad daylight without anyone giving a damn. He led me to the underground garage, and neither of us uttered a word. Maybe he would release me and drive away, or perhaps this would be the place of my assault. My legs felt like they were encased in cement, struggling to move.

“Move,” he grunted at me, withdrawing the gun from his jacket.

Fear surged through me as I desperately pleaded, “Why are you doing this?”

He remained silent, his actions speaking louder than words.

“P-Please, just let me go. I won’t tell anyone. I swear,” I pleaded, my voice quivering. “I don’t have anyone to tell. Or any mates. Hell, I’m not even on Facebook or Instagram... anymore.” But my pleas fell on deaf ears once more, with not even a grunt of acknowledgement from the despicable wanker.

“I haven’t seen your face. Please,” I continued, hopelessly trying to reason with him.

He shoved the gun into his waistband and seized my arms in a vice-like grip, dragging me through the dark and eerie underground garage. The pain from his iron grip made me wince, knowing that bruises would form.

“Please, I haven’t seen-” I started, but he abruptly halted, causing a flicker of hope to ignite within me.

However, it was quickly extinguished as he cupped my face and tilted my head up. “There,” he sneered, a smirk adorning his face. “Now you’ve seen my face.”

I squeezed my eyes shut, denying his claim. “No, I didn’t.”

Technically, he had been wearing sunglasses.

“I won’t say a bloody word, I promise,” I pleaded, my voice trembling uncontrollably. Tears streamed down my cheeks as I begged for my life.

He muttered something under his breath and impatiently continued dragging me forward. I let out a yelp, my feet scrambling to keep pace with his long strides. He had impossibly long legs, forcing me to practically jog behind him just to keep up.

“What took you so long?” Another bloke suddenly appeared, seemingly out of thin air.

“Who’s the human?” a female voice chimes in from behind me.

Human?

Aren’t we all humans?  And where were all these people coming from, and how did they all know each other? I wasn’t entirely surprised. Criminals often operate in gangs. They must have just pulled off a heist or something. I wagered that the police were out there, searching for them as we speak. That means there was hope for rescue. Come on, coppers! Get them!

He released his grip on me and began conversing with them in a foreign language.

And why in the bloody hell was I still standing here like a tosser watching them chat?

I sprinted toward the elevator, screaming for help. But my attempt to escape was short-lived. In the blink of an eye, he scooped me up over his shoulder like a sack of rice.

“You’re a quick one, but not quick enough,” he taunted with a smirk, his tone dripping with condescension.

“Put me down!” I screamed, pounding his muscular back. The pain reverberated through my hands, but it hurt me more than it did him.

What the bloody hell was in his baby formula?

“No need to get feisty, angel,” he sneered, tightening his grip around my legs. “You’re not going anywhere until I say so.”

I glared at his stupid head. “I’ve had enough of being manhandled by an overgrown Neanderthal. Release me this instant, you insufferable brute!”

He chuckled, thoroughly enjoying my struggle. “Oh, I love it when they fight back. Makes the game all the more thrilling.”

I gritted my teeth, refusing to give him the satisfaction of seeing my fear. “You may find it amusing now, but mark my words, you’ll be begging for mercy when I’m through with you! You won’t get away with this. People will come looking for me, and they’ll make sure you pay for what you’ve done.”

He laughed mockingly. “Oh, baby, nobody cares about you. You’re just a pawn in my game, and soon enough, you’ll be forgotten.”

My heart raced with anger and fear. “Forgotten? Ha! You underestimate me, baby. I may be just a pawn in your twisted bloody game, but I’ve got a few moves of my own. And when the time comes, I’ll make sure the whole world knows your name and the wicked deeds you’ve committed. I’ll make sure you regret ever crossing paths with me, buddy!”

His voice filled with venom. “We shall see about that, princess. But for now, you’re mine to do with as I please.” He opens the trunk and I knew my fate was sealed.

“Please, no! I’ll behave!” I cried out, my heart pounding against my chest like a trapped bird.

But it was too late. He callously dropped me into the confined space, disregarding my pleas. Filled with rage and fear, I unleashed a flurry of curses and insults, but they fell on deaf ears. The trunk slammed shut with a resounding thud, sealing me in darkness. I screamed and kicked, trying to break free, but it was like fighting a bloody brick wall.

The car roared to life, the sound of music blaring and the sensation of speed confirming my worst fears. Were the police pursuing us? I could only hope they were.

Wait, NO!

That would be bad. Getting shot in the trunk isn’t how I see myself dying. My thoughts raced as my life flashed before my eyes. I refused to accept that this suffocating, claustrophobic trunk would be the place where my life came to an end!

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Chapter 3: R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Shake. Shake. Shake. “Wake up,” a voice growled.

As I groggily woke up, shielding my eyes from the blinding sunlight, he impatiently yanked me out of the trunk, showing no regard for my sore muscles that screamed in agony from being cramped in that unholy place. Then proceeds to manhandle me like a bloody empty sack, completely devoid of any care or consideration. I let out a yelp as he plonked me on the ground, his hands on my hips, steadying my wobbly legs. The tingling sensation coursed through my body once again, sending mixed messages to my already confused mind.

Refusing to be treated like a damsel in distress, I squealed, “Get off me, you bloody goon!” I slapped his chest and shoved his hands away, attempting to assert my independence.

Do kidnapping victims even have independence?

He growled and swiftly grabbed my wrist, his rough grip sending a jolt of pain through me. “You want to go back in the trunk?” he threatened.

“No! Please don’t put me back in there,” I pleaded, fear tainting my voice.

“Then don’t fucking test me,” he growls, releasing my wrist.

I shot him a quick glare before shifting my gaze to the desolate spectacle that lay before us. We were at some forsaken weathered gas station marooned in the heart of nowhere. As far as the eye could see, there was nothing but endless desert.

Cue the tumbleweeds.

I’m sure there are a few buried bodies out there somewhere, just to add a touch of mystery to our delightful little pit stop. I contemplated using this opportunity to call for assistance. But who was going to hear me? 

The cactus? Or the corpses?

Maybe I could make a run—

“Don’t even think about it,” he warned and forcefully dragged me to the backseat of the car.

“Why are you doing this? Please.”

He ignores me, opened the door, shoved me inside, and got in beside me. Instinctively, I slid to the other end of the seat and yank at the door handle. To my dismay, I realized it had the child-locked feature enabled.

Meanwhile, the girl in the front seat playfully smacked the driver’s shoulder and exclaimed, “Pay up!”

He reluctantly pulled out some money from his wallet, which she snatched away with a triumphant grin.

Shaking his head at their childish antics, my kidnapper resumed texting on his phone, seemingly indifferent to my disoriented, terrified, and confused state. The bloke behind the wheel started the car, and off we went.

Kidney harvesting here I come.

There wasn’t much to do, and I was pretty sure they weren’t going to tell me where we were going or let me go free anytime soon. So, I decided to study my captors, ensuring that the sketch artist would have a masterpiece-worthy rendition of their vivid faces. As I observed the prick beside me, my fear was momentarily distracted by his striking appearance, I couldn’t help but acknowledge his undeniable attractiveness. It seemed like a cruel twist of fate that my abductor had to be so devastatingly handsome.

He had a head of hair darker than a moonless night, perfectly styled in a rugged bad-boy fashion. Probably spent more time fussing over it than I do trying to figure out which shoes I want to wear. And that tan skin of his? It practically radiates like he’s on a bloody holiday in Ibiza. All those muscles, not too bulky but just the right amount of fit. His chest was broad, his shoulders sturdy and squared, emphasizing his masculine presence. His physique was a testament to his physical strength and discipline.

He had intricate tattoos adorning his sculpted arms, adding a touch of edginess to his overall appearance. Every detail of his face was captivating. His nose, with its distinct angles, added character to his visage, while his lips, were full and inviting.

Hold on a bloody minute! This bloke kidnapped me! The last thing I should be fixated on is how snog-worthy his lips might be. I let out an inward groan and facepalm myself. I’m helpless as a lost pigeon.

Unfortunately, his eyes remained hidden behind his sunglasses, denying me a glimpse into their colour and intensity. But even without that knowledge, it was clear that his gaze held a mesmerizing allure.

The driver had the same bloody hair and tan skin, except for his charming brown eyes flecked with hints of forest green. While he might not possess the same level of muscularity, there was a family resemblance. If only they weren’t busy kidnapping innocent girls, they could earn a fortune posing for romance novel covers.

Turning my attention to the girl in the front seat, she was a proper stunner. Her medium champagne brown hair was pulled back into a ponytail like she was about to do some high-fashion photoshoot. Her sun-kissed tan skin exuded a healthy glow, and her eyes, a mesmerizing shade of green— resembling the depths of the ocean— were framed by long, thick lashes. Her height hands down surpassed mine— easily 5’8— making her resemble a supermodel in both beauty and stature.

It struck me that I was being abducted by a team of supermodels with a dark and dangerous vibe that made me feel like vulnerable prey.

Maybe one of them needs a bone marrow transplant.

I gulp.

Despite my fear and vulnerability, a surge of defiance coursed through me as I stared daggers at my kidnapper who sat casually beside me as if this were an everyday occurrence. This bloke seemed way too composed like kidnapping was just another day at the office. Makes you wonder how often they pull this rubbish. Maybe it’s their twisted version of a hobby, or worse, a fetish. But what really kept my mind racing was what they did with their captives once they were done with them.

Bury their bodies near one of those cacti beside the gas station.

“Where the bloody hell are you taking me?” I managed to stutter out, my voice shaky.”Why are you doing this?” I tried again, this time with a bit more volume. Still met with silence. Alright, mate, now you’re just being a proper wanker.

“Asshole, I’m talking to you!” I couldn’t hold back anymore.

The frustration bubbled up and spilt out of me. His jaw clenched, and the atmosphere in the car turned stifling like the air had been sucked out of the bloody thing.

In an instant, he lunged towards me, grabbing my ankle and yanking me closer. I screamed and kicked, desperate to free myself, but it was futile. He gripped my hair, and a whimper escaped my lips as pain shot through my scalp. It felt like he was going to rip my hair right out.

“No one talks to me like that. You’ve got no respect in that pretty mouth of yours,” he snarled, his voice dripping with arrogance.

“Respect? Ha! Says the man who kidnaps me and tosses me in a trunk!” I scoffed, my anger boiling over.

I couldn’t believe the audacity of this jerk.

He smirked, clearly relishing in his power trip. “You’re in no position to question me. I don’t answer to you.”

“Oh, trust me, I’m well aware of my current position,” I shot back, my voice laced with sarcasm. “But just so you know, kidnapping doesn’t exactly earn you a gold star in the ’Respectable Human Being’ category.”

His eyes narrowed. “You don’t know who you’re messing with, princess. I could make your life a living hell.”

I laughed, the anger fueling my defiance. “You really think you scare me? Please. I’ve dealt with scarier things than you on a bad hair day.” If you haven’t figured it out, he scares me— plenty.

His face flushed with anger, his demeanour shifting from cocky to furious. “You’ll regret those words, you insolent brat!”

“Oh, I’m shaking in my imaginary boots.” Technically I was wearing wedges and I am shaking in them. “But while we’re on the bloody subject of respect, how about you show some to the girl you kidnapped, hmm? Just a thought.”

I could see him seething, his grip on my hair tightens. Suppressing the urge to cry out, I held back a whimper, determined not to give him the satisfaction he craved. The tension in the air was palpable, and both the girl and the driver appeared visibly tense and nervous, their eyes darting anxiously between each other. But I wasn’t about to back down. If he wanted a fight, he had picked the wrong girl.

Mama didn’t raise no bloody melt, you know!

He let out a dark chuckle sending chills down my spine and removed his sunglasses in the process. My breath caught as his mesmerizing eyes came into view. They were like a masterpiece, a swirling blend of obsidian black surrounded by a ring of blazing sterling silver-grey, all enveloped by a breathtaking azure blue. If someone could name a crayon or a paint colour after this bloke, they’d make a fortune.

And those thick lashes framing his captivating gaze, along with his perfectly sculpted cheekbones... Was he even real? Did someone secretly build a workshop to create the perfect guy, and I wasn’t privy to it?

My stomach fluttered with nervous butterflies, and goosebumps prickled across my skin. My heart seemed to skip a beat, pounding unnaturally in my chest. His eyes held so many emotions, concealed by his seemingly cold exterior, and they drew me in like a magnet, capturing my very soul.

They were spectacular with so many emotions swimming in them, emotions his face hid so well. His eyes softened and I could feel him probing deep into my soul.

But just as quickly, something clicked in him, and the warmth vanished from his eyes, leaving behind a chilling, menacing glare. With a cocky smirk, he uttered, “It’s only a pretty face, angel.”

Oh, bloody brilliant. Not only did I get kidnapped, but I also have to deal with a bloke who seemed to possess both unearthly beauty and an irritatingly arrogant attitude.

Just my bloody luck.

My cheeks burned with embarrassment as I realized I had been caught gawking at the Knob. What in the bloody hell was wrong with me? Get your shit together, Luna! I shot him a glare, trying to muster as much hatred as possible.

“I’ve seen better, love,” I smirked back lying, though my voice wavered slightly.

His jaw twitched, his anger palpable. “I won’t think twice before putting a bullet between those gorgeous grey eyes of yours. So, I suggest you don’t piss me off,” he warned, finally releasing my hair.

I quickly scrambled back to the corner, keeping a safe distance. Wait, did he just say my eyes were gorgeous?

No! Snap out of it, Luna! Focus!

I massaged my aching scalp and mustered up the courage to ask, “Why did you kidnap me?”

He tossed me a bottle of water. I caught it, my eyes narrowing suspiciously. How could I trust that he hadn’t tampered with it in some way?

“I needed a hostage,” he replied. “Drink.” He let out a frustrated sigh, clearly annoyed by my stubbornness. “If I wanted you dead, there are plenty more creative ways to accomplish that than using poison,” he taunted, a cruel glimmer dancing in his captivating azure eyes.

Creative ways? My throat went dry as I swallowed hard. I highly doubt he was referring to arts and crafts.

With each passing moment, my parched throat became increasingly unbearable. I weighed my options, reluctantly realizing that quenching my thirst might be the lesser evil in this twisted bloody scenario.

I narrowed my eyes at him, trying to mask my vulnerability and fear with defiance. “Fine, but if this is some sick joke, you better hope karma doesn’t catch up with you.”

He smirked, a devilish glint in his eyes. “Trust me, princess, I don’t believe in leaving loose ends.”

I hesitated for a moment before accepting the drink he offered, My hand trembling slightly as I broke the seal. As the liquid touched my lips, I braced myself for the unknown, unsure of what cruel game he was playing. Especially after a comment like that.

“Congratulations, you’ve successfully hydrated your hostage,” I jested nervously. “You must be so proud.”

“Trust me, it wasn’t my top choice,”  he mumbles under his breath more to himself than me.

Which begs the bloody question, what was his top choice?

Luna, don’t go asking questions that you don’t really want answers to. Who knows what else he’s bloody capable of? Could be as daft as a box of frogs or a few sandwiches short of a picnic, for all we know. Best not to open that can of worms.

“A whole mall, and you chose me?” I ask changing the subject.

“You were oblivious to your surroundings. An easy prey,” he stated matter-of-factly.

 Outrageous! I was not!

I may not have been the most vigilant person, but that gave him no right! Absolutely none!

“I was plenty aware!” I snort very unladylike. “I didn’t know I needed to be on high alert when taking a bloody piss. Pretty sure nothing was going to crawl out and bite my ass!” I huffed, crossing my arms defiantly.

“Watch your mouth,” he warned, his voice low and threatening.

“Or what? You’re going to lock me in the trunk again?” I retorted, my fear seeping through my words.

Don’t give him any ideas you daft girl.

“First, I’m going to fuck that lovely little mouth,” he snarled, a sinister smirk etched across his face as he gauges my reaction. Which was pure fear and something else I struggled to comprehend. “Then, I’ll toss your irritating ass back in the trunk.” He arched an eyebrow at me, daring me to challenge him.

Someone really needs to wash out his vulgar mouth with soap!

I quickly looked away and stared out the window, hugging my knees tight to my chest. Yeah, this guy wasn’t exactly cracking jokes. He had that serious vibe going on. But somewhere deep inside, a tiny voice was telling me he probably wouldn’t harm me. Still, no freaking way was I taking that gamble.

I could just picture my poor family and Ethan tearing their hair out, going full-on search party mode. They must be losing their bloody minds right now. I swear, I could practically hear the suspenseful music playing in the background. And to top it off, my eyelids started doing this weird heavy dance, threatening to knock me out.

Talk about bad timing. It was becoming increasingly difficult to stay awake for some reason. Car rides did always make me sleepy. I’ll just rest my peepers for a second.

I yawn, leaning my head against the car window.

---

Chapter 4: Attack of Godzilla.

As I lay there, snugly wrapped in what felt like the poshest bloody sheet imaginable, I couldn’t help but indulge in the sensation. It was like being hugged by a thousand-thread-count cloud, sending waves of warmth and tingles all over my body. I inhaled deeply, a soft moan escaping my lips as I sank further into the heavenly fabric.

A low growl emerged from beneath the sheet, but did I let that bother me? Not in the slightest! I clung tighter to my cosy sanctuary as if to say, “You can growl all you want, mate, but you’re not ruining this moment for me.”

Somewhere between awake and asleep, I caught snippets of voices in the distance. They were like a radio playing on the lowest volume, their words barely reaching my ears. It was as if the universe itself couldn’t decide whether to disturb my peaceful cocoon or let me revel in uninterrupted bliss.

Begone, I say!

In that moment, I chose to let go and surrender to the absurdity of it all. Who needs worries and decipherable conversations when you have a divine sheet wrapped around you, after all? So, I snuggled in even deeper, and let the whimsical embrace carry me away to a land of utter contentment.

 “Down, boy. She’s asleep,” a voice snickered, teasingly.

Avery?

“Shut up,” growled my cosy sheet.

“You know... You could give her to me. I’m all into cuddles,” a deeper voice said.

Did mum catch a cold?

“And I’m all into snapping necks,” My sheet stated matter-of-factly.

Hold on… Why is my sheet chatting away? And why does it feel hard, with arms?

Blimey!

In a moment of sheer panic, my eyes flew open, and a high-pitched squeal escaped my lips as I scrambled frantically, desperate to escape the clutches of none other than my arrogant jerk-off kidnapper.

“Bloody hell,” I groaned, the sharp pain shooting through my body as I slammed my head into the car door.

The impact sent a jolt from my aching back all the way up to my throbbing skull.

I didn’t! I blinked in disbelief as the realization sank in—I had been cuddling my kidnapper all along. The warm tingling sensation that still danced upon my skin seemed to confirm the uncomfortable truth. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks, shattering any semblance of comfort or safety I had momentarily felt.

Stockholm syndrome!

After a moment of collecting my thoughts, I finally noticed how dark it was. Which meant we had been on the road for quite some time. The unsettling realization of how far we had potentially travelled sent a chill down my spine, intensifying the sense of uncertainty and fear that already gripped me.

“Where are we? Where the bloody hell are you taking me?” I blurted out, the desperation evident in my voice as I pleaded for answers.

My hand instinctively rubbed my throbbing scalp, a lingering reminder of the impact of the car door.

“Calm down,” my kidnapper sighed beside me.

The darkness obscured his face, leaving me unable to decipher his expression, but I could feel his eyes on me, his gaze unsettling and penetrating.

“You kidnapped me, and you expect me to calm down?” I retorted, my voice trembling with a combination of fear and anger, fueled by the frustration of being held captive without any knowledge of our destination.

“North Carolina,” he finally revealed.

“North Carolina? That’s going to take at least another bloody day of driving, assuming there are no roadblocks. Just let me go, and you won’t have to worry about anything. I won’t breathe a word to anyone, I swear.”

“We’re almost there,” he replied, his voice tinged with impatience.

“Almost there?” I gasped, my heart pounding in my chest “How long was I out for?”

“Roughly thirty-one hours,” he replied smoothly.

“Thirty-one hours!” I squealed in disbelief, a mix of shock and horror washing over me.

“It was peaceful,” he grumbled.

“How did I— I mean—,” my eyes went wide with realization, “you didn’t!?” I gasped in shock, finally realizing what he had done. “How could you?!”

“I told you the dart would last longer,” the girl in the front seat chimed in.

“Only because she didn’t finish it,” the driver added casually.

They were all bloody insane!

“Why are you doing this? I don’t even know you lot!” I shouted angrily, my frustration boiling over.

My kidnapper growled in irritation, a truly animalistic sound. “We’re almost at our destination, and so far, you’ve been asleep for most of it—”

“That’s because you and your gang of sociopaths drugged me!” I interjected, and they all growled.

What were these people? Rottweilers?

“Clearly, you don’t give a shit about your life. But tell me, what about your family in Seattle?” The threat in his voice was hard to miss along with the sinister glint in his eyes.

“Please, don’t hurt them. I’ll do anything.”

“That’s more like it. Now shut the fuck up and sit quietly. I need to rest,” he said, adjusting himself comfortably. “Try anything stupid, and your family will pay.”

A knot formed in the pit of my stomach as his threat hung heavy in the air. I knew I had to bide my time, play along for now. I would find a way to protect my family and escape this nightmare, no matter the cost. Taking his menacing warning to heart, I remained silent but, in my head, I told him exactly how I felt.

The driver and the girl occasionally spoke in a foreign language, maybe Italian? As for the knob beside me he hadn’t budged from his position for nearly an hour.

Maybe he’s dead?

I’m not that lucky.

One thing was for sure—there was no bloody way I was going to fall asleep again. Who knows what will happen next? Would they harvest my kidneys, or the grimmest possibility of all, not waking up?

With every passing moment, the tension in the confined space grew. I knew I had to stay vigilant, my senses on high alert, ready to seize any opportunity that might present itself. Escape became my sole focus, and the well-being of my own life depended on my ability to outsmart these wankers.

Then suddenly the car spun out of control, tires screeching against the asphalt as it spun violently. I was thrust forward, the world around me turning into a blur of chaos and fear. But in that moment of sheer terror, my kidnapper instinctively pulled me into his chest, his arms enveloping me in a protective embrace. His grip was firm, his presence strangely comforting. But that was the farthest thing from my mind. Crashing and dying took first priority.

A primal, menacing growl erupted from him; a warning directed at whatever danger lurked outside. The sound reverberated through the vehicle, sending shivers down my spine as the car screeched to an abrupt halt.

“What the—” Before I could even process what had happened or finish my sentence something huge collided with the side of the vehicle, flipping us over.

The world turned upside down, and I screamed, my voice mingling with the chaos of the crash.

I clung to my kidnapper, holding on for dear life as he held me tightly, shielding me. My head nestled into the safety of the crook of his neck, finding solace in his protective presence. Questions raced through my mind: Why was he protecting me? And What in the bloody hell had hit us with such force?

Godzilla?!

The car spun, twisted, and flipped, defying gravity as if it had a score to settle with the laws of physics. It all happened so fast, one moment we were being flipped by Godzilla and the next screeching metal and shattering glass merged with the thick, grey smoke that filled the air.

Through the haze, I could hear my kidnapper’s urgent voice, strained with panic and fury as he yelled something to his mates. The words were muffled, barely reaching my ears, “rogues” or “Rogers.” Not like I could hear a whole lot with the piercing ringing in my ears and smoke filling my lungs.

Either my eardrum had suffered a severe blow in the crash, leaving me with a distorted auditory experience, or we had somehow managed to stumble into a full-blown attack by a rogue pride of lions. That would explain the growling and howling that echoed from outside the vehicle. As I struggled to regain my bearings, the world around me felt both distant and immediate, as if reality itself was wavering.

With a swift, unexpected motion, the girl ripped the car door off its hinges, defying all rational explanation. Either my eyes were playing tricks on me, or she’s related to Superman. It was the only logical explanation. He lifts me up and passes me to her. My body trembling and my chest heaving uncontrollably as I gasped for air on the side of the road.

Strong arms enveloping me, pulling me into a comforting embrace, and a wave of tingles cascaded across my skin wherever his touch lingered. It was a paradoxical sensation—a juxtaposition of fear and safety, turmoil and tranquillity. At that moment, I couldn’t deny the inexplicable relief I found in his protective arms.

I must have hit my head harder than I thought.

The world seemed to fade into the background as my heart rate gradually slowed, and the suffocating grip of panic began to loosen its hold on my lungs.

All the complexities of our twisted circumstances faded away. I no longer cared about the fact that he had kidnapped me or locked me in the trunk. All that mattered was the present moment, where he held me tightly, providing a sense of security that I hadn’t known since this ordeal began.

Yep, I definitely hit my head. What’s the concussion protocol again?

“Look at me,” he gently cupped my chin, his eyes softening with a hint of concern.

Am I delusional? I had to have inhaled some sort of toxic fumes because Gentle and him in the same sentence make no bloody sense. And why was he being so nice? “Are you okay? Say something. Say anything, dammit.”

I eyed him suspiciously. “Am I dying?”

The side of his mouth twitches as if he is holding back a smile.

Yep, I must be dying.

He scooped me up, cradling me in his arms. Shamelessly, I nestled into his cosy, protective embrace. Well, if I’m on my way out anyway, might as well savour the moment, right?

In the blink of an eye, we were magically whisked away, leaving behind the smokey wreckage and the growling and the snarling. The cool night air sent shivers down my spine, and my whole body was covered in goosebumps. How in the bloody hell did he become the Flash in real life?

How fast does a brain tumour take to grow?

I mean, no one moves that fast unless you’re on the CW.

Gingerly, he lowered me to the ground, his support still bearing most of my weight. “Can you stand?”

“Stand?” I echoed, struggling to process everything as my brain strained to catch up with his words.

“Yes, stand on your own,” he gently urged.

“Oh, um, yeah. Yes,” I stammered, coughing to clear my throat. “ Uh, what’s going on? What’s happening?” I can still hear the ringing in my ears, but the growling and snarling had stopped. 

“There was an accident.”

“No shit, Sherlock,” I muttered, the rasp in my voice amplified by another fit of coughing. As I peered past him, my eyes widened at the sight of the overturned car, engulfed in flames. “Bloody hell,” I exclaimed, my heart pounding in my chest. “That... that was us? How did we...?”

He glanced back at the wreckage, his expression grave. “We were lucky to make it out in time. It’s not safe here. We need to keep moving. Can you walk?”

I nodded, cautiously testing out my legs to ensure they would support me.

Once he was satisfied that I could stand on my own, he released his hold on me. I bite back a whimper from escaping my lips at the loss of his strong arms around me.

Brain tumours, Stockholm syndrome, and an unfortunate case of the stupids. Talk about a wild bloody combo! I mean, who orders this kind of package deal, right? It’s like getting a free side of madness with your main course of car accidents. I’m going to be in therapy for the rest of my life after this debacle. 

Suddenly, the sound of howling and the thunderous roar of engines reached my ears. The distant headlights raced toward us with alarming speed.

Was this the cavalry coming to the rescue? Were those cops blazing through the night?

I should have felt relieved, but an odd mix of emotions flooded over me, making no sense at all. This was what I wanted, to be freed, to go home to my family, to Ethan… yet an unsettling feeling crept up my spine, whispering doubts in my ear.

“Fuck,” he growls, frustration etched on his face as his hand raked through his hair.

“The hunters are here,” the girl announced urgently, her sudden appearance catching me off guard.

Where did she come from?

“We’ll hold off the mutts and deal with the hunters,” he commanded in a powerful tone that sent shivers down my spine and not necessarily the bad kind.

I need more than a therapist. Maybe shock therapy?

Do they still do that?

She dipped her head towards him and grabbed my wrist.

“Wait! Aren’t you coming with us?” I blurted out, surprising myself as much as him and the girl.

Why did I care? After all, he had kidnapped me and threatened my family.

Then saved your life.

My life wouldn’t be at risk if wasn’t for him!

“I’ll find you. But you need to run,” he stated firmly. “Run!” he roared, his urgency matching the approaching howls that grew nearer by the second.

---

Chapter: 5 Goodbye cruel world.

With his words ringing in our ears, we took off sprinting blindly into the depths of the dark forest. I stumbled and fumbled, my every step hindered by hidden roots and treacherous bloody rocks. It was as if the whole forest conspired to trip me up, testing my resolve. Meanwhile, the girl beside me seemed to glide effortlessly, her movements akin to those of a nocturnal creature with built-in night vision.

How convenient for her.

My body screamed with exhaustion, every muscle protesting as I pushed myself beyond my limits, propelled by the surge of adrenaline that pulsed through my veins.

Gasping for breath, I leaned over, my hands resting on my knees.

I need to step up my cardio.

“What exactly is after us?” I managed to utter between breaths, the words punctuated by the heaving of my chest.

The girl halts in her tracks. “Keep moving!”

“No need to get your knickers in a twist,” I pant out trying to catch my breath. “Unlike you, I don’t have rocket boosters hidden in my shoes, mate. I could use a minute here.”

 “We don’t have a minute to spare,” she hisses. “You’ll just have to settle for a breather on the go. Now move!”

“Who are the hunters?” I asked, my curiosity overrode my fatigue.

The girl let out an exasperated sigh and flung her arms up in the air. “Are you kidding me right now?”

I furrowed my brow, not appreciating her attitude. “Are they like bounty hunters or something? Did you lot rob a bank, and now they’re after you?”

“That’s none of your business.”

I rolled my eyes, unimpressed by her snarky response. “Look, I’m just trying to make sense of this madness. If you’re not gonna give me a straight answer, then maybe you can at least dial down the bloody attitude.”

She scoffed, crossing her arms. “Attitude? You haven’t seen anything yet. You’re lucky I’m even sticking around to save your sorry ass.”

I gritted my teeth, frustration bubbling up inside me. “Well, forgive me for not rolling out the bloody red carpet for my saviour of the day. I mean, it’s not like you and your charming crew abducted me or anything!” I shot back.

Suddenly the distinct sound of gunshots in the distance pierced the air around us, rudely interrupting our intense stare-down.

“Still wanna have this conversation now?”

“Maybe… later.” My voice trembles.

We sprinted off without hesitation, our feet pounding against the ground.

“Keep moving! You’re slowing us down!” she bellowed.

 While I clumsily stumbled and fought to maintain my balance, desperately attempting to avoid a face-planting tragedy with each inevitable trip and stumble along the way.

“Sure thing mate,” I snap, glaring daggers at her. This bitch. ”Let me just wave my magical wand and conjure up my night vision goggles! Because, you know, it’s totally expected that I’d be kidnapped, drugged and dragged across the country, ambushed by Godzilla, and chased by trigger-happy goons through a pitch-black, dense forest. Clearly, I must have purposely left my night vision goggles at home sitting pretty on my bloody nightstand!”

With a curt snap in her tone, she shot back, “This is hardly the time for clever remarks.”

“Well, I am exceptionally intelligent, so the cleverness just oozes naturally,” I sassily replied, only to have my words abruptly swallowed by an eerie, bone-chilling howl that sent shivers down my spine.

A surge of fear gripped my heart, causing my voice to quiver and my feet to instinctively freeze in place. “Does that sound like the howl of bounty hunters to you?”

Her response carried a palpable undercurrent of fear, impossible to miss as she scanned the ominous expanse of the forest. “No.”

“Are there wolves in North Carolina?” I inquired, our collective pace slowing as we cautiously surveyed our surroundings, our senses heightened.

“Yes,” came her straightforward response.

“They sound… hungry,” I stammered, a nervous lump forming in my throat, as the howling grew louder, surrounding us from every direction and nowhere in particular at the same time.

“They are,” she confirmed, her voice carrying a hint of unease.

“By any chance, do you happen to have a juicy T-bone steak tucked away in your pocket?” I asked, half-jokingly.

“Nope.”

“Brilliant. Well, in the unfortunate event that we become an appetizing feast, I suppose it’s only fair to introduce ourselves. I’m Luna.”

“Luna?” she responded, a hint of surprise and amusement colouring her tone. “Fitting. Zuri.”

“What do we do?”

“You run when I say so,” Zuri replied, her tone firm.

“But what about you?”

“Don’t worry about me. There’s a lake a few miles north. You need to get across it,” she instructed, her voice steady and gaze fixed ahead.

“Which way is north again?”

She let out an exasperated sigh.

“What? geography isn’t my thing.”

“Go left and keep going until you reach the lake. And whatever happens, don’t stop, no matter what you hear,” her voice lowered slightly, carrying a discernible hint of fear. It was clear that whatever she was looking at behind me wasn’t a favourable sight.

As if moving in slow motion, I turned my body around, a creeping anxiety crawling up my spine. The hair on the back of my neck stood on end. I followed her line of sight to two menacing fiery scarlet orbs piercing through the darkness in the distance. My hands instinctively shot up, clamping over my mouth in a desperate attempt to stifle the screams of horror that threatened to escape.

“Run,” she commanded, her words leaving no room for debate, and I wasn’t going to argue with her.

Spinning around, I propelled myself forward with every ounce of strength my legs could muster, fueled by a surge of adrenaline. Ignoring the searing pain in my lungs and the chilling growls and howls behind me, I pushed my body to its limits. Tripping over hidden roots in the darkness, dodging trees and ducking under broken branches. I fought against the exhaustion that threatened to consume me. The forest became a blur of shadows as I raced through its treacherous terrain.

My legs grew heavy as if weighed down by an invisible force, and I stumbled to a halt, leaning against the sturdy trunk of a towering tree. Desperately, I gasped for breaths, my chest heaving as my heart pounded relentlessly, matching the rhythm of a thunderous drum. My mouth felt parched as every inch of my body throbbed with fatigue.

As the rhythm of my breath steadied and my racing heart gradually slowed, an unsettling stillness descended upon the forest, casting an eerie hush over the surroundings. It was too quiet around here which doesn’t bode well for me.

Zuri, please don’t be wolf dinner.

Zuri’s words echoed in my mind, reminding me of the lake I needed to reach. Closing my eyes, I focused my senses. And then, like a faint whisper in the distance, I heard it—the delicate sound of trickling water. My eyes snapped open and without hesitation, I raced towards the flowing stream. The sound grew louder with every step, like a melodic beacon drawing me closer to salvation. Relief washed over me, like a cool wave as I emerged into a clearing, greeted by the sight of the tranquil lake shimmering under the moonlight.

“I made it!” I yelped, my voice ringing out triumphantly into the night.

But my fleeting moment of relief quickly dissipated into sheer terror as the unmistakable sound of snapping twigs echoes behind me, accompanied by the distinctive growls drawing nearer with alarming speed.

Blimey!

I darted towards the lake, but just as I reached the edge of the lake, something slammed into my body, driving me forcefully into the sandy ground. The air is ripped from my lungs, and an agonizing scream tore from my mouth as the weight of the impact sends shards of pain coursing through my body with the sickening sound of a few ribs cracking.

Stars dance before my eyes, blurring my vision as my head throbs relentlessly. Disoriented and dazed, I struggle to make sense of the unfolding nightmare. The situation only grew bleaker. Standing above me, was a massive bloodthirsty wolf that looked like it swallowed a bear, its scarlet eyes piercing through the darkness and my soul. Drool drips from its jaws, splattering onto my face—a repulsive sensation that elicits a disgusted squeal from me. The stench of rotten fish assaults my poor nose, as fear grips my heart, paralyzing me with the realization of the dangerous proximity between myself and this creature, reeking of death. I remain frozen, fully aware that any sudden movement could trigger an attack as its razor-sharp canines loom close to my face.

“Good wolf,” I whimpered, my voice barely above a whisper, my eyes tightly shut in a mix of fear and desperation. “Please, please don’t eat me.”

In an unexpected twist of fate, another wolf, slightly larger than the first launched itself at the menacing wolf that had me cornered. They start fighting— teeth gnashing and jaws snapping, each aiming to seize the other’s throat. The wolf that came to my rescue briefly locks eyes with mine.

Bloody hell. I blink.

To my astonishment, its eyes are a piercing blue, a striking contrast to the scarlet orbs of its adversary. They were like twin sapphires gleaming in the darkness. The blue-eyed wolf emits a low growl, then nods its snout in the direction of the lake.

I must be losing my mind but when a seven-foot-tall wolf with mesmerizing blue eyes tells me to cross the bloody lake better believe it mate, I am crossing the bloody lake.

Sanity be damned!

Stumbling to my feet and clutching my broken ribs, I drag myself towards the lake. Despite the searing pain, I pushed through. The current grew fiercer with every step, testing my resolve. The frigid water rising, its icy touch reaching my belly button, yet I stubbornly disregard the searing agony radiating from my chest. I crawl forward, collapsing on my knees as I finally reach the shore.

The cold air envelops me, causing my trembling form to shudder uncontrollably. I lay back on the pebbles, gasping for air, each breath a struggle. My vision blurs, blighted by the intensifying ache in my ribs and well, everywhere.

This is it, I thought grimly. This is how I die. At least it’s not in a nunnery. Goodbye cruel world.

---

Chapter 6: Who is she?

~Wyatt Onyx

Vanilla and apples. Fuckin’ vanilla and mother fuckin’ apples. I mean, who wouldn’t want to smell like a walking fuckin’ air freshener or a rejected Candle flavour?

I closed the distance on the hapless hunter. In one swift motion, I separated his head from his shoulders. As the lifeless body crumbled to the ground, I turned my attention to a mangy mutt who launched at me. I seized the filthy mutt by the scruff of its neck and hurled the wretched creature into the path of two oncoming mutts.

Vanilla and apples. One fuckin’ whiff and I was torn between wanting to fuck her into oblivion and wanting to... well fuck her into oblivion all over again. And no matter how much she begs me to stop I wouldn’t.

The scent of gunpowder hangs thick, mingling with the metallic tang of blood in the air. Yet, her insidious parasitic scent ensnaring my senses, an unrelenting odour that refuses to be purged from the recesses of my nose.

I don’t even like apples, let alone vanilla. I snorted. It’s like a terrible addiction; you hate it, you want to avoid it, but somehow, you just can’t resist the allure. And then came the moment I never anticipated—the sound of her scream, the fear glistening in those beautiful perfect grey eyes. In that moment, a surge of protectiveness rose within me. Those eyes, accustomed to defiance, shouldn’t be clouded by fear from anyone but me. I longed to hear her scream, but not in that way.

What the hell is wrong with me? My humanity, or whatever’s left of it, is entangled with this infuriating little human.

I could end her. My wolf chimed in with a deafening roar, sending an instant headache stabbing through my skull.

What the hell is your problem? I grimace.

A hunter took the opportunity to unload a few rounds into me. It didn’t hurt, but it pissed me off, and in that moment, I couldn’t decide which was more infuriating—my own internal struggle or the audacity of a human trying to put me down.

I fuckin’ hate humans.

‘Not all humans,’ my doting wolf adds.

Fuck off.

The moonlight casts an unearthly glow upon the morbid scene. The asphalt, now a canvas of crimson stains. The corpses of those worthless filthy mutts, strewn unceremoniously upon the road. Their monstrous forms, frozen in eternal rest. As for the hunters, their vile presence is reduced to mere debris, scattered like discarded fragments.

I inhale deeply indulging in the stench of death and agony that hangs in the air. The putrid perfume fills my senses, a vile elixir that invigorates my darkest desires as I revel in the warmth of crimson blood that coats my fingers. It has been far too long since I last indulged in such carnage.

Those ignorant fools dared to believe that their feeble guns could pierce my immortal flesh. How amusingly absurd! And as for their pitiful mutts, they were nothing more than inconsequential pests, barking at the moon. The audacity of those fuckers, thinking they could challenge my power and prevail. Me! They have no clue who the fuck they’re messing with, but they will… soon.

‘Find her,’ my wolf growls possessively and protectively in my head.

It’s a command that resonates with every primal instinct within me, urging me to ensure her safety.

I fight the compelling urge to comply, wrestling against the very fibres of my being that ache to guarantee her well-being. It’s a battle of conflicting desires, a struggle between the part of me that couldn’t care less, indifferent to everything, pitted against the other that insists I shield her, even if it means defying my own instincts. I’m engulfed by this inexplicable, inconvenient surge of protectiveness toward her, and for the life of me, I can’t figure out why the hell I care.

Who the fuck is she anyway?

It’s a question that echoes through the corridors of my mind, each unanswered beat only intensifying the mystery and the unsettling pull I feel towards her.

As the last rogue falls, its lifeless body sprawled on the ground Kristoff shifts back into his human form.

“Looks like somebody was enjoying themself,” he teased, wiggling his brows. “Did I see a smile on your face when you ripped that hunter’s spine out?”

I shoot Kristoff a withering look, my expression stone-cold as ever. “You must be seeing things. My face doesn’t do smiles.”

He chuckles, undeterred by my stoic demeanour. “Definitely blood,” he mumbles. “But you can’t deny, there’s an art to the way you dismantle your adversaries. It’s almost poetic and scary.”

I arched an eyebrow. “Save the poetry for someone who gives a damn. We’ve got more important things to worry about.”

“Like that sexy little human,” Kristoff says, a teasing edge to his tone. Before I can rein in my instincts, a protective growl escapes me, a visceral response I didn’t anticipate.”Calm down,” he hastily puts up his hands in defence. “She’s all yours, man.”

“Man?” I raise an eyebrow.

“My apologies, Alpha,” he bows, a glimmer of fear flickering in his eyes.

I sigh, my alpha instincts reluctantly appeased. He straightens, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips. “No more man-ing around. Now, about your mysterious human—”

“She’s not mine,” I snap.

Somehow that left a nasty taste in my wolf. My wolf growls in my head, vehemently disagreeing. This is just what I need right now, a rebellious wolf.

Seriously, what’s your problem?

“Jeeze, okay. What’s the plan?”

I shoot him a look that conveys both annoyance and a reluctance to admit my own uncertainty. “None of your business.”

He chuckles, unfazed by my retort. “Fair enough, Alpha. Just remember, you’re not invincible. Even the mighty Alpha can get tangled up in his own mess.” With a smirk, he saunters away, leaving me to ponder the truth in his words and the mysterious allure of the human who’s managed to disrupt my carefully guarded world.

I’m so fucked.

“Guys!” Zuri’s panicked voice echoes through our mind-link. “A little help. We are being surrounded.”

Fuck! I curse my own foolishness for bringing her along.

What was I thinking? I endangered her life, and the weight of that responsibility gnaws at my soul. My wolf roars. He was overprotective of our little human— what the fuck am I saying. Our. She is not ours. My wolf would have rolled his eyes if he could.

“On our way!” I growl in reply.

“Who knew we were taking the back road?” I asked Kristoff as we took off running towards the forest.

“Lake and Rush,” he responds, his voice tinged with anger and worry. I knew exactly what or rather who he was worried about. I wish he would just tell her how he feels and fuck her already.

We navigate the dense forest, the urgency in our movements matching the tension in the air. The sound of leaves crunching beneath our feet is drowned out by the growling frustration within me.

“You need to sort out your feelings for her. It’s distracting.”  The weight of his unspoken worries is palpable in our bond, even though he attempts to mask it.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he retorts, a defensive edge to his voice.

“Don’t play dumb with me.”

He sighs, a reluctant acknowledgement of the truth. “I’ll deal with it, Alpha. And last time I check You’ve got your own mess to deal with.”

“I’m not letting my emotions control me.”

“You sure about that?” Kristoff throws back at me, a challenging glint in his eyes.

“What fuck does that mean?”

He smirks, a knowing expression that irks me to no end. “You’re protective of her, more than you’d like to admit.”

I grind my teeth, his words hitting a nerve. “I can handle a human.”

“A human who doesn’t seem to tremble in her boots at the sight of you.”

“A foolish human who lacks the proper self-preservation.” He raises an eyebrow. “I have it handled.”

What did I get myself into?

“Who else knew?”

“No one else.”

“Someone else did,” I grit, the frustration evident in my voice. I didn’t know what pissed me off more—the fact that I was worried about her or that someone had the audacity to attempt to ambush me.

Her scent saturates the air the closer we got to the lake a potent mix of fear and determination and blood.

She’s hurt.

Anger surges within me, protective instincts igniting like an inferno. My wolf pacing in the back of my mind demanding we seek justice for the harm done to her. My wolf never gives two fucks about anyone now all of a sudden he’s a regular fuckin’ Casanova.

I pick up my pace, the world blurring in my peripheral vision. The lake’s edge looms ahead, and the faint traces of the human’s scent abruptly vanish. My black heart stops for a second as I contemplate the worst. Did she cross the lake? It’s a bold move, and one that I pray hasn’t sealed her fate. The urgency surges through me, the conflicting emotions of anger, protectiveness, and an unspoken fear driving me forward.

Zuri valiantly holds her ground, fending off another rogue’s vicious assault as we arrive. Kristoff strikes with lethal precision on the rogue’s vulnerable throat, silencing its savage intent. My piercing gaze sweeps the vicinity until I spot her, lying sprawled across the lake, her form delicate and vulnerable.

I hurry across the frigid lake to her as Kristoff checks on Zuri.

When I get there, I’m confronted with a heartbreaking sight. She trembles in the biting cold, her skin marred by scratches. Her heartbeat, faint. A surge of rage shot through my veins. My hands move with controlled urgency, gingerly lifting her fragile frame from the ground. Her cries halt my actions. Gently, I lift her shirt, revealing the bruises on her ribs, evidence of the rogue’s callous brutality. The rage within me intensifies, an inferno fueled by the sight of her. My wolf demanded retribution, for justice to be served against those who dared to harm her.

 And I didn’t disagree.

“Fuckin’ rogues!” I snarl through gritted teeth.

Zuri crouches down beside me. “Is she alright?”

“Broken ribs,” I growl, my voice laced with a surprising mix of possessiveness and protectiveness that catches even me off guard. “We need to get her out of here before she freezes to death.” A feral growl escapes my throat.

Zuri recoils slightly, startled by the intensity of my rage. A flicker of fear dances across her face. I suppress the primal urge to lash out, to unleash my wrath upon those responsible, to prove Kristoff right.

I have more self-control than this. But in the face of her vulnerability, my resolve is tested, the thin line between my composure and the primal instinct to protect blurring dangerously.

What are you doing to me, angel?

“They’re here!” Kristoff announces.

I cradle her delicate form in my arms, a surge of tingling electricity coursing through me at the contact of her skin against mine. It’s a sensation that defies explanation, calming the raging storm within me. Nothing has ever pacified my tumultuous nature quite like her touch. To say I was shocked was an understatement.

“Alpha?” Kristoff calls out. “You okay?”

“Let’s get out of here,” I mumble as I carry her towards the waiting vehicle, each step taken with utmost care to minimize any potential pain.

Maybe she’s a witch.

Lake opens the door to the back seat of the SUV, his gaze fixated on her. My wolf growls menacingly in my head, sensing his intense interest.

Carefully cradling her in my arms, I navigate her delicate form into the back seat, ensuring her comfort and safety. Kristoff settles into the front seat. Zuri takes her place beside me. My mind races with conflicting emotions, questioning my own actions.

I am beyond fucked.

As the engine roars to life, the vehicle propels forward, swiftly carrying us along the dark and deserted road.

“We found the driver tortured and turned inside out. He was the only one who knew of your arrival,” Lake said.

“Who knew that he knew?” I press further, my gaze sharp and piercing.

“Me, Christian and Rush. But it’s possible someone overheard their conversation.”

“Do you think someone within the pack betrayed us?” Zuri asks.

“I want a list of everyone who was present in the packhouse today,” I order.

Lake’s gaze once more darts to my little human, then to Kristoff who shakes his head as in ‘don’t ask.’

Lake pulls up at Rush’s house, the tires screeching to a halt.

“What about the girl?” Lake asks, his eyes fixated on me, awaiting my decision.

“What about her?” I retort sharply, my voice laced with defiance, daring anyone to challenge my stance.

Lake’s cautionary words cut through the tension. “The police will likely be searching for her by now,” he warns, his tone cautious and measured.

“She’s injured. We should let a doctor examine her, and then we can drop her off on our way back to the pack.”

Every part of me rebels against the idea of letting her go. Yet, the practical reality of our situation hangs in the air, a stark reminder of the undeniable divide between our worlds. She’s human, and the risks are too significant to brush aside. Since the day our paths crossed, she’s ignited emotions within me that I never knew were there. This chaotic connection defies logic, leaving me navigating the unfamiliar territory of my own cold black heart. I should have never taken her.

I exit the vehicle and stride towards the front door, her fragile form nestled protectively in my arms.

Rush opens the door, a mixture of relief and annoyance evident on his face. “Finally! Thought I’d have to send out a search party. What took you so long?” His gaze falls upon her in my arms, and I can sense his curiosity brewing. “Distracted?” He raises an eyebrow, his tone laced with intrigue. “Who is she?”

I look down at her fragile form, still unconscious and blissfully unaware of the danger that surrounds her.

“Get a doctor,” I order, my voice firm as I walk past Rush, carefully laying her down on the sofa. “She’s hurt.”

“Please tell me you found her on the side of the road or something,” Rush pleads, a touch of desperation in his voice.

“Or something,” I mutter, frustration mounting as I take a seat on the floor beside her, running my hands through my hair in agitation.

“Dammit, Wyatt. A human?” Rush’s voice carries a mix of disbelief and concern. “Do you plan on making her a pet?”

“Don’t be ridiculous. She doesn’t know anything,” I retort sharply, a wave of anger surging through me at the mere suggestion. My wolf, ever protective, claws at the surface, demanding to shield her from any harm. The thought of degrading her to such a state ignites a primal rage within me. She is not to be treated as property. “I’ll let her go once the doctor checks her out. Where is the damn doctor?” I ask, annoyance seeping into my words.

“She’s on her way,” he frowns.

We all wait in silence. Every person present, me included, contemplates the same question. Am I really going to let her go?

“Apologies, Alpha. I arrived as quickly as I could,” the doctor bows her head, clutching her medical bag tightly.

I push off from the floor, making my way towards the doctor. As I take a step closer, a small whimper escapes her lips, her sweet voice filled with pain and vulnerability. Her breathing hitches, and her heartbeat quickens. Frozen in place.

What the fuck…

The doctor rushes over to her side, beginning her examination, but her whimpering only grows louder, more frantic, with each step I take away from her. Her heartbeat races unnaturally fast.

“Is this supposed to happen?” Rush’s eyes locked on to her distressed state.

“What’s wrong with her?” Zuri asks.

“I can hear her heartbeat from the other room,” Kristoff said as he enters the room eating a sandwich.

Snapping out of my daze, I drop to my knees beside her, instinctively reaching out to stroke her hair gently. “Shhh,” I coax softly, my touch soothing her, eliciting a sigh of relief.

As my fingertips connect with her, that familiar tingling sensation shoots up my arm, a calming sensation spreading through my being. Her breathing and heartbeat gradually regulate under my touch.

The room falls into a defeated silence and shock. I am not known for my gentleness, nor do I possess a gentle or kind bone in my body. Yet, here I am, offering solace to a human in distress. The strange connection between us confuses and scares me.

And nothing scares me.

Till now.

I retract my hand as if she burned me, stepping away from her. Her chest heaves, and her heartrate once again accelerates as she whimpers in pain.

“Were you beside her the entire time?” the doctor asks, her voice breaking the silence.

I nod curtly.

“I suggest you stay with her. Your presence seems to calm her down,” the doctor suggests her words carrying a note of uncertainty.

I settle beside her, my hand resuming its gentle stroke through her hair. As if drawn to her, I find solace in this connection just as much as she did. Even my wolf was calm. And that’s rare. My monsters are never calm unless they are causing chaos.

“What is this? She’s not a wolf. How is she—how is my touch affecting her in this way?”

“It could be the result of your physical intimacy with her. Humans are easily influenced by us after mating, especially with an Alpha. Your presence carries a more potent impact. That’s why we refrain from mating with humans unless they are collared,” the doctor suggests, trying to remain respectful despite her clear disdain for the idea.

“Mate?” Zuri bursts into laughter, her amusement filling the room before I can correct the doctor’s blatant accusation. “He has a better chance with those blood-sucking leeches than her.”

The doctor takes a moment to process Zuri’s words, her eyes widening in realization of her mistake. Her heart rate spikes as her body tenses. “Alpha, I apologize. I was out of line,” she stammers, baring her throat in submission.

“Well if they didn’t do the dirty then why is she reacting this way?” Rush strokes his beard thoughtfully, curiosity etched on his face.

“Maybe she wants to?” Kristoff says. Zuri smacks his arm.” Ouch,” he glares at her. “What? Just saying. You know you were thinking it.”

“Shut up,” Zuri and I snap at him in unison, our voices laced with annoyance.

Kristoff frowns and leaves the room.

“They were attacked by rogues, and he saved her,” Lake chimes in. “Maybe she feels safer with you?”

“Weird,” Rush murmurs, contemplating the unusual dynamics at play.

Her touch calms me, just as mine seems to soothe her. But why? She is human, nothing more.

“Hmm,” the doctor continues her routine check-up, lifting her shirt slightly higher than necessary, earning a warning growl from me. My wolf resents the presence of other unmated males ogling at her vulnerable flesh.

Quickly, she rolls the shirt back down, speaking gently to avoid provoking me further, “Her ribs are broken. I need to conduct a more thorough examination to ensure nothing else is injured. Can you take her to my office?”

I lift her carefully into my arms, watching as she snuggles into my chest. In the back of my mind, I can hear my wolf purring with approval.

Son of a…

After the examination, the doctor administers a sedative. She suggests I let her wear one of my shirts.  I don’t hate the idea but I still pretend like I do.

Fuck me.

I kicked off my shoes and flopped onto the bed, yanking my shirt off and tossing it aside. What the hell was I thinking? This whole situation was like a one-way ticket to chaos, and I willingly bought the damn thing.

I should have never taken her, but I couldn’t resist the pull. Her scent, intoxicating and all-consuming like a drug. I was drunk on it, from the moment she stepped off the bus. It took my breath away, and once I laid eyes on her, it was a done deal.

Controlling my wolf was a constant struggle. I fought back the urge to let him loose, especially in the parking lot where I could barely keep him from mounting her then and there. The scent of another male on her only fueled his primal instincts, a problem I needed to address. Hence, the trunk—my attempt to quell the madness. My wolf was on a whole new level of possessive.

The doting fool was all about marking her as ours. But, I’ll admit, the idea had its merits, at least in theory.

She’s human.

I drag my hand down my face.

Every time I close my eyes all I see is her biting her bottom lip with a  few pieces of hair coming loose from her ponytail, framing her angelic face. Her jaw, tiny and delicate… fragile. But damn, her features were small, and yet, her piercing metallic grey eyes and pink succulent lips were big. I loved the way her small body felt against mine, her breasts perfect handful, and that plump ass would drive any man crazy. I stare at her ass every chance I get. She’s sinfully hot. She’s pure perfection.

My perfection.

Every inch of her was an invitation, a temptation I found impossible to resist. And why the fuck wasn’t she wearing a bra. Her tits were straining so much against her tank top, her nipples practically screaming at me to wrap my mouth around them. The mere thought of exploring her curves, tracing the contours of her body, tasting her skin, feeling her body writhe beneath me, drove me to the edge of sanity, my cock harder than it had any right to be. I want to fuck her hard and deep. I wanted to make her claw my back, hear her scream my name until she was hoarse. I wanted—

She’s HUMAN! What the fuck am I thinking. I’m well aware that what I feel isn’t all just my monsters’ doing. Not that I’d ever admit it.

Hmm... I can still fuck her without making her our mate. 

A mate?

My monsters wanted a mate. A fucking mate! Comical is what it is really.

We’ve ploughed through countless stunning, high-ranked, strong females— duchesses, countesses, and even a few princesses. Not once did the notion of choosing a mate cross our mind. Hell, I’ve turned down some pretty prominent offers. But this... human.

A nobody.

Frail.

Mated—

My wolf growls in my head, doesn’t like the reminder of her being fucked and chosen by another male. I won’t lie; not too keen on the idea myself, but it’s a fact.

He longs for her.

We long for her.

Unintentionally, I stroke my hard cock, thoughts of how those lips would feel on mine, consuming me. I bet she tastes as good as she smells. All I could think about is how good it would feel to bury my cock deep inside of her tight sinful cunt and watch her breasts bounce around. I pump my hand faster, feeling my balls tighten with that tingling sensation. Images of her naked body beneath me, the echo of her screams as she moans my name—it’s enough to send me over the edge. I groan, finishing in my hand. Fuck this! If just thinking about her makes me touch myself and come in seconds, what the hell am I going to do if I actually touch her?

A mate?

A human?

I don’t need one. Especially now. Fuck that shit. Never have and never will need a mate. I shook my head, trying to clear the intoxicating haze of desire. She’s human, I reminded myself sternly. Despite the relentless fantasies that played out in my mind, I couldn’t ignore the reality. She deserved more than what I have to offer her. The undeniable fact is that she is human, delicate and deserving of more than me. Even though my monsters disagree.

Closing my eyes, I willed myself to regain control. I couldn’t let my cock dominate reason.

Opening my eyes, I stared at the ceiling, wondering how I got myself into this mess. The tangled web of lust, protectiveness, and a hint of something more had me trapped, and I couldn’t see an easy way out. She was a puzzle I couldn’t solve.

In a few days, she’ll be out of my sight and out of my mind. I took a long, cold shower, hoping the icy water would wash away the emotions she’s stirred up in my head. I don’t even know her damn name, yet she’s messing with my head. I force her out of my mind and surrender to sleep, determined to shake off the thoughts that linger in the shadows of my dreams.

---

Chapter 7: Freedom.

~Avaluna

His azure blue eyes bore into mine with a hunger that sent delicious shivers down my spine and a delightful ache between my legs.

“P-Please, please let me go,” I pleaded, scrambling backwards on the bed until I found myself trapped against the headboard. Panic surged within me as I realized there was nowhere to run.

“You want to leave?” He pushed off the wall, stalking toward me like a predator closing in on its prey.

“Y-Yes,” I stammered, clutching the sheet tightly to my body. Why was I only in my panties? Where were my bloody clothes?

“Let’s make a deal,” he declared, ripping the sheet away from my half-naked form. I gasped, quickly crossing my arms to shield my breasts.

“W-What kind of deal?”

He grabs my ankle, pulling me toward the centre of the bed with his strong, muscular arms encircling me. His eyes roam my body hungrily as he licked his lips. My heart racing, and though I want to push him away, my traitorous body seems to have other plans.

He chuckles, burying his head in the crook of my neck. “You smell absolutely divine,” he growls, his warm breath sending delightful tingles across my skin.

“W-What do you want?” I managed to utter, my voice betraying a mix of apprehension and curiosity.

“Isn’t it obvious?” he murmurs, nipping at my neck and trailing kisses to my earlobe, coaxing a soft moan from me.

 The tingling sensations erupted wherever his lips touched. His large, masculine hands roamed over my body, and I gasped as he grazed my most sensitive area. He smirked against my neck, his fingers teasingly brushing over my moist folds before slipping inside my wet core.

“You,” he whispers huskily.

***************************************************************************
I gasped and shot up like a rocket, only to regret it right away. Ouch! I groaned clutching my aching ribs.

“Easy there,” said a woman in a white coat, her voice all calm and soothing. A doctor, I reckoned. But this joint didn’t look like any hospital I’d ever clocked. It had more of a posh hotel vibe, except for the IV drip and heart monitor by the bed.

“I’m Dr. Calloway,” she said, giving my IV a once-over. “How are you feeling?”

“Oh, splendid,” I quipped. “Been kidnapped, crammed in a boot, doped up, had a motor smash, tussled with some wild creature, and I haven’t a clue where I am. Just top-notch, doc.”

“At least you have a sense of humour,” she said with a hint of amusement.

The door opened, and in walked my kidnapper. “Took your own sweet time waking up there, princess,” he said, his tone laced with a mixture of annoyance and mockery.

“Piss off,” I mumbled, my voice still dazed from the drugs.

I winced as I attempted to sit up, feeling the pain shoot through my body. Eventually, I managed to relax against the headboard. Every part of me hurt, and I felt like absolute crap. And to top it off, there was the unwelcome dampness situation between my legs.

“Where am I? Why the bloody hell won’t you let me go? I’ve got a family out there searching for me,” I tried to sound all menacing, but my voice came out more like a squeak.

He ignored me and turned to the doctor.

“She’s healing nicely. Her ribs will be sore for a few days, but with the painkillers I prescribed, she’ll be good as new in no time,” Dr. Calloway reported.

“Can I leave?” I asked the doctor, hope rising within me.

“That’s up to al—Mr. Onyx,” she replied, deferring to my captor.

I glared at him, my eyes burning with a mix of anger and desperation. “Come on, mate. Just cut me loose. I won’t breathe a word. Promise.”

I didn’t have a clue what set him off, but in a blink, he went stiff as a board. The doctor seemed to be holding her breath like she half expected him to off me right then and there. He shot her a look, and she quickly scurries out of the room.

“You can’t keep me here.”

“You’re not going anywhere until I say so,” he said with a condescending smirk playing on his lips.

“What’s your game, huh? Kidnap a girl, drag her into this posh prison, and play the mysterious asshole? Classy move, mate.” Once more, he tenses up, hands clenching into a tight fist as if he’s holding himself back.

For a brief moment, I swear his eyes almost looked golden, like a glimpse of sunlight breaking through the clouds.

He leaned against the wall, arms crossed, his arrogance oozing. “You’re in no position to be throwing insults around, princess.”

“Princess? Seriously? You’ve been watching too many cliché movies.”

He chuckled, the sound dripping with derision. “You’ve got a mouth on you. Shame it’s the only thing you’ve got going.”

My fists clenched. “Why am I here? What do you want?” I gritted my teeth, frustration bubbling. “The authorities won’t take kindly to this.”

He laughed, a hollow sound. “Princess, you’re far from home, and trust me, the authorities here dance to a different tune.”

I glanced around the room, searching for any means of escape. “You can’t keep me here forever. Someone will find me.”

He leaned in, his breath sending shivers down my spine, his face hovering just inches from mine. I didn’t even hear him move. “By the time anyone realizes you’re missing, it’ll be too late,” he murmured, his gaze lingering on my lips with an intensity that set my heart racing. Before I could catch my breath, he pulled back, his eyes locking onto mine as he commanded, “Get dressed.” He turns to leave.

“Who do you think you are? You can’t kidnap me and then stroll in here and boss me around.”

He pivots with a menacing glint in his eyes. Bollocks, did I just poke the bear a bit too much? “If you weren’t squirming in pain right now, I’d be coming down your throat with my hand wrapped around that pretty neck, making damn sure you’d savour every last drop of me. Consider yourself lucky I don’t play with humans.” He smirks, his gaze still piercing through me. “But don’t mistake my restraint for kindness, princess. It’s just that damaged goods aren’t usually to my taste.”

I shoot back a defiant glare. “You’re a real piece of work, you know that?”

He chuckles, a low, throaty sound. “Oh, darling, you have no idea. Now, enough chit-chat. Get yourself together, or I might just conveniently overlook your current position.” I opened my mouth but before I could utter a word he stopped me in my tracks. “Say one more fuckin’ word and I’ll hog-tie you and fuck you in the ass.”

I clench my jaw, suppressing the urge to lash out. His threat hangs in the air, taunting me. A surge of anger courses through me, but I bite my tongue, refusing to give him the satisfaction. Bloody wanker. He turns to leave, with a triumphant smirk etched on his face.

Once the door was shut, I gingerly got out of bed. My legs felt wobbly at first. I quickly put on the grey leggings and slipped my feet into the sneakers placed next to the chair. I twisted the knob and peered outside. The hallway was quiet and dimly lit. This was my chance to escape. I tiptoed down the hallway and descended the winding staircase, taking in the grandeur of the place with its numerous doors. From my left, I heard a familiar voice, Zuri, if I remember correctly.

“You can’t be serious,” she said furiously.

I continued my cautious descent, trying to be as quiet as a church mouse, when I caught sight of the front door.

“This isn’t up for debate, Zuri,” a man said.

My fingertips grazed the doorknob when I heard a distinct clicking sound behind me. “I wouldn’t do that if I were you,” Zuri said, holding a gun and pointing it at my head. Standing next to her was a guy who appeared rather bored.

“Not again,” the driver whined, strolling in from the kitchen with his plate of grub. He pulled out a wad of cash from his wallet. Zuri nabbed it from him with a cheeky wink. The sandy blond-haired bloke next to her gave an exasperated shake of his head unimpressed. I couldn’t help but wonder, are all their friends supermodels. His blond hair was in a neat quaff jelled back, silky tan skin, deep cognac eyes—tall like the blue-eyed wanker who kidnapped me but not as muscular. A straight nose and sharp features exuded a bad-boy, dark, and mysterious vibe as if he’d just walked off the set of a rock band’s music video. Wait, they’re all distracted. Again, why was I just standing there like a git? I turned the knob and made a dash for it.

“Hey, come back!” Zuri shouted.

I hadn’t made it very far before I ran right into my kidnapper’s arms. Literally. Ouch, my ribs.

“I missed you too, baby,” he teased, his hands on my hips, steadying me. The familiar tingle shot through my body from his touch.

“Get your bloody hands off me,” I shoved his hands away and took a step back, glaring at him with daggers in my eyes.

He crossed his arms over his chest, flexing his biceps in a way that was both sexy and intimidating. “Keep mouthing off like that, and my hands on that sexy body will be the last thing you’ll have to worry about me removing,” he taunted.

My eyes widened, and I took another step back, swallowing the lump in my throat. He smirked. Wait, he thought I was sexy? My gaze shifted to the man standing beside him, looking amused. He was tall, muscular, and strikingly handsome. His brown hair was tied up in a man bun, and he sported a full beard. His stunning icy-blue eyes sparkled, surrounded by thick lashes with smooth milky skin. His nose appeared crooked, either from breaking or naturally, I couldn’t tell. He had a square, strong jaw, full lips, accompanied by huge biceps and, without a doubt, an eight-pack.

A growl from my kidnapper snapped me out of my ogling. Heat spread across my face as I mindlessly chewed on my lips. Something was wrong with me. The attractive bloke beside him grins smugly. I narrowed my eyes at them and defiantly glared at my kidnapper, chin held high.

“I won’t be kept here any longer,” I mentally applauded myself for my strong, firm voice, instantly regretting it. “P-Please?” I added, my tone was now more of a plea.

The bloke beside him looked taken aback, his gaze shifting intriguingly between me and the knob.

“She’s got a mouth on her.”

My captor arched an eyebrow at me, a slight twitch at the corner of his mouth. “That she does.” He walked over to a black Mazda, opened the passenger side door, and ordered, “Get in.” I eyed him suspiciously, making no attempt to move.

 This is what I wanted, but my legs felt glued to the driveway. What if he’s taking me to some ditch just to shoot me in the head? I don’t want to die. I’m too young to die.

“Get in the fuckin’ car. I’m not going to shoot you. If I wanted to, I would’ve already.” The knobhead had a fair point.

He wouldn’t have bothered saving me if he wanted me dead. Or perhaps, he saved me just so he could rape and chop me up into a million pieces. Fantastic. I’m spiralling into paranoia. Just bloody brilliant, Luna. Absolutely brilliant.

My heart pounded in my chest like a runaway train, and my palms grew clammy. The possibilities swirled in my mind like a sinister carousel, each one more unsettling than the last. What if his intentions weren’t as straightforward as they seemed? The uncertainty gnawed at me, amplifying the fear that had taken root. He grabbed my arm and dragged me over to the car. This dragging thing is getting old, and fast!

“Must you be such a knob all the time?”

“Watch it,” he gritted his teeth. “I don’t have time for this shit or to watch you space out,” he scolds me like a child, shoves me into the car, and fastens my seat belt.

“I have hands, you know.” I shove his hands away.

“For now,” he said matter of factly. I gulp. “Don’t try to escape. You won’t get far.” He slammed the door shut and went back to the cute bloke from earlier.

Of course, I had to try the door, and as I suspected, it was locked. The driver bloke from earlier sighs, shaking his head as he pulled out his wallet. Zuri smirked as he slapped money into her hand.

Wait, are they betting on me or something?

The git got in the car and started it. He leaned over to the backseat and pulled out a black bag. I glared at him, and the wanker smirked at me.

“Don’t even think about it,” I hissed.

“Already did, babe,” he said as he pulled out a zip tie from the black bag.

“No, no, no, no. Please,” I pleaded, ignoring the tingles shooting up my arms as he bound my wrists together with the zip tie. “Why are you doing this?” He slipped a bag over my head. “Please don’t kill me. I won’t say a word. I promise. I have my whole life ahead of me. I know I take it for granted, but no more. I’ll take it seriously.”

I paused, desperate for reassurance that he wasn’t about to snuff out my existence, but the only response was an eerie silence. The fear crept up, its icy fingers tightening around my throat. The muffled sounds of the moving car surrounded me, drowning my desperate pleas. Panic set in, and I took a shaky breath, attempting to reason with my unreasonable captor.

“I’ll do anything. Just let me go. Please,” I begged through the fabric of the bag. “I won’t even report this. I promise.”

My attempts at negotiation fell on deaf ears. The silence was deafening, broken only by the rhythmic hum of the engine. I could feel my pulse racing, the uncertainty of my fate hanging heavily in the air.

“Please,” I stammered, my voice shaky. “I won’t say a word. Just let me go and I won’t breathe a word of this. I swear,” I pleaded, my desperation escalating.

“Your fate depends on your silence. Choose wisely.”

“How do I know if I stay quiet, you won’t bury me in a ditch somewhere?”

“Trust me, I have more creative ways to deal with nuisances.”

“Ah, the humanitarian approach, I see. You’re a real charmer, aren’t you?”

“You have no idea.”

“Are you going to kill me?” When he didn’t reply I continued, “Killing someone is nasty work, you know. Messy, inconvenient, and, let’s be honest, terribly uncivilized. Plus, the paperwork? A nightmare. You should let me go, and I swear on my non-existent cat’s life, I won’t say a word. Cross my heart and hope to binge-watch a season of my favourite show in peace. I’ll even throw in a dramatic exit, like disappearing into the mist, leaving you with a mysterious story to tell at your next villainous gathering. You’ll be the talk of the underworld, mate. Plus, you kinda suck at this kidnapping thing.”

“Suck at kidnapping?” Finally, a response.

“Yeah, not even a ransom note. What kind of kidnapper are you?”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” he replied, trying to hide his amusement.

“Where are we going?” I tugged at the zip tie, but it only tightened, burning my poor wrist. “Come on, tell me. Who am I going to tell?”

“Somewhere safe.”

“Safe for me or kidnapper safe?”

He chuckled, and my heart skipped a beat. If he wasn’t a criminal, I might actually find him attractive. Who am I kidding? He’s hot as hell. Yummy sex on a stick, wrapped in chocolate and topped with a cherry. Double cherry.

“Still with me?” I heard a snapping of fingers.

“Oh yeah, sorry.”

“You do that a lot.”

“Yeah,” warmth covered my cheeks. For once, I’m glad to have this monstrosity over my head. Talk about putting a bag over someone’s head.

“So... what’s ‘kidnapper safe’?”

“You know? Somewhere no one will find me. Secure and isolated from the outside world. Where you’ll hide my body after you...” Brilliant, give him all the ideas! My subconscious snapped at me, stopping my idiotic prattle. “Not that I’m saying you—you should. Not at all. Kidnapping is wrong, and you should definitely not kidnap people or-”

He cut off my panicked prattling. “Calm down. I’m not taking you somewhere kidnapper safe.”

“Then where?”

“A place I know you won’t try to run away.”

“And where’s that, the moon?”

“Not quite, but close.”

I sighed, half-exasperated, half-intrigued. “Are you going to enlighten me, or is this the part where you leave me in suspense, contemplating the mysteries of life with a bag over my head?”

“Does he make you happy?”

“Does who make me happy?” I furrow my eyebrows confused.

“That guy you were with.”

Is it me or does he sound jealous? Probably me. “Ethan? He’s my boyfriend— I swear I won’t tell him anything. He doesn’t have to know.”

“Answer the question,” his tone turns cold.

“Um, I suppose he does.”

“Suppose? If he doesn’t make you happy, why stay with him?”

“I didn’t say he didn’t.”

“You didn’t say he did.”

“He does,” I admitted reluctantly, my words hanging in the air. I had no idea why I hesitated. “Do you have a girlfriend?” Is it wrong for me to want him to say no?

“No.”

Yay. Wait why do I even care? He kidnapped me. “Why not?”

“Girlfriends are messy. I prefer things... uncomplicated.”

“Uncomplicated?”

“Relationships, emotions, all that nonsense,” he replied, his tone dismissive. “They just complicate life.”

“So, what? You’re a lone wolf, roaming around, kidnapping innocent people?”

“Innocent is a subjective term. And as for the lone wolf part, let’s just say I prefer the thrill of the hunt.”

The car suddenly stopped, and my heart sank. This is it, Luna. Your end. The way you die. He yanked the bag off my head and pulled out a switchblade. I panicked. He pushed a button, ejecting the sharp, shiny blade. My heart pounded against my chest violently.

“P-Please, no! I won’t tell, I swear. I have a goldfish at home. Please let me live. Think of the babies. They need...” I squealed and shut my eyes as he grabbed my wrist to cut the zip tie.

“Goldfish?” He got out of the car, walked around, and opened my door. “Get out.”

I blinked, baffled.”Y-You’re letting me go?”

“Trying to change my mind, angel?”

“No!” I jumped out, ignoring the pain in my ribs.

He closed the door and rested his arms on the roof of the car beside me, caging me in between his sinewy arms. My heart raced as I watched his muscles flex beneath his shirt. He leaned in, our lips tantalizingly close. Why did he smell so good? Like pine needles and that warm and woody aroma of sandalwood. I instinctively licked my lips. A guttural growl reverberated in his chest, sending shivers down my spine. His hungry gaze swept over my body, and he licked his lips.

Dear God, this can’t be real. My mind was overwhelmed with mixed emotions.

His lips grazed mine, a feather-light touch that sent electric sparks through my entire being. The world around us ceased.

He whispered against my lips, his breath warm and intoxicating, “You look good in my shirt.”

I stifled a moan and bit down on my lips. Then he did something that sent shivers down my spine and made me clench. His warm tongue traced the curve of my earring, and he softly nibbled on my earlobe. A low, involuntary moan escaped my lips. I clutched onto the car to prevent myself from embarrassingly collapsing.

Sweet heavens.

My mind turned to mush, and I found myself breathing heavily, my heart drumming in my chest. The wetness pooled between my legs, aching for his touch. My stomach performed a salsa dance. Get a hold of yourself, Luna. He’s a kidnapper, for all you know he could be a psycho-rapist serial killer. And you’ve got the hots for him. My subconscious rolled her eyes at me.

He sniffed the air and grinned at me. Gently, he untucked my lips from between my teeth and brushed his thumb over my moist, soft lips.

“That drives me crazy,” he whispered in my ear, his husky, sexy voice sending delicious tremors through my insides.

Bollocks.

A slight move and his luscious lips would be on mine. Did I want him to kiss me?

You have a boyfriend and he kidnapped you!

Stockholm syndrome at its finest.

“Are you going to kiss me?” I asked.

WHY????? I clearly must have hit my head in the accident and lost all my common sense.

“Do you want me to?” He stroked up my arm, sending shivers down my spine.

“I have a boyfriend.”

“I know.” He didn’t stop stroking my arm. “That doesn’t answer my question.”

His touch, so tender yet dangerously enticing. The situation was absurd, and my logical mind screamed at the irrationality of it all, but the magnetic force between us seemed to defy reason.

I swallowed hard, torn between the reality of my predicament and the unspoken longing that lingered in the air. “What are we doing?” I whispered, half to myself, half to him.

He leaned in, his lips brushing against my ear. “Anything you want, angel.”

“I…I don’t even know your name.”

“That’s for the best,” he said harshly as he pulls away from me.

He walked around, opened the car door, and got in. I staggered back from the car. He tossed a white paper bag at me, and in my bewildered state, I fumbled to catch it. I watched him drive off leaving me in a shopping centre parking lot.

What just happened?

---

Chapter 8: Your What?

Two weeks, that's how long it's been. I've been MIA for five days. I fed the detectives, Ethan, and my family a story about needing some "me time." I tried to pull a disappearing act, you know, the Houdini routine. It worked on everyone except Mum. Mothers, with their built-in bullshit detector, can sniff out a fib like a bloodhound on a scent trail. Tried to sell her the beach house getaway tale, but we both knew I was spinning a yarn. Thankfully she let it go. For now…

Ethan and I hit pause on our romantic escapades. He wasn't thrilled, to say the least. I felt guilty for giving him the whole "it’s not you, it’s me" spiel. But every time I locked lips with him, or his fingers brushed against my skin, you know who would pop into my head like an unwelcome party crasher. The absurd part? He kidnapped me at gunpoint, I  don't even know his name, yet my skin is begging to be caressed by more than the cool breeze.

Stockholm syndrome anyone?

And here's the kicker, every time I shut my eyes, it's like a highlight reel of those eyes playing on a loop. I'm telling you, it's no ordinary pair of peepers. His azure blue eyes are downright mesmerizing like someone dropped a freaking galaxy into those eyes. But it's not just about the eyes; it's the way his lips feel on my skin and those damn sparks that fly every time he touches me. And if that weren't enough, his scent is practically intoxicating, enough to make your knees go wobbly. Who'd have thought I'd get turned on by someone's scent? What the hell am I bloody saying? I need help. It’s driving me bonkers. I can't shake him off my mind. It's like he's taken up a permanent residence in my brain, and every attempt to evict him is as useless as a screen door on a submarine. I'm bloody annoyed at myself for being all hot and bothered by the memory of his touch, his eyes, and that daft addictive scent. It's like my brain's gone on a bloody holiday without me. I need a reality check, a cold shower, or maybe just a good smack upside the head to snap out of this madness.

"I'm home!" I yelled out, hanging my keys onto the hook.

"In here!" Mum's voice echoed from the living room.

"Breaking news. More animal attacks are being reported around North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia. The county Sheriff's Office and Parks & Wildlife request that residents stay indoors and out of the forest and parks at night. No one knows what's provoking these brutal attacks-"

"Oh, not this again.”

"This is serious, Luna," Mum says, "people are being slaughtered by wild animals."

"So far, they found over a dozen people mutilated by wolves," Dad added grimly.

Those ghostly feral red eyes and deadly canines made my body shiver. They still haunt my dreams.

“Animal control needs to step up their game. Are there wolves even in Seattle?”

“Grey wolves,” my dad answers."But there is none around here. For now.”

“Just promise me you'll be careful, especially if you're out at night,” mum says.

"I will, Mum," I assured her, although my mind couldn't help but drift back to those haunting red eyes. "I just hope they figure out what's causing this before it gets worse.”

“Me too,” my mum said. “Anyway, Ethan called again.”

“Oh? What did he want?”

“He misses you,” my mum says and dad grumbles something unintelligent under his breath.

He hated any boy I dated, granted Ethan was the second boy I ever dated. In his eyes, I was his little girl, and no boy would ever be deemed good enough for his baby girl.

“What did you tell him?”

“I invited him over for dinner.”

“You did what?!”daddy and I exclaim in unison.

“Why’d you do that?” I ask.

“Yeah?” dad added.

“He’s a nice boy.”

Dad shoots me a look, and I shrug. It looks like we're in for an interesting dinner.

The doorbell rings, and Mum ushers me toward the entrance. "Go on, answer it."

“Why I gotta answer it?” I pout. “You invited him.”

“Just answer it.”

I open the door to find Ethan standing there with a nervous smile, a dozen red roses and a bottle of wine. "Hey, Luna."

"Hey," I reply with a forced smile.

“These are you,” he hands me the roses, “your favourite.” I glance over my shoulder to my mother who mouths, ‘I’m sorry.’ Why this is so awkward you may ask? My favourite flower is honeysuckle. Ethan assumed it was roses and I never had the heart to correct him. Even though I did mention once how I love honeysuckle, I guess it just never registered.

Ethan's eyes widen as he catches sight of Dad's intimidating-dad-face. “Uh, am I interrupting something?"

“No love, come in,” mum says.

“Oh,” he smiles nervously at her, “this is for you.”

“Red wine,” she nods, “Isn’t that sweet of you.”

“It’s her favourite,” dad adds making it an inside joke now.

She doesn’t drink wine. Mum was more of a margarita girl.

Mum shot him a quick glare as she took Ethan's coat before we headed to the dining room. This is going to be fun.

The dinner table was set, and we all took our seats. Ethan looked a bit uneasy, but I could see him trying to make the best of the situation.

"So, Ethan, Luna tells me you're studying to be a lawyer," Dad said, cutting straight to the chase.

Ethan nodded, his eyes darting between me and my imposing father. "Yes, sir. Law has always intrigued me."

Dad raised an eyebrow, clearly sceptical. "It's a tough field. Are you sure you're up for it?"

Ethan swallowed nervously but maintained his composure. "I believe in fighting for justice, and I want to make a difference. I'm ready for the challenge."

I couldn't help but admire Ethan's determination, even though Dad's scrutinizing gaze had him on edge. My father was a formidable fellow, at six feet seven inches and at least 220 pounds. He could be quite intimidating when he wanted to be.

Mum attempts to lighten the mood, and chimes in, "Well, Ethan, we're delighted to have you here. Luna has told us so much about you."

The remainder of dinner consisted of Mum making small talk with Ethan, while Dad glared at him the entire time. After dinner, I walked him to his car.

“Luna, I know you said we’re on a break, but I miss you,” Ethan confessed, his eyes reflecting a mix of longing and uncertainty.

"Ethan, I need time to figure things out, especially after... you know, the recent events."

He nodded, understanding but still hopeful. "I get it. Just know that I care about you, Luna."

"I appreciate that, Ethan. It's just a lot to process right now. Can we take it slow and see where things go?"

Ethan smiled with a genuine warmth in his eyes. "Of course, Luna. I'll be patient. Just let me know when you're ready."

Why do I feel like the biggest arse ever? What is wrong with me? Here's this perfect, wonderful bloke any girl could dream of, and all I can think about is the tosser who kidnapped me at gunpoint and then left me stranded at a bloody shopping mall. It's like my brain has gone mental, doing somersaults between the sensible lad who brings me roses and the enigmatic bloke with those hypnotic blue eyes and an addictive scent that lingers in my mind. Am I completely bonkers for being torn between the two? From the corner of my eyes, I thought I saw someone watching us from across the street.

“Luna?” Ethan called out, following my gaze. “You okay?”

"Um, yeah. I have to go. I guess I’ll see you at school.”

“Yeah.” We exchanged a brief hug before he got into his car. Suddenly, he turned the engine back off and got out of the car. “What really happened? You seriously don’t think I believe that crash at your friend’s beach house for five days? Luna, I care about you. I deserve to know the truth."

I sighed, feeling guilty. "Ethan—”

"Luna, damn it, I love you. Why won't you tell me the truth? We spent all that time at the beach, so why would you suddenly ditch me at a rest stop to go off with some friend I never met for five days? It doesn't make sense. Was it something I said or did?"

“No Ethan—”

“Is it another guy?”

Yes. “No. It’s not you—”

“It’s me. I know what that means.”

“Ethan I’m sorry. It's complicated okay. I got caught up in something unexpected, something I can't fully explain right now. But I promise, I'll tell you everything when I can."

Ethan's expression softens. "Just be honest with me, Luna. That's all I'm asking for baby girl. And if you need anything just know I’m here for you."

I am the biggest ass in the entire universe! “I know. Thank you, Ethan.”

As he drove away, I couldn't shake the guilt I felt gnawing in the pit of my stomach. It’s not like I cheated or anything. Then why do I feel like dirt?

When I got inside the house dad was waiting by the staircase. “You okay bud?”

“Yeah.”

“I don’t know what’s going on with you but just know your mum and I love you no matter what. Just let me know if I need to get out the shotgun or the shovel.”

I giggle. “Thanks daddy.”

He hugs and kisses me. “Night baby girl I love you.”

“I love you too.”

I flick the light on, tossing my bag onto the bed. Odd, I don't recall leaving the window open. No wonder I'm freezing my titty meats off. A shiver runs down my spine as I pad over to the window. Is that blood on the windowsill? I tentatively touch the crimson liquid, rubbing it between my fingers, examining it.

"Blood," I murmur to myself. Why is there blood—

"Avaluna?" a voice cuts through the room, laden with urgency.

I yelp, practically springing off the floor. "Bloody hell, Zuri? I think I just peed myself."

"Didn't mean to scare you."

I gasp as she inches closer. She looks like she's been through a war. Bruises painted on her face, neck, and arms. Her swollen lips, tinged blue, contrasts with her ghostly pale complexion. Blood, dry and fresh, stained her hair and clothes. Was she in a fight?

"Luna!? Is everything alright!?" my dad hollers from downstairs.

"Please. I won't hurt you," she croaks, desperation etched in her eyes. She's scared, clutching her stomach where blood seeps through her fingers.

"Yeah, everything's fine. Just stumped my pinkie-toe!" I shouted back."I hate to see the other guy," I added, attempting a teasing smile.

"Me too," she grimaces, leaning against the wall, breathing heavily.

"What are you doing here?"

"I need help."

"No shit.”

"I got shot."

"Shot?! We need to get you to the hospital!" I dart for my phone.

"No!" she growls, a guttural sound.

Her eyes glow a deep intense shade of blue like cobalt blue, an unnatural hue. In a blur, she snatches my phone away, moving at lightning speed.

I recoil. "W-What are you?" I stammer my heart in overdrive.

"Please don't be afraid," she pleads, holding her hands up in surrender. "I won't hurt you," she places my phone on the bed and steps back, her eyes returning to their normal ocean-green colour. "I don't have anywhere else to go. Please."

"How did you do that?"

"It's complicated."

"I've got all the time in the world. Judging by your current state, time's not exactly on your side. So, I’ll settle for the cliff notes version. Start with how you found me and what on earth you're doing here. Hold on, how did you even get in here?” The only way I could think of is the tree outside, but it’s at least twelve feet from my window."

"I got your name from your bus ticket I found in the trunk and Google’d you." Ah, the wonders of technology. She drops her arms, realizing I'm not about to go berserk. "You know there are three Avaluna Chesmores in Seattle?"

"Not creepy at all," I mutter. "So what? You broke into all of their bedrooms?"

"Your scent.”

"You sniffed me out?" I furrow my brows, bewildered.

A canine Sherlock Holmes?

"Sort of... I'll answer any other questions you have later. But first, I need to heal." She slowly rolls up her shirt, revealing a gory gunshot wound with veins pulsating dark hues across her stomach. I almost lost my dinner on my new rug.

"Bloody hell, what happened?" I gasp, hands over my mouth.

"Told you. I got shot," she walks into the bathroom, turning on the water and filling up the bathtub.

"With what? The Elder Wand?"

"You're funny. It's a silver aconite bullet," she nonchalantly kicks off her muddy shoes.

"That sounds more like Lord of the Rings."

"I'm dying, Avaluna!" she raises her voice, her terror palpable.

"Bollocks. Sorry, what can I do?"

"I've extracted the bullet, but the toxins are having a party in my veins. Got less than an hour. Can't feel my limbs or my face. Soon my heart, lungs, and organs will fail," she says, grabbing my notebook and hastily jotting something down.

"Why the devil didn't you go to a hospital!" I exclaim.

"Because I don't plan on spending my remaining hours in some sterile lab," she shot back, ripping the page out. "Here. I need everything on this list."

"Flowers? Ah, yes, because nothing says "cure" like a bouquet.” Unless it's for her grand floral farewell. I frown at the thought. “How the bloody hell am I supposed to find this miracle in a vase?”

"A florist, flower shop, nursery, I’m sure you’ll think of something," She swings her legs into the tub, gently lowering herself into the cold water. "Just hurry, please." She shudders.

"Alright, stay there." I cringe at my own obtuseness. "Right, you can't go anywhere. I'll be right back." I grabbed my phone and sprinted down the stairs.

"Where're you rushing off to?" Mum asks from the living room, watching TV with Dad on the sofa.

"Ah, the store. Brb." I grab my keys and sprint to my car while googling the nearest florist. Ten minutes away.

I ran a stoplight, double-parked, and barged into the shop like a tornado. The florist, a short, chubby woman in her fifties adorned in a pink polka-dot apron was trimming her flowers.

"Excuse me, hi, hi, hi! I'm looking for a few particular flowers. Can you help me?"

"Sure, dear. What kind are—"

I cut her off, reading the names on the page, "Belladonna, Calendula, Echinacea, and Jasmin."

She nods, tapping her chin. Come on, this isn't brain surgery, lady! My friend is dying! I mentally roll my eyes.

"Oh yes," she announces with her finger in the air. Took you long enough! "I have Jasmin, Echinacea, and calendula but not Belladonna."

"I'll take it all."

"Would you like me to wrap them or—"

"No, just a bag is fine. You know where I can find Belladonna?" I hand her my credit card.

"Hmm, let me think. Check Mr. Pots." She swipes my card. Can she move any slower? Come on! "If anybody has it, it's him. Sign here, dear.” She smiles.

"Where is he?"

"Oh, down the block on the right-hand side, across from the pharmacy. Would you like your rec—"

"No, thank you." I grab my flowers and sprint out of the store.

"You forgot your bag!" she shouts out.

I floored it down the road. It was a herbalist shop, a quaint little cottage. I barged in, the bell ringing my arrival. Behind the counter was a man. "Hi, uh, I'm looking for Belladonna?"

He began searching through his neatly stocked herbs. "Seems like I'm out. I can order—"

"Please. Can you check again? I'll appreciate it. It's important."

"Let me check in the back."

I paced back and forth, worried that I'd return to a dead Zuri in my bathtub. She's not like a goldfish, I can't just flush her down the toilet. Looks like I might need that shovel after all.

"What do you plan on doing with it?" he asked as he walked up to the register with a bottle in his hand.

"Make tea." I handed him my card and grinned like a guilty git.

"I see." He glanced to the door and back at me suspiciously. He swiped my card and handed it back to me. I reached for it. "Be. Careful. With your. Tea." he enunciated carefully before letting go of the card as he glanced at the door again.

Creepy old man.

"Thanks?" I grabbed the bottle and briskly walked out the door.

I tossed it in the back seat before dashing across the road to the pharmacy. I grabbed a few gauze rolls, sterilized gloves, adhesive tape, Advil, and aspirin. I quickly self-checked out and bagged my items before sprinting back to my car.

Bollock! I slapped my hand down on the steering wheel, mad that I got caught by a three-minute stoplight.

I glanced in the rearview mirror and did a double-take. That black car. It looked like the one I saw parked outside Mr. Pot’s shop. I decided to take a shortcut and glanced back up at the rearview mirror. The car was still there.

Coincidence?

I take another turn. The car did too. I took another turn and drove past my house. The black car was still behind me. It's safe to say the asshat is following me. Think Luna! Think! I turned a block up from home and parked at David's Hardware General Store. I grabbed all my stuff and walked casually into the store and out the back door. The black car was still parked, watching my car. Sucker!!!

I sprinted home as fast as I could, making sure I wasn't followed.

"Sweetie, is that you?"

"Yeah, mum," I shouted back, closing the door and bolting to my room.

"W-What took you so long?" mumbled a trembling Zuri. She's getting worse.

"I had to lose the morons that were following me."

"Fuck. Avaluna I’m sorry. Are you alright?"

"Scared shitless, but let's take care of you first." I emptied the bag with the items on the countertop. "What do I do now?"

"That one and that one. Use some of the leaves for tea. And mix the rest into a paste."

"Ok. I got this." I nodded to myself.

I grabbed a pestle and mortar from the cupboard and put the kettle on. I mashed the rest into a paste with a little water, made a thick paste and ran back upstairs.

"Can you stand?"

I helped her out of the tub and out of the wet shirt. She sat on the toilet, I dried the wound. The blood and dirt all washed away, but the black and purple veins were branching off across her stomach faster. Almost to her heart. I applied the paste, wrapped her wound and taped it. Then handed her the tea,

"Thank you, Avaluna." she sipped her tea. Her fingers were dirty, pruned, and trembling.

"Just Luna is fine. I'll get you some dry clothes." I grabbed a pair of sweats and a hoodie with some clean underwear.

"Here. The knicker’s new," I handed it to her.

She took it and stood. "Thank you Ava- I mean Luna. I don't know how I can thank you."

"You can start by explaining to me why the men in black are after you. I'll wait for you inside." I nodded to the bedroom and left.

I had a million questions, starting with her Flash-like speed. If this were a movie or a book, she'd be the supernatural character with the wind in her hair and a cape billowing dramatically behind her. Or graceful fae with ethereal beauty, a mysterious vampire haunting the night, or a fierce werewolf under the glow of the moon. Sadly, this is real life. I changed into shorts and a tank top. Closed the curtains and window before sneaking a peek outside for the black car.

I couldn’t help but wonder who that was and why were they following me. Maybe she’s in the mob.

"What would you like to know?" Zuri asked as she sat down on the corner of my bed with the tea in her hand.

She looked a little better.

"Are you in the mob? What are you? Do you have superpowers? Why did your eyes glow blue? How did you move that fast? Who shot you? Who are those guys following me? What do they want?" I blurted out all in one breath.

"Did you write all that down? What I am about to tell you might be a little hard to swallow. Are you sure you want to know?"

I crossed my arms and raised an eyebrow. "I've just played hide and seek with the Men in Black and brewed a life-saving elixir from a shopping list of herbs. Try me. Wait are you in the mob?”

“No.”

“Were bitten by a radioactive spider?”

“No.”

“Scientific experiment gone wrong?”

“No.”

“Mysterious artefact that grants you incredible powers. Bonus points if it's buried in a jungle temple.”

“You watch too much TV. Once you know there is no going back.”

“Hit me.” I blurted out, “Alien encounter?”

No, she shakes her head as she hesitates to say what she’s gotta say. “I owe you that much for saving my life. But you need to promise me you won't tell anyone. It's forbidden for humans to learn of our existence."

Martians are real! "Ok. I promise." I did the zipping lip and throwing away the key motion. “

"Do you believe in werewolves?"

"Like twilight? Or underworld?"

"Yeah... Let's go with that. I'm a werewolf."

---

Chapter 9: They Found Us.

I erupted into a fit of laughter, doubling over. “You’re,” laugh, “a,” laugh, “werewolf?” I clutched my stomach, struggling to catch my breath, tears streaming down my face.

Zuri rolled her eyes as my laughter echoed in the room. “This is serious, and I need you to listen.”

I straightened up, the laughter fading from my face. But when I think about what she just told me I couldn’t help but start laughing all over again.

“Werewolf,” I chuckled, unable to resist the absurdity of it all. Zuri’s eyes blazed with an otherworldly blue, and a low, threatening growl rumbled from her throat. I swallowed hard, the laughter catching in my throat when I saw her pointy sharp fangs. “You’re a werewolf?”

“Those people following you are dangerous.”

“You’re a werewolf.” This time I said it more to myself than her.

“The hunters must have found me somehow.”

“Werewolf hunters?”

“Supernatural hunters. They’re like humans on heavy-duty steroids,” she snorts. “They declared war a few weeks ago when they murdered an alpha and his family in Europe. They slaughtered three-quarters of the pack. You humans think we’re monsters, hunters slaughter pups in their mother’s womb for fun.” She let out a low rumbling growl. “Those bastards got a lucky hit or I would have ripped their spines out,” she growls, her eyes flashing blue to green.

“Humans, can’t live with them, can’t live without them am I right?” I chuckle nervously.

“If they’re here it means you’re in danger and I need to leave.” She finishes her tea. “What colour was the car? Did you get a license plate?”

“Black and no. I was too busy freaking out. What kind of bullet can do that to you? Is it like a magic bullet? Wait are witches real?”

“Sliver aconite or you might know it as wolfsbane. Not magic. And yes.”

“No way! Witches are real. What about vampires? Do they glitter?”

“They’d probably look better if they did,” she scoffs.

“Vampires are real too!”

“Will you keep your voice down before you wake the whole neighbourhood?”

“Sorry, but it’s not every day a gal finds out werewolves and vampires are real.”

“Welcome to the real world, where supernatural beings roam and witches brew potions in secret.”

I leaned back, processing everything. “So, witches, vampires, and werewolves all exist. What about fairies and dragons?”

“Trust me the Faes are nothing like the fairies you see on TV. And dragon shifters are extinct. We need to focus on the hunters, they are not to be underestimated.”

“Right, safety first, fantasy creatures later,” I mumbled, trying to wrap my head around the newfound reality. Zuri nodded in agreement. “Should we call the police? Or maybe the Avengers? Do they handle supernatural threats?”

Zuri rolls her eyes. “No, and no. The less involvement from humans, the better. We need to handle this within our own world.”

“Got it. No Avengers. So, what’s the plan?”

“Firstly, I need to lay low. If they’ve tracked me here, your safety is at risk.”

I nodded. “Alright, lay low. Then what?”

“I need to find out more about their motives and how they tracked us all the way here. They must have somehow found out about the Alpha Summit.”

“Right, the Summit?”

“It’s an annual meeting, held at different locations every year. Those bastards have been itching to crash the party for a while now since every alpha in the country will be there. Where’s your phone?”

“You think they bugged my phone?” I handed her my phone.

“I hope not.” She dials a number and puts the phone to her ear. “It’s me.”

“I’m fine. We were attacked. Is Christian there?” Someone yelling on the other end. “They had aconite, what’d you expect?” she snaps irritated. The muffled yelling suddenly stopped and her facial expression changed to a serious, nervous one. “Yes, alpha. Yes, alpha. I’m with Luna—Avaluna. Yes.” She cringes. “I will. But I think they tracked me down and she said a black car was following her. Yes. Yes. Yes, alpha.” She hangs up and passes me the phone.

“You’re alpha’s mad I take it?”

“You have no idea.”

“Sooo, you’re a werewolf?” Yeah, I can’t get over it. It’s not every day you meet a supernatural creature in your bedroom. Wait does that mean my kidnapper is one too?

“Yes.”

My eyes widen, “Did you read my mind? Do I need like foil hat or something?”

“No, and that’s aliens. Your facial expression said it all.”

“Is there a lot of you?”

“We keep our existence secret from humans for obvious reasons.

“Lucky for you hunters don’t harm humans for the most part. They are sworn to protect the human race,” she said mockingly. “So, you and your family are safe as long as they don’t know that you’re helping me.”

“Wait, so Is that thing that attacked me a werewolf too?” It was way too big to be a normal wolf and scary. “Why was its eyes red?”

“A rogue. Unstable wolves who went mad from being cut off from a pack. They lost humanity and are unable to shift back to their human form. Once they were cut off, their eyes turned red.”

“Do all wolves have blue eyes like you?”

“If you’re part of a pack, you do.”

“Where are you going?”

“I can’t stay here. The alpha is right, if they find me here, you and your family would be in danger.”

“You can’t leave, you can barely walk.”

“I have to,” she stood but wobbled back down.

“Woah easy there. Are you ok? Well, how can you be with a hole in your stomach?”

“I’ll be fine. Survived worse.”

“Are you sure those flowers will help?”

“I can feel it drawing the toxins out.”

“You sure you don’t need a vet or something?”

She rolls her eyes, trying not to laugh.

I giggle. “How about getting some rest once you’re strong enough to carry a shovel we can go from there.”

She nods reluctantly. Lying on the other end of the bed with my hand on my stomach I ask. “I thought wolfsbane is like werewolf kryptonite, how are you alive? No offense.”

“It is. If it reaches the heart. As long as the toxin is in my bloodstream, it makes it harder for my wolf to heal us,” she yawns. “Luna,” Zuri paused, “Thank you for not freaking out completely.”

I managed a weak smile. “Well, I reserve the right to freak out later.”

“Deal.” I watch as her eyes flutter shut.

I turn off the light and roll on my side. Werewolves are real, and one is in my bed.

Shake. “Luna.” Shake. “Luna.” Shake. “Luna, wake up.”

“Zuri?” I rub my eyes. “What time is it?”

“They’re here,” she whispers and pulls me off the bed to the window. We crouch down beside the window and peek out from the corner of the curtain. Across from my house, the familiar black car is parked.

“How do you-”

“Shhhhh. Are you trying to get us caught!?” she whisper-yells.

“Can they hear us?”

“If you’re that loud, yes.”

“How do you know it’s them?”

“Scent.”

“Can they smell you too?”

“No. They’re humans, remember.”

“I don’t understand how they found me. How do they even know that you’re here?”

“They must have found your bus ticket.” She cringed guiltily.

Suddenly two men dressed in sharp black suits got out of the car and started walking towards my house.

“Bloody hell, they know.” I started to panic. “They know I’m aiding and abetting a werewolf. I’m a disgrace to my own race. A traitor. I don’t want to go to supernatural jail.”

Zuri rolls her eyes. “Calm down, Luna. You’re not going to supernatural jail.”

“What if they’re here to take me away? What if I never see my family again?”

“They’re not and besides, supernatural jail isn’t a thing.”

“But they’re hunters! They murder entire packs and babies, what if they’re here to murder me?”

“They don’t just go around murdering humans, Luna. Panicking won’t help.”

“I can’t help it.”

Zuri sighs, placing a reassuring hand on my shoulder. “I know it’s overwhelming, but you need to relax.”

There is a knock on the door. “What if we make a run for it? Out the back door, into the woods, and just keep running.”

“They have a car and guns, Luna. We won’t outrun them on foot. I’m not strong enough yet. Just go downstairs, answer the door and act normal.”

“Normal. Right. How do I do that?”

“First you need to breathe. In and out. Slowly. Now, fix your hair, put on a smile, and remember, you’re just an ordinary girl living an ordinary life. Got it?”

I nod nervously, taking a deep breath and attempting to compose myself as I finger-comb my hair and wrap it in a ponytail. Zuri gives me an encouraging pat on the back as I make my way downstairs.

I open the door to find the two men standing there, wearing identical stern expressions.

“Good evening, miss. We’re from the government,” one of them says, flashing a badge that I barely have time to glance at.

“The government?” I stammer, trying to feign surprise. “What can I do for you?”

“We’ve received some information about unusual activities in this area.

“Oh?”

“We’re here to ask a few questions,” the other one explains.

My mind races as I struggle to maintain composure. “Unusual activities? I don’t know anything about that. I’m just a normal girl.” Why the bloody hell would say that? You might as well confess now.

They exchange a glance before one of them smirks. “Just routine inquiries, miss. Mind if we come in?”

“Luna?” Dad and mum came down the stairs in their robes. “What’s going on?” dad asked.

“Good evening. We’re from the government,” the badge-flasher said, flashing his badge once more. “We’ve received some information about some unusual activities in this area and we’re here to ask a few questions.”

“Is this about the wolf attack?” mum asks.

“What agency did you say you’re from again?” my dad asks.

The men exchange a glance before the badge-flasher replies, “We’re part of a special investigative unit, looking into various incidents in the region. The wolf attack is one of the matters we’re interested in. This is just routine inquiries, sir. Mind if we come in?”

“Of course not. Please, come in,” my mum said, opening the door wider and gesturing for them to enter. As they step inside, I shoot a worried glance at Zuri, who is hiding upstairs.

“Please have a seat.” My mum gestured to the sofa.”Was there another attack?”

“There is nothing to be alarmed about. We’re just conducting routine inquiries to ensure the safety of the residents,” the other man explains with a reassuring smile.

“Routine inquiries?” Dad raises an eyebrow. “This seems a bit unusual for a routine check. Why not involve the local authorities?”

The men maintain their composure. “We operate on a need-to-know basis. National security and all that. We’re just trying to get a better understanding of what happened with the wolf attack.”

I chime in, trying to play my part. “Yeah, it’s really scary.”

“Indeed, miss. We’re here to ensure that such incidents don’t pose a threat to the community.” The badge-flasher says.

He knows! He knows! I’m going to get thrown in the bloody slammer I just know it.

“We haven’t seen anything,” dad said.

The badge-flasher eyes train on me as if he knows that I know we aren’t talking about wolf-wolf.

“Haven’t seen a thing either.” I gulp.

“Not around here anyway,” mum said.

“If you hear or see anything else, don’t hesitate to contact us,” the badge-flasher says. “Thank you for your cooperation. If you think of anything else, here’s my card,” he hands dad a business card with a generic government emblem.

Dad nods, taking the card. As they leave, I close the door behind them, my heart racing. That was close. I handled that well if I may say so myself.

“What’s really going on, Luna?” Dad asks, suspicion in his eyes.

I glance at Zuri, hidden from their view, and take a deep breath. “I don’t know, Dad. It all just seems so strange. But they said it’s routine, right?”

“Does this have to do with that little getaway tale?” mum asks.

“I-I don’t know what you mean?”

“You vanish for almost a week, nearly giving your mum and me a bloody heart attack. Conveniently lose your phone. And it’s strange how no one else had a phone. Now blokes pretending to work for the government show up at our house at ten o’clock at night.”

“How do you know they’re pretending?”

“No government office can afford shoes as nice as that.”

“Or wear a Rolex,” Mum adds.

I shrug, playing the innocent card. “Maybe it’s just a coincidence. They seemed genuine about investigating the wolf attack.”

Dad eyes me sceptically. “Coincidence or not, Luna, we need to know if you’re in some kind of trouble. We’re your parents, we can help.”

Mum gives me a concerned look. “Honey, you can tell us. We’re here for you.”

I maintain my innocence. “I don’t know anything more than you do. Maybe it’s just a mix-up, a weird series of events.”

They exchange a worried glance, clearly not entirely convinced, but nod in agreement. “Just be careful, bud,” dad warns.

“I will, daddy. I promise.” I give them a reassuring smile, hoping they’ll buy my act for now.

When I returned to my room, Zuri was rocking my jeans and hoodie like she owned them.

“They’re gone,” I tell her.

“For now.”

“Where are you going?”

“I need to get out of here. I’ll lead them away from you and your family. Where did you park?”

“You’re hurt. How do you plan on fighting them?” I raised an eyebrow.

“I don’t plan on fighting anyone. I just need to lead them away.” She winced, clutching her stomach.

“I need to check your wound.” I grabbed her hand, coaxing her into the bathroom.

“No light,” she warned, catching my hand before it reached the light switch.

“Smart.” I grabbed my phone, closed the bathroom door, and turned on the flashlight, passing it to her. “Hold this,” I instructed as I unravelled her wound.

“Luna, I don’t have—”

“Shush,” I scolded. The veins were fading, and the paste had dried up. “How do you feel?”

“I’m not dying so that’s a start.”

I grabbed the mortar, applied the remainder of the paste, and rewrapped her stomach. “Come on, let’s go.”

“Oh no. You’re not coming.”

“And I’m not giving you my car. Werewolves and insurance don’t exactly mix well. And I  heard they frown upon the ‘werewolf attack’ excuse.”

“Luna, it’s dangerous.”

“I’m a big girl, I can make my own decisions.”

Zuri sighed, a mixture of frustration and concern on her face. “Look, I appreciate the offer, but I can’t risk you getting hurt because of me.”

I crossed my arms defiantly. “Well, I can’t let you go out there like this.”

Zuri’s stern expression softened with a hint of gratitude in her eyes. “You’re a stubborn one, Luna.”

I smirked. “It’s a family trait.”

“Alpha’s going to kill me,” she whispers.

I quickly shed my shorts, opting for a pair of ripped blue jeans, and threw on a black hoodie over my tank top. Grabbing a baseball bat from my closet, I tossed it at Zuri.

She caught it. “Luna—”

“If you’re going to try to convince me, don’t waste your breath.” I tied the laces on my combat boots.

“Fine. But you do as I say.” She grabbed my arm to ensure I was listening. “Got it?”

“Aye-aye captain,” I salute animatedly.

We slipped out the back door, ran to the back gate, and through the neighbour’s yard, eventually making it to the hardware store. Hiding behind a trash bin, I asked, “Do you smell any wolfie slayers?”

“Wolfie slayers?” she arched a brow at me in a ‘seriously?’ way. I shrugged.

She rolled her eyes, but a faint smirk played on her lips. “No wolfie slayers, just the usual scent of trouble and bad decisions.”

I couldn’t help but grin back. “Well, then we’re right at home. Come on.”

I unlocked the car, and we slipped inside in a hurry.

“Looks like we’re in the clear,” I said exhaling a breath I didn’t realize I was holding. “That was easy.”

“Too easy,” she countered, scanning the surroundings.

I snorted—night vision. Figures.

“Hey, do you think—” I began, but she cut me off abruptly.

“Start the car!” she shouted, her urgency jolting me into action.

Out of nowhere, Badge-flasher appeared, yanking on my car door. “Open the door, Chesmore!”

I let out an embarrassingly high-pitched squeal, fumbling and dropping the keys.

How cliché am I? Here I thought this only happens in movies.

“Luna!” Zuri’s voice pierced through the air as another bloke tugged at her door.

Panicking, I scrambled for the keys, shoving them into the ignition. The Badge-flasher, punched my window, leaving a nasty crack. I squealed and pulled out of the parking lot, unintentionally turning a harmless light pole into roadkill. They brandished their guns, aiming directly at us.

“Luna, GOOOO!!!”

I shifted gears and slammed my foot on the gas, shots ringing out and shattering my back window. I don’t know if my insurance covers bullet holes.

The night air rushed through the shattered back window, carrying with it the scent of danger and the echoes of distant sirens.  

“Are you okay?”

“Nooo!!!!” I screamed, my fingers clenching the steering wheel in a white-knuckled grip.

Every few seconds, I darted frantic glances to the rearview mirror, my heart pounding violently against my ribs. Palms slick with sweat, my hands trembled uncontrollably.

“I don’t think they’re following us anymore. Turn here and pull over,” Zuri directed.

Following her command, I swerved onto a side street and brought the car to a shaky stop.

“Just breathe, Luna.” Zuri’s hand rubbed soothing circles on my back as I gasped for air, not realizing I’d been hyperventilating. “You did well. How about if I take over?”

I managed a nod, my relief evident.

Zuri stomps on the gas pedal, blazing through a couple of stoplights.

If I wasn’t so busy losing my mind, I’d probably be fretting about scoring a date with Traffic Court.

“They were H-hunters.”

“Yeah.” she kept glancing at the rearview mirrors.”Crown Crest Plaza, you know it?”

“Yeah, it’s downtown.” I nod. “Turn here. Is my family in danger?”

She didn’t need to answer, the look on her face said it all. “Where’s your phone?” I pulled it out from my back pocket.”Redial and put it on speaker.”

“Where are you?” His husky baritone voice made me shiver involuntarily. Bollocks.

“We have a situation.”

“What kind of situation?”

“They know she knows?”

“How?”

“Hi?”

“Fuck, Zuri,” he growled.

“It’s not her fault! I wasn’t letting her go out there alone. She’s still healing.”

“I told you to keep her out of it,” he snapped.

“Well, I don’t take orders well,” I shot back before Zuri could answer.

“And what did you plan on doing? Talk them to death?”

“Bugger off.”

“Watch your tone,” he growls.

“Her family is not safe,” Zuri says interrupting us. I didn’t miss the eyes wide surprised look on her face.

“I’ll take care of it. How far are you?”

Zuri looks at me. “ Twenty minutes away.” He hangs up. “Well, isn’t he a charmer?” I don’t know what I saw in him anyway.

Yeah, you do.

Bollocks.

---

Chapter 10: Hierarchy

She rolls her eyes at me, a side smirk playing on her lips. “You know, you’re lucky.”

“Lucky? Ha.” I scoff. “Tell that to my window.”

“No one talks to him like that. Not even Lake or Kristoff.” I furrow my eyebrows, wondering who Lake and Kristoff are. As if she can read my mind, she answers, “Lake is the blonde that was with me when I held you at gunpoint. Sorry about that.”

“I get it.”

“Kristoff is his brother.”

“The driver?”

“Yep. You know he doesn’t even let his brother call him by his first name.”

“Harsh.”

“Their relationship is... complicated. Wolves are social creatures. We can only flourish in a pack environment. The hierarchy is the law. Anyone who breaks the hierarchy is branded as a rogue. A week without a pack, they lose their humanity and remain in their wolf form forever.”

“That’s terrible.”

“It’s not. Most rogues are criminals, rapists and murderers who deserved to be put down.”

“All those wolf attacks, any connections?”

“Rogues. They usually don’t come out during the day. They prefer to stay hidden in the forest, waiting for their prey.”

“So werewolves are out there playing a real-life game of hide-and-seek with unsuspecting people? But the news said—”

“Whatever we want them to say. It’s better than the truth. Humans don’t want the truth; they want the comfort of a neatly packaged narrative to keep them warm at night.”

“Rogues, who brand them?”

“The alpha.”

“So, in other words. The alpha is the big bad wolf and a control freak.”

A growl ripped from her throat, and I gulped. “Sorry. I didn’t mean that. It’s the bond.”

“The bond?”

“The higher the rank, the stronger the bond or connection is to the alpha and Luna.”

“Turn up here.” I point to my right. “Luna?”

“The Alpha female is known as our Luna.”

“Ohh.”

“She is the Alpha’s mate and his equal.”

“Oh.” The thought of him with a mate— who I assume is like a wife—left a funny feeling in my stomach and not the good kind. It’s not like I’m jealous or anything. I mean, who wouldn’t want a supernatural love story with a furry twist? Definitely not me. I bet they have romantic moonlit forest dates, complete with howling serenades.

“Luna, hello?”

“Sorry, I spaced. Mate’s like being married right?”

“Deeper than that. If a pack loses its Luna, it loses its Alpha as well, most of the time.”

“I didn’t know he was married.” That left a sour taste in my mouth.

“Marriage? The Alpha?” She bursts into laughter. “We have a better chance of seeing a unicorn riding a unicycle through a rainbow.” She glances at me in a weird, curious way.

“What?”

“Nothing.”

“What’s that look.”

“What look?”

“You know what look.”

“What do you remember after crossing the lake?”

Cold, then it got tingly and warm. “Nothing really.”

“The Alpha isn’t exactly known for his... tenderness, and he hates humans,” she said. “Apparently not all.”

“What does that mean.”

“Let’s just say he has a selective tender spot for you.”

“Are we talking about the same bloke here? Blue eyes, scary, yay tall?”

“Yep, that’s the one.”

“He kidnapped and drugged me.”

“You’re alive and free, aren’t you?”

“So, what do people call him? Turn right, up here. If he doesn’t like to be called by his first name.”

“Humans call him Mr. Onyx. We call him the alpha.”

“The big bad wolf.”

“You don’t call him that unless you want to lose your tongue.”

“How does it all work?”

“How does what work?”

“The pack.”

“Hierarchy. In every pack, there’s the alpha.” The top dog. “The alpha’s the strongest and most powerful, born with superior genes that make them natural leaders. They’re like the backbone of the pack. Without them, there is no pack. They keep the peace, protect everyone, and make sure there’s order in the chaos. They’re also the judge and jury.”

“Is there a beta?”

“Twilight?” she arches a brow, questioning my source of information.

“Wattpad,” I grin. “Left.”

She snickers at me. “Lake.” Ah, the sexy mysterious blonde. “He’s the second in command and the second strongest in the pack. Unmated like the alpha, but unlike him, I can actually see settling down. Betas, like Alphas, are born into the role, just not as strong. They manage the pack when the alpha’s off duty and they share a pretty strong bond with the alpha. Then there’s my twin brother and me, the Gammas. Third in command and third strongest, born into the role as well. Basically, we’re the ones drawing up battle plans, training the warriors, and making sure everyone’s ready if we have defended our borders. Lastly, Kristoff,” Her tone softens at the mention of his name. “He’s the fourth in command.”

“Won’t that make him just as strong as the alpha?”

“He has alpha blood, but not as strong as the firstborn. Plus, Kristoff won’t take a role from someone who’s born into it. After the tragic loss of our delta, alpha made him the delta. He’s responsible for pack security, making sure the pack is safe, and borders are protected. No one goes in or out of the pack without him knowing.”

“Right,” I directed. “Do you have a mate?”

“Goodness, no.”

“Why not?”

“It’s complicated.”

“Complicated how? I mean, isn’t having a mate like, the ultimate wolf fairy tale?”

She smirked, a hint of bitterness in her expression. “Fairy tale? Mates, bonds, it’s not as rosy as those writers make it sound, trust me.”

I didn’t press further, sensing it was a sore topic. “Do you feel any better?”

“Getting there.”

“Make a left here and it should be coming up on the right. What do we do? Just waltz through the front door. What if the hunters are here waiting for us?”

“Don’t worry. The hotel is run by a werewolf, and with the best security system money can buy. Each Alpha even has their own security detail. This place is a fortress, safer than The White House. The hunters wouldn’t dare to try their luck here; it’s practically suicide.” She pulls up in front of the five-star hotel.

My eyes widen as I gawk at the exquisite design, the intricate artwork, and the sophisticated light fixtures.

 “Woowww,” I mutter, taking in the grandeur of the place. “Do they allow humans in here?”

“Garage section 7,” she tosses my keys at the valet and grabs my wrist dragging me inside. “No, they don’t. The only humans allowed are pets, belonging to the supernatural.” 

Stepping through the entrance, I’m immediately struck by the majestic interior. Intricate light fixtures cast a warm glow with a glass mural above capturing the essence of nature. Elegant antique paintings grace the walls, each one a masterpiece. The architecture is a symphony of craftsmanship, every detail meticulously handcrafted.

I find myself staring up in awe, my eyes tracing the intricate patterns on the ceiling. It’s like being a kid in a candy store, surrounded by an overwhelming display of beauty. Zuri pulls me through the opulent red and gold lobby, guiding me towards the front desk.

“May I help you?” A stunning blonde with bright marble grey eyes stared at us, her gaze dripping with condescension, especially directed at me. Her hair was meticulously tucked into a tight bun, her makeup flawlessly applied, all neatly packaged in a red, tight-fitted uniform. She was the epitome of polished perfection.

“Zuri Rhys, Gamma of the Wintercrest hunters. My Alpha, Alpha Wyatt Onyx, is in the penthouse on the forty-seventh,” she declared authoritatively, exuding an intimidating air.

Wyatt Onyx… His name is not that horrible.

The blonde’s cherry-red lips pursed into a smile, and she immediately bowed her head, a hint of fear flickering in her eyes. “Welcome, Gamma Rhys. We are expecting you. I’ll have Josh show you to your Alpha.” At the mention of his name, a boy around my age materialized out of nowhere, dressed impeccably in a black and red uniform.

“Gamma Rhys,” he bowed his head. Is she royalty or something? “This way,”

“I’m sorry, Gamma Rhys, but the human stays here,” the blonde said.

“The human is with me.”

“I understand, but she isn’t listed. I apologize, but we can’t allow her up without permission from the alpha.”

“She’s a small human female, what harm can she possibly cause to Alpha Onyx?”

Yeah! Get her, Zuri!

Wait…Why does that sound like an insult?

“I’m sorry, Gamma Rhys. But she is not permitted.”

“Then call him and get her permitted!” snapped Zuri.

The blonde gulped and snatched the phone, fumbling it a little.

Everyone here was impeccably dressed and from the looks of it loaded. Not a hair out of place. Interesting. A bloke walked out of the elevator with a leash attached to a black leather collar with silver spikes around the neck of a woman. She barely had anything on, just a tight bodycon dress, and I’m certain no knickers. And in stilettos, nonetheless. Classy. She was beautiful and polished. Throughout his conversation with another man, she kept her head down. Not once did she raise her head. I glanced around, and they were similar cases. Men and women with collars and heads down. Wait, are they—

“Stop staring,” Zuri nudged me in the side.

“Ouch.” I narrowed my eyes at her. “Are they humans?”

“Yes.”

“What—Why are they collared?”

“They’re pets.”

That word again.

“Humans?”

“Yes.”

“Pets?”

“Yes. Like a dog and human,” she said casually as if we were discussing the weather. This is preposterous. They’re the ones who transform into big furry hairballs, and we’re the pets.

“We’re the pets,” I raised my brows in an ‘are you kidding me’ way.

She sighed softly, “In the supernatural world, humans are either food or pets. Pets are loyal, docile humans used for pleasure or however, their master sees fit. They’re properties and nothing more.”

“Properties? Humans aren’t property. We have feelings and freedom—”

“No, you do not. Not in this world. Your kind is below the food chain, weak, useless, and created to serve us. Nothing less, nothing more.”

 I frowned at her statement. That’s not right, and it irked me that she and her kind think so little of us. No wonder humans hunt them. I’m starting to wonder, who’s the real bad guy here.

“I know what you’re thinking. Don’t,” she warns.

“No, you don’t,” I need to seriously work on my poker face and tone.

“Tell me then, what am I thinking?” I challenge like a child.

She arches an eyebrow and purses her lips with a hint of annoyance, “Not all supernaturals murder or hurt humans for sport. We do not seek to harm your kind intentionally. That’s why we keep to our own and away from humans. Humans tend to fear and destroy the things they do not understand. While we choose to live in peace and in secret amongst your kind.”

I let her words sink in for a few seconds; she’s got a point, but it’s still wrong. “That doesn’t make it right. To degrade a person in such a way.”

“Luna, it’s the world we live in. Get over it,” she rolls her eyes, bored with my argument.

“That doesn’t make it bloody right,” I retort, my frustration mounting. “Treating humans like property, like we’re beneath you.”

She raises an eyebrow, a mix of annoyance and impatience in her gaze. “Luna, it’s not about what’s right or wrong. It’s about survival. In our world, it’s either be the predator or the prey. You can’t afford to be soft.”

“That doesn’t justify cruelty,” I argue, my voice firm. “Just because you have power doesn’t mean you should abuse it.”

“Humans have this idealistic notion of morality. In our world, it’s different. It’s about maintaining a delicate balance, and sometimes sacrifices are made.”

“Sacrifices? You mean degrading others to feel powerful?” I challenge, refusing to back down.

“It’s not about feeling powerful; it’s about survival of the fittest. Our society operates on different principles. It may not align with your human ideals, but it’s our reality.”

I cross my arms, still not satisfied. “There has to be a better way, a way that doesn’t involve treating humans like possessions.”

“Maybe in your world, Luna, but not in ours. You’re navigating uncharted territory here. It’s not as simple as black and white. There are shades of grey, complexities that you may never fully understand.”

I glance around at the collared humans, still unable to accept the sight. “I refuse to believe that this is the only way.”

Zuri tilts her head, a mix of pity and understanding in her eyes. “You’re clinging to human ideals, Luna. It’s time to let go and embrace the reality of our world.”

“But-”

“I’m sorry, Gamma Rhys, but there was no answer,” the blonde announced timidly, her voice barely above a whisper, cutting me off.

Zuri’s eyes narrowed. “Get me the manager!”

She signalled a middle-aged gentleman. He gracefully glided over to us, clad in an impeccably tailored all-black suit. Handsome too, for a man of his age.

“Gamma Rhys,” he bowed. Maybe she’s related to the queen? “How may I—”

Before he could finish, Zuri cut him off, her tone assertive. “The human is with me, but the Alpha forgot to add her name to the list.”

“Oh,” said the man, his composure unruffled. He didn’t seem as intimidated by Zuri as the blonde. “Gamma Rhys. I apologize, but rules are rules. Maybe you can—”

“Forget it,” Zuri snapped her grip firm on my wrist.

“Where are we going?”

“Stay here. And don’t move. If anyone asks, you’re with Alpha Onyx.” With that, she left me in the plush sitting area in the lobby and headed to the elevator with Josh in tow.

The sofa beneath me was a luxurious haven of comfort and support that seemed to caress every contour of my body. Leather, genuine and smooth. Is this real leather? The scent of opulence lingered in the air, mingling with the hushed murmurs of the lobby. For fictional creatures, they sure know how to make a lobby feel like a classy magical haven. Maybe next, they’ll offer me a cup of enchanted tea served by a centaur in a tuxedo.

“Comfortable, huh?” A husky, deep voice sent shivers down my spine. “My apologies. I didn’t mean to scare you,” he said sincerely, his million-dollar smile making my knees go weak.

Dressed in a grey-fitted tailored suit that showcased his pale complexion and misty grey eyes, he looked like he stepped out of a high-end fashion magazine. His ash-blond hair was tousled in a way that screamed sexy bedhead, and I swear he had just the right amount of chest puffing out against the crisp white shirt, with pants that clung to his toned, lean legs.

“May I?” He gestured to the seat beside me.

Did he want to sit near me?

Me?

I must have been gawking like a git because he chuckled. A warmth spread across my cheeks as I instinctively bit my lower lip.

“Sorry, Y-yes. P-please. Sit.” I sounded like a dying cat with a hairball suck in my throat.

“Why is a pretty little thing like you sitting all alone here?”

“Waiting on my friend. What’s your excuse?” I tried to sound intimidating. Keyword: tried.

“Same. I’m Landon,” he said, extending his hand.

“Luna.” He arched his eyebrow questioningly. Oh, right. “Uh, I mean. Ava. Avaluna. But people call me Luna. I’m not mated to an Alpha or anything. I’m single. Well, on a break. But that’s still single. I think.” I rambled, still shaking his hand. He had a smirk on his face, patiently waiting for me to realize, like the nincompoop I am, that I was still shaking his hand. “Bloody hell,” I withdrew my hand.

My face probably looked like a bag of tomatoes.

He chuckled, “You’re cute when you blush. And even cuter with the accent.”

“Thanks.” I blushed even more.

“Luna?”

“Yes?”

“Would you like to have a drink with me while we wait?” He stood with his hand extended.

“I don’t think I’m... Dressed appropriately.” I gestured to my tight-fitted blue ripped jeans that clung like a second skin, accentuating my bum perfectly. Thank you, jeans! With my tank top and black hoodie zipped up. My platinum blonde hair was in a messy high ponytail, and I was rocking my favourite black combat boots. I looked like a hot mess, minus the hot. He unbuttoned his jacket and took it off, loosening his tie and rolling up his shirt sleeves to his elbow, revealing muscular arms.

“Better?” he asked, extending his hand again, a smirk playing on his lips.

I giggled and placed mine in his. “After all that work, how can I say no?”

“Precisely.”

He escorted us to the bar, and everyone’s eyes followed us—correction, me. We reached the bar, and Landon pulled out a barstool like a true gentleman. I unzipped my hoodie and took it off, causing his eyes to widen for a brief second, darkening with lust as he discreetly checked me out.

“Thank you,” I placed my hoodie on my lap.

“What can I get for you?” The bartender asked Landon. It didn’t take a genius to see how much he detested humans.

Bloody furball. Why don’t you go find a hydrant to pee on?

“What would you like?” Landon turned to me after shooting the bartender a warning glare.

I smiled. “Whiskey, neat.”

Landon grinned, “Two,” he told the bartender. “A woman after my own heart,” he wiggled his eyebrows.

I giggled. “What are you?” I blurted out. “Sorry, I didn’t mean—”

“It’s fine. That’s a first.” He smirked at my embarrassed, no-filtered self. “I’m Alpha Landon of the Moonclaw,” he said proudly.

The bartender brought our drinks and set them down. “Do you know Wyatt?” Landon choked on his drink a little. Bollocks. “I mean Alpha Onyx? Sorry, are you alright? I’m new to this whole thing.”

“First-name basis with one of the fiercest Alphas.”

“Err. No. uh. I—”

“I’m kidding. Alpha Onyx doesn’t like anyone calling him by his first name.”

“I heard,” I mumble, taking a sip of my drink.

He chuckled, “You’re not scared of him, are you?”

“Wy—Alpha Onyx?” Am I?

He kidnapped me.

But it did let me go.

He saved me.

After nearly getting me killed.

I guess I’m not. “Not really. I suppose.”

“You should.” A bloke with a pet appeared out of nowhere.

He sat down on the stool beside Landon and patted his lap. The woman quickly sat down like a well-trained poodle, with her collar in her hands. He ordered a drink before turning back to us. His cool grey eyes raked over my body, blatantly checking me out. I felt violated. He wasn’t an eyesore or anything. In fact, the dipshit was cute. Smooth olive skin with small freckles sprinkled about like confetti. Thick French roast brown hair cut low. A sturdy build, straight nose, pink downward-turned lips with a soul patch beard.

“Why is Onyx letting his pet run wild unsupervised?” The ass face smirked at me.

“I’m not his pet.”

“An unclaimed human in the Crowncrest,” his eyes wandered over my body once more, thick with his revolting lust, as if he was undressing me with his eyes. Yuck! “A sexy unclaimed human.”

“Back off, Easton. Don’t you already have a pet?” Landon took a sip of his drink, bored of him.

Easton ignored Landon and held my gaze. “Do you want to be claimed, little one?” I glared at him in a ‘are you stupid or what’ way. “If you were mine, you wouldn’t walk for a week.”

“Then lucky her, she isn’t.” His deep baritone voice made chills prance gleefully down my spine and butterflies danced in my stomach. Wyatt. And my heart stopped.

Bloody hell.

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