PRINCE ALPHA ONYX: The Mark of Lucian. Chapters 41-67

BOOK 2

Chapter 41: His Mark, My Wrath.

I barely had time to catch my breath before his lips were on mine again, this time even more demanding. His hands gripping my waist, pulling me impossibly closer until there was no space left between us. Every inch of me pressing against his, and my body responding on instinct, melting into the heat of his touch, the roughness of his kiss. I hate how much I crave him, how every touch sends fire racing through my veins, making it harder to think, harder to resist. But I don’t want to resist. Not anymore. His hands slide up my back, fingers tangling in my hair as he deepens the kiss, his mouth moving over mine like he’s trying to devour me. My heart pounding in my chest, my breath coming in short gasps between the frantic clash of our lips. I pull him closer, my fingers digging into his shoulders, needing to feel more, needing him like I need air. Every kiss, every touch feels like a battle—fierce and unrelenting, as if we are both trying to prove something but losing ourselves in the process.

He breaks the kiss, his lips barely leaving mine as he whispers against them, his voice ragged. “You drive me crazy, Ava. You have no idea what you do to me.”

I swallow, trying to catch my breath, my hands still gripping his shirt as I look up at him. His eyes are darker than I have ever seen before, making my pulse race even faster.

“Then stop fighting it,” I whisper, my voice barely audible but filled with all the longing I’ve been trying to hide. “Stop pretending you don’t want this as much as I do.”

His eyes flash, and in one swift movement, he lifts me off my feet, laying me on the bed, his body pinning mine as his lips found my neck, trailing hot, open-mouthed kisses along my skin. I gasp, my head falling back as the sensation of his mouth on me sends waves of heat crashing through me. My legs wrap around his waist, instinctively pulling him closer. My body shudders as his kiss becomes more fervent, his lips and tongue ravaging mine with an almost violent passion. His hand on my hip tightens, fingers digging into my flesh with a possessive force that makes me moan against his mouth. His free hand slides down, gripping my thigh and hitching my leg higher around his waist, pressing himself harder against me. The friction between us is intoxicating, the heat of his body searing into mine. His tongue explores every inch of my mouth, his teeth nipping at my lips, demanding everything I have to give.

A low growl escapes him as he pulls back, his breath hot and heavy. “You have no idea what you’re asking,” he murmurs against my mouth, the words sending a thrill through me.

“Then let me find out,” I urge, my hands sliding down his back, pulling him closer, urging him to give in. “I want all of you—every part of this.”

He hesitates for a moment, and I can see the struggle playing out in his expression. “Ava… My world is dangerous. Dark. You can get hurt.”

I meet his gaze, unwavering. “I’ve seen darkness, Onyx. I’ve faced my share of danger. I’m not afraid of your world.”

His eyes narrow slightly, a flicker of admiration mingled with the worry etched across his features. “You don’t understand what you’re getting into. It’s not just about us. There are consequences.”

I reach up, gently cupping his face in my hands. “I’m not asking for a fairy tale. Just let go for once. Let me in.”

“You think you want this, but you don’t.”

“I’m a grown woman Onyx. I can make my own decisions.”

“God, you’re stubborn,” he says, shaking his head, a mix of frustration and admiration in his eyes.

“Maybe,” I shoot back, my voice low and fierce. “But I know what I want.” I bite my lips. He groans.

For a moment, he just stared at me, as if weighing his options, and then I saw it—the moment he decided to give in. He leans in closer, his lips brushing against my ear, sending shivers down my spine. “Remember, you asked for this.”

I feel a thrill rush through me as he captures my lips again, this time with an intensity that speaks of his desire and the promise of what’s to come. His kisses deepen, devouring me as if he wants to consume every part of me. I let myself melt against him, surrendering to the heat and urgency of the moment. My fingers tangle in his hair, pulling him closer, urging him to take more.

“Onyx,” I whispered between kisses, “Show me. Show me everything.”

He pulls back just enough to look into my eyes, his expression fierce yet vulnerable. “You need to be sure, Ava. There’s no turning back.”

“I’m sure,” I reply, my heart racing as I hold his gaze. “I want all of you, dark and dangerous.”

His breath caught, and I could see the internal battle raging behind his eyes. But then, something shifted. With a low growl, he captures my lips again, his hands roaming my body with a possessive urgency that ignites every nerve in me.

His hips ground into mine, the hard cock pressing against my core, sending waves of pleasure coursing through me. My body arches into him, desperate for more.

He pulls back slightly, his breath ragged, his eyes dark with an unspoken promise. “You drive me insane,” he growls, his voice thick with lust.

“Good,” I panted, my own voice trembling with desire. “At least I’m good at something.”

He didn’t respond with words. Instead, he crushes his lips to mine again, more demanding, more relentless. His hands roam my body, exploring, claiming, his touch setting me on fire. I am lost in him, in the overwhelming sensation of his touch, the intoxicating taste of him. All that matters is the here and now, the raw, primal connection between us, the insatiable hunger that consumes us both. He violates my mouth in so many wonderful ways—sucking, biting, licking, exploring it rapaciously. He bites down on my bottom lip with just enough pressure to make me taste my own blood. A low, approving growl tears from the back of his throat. His fingers digging into my hip with a ferocity that will surely leave a mark, but I don’t care. It’s getting harder to breathe, but I don’t care. To me, this is the perfect way to meet one’s maker—death by a toe-curling, spine-chilling kiss. His soft lips are merciless and hostile yet tender and possessive, charged with longing and desire. I am lost in him, in the overwhelming sensation of his touch, the intoxicating taste of him. My mind is a whirlwind of emotions—anger, desire, frustration, and something deeper, something I don’t want to acknowledge. His kiss is a drug, and I am hopelessly addicted. Every rational thought screams that this is wrong, that I should stop, but the overwhelming desire drowns out all reason. I need him just as much as he needs me, a mutual hunger driven by our own inner demons.

My hands move instinctively to lift his shirt, my fingers desperate to feel his bare skin. He catches on immediately, peeling off his shirt and discarding it beside us. The sight of his chiselled chest makes my breath hitch, and the heat between us intensifies. His lips crash back onto mine in a fierce, vehement kiss, consuming me completely. A moan escapes me, swallowed by his mouth. My hands explore his muscular back, feeling the tension and raw power beneath his skin. His lips trail down my neck, biting and sucking, marking me as his. I gasp, arching into him, my need for him growing with every second.

“God, I want you,” he growls, a primal sound that makes my pussy clench. “You have no idea how much I want you,” he murmurs against my skin, his breath hot and tantalizing.

His hands slide under my shirt, lifting it over my head and tossing it aside. His eyes darken with lust as he takes in the sight of me, and I feel a thrill of power knowing how much he desires me. His lips find mine again, more demanding, more desperate. His hands move to my breasts, kneading and teasing, making me gasp and writhe beneath him.

“Onyx,” I gasp.

He growls in response, a primal sound. “I know, baby,” he murmurs, his lips trailing down my neck, over my collarbone, leaving wet, sloppy kisses in their wake.

I moan, arching my back the moment his lips find that spot right above my collarbone. Oh, dear God. Fire ignites in my veins, every fiber of my being burning with want, need, desire, and lust. It feels like a hot, steaming iron had been pressed to that very spot, sending waves of heat and pleasure radiating through my body. The surrounding air is charged with electrifying passion, excitement, and arousal. The way he nibbles and grazes that spot with his teeth drives me into a delirious frenzy. I can’t think, breathe or speak. My body demands something only it seems to know.

“Onyx, please. Please,” I beg, my voice trembling with need, desperate for something I can’t quite grasp, yet my body knows exactly what it wants.

His eyes darken with a mix of desire and possessiveness. “Tell me what you need, baby,” he whispers against my skin.

“I-I don’t know,” I stammer, my mind foggy with lust. “Just... more. I need more.”

He chuckles darkly, the sound vibrating against my skin, sending another wave of pleasure coursing through me. “I’ll give you everything you need,” he promises, his voice low and seductive.

His hands roam my body with a possessive urgency, his fingers tracing the curves and dips of my body as if committing every inch to memory. His lips continue their assault on my sensitive spot, driving me to the brink of madness with each kiss, each nibble, each teasing touch. He quickly removes my pants and knickers in one move. Then slides his thick long fingers inside my wetness and I moan. I nearly come from just hearing that.

“Fuck,” he groans as he starts drilling my needy pussy. “You’re so wet.”

“Yes, yes, yes,” I moan, my voice trembling with desperate need.

He slips a third finger inside me, his thumb circling my clit. “You like that, baby?” he growls.

“Yes,” I pant, my body arching into his touch, craving more.

“You want to come on my fingers or my cock, angel?” he whispers, his voice dark and seductive, filled with a possessive hunger.

“Um…” I stammer, my mind foggy with lust as he slows his fingers, moving in and out of me at a painstakingly slow pace that drives me wild with anticipation.

“Answer me,” he demands.

“Your cock,” I finally gasped, my body trembling with need. “Please, Onyx, I need you.”

A wicked smile spread across his lips. “Good girl,” he murmurs, withdrawing his fingers and quickly shedding the rest of his clothes.

He positions himself at my entrance, his eyes locking onto mine with an intensity that makes my heart race. “You’re mine,” he growls, pushing into me with one swift, powerful thrust.

I cry out in both pain and pleasure, my body arching against his as he fills me completely. The sensation is overwhelming, a perfect blend of pain and pleasure that sends shockwaves of ecstasy through my entire being. He moves with a relentless, steady rhythm, each thrust deep and powerful, driving me closer to the edge with every stroke. His hands gripping my hips, holding me firmly in place as he pounds into me.

“Oh, God, Onyx,” I moan, my fingers digging into his back, desperate to hold onto something as the pleasure builds to an almost unbearable peak.

“You like that?”

“Yes! Yes! Yes!”

“You like being fucked hard and ruthless?” Onyx chuckles darkly, his breath hot against my ear as he thrusts deeper.

A shiver runs down my spine as his words send another wave of pleasure through me. “Please, don’t stop…”

“Oh, I’m not stopping,” he growls, his voice low and rough. “Not until I’ve wrung every last drop of pleasure from this gorgeous body of yours.”

I whimper, my legs trembling as his pace quickens, each thrust sending me spiraling closer to the edge. “Tell me, who’s making you feel this good?”

“You… Onyx, it’s you!” My voice came out breathless, barely able to form the words.

“Good,” he murmurs against my skin. “Because you’re mine.” Onyx’s teeth graze my neck as he growls, his voice dripping with dominance. “Look at you, completely at my mercy. You’re so wet, so fuckin’ desperate for me. You take everything I give you, don’t you? So needy for my cock. I’m going to ruin you, over and over again, until the only name you know is mine.”

The raw intensity in his voice makes my head spin, my body trembling beneath his touch. “I want that… I want all of it.”

He chuckles darkly, his lips brushing my ear. “I know you do. And I’m going to give it to you—hard, deep, until you’re screaming for more.” His hips snap forward, making me gasp. “Tell me how much you need it.”

“I need it… More, Onyx… please, I need more,” I beg, my voice barely a whisper, lost in the haze of pleasure.

“Good girl,” he groans, thrusting even harder. “Let me hear those pretty little moans as I fuck you like you’ve never been fucked before.”

Onyx’s pace quickens, each thrust sending shockwaves of pleasure through my body. I can feel myself teetering on the edge.

“Yes, yes, yesss, yesss!”

“Come for me,” Onyx growls, his grip on my hips tightening. “Come all over my cock like the needy little thing you are.”

His command is all I need. A powerful wave of pleasure crashes over me, my entire body convulsing as I shatter in his arms. My vision blurs, my breath catching in my throat as I cry out his name, lost in the overwhelming ecstasy.

“Fuck, yes,” Onyx groans, his own breath ragged as he rides me through the high, his voice raw and hungry. “That’s it, baby. Just like that… Let me feel every bit of it.”

But it still isn’t enough. I need more. “Onyx, please. Please,” I beg, my voice barely more than a whisper. I starve for something only my body knows it needs.

“You don’t know what you’re asking,” he says, his voice heavy with lust.

“Please?” I moan, desperation dripping from my words.

The air around us crackles with electricity, thick with passion, excitement, and arousal. He leans down and grazes that spot with his teeth, sending me into a delirious frenzy. My body demands something from him, something primal and urgent, but I have no idea what or why.

“Onyx?” I cry out.

He pins my wrists above my head as he buries his head into my neck, breathing heavily as if he’s trying to hold himself back. “Ava,” he groans, his voice laced with pain and desire.

I writhe beneath him, feeling the intense pressure building inside me. “Please, Onyx. I need it. I need you,” I whisper, not fully understanding what I am asking for but knowing I need something more.

He growls deeply, the sound vibrating through me, making my pussy clench aground him. He groans.

“You have no idea what you’re begging for,” he says, his voice straining.

“I thought we’ve been through this already.”

His eyes darken, a primal hunger taking over. “You really want this?” he asks, his teeth grazing that sensitive spot on my neck again, sending shivers down my spine.

“Yes,” I pant, not entirely sure what I am agreeing to but knowing I can’t deny the overwhelming need.

With a low, guttural growl, he sinks his teeth into my neck. The sharp bite ignites a rush of pain that swiftly morphs into an overwhelming, burning pleasure, radiating through every inch of me. I gasp, my body arching into him. My breath came in ragged gasps, and before I knew it I was coming again, harder and more intense that ever before without him even needing to move inside me. But this feels different. Every nerve ending is on fire, the pleasure almost too much to bear. My heart leapt with joy and every inch of my body is singing his praise. I feels like our souls mashed together as one.

Like we are one.

Like I belong to him and he belongs to me.

Like leaves and trees.

Like bees and honey.

Like peanut butter and jelly.

Like sugar and kool-aid.

Like hot cocoa and marshmallows.

I can feel it in the depth of my soul. From the tip of my head to the bottom of my feet and deep in my bones. He pulls his fangs from my neck and claims my lips once more, swallowing my fervent moans as he starts moving inside me. I moan like a bitch in heat, arms locked around his neck, legs wrapped tightly around his waist. His hard chest rubs against my erect nipples, sending electric shocks of pleasure through my body. Everywhere we touch feels supercharged, a delicious mix of pleasure, desire, and lust blazing in my veins, spreading heat all over my body. He’s rough like the way I love, yet tender at the same time. His touch is sensual and aggressive, but his lips are gentle and caring. I love how every inch of his hard body feels against my delicate one. His passionate groans and grunts with each hard thrust are music to my ears. My entire existence narrows down to him, to this moment. The only thing my body knows is him. The only thing I want to breathe is him. And the best part is knowing he feels the exact same way. I can feel it flooding into me, just how much he cares, how much he loves me. It’s all so overwhelming that my brain hasn’t processed all my new found emotions as he drives himself deeper, harder, and faster inside me. I feel my muscles tightening as I raise my hips to meet his thrusts. He picks up the pace, growling approvingly. I scream his name as my pussy clamps around him, and he sinks his fangs into my neck again. I know he’s feeding on me, but it feels elating, as if I’m drunk on it. Waves of hot pleasure ripple through my body, leaving me whimpering and writhing beneath him.

“Fuck, Ava,” he groans, his voice filled with raw desire. “You’re mine, all mine,” he says more to himself than me.

He bites the top of my breast, feeding as he pounds into me relentlessly, each thrust driving me closer to the edge once more. My body quivers under his assault, each sensation heightens to an unbearable degree. His cock fills me completely, stretching me to the limit. The pleasure is intense, almost too much to bear, but I want more. I need more.

“Come for me, baby,” he growls, his pace never faltering. “I want to feel you come around my cock again.”

His words push me over the edge, and I scream his name as my orgasm tears through me. My body clenches around him, and he follows me over the edge, his own pleasure ripping through him as he fills me up. He collapses on top of me, both of us panting and spent.We lie there, our bodies still entwined, the connection between us stronger than ever. I know that I belong to him, and he belongs to me. And no matter what happens, nothing can ever change that.

Then suddenly it hit me, regret, guilt and something else. But just as fast I felt it, it was gone. Onxy pulls out of me cursing as he snatches his jeans off the floor. I become overwhelmed by all the emotions I am feeling, I don’t know if they are mine or his but I know they weren’t all mine. But the final words he uttered before leaving delivered the kill shot. I saw the knife before I felt it impale me.

“This was a mistake. I don’t even want you,” he grumbles as he storms out the room slamming the door behind him.

An intense pain radiates from my neck, my heart shatters, and my lungs feel as though they have shrivelled up. I can’t breathe; it feels like someone is holding a plastic bag over my head. Dark spots begin to dance before my eyes as I pass out.

I wake up feeling exhausted, sore, sad, and hollow in a cold, empty bed. I lay curled up, replaying last night over and over in my head. And cue the waterworks. His words feel like billions of needles being jabbed into my skin. Then I was chopped into millions of pieces, tossed into a freezer, and dropped at the bottom of a frozen lake. My numb, cold body can’t feel anything except the excruciating pain of his rejection. At least I know I’ll definitely hate ice fishing.

I hate him. I don’t even want to see his stupid, hot face. Yet every inch of my body, every cell, every fibre, every ounce of blood yearns for him, even though he poured acid into my very soul. But what hurt the most, besides my pulverized heart, was my neck where he fed. It feels sore. Bloody brilliant. Just what I need—a love bite from a vampire that probably comes with a free tetanus shot. Because why not add a side of infection to my menu of misery? Maybe next, he’ll gift me a complimentary rabies vaccine. Ah, the perks of being his bloody chew toy

I drag myself out of bed for a long, well-deserved shower. I scrub furiously, trying to rid myself of his vile touch and scent, but it is utterly pointless. My skin feels raw, and no amount of scrubbing can erase the lingering sensation of his despicable touch. The water turned tepid as I stood there, feeling defeated and empty. No matter how hard I scrub, his scent clings to me like a stain I can’t wash away. It is as if his touch has seeped into my pores, leaving me feeling contaminated and violated. Tears mingle with the water as I try to wash away the emotional turmoil he has stirred within me.

I finally leave the shower. I  wipe the fog off the mirror and stare at myself in the mirror. My eyes widen so much I think they might fall out of my face. There, on my neck, were two deep bite marks in a ruby red circle outline, surrounded by a wider black circle outline. And around it, in bold black letters, is the wanker’s name: ‘Onyx Kayli Dreklaus.’ I didn’t even know the shithead had a middle name. The bite mark throbs slightly, reminding me of his violation.

“He branded me in my sleep! How dare he!” I scream, storming out of the bathroom towards the closet. In under a minute, I throw on some clothes, my mind racing with fury. “I’m going to hunt that mutt down and shove my foot so far up his ass he’ll need a proctologist. He does not get to be an asshat to me and then tramp stamp me! AHHH!” How can he do this to me? After everything, he has the audacity to mark me like some possession. It wasn’t enough that he shattered my heart into a million pieces, but he had to leave his mark on my body too. The nerve of that blood-sucking, arrogant prick!

---

Chapter 42: Sensing the Enemy.

How did I know he was outside? My Spidey senses are tingling, fully loaded and ready for action. That bloodsucker—coffin stuffer, tail chaser—is dog meat! Just wait ‘til I get my hands on him!

“What did you bloody do to me?!” I shout, my voice shaking with fury as I stomp towards him.

“Have to be more specific,” he replies coolly, not even bothering to turn around.

“My neck, you dingbat!” I snarl, turning to the side and pointing at his handiwork. “Did you think your little vampire voodoo would go unnoticed?”

Ace, drops his cell phone onto the grass in front of Onyx while choking on air with his eyes wide as tennis balls as he stares at my neck. Beside him, Damian is so shocked he lets his laptop slip from his grasp, his jaw following. Aurora, holding a bow and arrow, releases the arrow unintentionally, her gaze fixed on my neck. A scream echoes from somewhere in the yard, indicating the arrow has landed. Theron’s mouth opens and closes repeatedly, like a fish out of water. At that exact moment, Sky takes a sip of her red wine, only to spray it across Sirius’s back. Sirius, completely engrossed in the sight of my neck, didn’t even flinch.

“You wanted it,” he shrugs and shoots the reapers a look and they quickly recover.

Ace and Damian pick up their devices. Sirius finally notices the red wine staining his shirt. Skylar shoots him an apologetic look. Theron and Aurora just stare at each other, trying to process it.

“When was this!?”

He laughs darkly, the sound sending shivers down my spine, and finally turns to face me. “You were begging for it.”

“Beg? Why you… you….” The instant his eyes locked with mine, a shiver ran through every fibre of my being, igniting a wildfire beneath my skin and I lost all words.

My heart is pounding erratically, each beat sending waves of excitement through me, while a swarm of butterflies erupt in my stomach. The mark on my neck tingled fiercely, as though it recognized its counterpart. My gaze is glued to him, an unbreakable connection that feels vital to my very existence. My body thrums with a euphoric resonance, a melody of yearning that seems to sing directly to him. My breath catches in my throat, and the mere thought of blinking fills me with dread as if he might vanish in that brief instant. If I looked away, surely my lungs would seize and my heart would stop. Suddenly I ached to fling myself into his strong muscular arms, to lose myself in the solidity and warmth of his presence. I clench my fists at my sides, squeezing my thighs together, and dig my heels into the soft earth beneath me, battling the torrent of wanton thoughts that assailed me. The more I struggle to suppress them, the more vividly they surface, relentless and consuming. All I can think of is him inside me pounding me into oblivion.

“W-what did you do to me?” I manage to gasp, my voice thick with longing and breathless with the intensity of my desire.

I could feel the heat rising to my cheeks, betraying my embarrassment. I cringe inwardly as Sirius, Skylar, Theron, and Aurora all cast me knowing glances, their eyes sparkling with amusement and understanding. Ace and Damian, on the other hand, look confused.

“You marked her?” Ace asks, disbelief clear in his voice.

“Maybe it’s just a press-on tattoo?” Damian suggests, frowning as he tries to make sense of the situation.

“Or maybe you two are just idiots,” Theron mutters, shaking his head in frustration.

“Do you have any idea what this means?” Sirius says.

“I’m not an idiot,” Onyx snaps, his tone tight and defensive. “I know exactly what I’ve done. Leave us.” His eyes not once left mine.

“What did you do to me?” I repeat.

“Come,” he commands, his voice deeper and sexier than ever.

My eyes trail down his body, drinking in every sculpted muscle and sinew. He is the epitome of hot—sexy and ripped, the living embodiment of “sex on a stick.” Everything about him, from his voice to his presence, is intoxicatingly perfect or rather a hundred times more perfect.

A smirk curls at the corner of his lips as if he can read my thoughts. Before I knew it, his strong arms snaked around my waist, pulling me against him. I hadn’t even realized I moved. The air between us crackled with electricity, and all my worries, all my pain, evaporated. In his embrace, I feel safe, loved, and content. Every wrong he’s done seems forgotten and forgiven in an instant. Maybe he was part witch? The tingling sensation is so intense, I have to bite my inner lip to keep from moaning. Even his scent is overwhelmingly intoxicating, making my head spin. Everything about him is a thousand times more mesmerizing and seductive. Oh God, is this some kind of new date rape drug? It must be some kind of drug.

“I didn’t drug you.”

My eyes widen in shock. How did he hear that? I didn’t say it out loud. Had I? No, I was certain I hadn’t.

“How did you know what I was thinking—,” I gasp in realization, “you can read my mind—you always could.”

“Not always.”

“When?”

“After I had you.”

My cheeks warm instantly. “So you’ve been reading my mind this whole time?”

“I try not to, but you make it so hard.”

“Really? I make it hard for you to not read my mind?”

Even though I want to be furious, downright livid, my voice remains soft and calm as my fingers absentmindedly fiddled with his shirt buttons. I feel him tensing under my touch.

He chuckles, the sound vibrating through his chest and into my fingertips. “Your thoughts are so loud sometimes, like a damn megaphone. You’re impossible to ignore.” He reaches up, tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear, his touch sending another wave of tingles down my spine.

I scoff, though my resolve is weakening under his gaze. “Well, maybe if you weren’t so… distracting, my thoughts would be quieter. That’s not what I mean—”

His smirk grows, eyes twinkling with amusement. “Distracting, am I?”

“Don’t get cocky. It’s not a good look on you.”

“Is that so?” he murmurs, leaning in closer. His breath is warm against my skin, and I can feel my heartbeat quicken. “What look do you prefer, then?”

I swallow hard, my fingers still playing with his shirt buttons, trying to maintain some semblance of control. “The one where you’re not invading my thoughts.”

“No promises, Angel.”

“Then I want to read your mind.”

“Okay.”

“Okay?” I arch an eyebrow at him suspiciously.

That was too easy.

“I’ll teach you.”

“You will?”

“Don’t sound so shocked.” He gently closes my gaping mouth with a finger, his touch soft and reassuring.

I swat his hand away playfully. “I’m not shocked. Just… surprised, that’s all.”

He chuckles. “Surprised? You look like a fish out of water.”

I huff, crossing my arms. “Well, excuse me for not expecting you to be so agreeable for once.”

His grin widens. “I’m full of surprises.”

“Yeah, well, we’ll see about that. So, when do we start?”

“Impatient, are we?”

I roll my eyes. “Just eager to level the playing field. Can’t have you knowing all my secrets while I’m in the dark.”

He leans in closer, his breath warm against my ear. “Trust me, love, your secrets are safe with me.”

I raise an eyebrow, trying to ignore the shiver running down my spine. “And yours with me, once I learn this mind-reading trick.”

“We’ll see if you can handle it,” he teases, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

“Oh, I can handle it,” I shoot back, a determined glint in my eyes. “Just you wait.”

He laughs, the sound deep and genuine. “I look forward to it.”

His eyes darken, a shade I have never seen before, as he stares at my lips and licks his own. I nearly melt in his arms, teetering on the edge of losing all control. Just as I am about to succumb to the urge to throw myself at him, his gaze flickers to my neck. His eyes narrowed, and in an instant, the heat between us vanished. He releases me and steps back abruptly, as though my touch has scalded him. Then his words slithered into my mind, icy and cruel: “It was a mistake. I don’t even want you.”

Rejection and anger surged through me like wildfire, shattering the trance I had been under. “Get it off!” I demand, my eyes narrowing into slits.

“I can’t,” he gritted out.

“Why not? Isn’t there some kind of vampire/werewolf after-pill or something?” I fling my hands up in exasperation.

“No,” he says bluntly.

“So what, I’m supposed to walk around with this bloody logo on my neck?”

“Look, what happened last night—”

“I know!” I snapped. “It was a mistake and you don’t even want me.” For a split second, I thought I saw him cringe with a flicker of regret in his eyes. “Guess what? I don’t want you either! Get it off.”

His jaw clenched in annoyance, and his eyes narrowed at me. He had the nerve to be mad at me for saying that. “It’s not that simple.”

“It never is with you, is it?” I laugh dryly, amused by the absurdity. “One moment you’re pulling me close, the next you’re pushing me away. Make up your mind!”

He turns and starts walking away, his back radiating indifference. “You’re kidding me, right?” I call after him, incredulous.

“Spare me the melodrama.”

“Melodrama?” I echo, my voice rising. “You think this is all some act?” My fists clench at my sides as I stomp after him “You’re such a cold-hearted bastard. You think you’re so much better than everyone else, don’t you?”

“I don’t think. I know. Unlike you, I don’t let emotions cloud my judgment.”

“You’re unbelievable,” I spat. “You act like you’re some kind of god, but you’re just a coward who’s afraid to feel anything.”

He laughs, the sound harsh and condescending. “Afraid? Hardly. I just prefer not to wallow in pointless sentiment. But if you want to continue being a slave to your emotions, be my guest.”

“Not all us have a humanity switch we could turn off whenever we want.”

“Too bad.”

“Call Boss,” Ace says as he darts between Onyx and me nervously.

Onyx arches an eyebrow at me, and I shoot him a look that clearly says, ‘You can suck on garlic; I’m not going anywhere.’ With a long, exasperated sigh, Onyx reluctantly takes the phone from Ace as the reapers gather.

“Well, hello, old friend. I was surprised when I got your call,” a man with a warm Indian accent greeted, his voice tinged with both curiosity and delight.

“It’s been a while,” Onyx replies, his voice uncharacteristically softer, indicating his fondness for this man.

“Getting kidnapped will do that,” the man chuckles. “Come visit and bring the reapers. It’s been half a century since your last visit.”

Half a century? My mind reeled. How old is he? He barely looks a day over twenty-one. Ewww, I shagged a grandpa. I grimace in disgust.

Onyx shoots me a look that says, ‘Seriously?’

I shrug and turn away, choosing to ignore him. Yep, he can definitely read my mind. I need a foil hat. Stat.

“After I deal with these fuckers, I assume by now you’ve heard?” Onyx continues, his tone hardening.

“Everyone’s heard about your victory in North America at the Hollow.”

“Then you also know why I called.”

“The flower you seek is in the mountain of Bellary.”

At the mention of the name, I perk up. The mountain of Bellary was in my hometown, Shirton. My family and I hiked there often, but the entrance was blocked off by a giant boulder.

“But my friend, the entrance is—”

“Blocked off by a giant boulder.” Onyx glances at me.

I’m mentally flipping you off!

I say loudly in my head and he shakes his head at me.

“Someone did their homework,” they sound impressed.

“And it’s enchanted too, isn’t it?” Onyx pinches the bridge of his nose in frustration.

“You know those Fae’s well, my friend. Nothing is ever easy. But there is a way. To move the boulder, you need the blood of a Fae maiden.”

“Easy,” Damian smirks, confidence oozing from his stance.

“Venom of a desert rogue wolf.”

“I’ve got that covered,” Theron declared, his voice steady and sure.

“The wolf must be alive when you extract the venom, or it won’t work.”

“Yay, more fun.” Aurora hugs Theron, who growls approvingly at her excitement.

“A blue siren scale and a witch’s mug.”

“I know a siren,” Ace smirks, sharing a knowing look with Onyx.

I roll my eyes.

“And I know where we can get the mug,” Skylar adds.

“But here’s the fun part. It only works on the first full moon of the fourth month, every four years. And it so happens that’s in two days. Oh, one more thing before I forget. A female can only pick the flower. A human female.” All of them turn to me.

What are they looking at?

Human female? I’m a human female.

Bollocks.

“I appreciate it.”

“Anytime my friend. I hope to see you soon. Oh, I forgot to mention. I got a new selection of exotic beauty for your pure human stash. Would you like me to send them over, or would you prefer to visit and sample them first?” His excitement churns my stomach.

Everyone’s eyes turn to me, awkwardly. Pure human stash? My mind reeled, the words sinking in. Pure. Human. Stash. Why that—I couldn’t bear to stay and hear his answer.

You know that saying about your life flashing before your eyes? This was my second time experiencing it. I felt like a deer caught in headlights, my heart frozen mid-beat. I stare, paralyzed at the silver arrow inches from my face, clenched in Onyx’s hand. His roar, primal and furious, sends birds scattering from the trees, which tremble as violently as my legs.

“Find the shooter and bring him to me alive!” Onyx’s voice drops to a menacing growl, his eyes glowing a menacing red, encircled by a golden band.

In a heartbeat, he scoops me into his arms and whisks me inside the house. He sits me down, his hands frantic, searching for any sign of injury. The shock left me numb. When he found no harm, he wrapped me in a possessive, protective embrace, burying his face in my hair and inhaling my scent. For someone who claimed not to want me, he was terrified of losing me.

“Angel. Princess. Say something,” he pleads, cupping my face and brushing his thumb gently over my pale, ghostly cheeks.

“S-something,” I whisper, my voice barely audible. But he hears it.

He sighs in relief, but the tension in his face quickly turns to frustration as he cradles my cheeks in his large, warm hands. “You scared the hell out of me,” he mutters, his voice sharp. “I can’t afford distractions.”

“Why do you care so much?” I ask, my voice trembling. “You say you don’t want me, yet here you are.”

Onyx’s eyes narrowed, the golden bands around his irises flaring. “Because you’re mine,” he snaps. “Whether I want you or not is irrelevant.”

Tears well up in my eyes as I shake my head. “I don’t understand. One moment you push me away, and the next, you’re holding on like your life depends on it.”

He pulls me closer, his grip almost painful. “It’s complicated,” he says, his voice low and menacing. “You’re a liability, but that doesn’t mean I’ll let anyone else have you or hurt you. You should be grateful,” he says, his tone harsh. “Without me, you’d be dead.”

I pull away. “Grateful? For what? For being your possession?”

He smirks, his eyes glinting cruelly. “Better a possession than a corpse,” he retorts.

“I hate you.”

“Good.”

Ace returns with a severed head in his hand. I scream and bury my face in Onyx’s chest. He immediately wraps his arms around me protectively, growling at Ace. I can feel his satisfaction as I cling to him, the strength of his embrace is both possessive and reassuring.

“Shit. Sorry, man. I forgot she’s human,” Ace mutters.

“I thought I said not to kill him,” Onyx growls, his tone dangerous.

“I didn’t,” Ace replies defensively. “The freak slit his own damn throat. Theron and Aurora caught a scent and went off after it. Skylar is checking the wards; Damian is running surveillance, and Sirius is examining the body.”

They believe the arrow was meant for Ace, not me. I just happened to be in the way. Ace, being the closest thing to Onyx, was the intended target. The hunter had slit his throat the moment Onyx roared. Skylar expanded the wards, and Theron and Aurora lost the scent by a river.

Onyx’s fury was palpable. He summoned all the guards on duty, leaving and returning drenched in blood. The entire night left me mentally and physically exhausted, too drained to scream at the sight of him bloodied again as he headed for the shower.

The bed dipped, and I was pulled into his strong, warm body. I didn’t have the energy to argue. He made me feel safe. For now, I found an odd peace in his arms.

He nuzzles his nose in my hair, mumbling to himself. Sleepily, I can’t make out his incoherent words, but his presence, as infuriating as it is, brings a strange comfort. His possessive grip tightens as he whispers, the warmth of his breath soothing despite the chaos around us.

“Are you always this clingy?” I mutter half asleep.

He chuckles softly, his lips brushing my ear. “Only with you, princess. You seem to bring out the worst in me.”

“Oh, lucky me,” I shoot back, rolling my eyes even though he can’t see it. “Is this your idea of flirting? Because if it is, you need a lot of work.”

Onyx laughs, a deep, rumbling sound that sends shivers down my spine. “Maybe I just like a challenge.”

“A challenge? Is that what you call kidnapping and branding?”

“I thought we were making progress.”

“Progress?” I snort. “If this is your version of progress, I’d hate to see what you consider a setback.”

His hand gently traces patterns on my arm. “You know, you’re cute when you’re angry.”

I try to ignore the way his touch makes my skin tingle. “If this is you trying to charm me, you’re failing miserably.”

“Is that so? Because from where I’m lying, it seems like you’re not trying very hard to escape.”

“Maybe I’m just too tired to bother.”

He pulls me closer, his breath warm against my neck. “Or maybe you’re starting to realize that being in my arms isn’t the worst place to be.”

I feel a blush creep up my cheeks, annoyed at how easily he can fluster me. “Don’t flatter yourself,” I mutter.

He laughs softly, his lips brushing against my shoulder. “Too late.”

I didn’t respond, my exhaustion finally catching up to me. As I drift off to sleep, I can’t deny the small part of me that found comfort in his words, no matter how infuriating he was.

I wake up alone and surprisingly disappointed. I don’t know what I was expecting. Rubbing the sleep from my eyes, I sit up, disoriented.

“Finally!” Aurora’s overly cheerful voice jolts me awake.

“Bloody hell! Trying to give me a heart attack?” I yelp, clutching my chest.

“Sorry. I just wanted to be the first to welcome you to the reapers—”

“Hold on there a sec,” I interrupt, snickering nervously.

Aurora’s cheerful expression falters, her eyebrows knitting together in confusion. Skylar remains stoic, her gaze unreadable.

“I’m not part of this,” I insist, gesturing wildly. “I don’t mean to be rude, but I don’t know any of you, and I definitely don’t plan on staying. I have a life. A family. School. This,” I wave my hand in a circular motion, “is all temporary. I can’t stay here. Especially not with him.” My heart aches at the thought of leaving Onyx, but I push it aside.

Aurora and Skylar exchange a knowing look, their silent communication only heightening my anxiety. “What are you guys not telling me?”

“That’s not exactly how a mate bond works,” Skylar says, her voice calm but firm.

“The bond is the most wonderful thing in the world,” Aurora adds, her eyes dreamy. “It can also be one of the most dreadful things.”

I frown, feeling a chill run down my spine. “What do you mean?”

Aurora sighs, her expression turning serious. “A mate bond is a connection that transcends everything—time, distance, even death. It’s a bond of the soul. When you’re bound to someone, they become a part of you in ways you can’t imagine.”

Skylar nods, her eyes unwavering. “You can’t just walk away from a mate bond. It’s not like a regular relationship. It’s intense, consuming. You’ll feel drawn to him, even if you try to fight it.”

I shake my head, panic rising in my chest. “But I have a life outside of this! I didn’t ask for this bond.”

Aurora’s gaze softens with sympathy. “None of us do. It just happens. And when it does, it changes everything. Your heart, your mind, your very being.”

I feel tears prick at my eyes, the weight of their words crashing down on me. “So, what? I’m just supposed to accept this? Accept him?”

“It’s about understanding that this bond is a part of you now. You can resist, but it will only cause more pain.” Skylar says.

Aurora smiles gently. “And maybe, just maybe, you’ll find that being with the prince isn’t as terrible as you think. The bond chose you for a reason.”

I look between them, feeling a mix of anger, fear, and confusion. “And what if I don’t want this?”

Skylar sighs. “Then you’ll have to live with the consequences of rejecting a bond that’s meant to be. But know this—the bond will not let go easily.”

I swallow hard, the reality of their words settling in. The bond is a part of me now, whether I like it or not. And as much as I want to deny it, a small part of me was curious about where this path might lead.

In the past twenty-four hours, I had gone from hating Onyx to sleeping with him, to being marked, to nearly dying, and now this. Joining the reapers? I was human. I mentally sigh, feeling overwhelmed. Everything was happening too fast.

“I need a drink,” I groan, slumping in defeat.

There is no way I am escaping them, especially with Skylar’s penetrating gaze fixed on me.

“I know just the place,” Aurora says, her grin devilish.

This looked like trouble, but I have a feeling I might enjoy it.

---

Chapter 43: Dancing on Thin Ice.

We end up cracking open a rather posh bottle of champagne from Onyx’s private collection. Skylar warns Aurora that Onyx would have her hands for it. Aurora frowns and reluctantly agrees, but then a mischievous glint sparkles in her eyes. That’s how I ended up holding the bottle.

“He won’t hurt you,” she assures me, and like a fool, I believed her.

I threatened that if I lost my hands, she’d lose hers too. Several bottles later, we found ourselves singing and skinny-dipping. I had completely forgotten about the guards until I noticed them respectfully turning their backs when they saw the mark on my neck. Whether out of respect or fear, I couldn’t tell. Aurora and Skylar are like goddesses, their bodies flawless. I was thankful to have a Brazilian wax before all this, or I’d have been well… let’s not go there.

With a few drinks, Skylar seems more approachable, less intimidating than usual. She isn’t all that bad. Aurora and I giggled uncontrollably, and even Skylar let out the occasional laugh at our antics. For once, I felt free and happy, the worries and the infuriating, temperamental knob who kidnapped me was all but forgotten. Aurora fancies a dance, and since her iPhone isn’t doing the trick, we decide to hit the club. Skylar was reluctant at first, but we dragged her along anyway. Aurora’s room mirrored Onyx’s, albeit smaller, reflecting her personality perfectly. Lilac walls adorned with exquisite oil paintings of forests, flowers, and even some nudes that made me blush. Photos of her and Theron, as well as antique crossbows, daggers, and swords, hang on the walls. The kitchen is pristine, with brand-new, never-used stainless steel appliances and a marble countertop. But her closet, oh, her closet was even bigger than Onyx’s, filled with every fashionable item a girl could dream of. She was a true fashionista and I was in love with her shoe rack. That thing was as big as my dorm room.

Skylar wasn’t one for dressing up, and we practically bullied her into an outfit. She was too drunk to protest effectively and eventually gave in. Aurora slips into a multicoloured mini sequin dress that hugs her hourglass figure beautifully. Skylar dons a black leather backless mini dress, showing off her curves and accentuating her long, gorgeous legs. I wore a long-sleeve leopard print backless lace-up mini dress. It was quite revealing and far from my usual attire, but I’m too wasted to care. Our hair was down, and we tottered on high heels. Before we left, Aurora worked her magic and concealed my mark so well that it is practically invisible. She did a fantastic job. We call a cab and Skylar compelled the driver to forget he’d ever picked us up and to erase any memory of the mansion’s location, leaving him with a very generous tip.

As soon as I see the line outside the club, I frown. “We’ll never get in,” I whine.

“Who says we’re joining the line?” Aurora giggles, hooking our arms together.

We burst out laughing and swayed to the front of the line. I’m too high on life to care about the jealous glares from women and the lustful stares from the blokes. The bouncer unhooked the rope the moment we reached the front, earning us even nastier looks. Inside, the club was packed, wall-to-wall with electrifying colours and glow sticks everywhere. The air is thick with the smell of liquor and smoke, pulsating with the beat of the music.

“Is this a human club?” I shout.

Skylar leans in and says, “No need to shout. We can hear you just fine.”

Right, super hearing. I giggle at my own silliness.

“It’s a supernatural club with humans,” Aurora explains, leading us to the bar. “But humans don’t remember much after they leave.” She spoke something to the bartender that I couldn’t hear over the noise. There is no need for her to shout; he is clearly not human.

The bartender grins wickedly, “Coming right up,” he says with a wink in my direction.

He is a sight to behold, wearing tight leather trousers and a red tie leaving his toned chest on full display. Not as chiselled as Onyx’s, though.

“Stop eyeing him up,” Aurora nudges me, giggling.

“Can you blame me?” I feel my cheeks warm.

“Nope,” Skylar giggles as well.

Aurora rolls her eyes at us playfully. The bar is packed, and I feel a pang of guilt for cutting in front of all those people waiting for their drinks. But they took one look at Aurora and Skylar and didn’t dare complain.

“Alright, ladies, bottoms up!” Aurora cheers.

We each grab three shots and down them quickly. The fiery liquid burns down my throat, making me feel even more alive. The music throbs in my veins, and the crowd moves like one living entity, drawing us into its pulsating heart. The energy is intoxicating. Aurora, Sklar, and I dance with abandon, our bodies swaying to the rhythm. I’m not thinking about you know who or my troubles. I’m just living in the moment, surrounded by laughter, music, and the magic of the night. We are three goddesses, ruling the night, untouchable and free. I knew this night would be one to remember, even if the humans around us wouldn’t.

We dance and drink as if it is our last night on Earth. I know I’ll be suffering a killer hangover tomorrow, but at this moment, I feel alive, happy, and utterly carefree, as if I can shout it from a mountaintop. The music moves me like a puppet on strings, the beat pulsating through my body. It is like a drug, lifting me higher and higher until my mind buzzes with unadulterated joy. The night is young, my limbs brimming with energy. I can dance all night and then some. Covered in beads of sweat—some mine, some not—I know tomorrow will bring hell, but tonight the alcohol flows like an IV drip, and I dance my life away with Aurora and Skylar.

We sway our hips, moving to the deafening beat like every other drunken idiot in there. So far, only one bloke has tried to dance with me. When he got too handsy, Aurora stepped in. Aurora went off to get us more drinks, and Skylar disappeared to the loo, leaving me dancing alone. The whole time, I feel eyes on me but ignore it until I feel two hands on my hips and a cold body behind me. I begin grinding back, moving to the beat with him. His body is big, hard, and firm. It feels wrong, but I dismiss the feeling and let the music take over. I spin around to get a better look at my dance partner. For a moment, I thought it was Onyx. He looks like him, except for his eyes, and he doesn’t feel like him. I shake my head, thinking I was way too drunk.

“What are you?” I ask, wrapping my arms around his neck.

“Very forward and brave of you, little one,” he smirks, amused.

“That’s not an answer,” I roll my eyes playfully.

He elongates his pointy fangs, and I giggle. “Vampire.”

He looks taken aback for a second as if expecting me to run for the hills. “Good girl. Now tell me, why is a human playing with my brother’s reapers?”

“Brother?” It takes me a moment to figure it out. “You’re Onyx’s brother?”

“Don’t look so shocked,” he teases. “Most people say we look alike. But I assure you,” he spins me out and back into his arms, making me giggle, “I am nothing like my brother.”

“Good to know,” I giggle.

“He lets you call him Onyx?”

“He doesn’t let me do anything. I do as I please,” I say, rolling my hips.

“I see,” he growls approvingly

He pulls me closer, his grip firm, yet gentle. “So, you do as you please, eh? Sounds like you have quite the influence on my brother.”

I shrug, still swaying to the music. In my drunken haze, I miss the disdain in his voice when he says, brother. “Maybe. Or maybe he just knows better than to try and control me.”

He chuckles, the sound low and almost predatory. “Interesting. So, tell me, how did you end up with Onyx and his lot?”

I giggle, the alcohol making my thoughts fuzzy. “Long story. Involves a bit of drama, a lot of shouting, and shooting, and kidnapping.”

His eyes narrow slightly, though his smile remains. “Kidnapping, you say? That doesn’t sound like my brother. He’s usually more... persuasive.”

I roll my eyes. “Persuasive? That’s one way to put it. But yeah, he dragged me into this mess. Tonight’s too much fun to worry about it.”

His gaze sharpens, though his tone remains casual. “And what about tomorrow? When the fun’s over, what happens then?”

I frown, trying to focus through the haze. “Tomorrow? Who knows? Cross that bridge when we get there, I suppose.”

He spins me around again, his eyes never leaving mine. “You’re quite the enigma, aren’t you? Onyx always did have a taste for the unusual.”

“Unusual? Is that what I am to him?” I ask, raising an eyebrow.

“Perhaps,” he says, his voice softer, almost contemplative. “Or maybe you’re something more. Something valuable.”

“Valuable? I’m not some trinket,” I shoot back, a sudden wave of irritation cutting through my drunken haze.

Something was off here.

“No, you’re not,” he agrees, his tone soothing. “But you’re certainly special. And special things have a way of attracting attention.”

I squint at him, trying to read his expression. “Why do I get the feeling you’re fishing for something?”

He smiles a slow, lazy smile that doesn’t reach his eyes. “Just curious, that’s all. My brother’s affairs intrigue me.”

“Well, I’m not some piece of gossip,” I say, pulling away slightly. “If you want to know something, ask him yourself.”

He nods, conceding. “Fair enough. I don’t mean to pry.” His grip tightens on my hips, moving in sync with me. “Let’s just dance,” he murmurs, but before I can respond, he is ripped away from me.

Everything is happening so fast, and I’m too drunk to fully comprehend. There are screams and fists flying, a chaotic blur. Then I feel someone grab me, dragging me out of the club and into a dark alleyway. He shoves me against the wall, and I look up to see Onyx. His eyes are a storm of furious azure blue, speckled with red and gold. His nostrils flared, fangs protruding. If I wasn’t so drunk, I might have been terrified. Instead, I thought he looked scary hot.

“Did you have fun?” His voice is calm, but each word is laced with a chilling, sinister edge. I swallow hard, the lump in my throat making it difficult to breathe.

I am scared now.

“What happened? Did my brother get your tongue?” He spat ‘brother’ with such bitterness that it almost stings.

He inhales deeply, releasing a growl that makes my knees tremble uncontrollably. My bottom lip quivers in fear as his face reddens, a dangerous aura radiating from him.

“C-calm down—”

He growls in response and slams his fist into the wall, inches from my head. I squeal, instinctively raising my arms to shield my face as he leaves a fist-like hole in the brick wall. “How the fuck do you expect me to calm down when you reek of another man?” He chuckles humorlessly; his rage is barely contained. “My brother.”

I lower my arms slowly, my voice trembling. “W-we were just dancing.”

I can’t understand why he is so enraged. It’s as if his anger is seeping into me, fueling my own confusion. He didn’t want me and treated me like a pawn, but here he is, acting as if I’m the one who wronged him.

“Dancing?” His voice is flat, his eyes cold. He scares me sober if that was even possible. I watch him with trepidation as he steps closer, pinning my hands above my head against the cold brick wall.

“Is that what you call it?” His voice is dangerously low. “Rolling your hips on him like some trained whore.” His other hand digs into my hip with a grip so tight it is almost painful.

The insult hit me hard. Just because a girl knows how to enjoy herself and move her body doesn’t mean she’s a whore. I am furious. “You think that just because I dance, I’m a whore? Piss off!” My voice cracks with indignation.

His eyes flare with anger, but I stand my ground, meeting his gaze with as much defiance as I can muster. His grip on my hip doesn’t loosen, and the tension between us crackles like electricity.

“You think you can shake your ass on my brother without consequence?” His voice is a low growl, filled with venom. “You’re playing with fire, and you don’t even know it.”

“I’m not your property,” I shoot back, struggling against his hold. “You don’t get to dictate who I dance with or what I do.” He is acting like a bloody lunatic, a jealous, bloody lunatic.

His eyes narrow, and all I see is red and gold. He is pissed. I cringe remembering he can read my mind. Bloody hell. “You think you’re so clever, don’t you? You’re playing a game you don’t understand. My brother is not someone you should toy with.”

“I’m not toying with anyone!” I retort. “I was just dancing. If you’re so insecure about your brother, that’s your problem, not mine.”

He leans in closer, his breath hot against my face. “Insecure? That’s not the word I’d use. You see, my brother’s little games can have consequences far beyond what you’re prepared to handle. You might think it’s all fun and games, but in my world, actions come with prices.” His lips curl into a dangerous smirk. “You think you’re just dancing with him? How quaint. But let me give you a little advice, when you play with fire, it’s not just the flames that can burn you. Sometimes, it’s the smoke that chokes you.” He gives me a once over and his jaw ticks. “And no less dress like this. Did you enjoy his touch?” His voice is a sinister purr, and his fingers trace a trail up my inner thigh with a chilling, electrifying caress. Each stroke sends shivers through me, making my breath hitch. No, no, no. Don’t let him get to you. I stand there, trembling, as he looms over me, his anger crackling in the air like a storm about to break. “Did he make you feel good?”

I feel my resolve wavering, but I force myself to answer. “Yes, he did. He has the magic touch.” My mind screams at me to stop, knowing fully well that I am playing with fire and it would end badly for me.

His grip tightens painfully, and I bite back a whimper, holding his gaze with a stubborn defiance. His nostrils flare, and his lips press into a hard line. I wince inwardly, regretting my words but refusing to take them back. I refuse to back down. His lips curl into a menacing smirk, and my heart drops. Maybe I should reconsider. His fangs extend, sharp and threatening. Okay, definitely reconsidering.

He brushes his thumb over my mark, smudging the concealer with a brutal growl. If I thought he was angry before, it was nothing compared to the fury now blazing in his eyes. He looks like a predator ready to strike, his anger so palpable it is radiating off him in waves.

“Onyx—” My plea is cut short as his fangs sink into my neck.

---

Chapter 44: The Cruel Tease.

The sharp pain is quickly eclipsed by an unexpected surge of pleasure that courses through me. I gasp, a shiver running down my spine as his mouth works on my skin. A moan escapes my lips, filled with a mix of desire and confusion. Heat pools in my core, a response I can’t deny no matter how much I want to. He lifts me against the wall. My dress has hiked up around my hips, and my legs instinctively wrap around his waist. I feel his hard, thick cock press into my stomach as he slides my panties to the side and shoves two fingers into me.

“Tell me,” he whispers aggressively in my ear as he pumps his fingers in and out of my pussy, which was wetter than I had thought possible. “Are you this wet for me or him?”

You. Only you. I bite my lip, struggling not to give him the response he wants. “Him.” Lacking any sort of self-preservation.

Yet somehow, as scared as I am, I’m weirdly excited.

He growls low in his throat, the sound vibrating against my skin. “Liar,” he hisses, thrusting his fingers deeper, making me cry out. “You’re mine. Your body knows it, even if you stubbornly refuse to acknowledge it.”

His words send a shiver down my spine, my body betraying me with every pulse of pleasure that radiates from his touch. “I-I don’t belong to anyone,” I gasp, trying to cling to some semblance of defiance.

“Oh, but you do,” he murmurs, his lips grazing my ear. “You belong to me. And I’m going to prove it.”

He withdraws his fingers suddenly, and I whimper at the loss, only to gasp again as he replaces them with the tip of his cock. My breath hitches, my heart pounding in my chest as he begins to push inside me, stretching me with a slow, deliberate motion.

“You feel that?” he growls, his voice thick with desire. “That’s me claiming what’s mine.”

I can barely form a coherent thought, the pleasure and fear swirling together into a heady mix that leaves me breathless. “Onyx...” I moan, my nails digging into his shoulders as he fills me completely. The mark on my neck singing his praise. It was like nothing I ever felt.

This shouldn’t feel this good. Nothing should feel this good.

He thrusts into me hard and deep, each movement sending waves of desire crashing through me. “Say it,” he demands, his lips brushing against my neck. “Say you’re mine.”

I clench my jaw, trying to hold onto some defiance, but the sensation of him inside me, dominating me, makes it hard. “Never,” I spat, my breath hitching with each powerful thrust.

His eyes darken, and with a primal growl, he slams into me harder, faster, the force of his movements making me see stars. “You will,” he hisses, his voice a mix of fury and lust.

I can’t hold back the moans that escape my lips, each one louder than the last. My body betrays me, responding to his every touch, every thrust. The alleyway around us disappears, leaving only the two of us in a whirlwind of passion and anger. His fangs sink into my neck, the sharp pain quickly giving way to a wave of pleasure that makes my toes curl. I cry out, the sensation overwhelming, as he feeds on me and continues to thrust into me at a relentless pace. I’m almost there before the bastard slows his pace making me want to murder him. I bite back a plea. I will not beg.

Yeah, you will.

He growls against my skin. “Go on, say it,” he demands, his voice thick with need as I tremble in his arms.

The knob knows exactly what he is doing to me. I shake my head, biting my lip so hard I taste blood. He lets out a low growl, brushing his fingers across my lip, unfastening my teeth from the tender flesh. Leaning in, he licks the blood from my lip. I nearly come from that alone.

Was that hot or is it just me?

“You don’t hurt yourself,” he murmurs, his voice a dark, possessive whisper. “That’s my job.”

“Go to hell,” I spat, defiance burning in my eyes even as my body betrays me in every sense of the word.

“Oh, I will,” he replies with a wicked grin, “but I’m taking you with me.”

With a fierce growl, he slams into me harder, each thrust harder and more demanding than the last. His hands roam over my body, claiming every inch of me with a possessive touch that leaves me breathless. He yanks my breast out and bites my hard, aching nipple. I moan, my nails digging into his back, unable to control the sounds of pleasure that escape my lips.

“You like this, don’t you?” he hisses, his voice dripping with a mix of praise and disdain. “You love being fucked like the little slut you are.”

His words are both stinging and arousing in ways I can’t comprehend. “No,” I whisper, even as my body tightens around him.

He chuckles darkly. He slaps my breast.

I gasp. Son of a bitch.

“Liar. Your body doesn’t lie, princess. It knows who it belongs to.”

His hand slides down to my clit, rubbing in tight circles that has me gasping and moaning louder. “Say it,” he growls, his voice a dangerous edge. “Say you’re mine.”

“I...I can’t,” I stammer, my resolve weakening with each powerful thrust.

“Yes, you can,” he insists, his movements relentless, pushing me closer and closer to the edge. And just as I think I’m about to get what I want he stops. “Say it. Say you’re mine.”

I clench my teeth, trying to hold on, but the pleasure is too overwhelming, the intensity too much to bear. “You’re a monster.” I buck my hips trying to force him to move but he holds me in place.

“The same monster with his cock buried in your tight, perfect cunt,” he growls. “You were made for me, weren’t you? This slutty little cunt just begging to be filled.” He moves in and out, taking long, deliberate strokes as he circles my clit. I can’t take it any longer. “You want to cum angel, all you have to do is say it.” He adds a bit more pressure to my clit and I buck against him moaning.

I hate myself, but I hate him more.

No, you don’t.

“Alright!” I scream. “Just make me cum and I’ll say it.”

“Tsk, tsk, tsk,” he taunts, slamming his cock hard into me, causing me to cry out from both the pain and pleasure. “Now we both know that’s not how this works.”

I whimper, the mix of sensations overwhelming me. His fingers continue their relentless assault on my clit, each stroke pushing me closer to the edge, and then he stops.

“Bloody hell,” I cry. “You are truly a monster.”

He chuckles a smug and arrogant sound. “Yet here you are, dripping wet and begging for more. You love it, don’t you? This tight little cunt can’t get enough of me.” He leans in. “Admit it. You crave my cock, you need it.”

“Piss off.” I bite my lip, trying to resist, but the desire is too strong.

His fingers resume their torment on my clit as his pace quickens, each movement deliberate and forceful, driving me wild with need.

“Please,” I gasp, my voice cracking. He won. “Please, just let me cum.”

“Then say it,” he growls, his voice rough with need.

I clench my teeth, trying to resist, but the pleasure is too intense, too consuming. “I’m yours,” I finally cry out, my body trembling.

I hate myself, yet it feels right. Which makes no sense. I’m bonkers.

“Good girl,” he murmurs, his tone both possessive and approving. His thrusts become more forceful, his fingers working me over until I’m on the brink of ecstasy. His lips crash into mine, muffling my loud, lustful moans as he pounds into me harder and faster.

“Yes, yes, yes!”

I am sure everyone around can hear and see us, but at this moment, I don’t care. These people are strangers and my reasoning is as reckless as my actions.

Bloody hell.

My body burns with desire, and our kiss grows hungrier and sloppier. I dig my fingers into his back as he pumps in and out of me faster, my walls tensing, the fire in my stomach growing.

I moan louder, tightening my grip on him as the familiar sweet spasm builds up inside me. Just as I am about to tip over the edge for the umpteenth time, he stops moving, breaking our kiss with a smug look on his face.

He wouldn’t. I am ready to kill him.

“We wouldn’t want you to forget his magical touch now, would we?” he teases, gently pulling out of me.

My body screams in frustration, every nerve alight with unfulfilled desire. I glare at him, my breath ragged. “You bastard,” I spat, my voice a mix of anger and desperation. “I said it!”

“That you did,” he replies smugly, making me want to claw that arrogant smirk right off his face.

As soon as he sits me down, my legs wobble beneath me, the loss of his touch almost sending me crashing to the floor. My body still hums, burning with unfulfilled desire, and the sting of rejection hits me like a brick to the face. I yank my dress back down, glaring at him with enough venom to kill a lesser man. The pulsing ache of the mark he left on my neck isn’t doing me any bloody favours either. I can still feel the raw, electric tension throbbing through me, and the bastard has the audacity to take his sweet time buckling his trousers, stepping back with that damn smug grin on his lips.

“Are you proud of yourself?” I spat, the words seething out of me. “Y-you, you—”

“You what?” He taunts, stepping closer, his presence overwhelming and annoying. “Going to call me names again? Or maybe you’re ready for round two?”

Oh, how I want to punch that look off his stupid hot face. No, not hot. Ugly face! Who am I kidding? He has the kind of face every girl dreams of sitting on. How dare he do this?

“Oh, I’m so proud of myself,” he adds smugly.

His presence is suffocating, but I’m not about to let him know how much it affects me.

I cross my arms and roll my eyes, trying to appear as nonchalant as possible. “You must be so proud,” I mock, my voice dripping with sarcasm. “It’s truly impressive. Should I clap? Give you a medal, perhaps? World’s biggest tosser award?”

His smirk widened. “I am happy to... finish the job if you ask nicely.”

I scoff, taking a deliberate step back, waving my hand in mock dismissal. “Oh please, don’t flatter yourself. I’m fine, really. It was just... meh. You’re like the takeaway I didn’t order but got stuck with anyway. Not exactly what I wanted, but I guess it’ll do in a pinch.” I shoot him a pointed look. “And for the record, I’ve had better... much better.”

His eyes flicker, but I keep going, refusing to give him the satisfaction of seeing me rattled. “Honestly, I don’t even know why I’m still bloody here. You’re like that mediocre movie everyone hypes up, and when I finally watch it, I’m left wondering what all the fuss was about.” I shrug with a little too much nonchalance. “A total letdown.”

His grin falters for a split second, and I revel in the tiny victory.

“You can keep pretending all you want, but we both know you’ll be back for more.”

I meet his gaze, refusing to back down. “Back for more?” I snort. “If I ever do come back, it’ll only be because I forgot something. Like my dignity. Or my patience.” I flick my wrist dismissively again. “Don’t worry, though. I’m sure there’s some poor soul out there who’ll be thrilled with your... half-efforts.”

“Oh, but you loved every second of it. So much that you were begging for it.”

My cheeks flushed with both anger and embarrassment. “Go play in traffic,” I spat.

“Aww. Is someone upset because she didn’t get to cum?” He teases with a fake pout. I let out a squeal of frustration, pounding his chest, as he laughs at me.

I forgot how nice his laugh was. Wait, no. I hate him and his baffoon laugh. His eyes darken, and he licks his lips. My eyes follow the slow, sensual movement of the tip of his tongue.

“Does that bad little pussy want to feel my tongue this time?”

I feel my pussy clench. “Why bother? It’s not like you’re going to let me cum.”

A grin appears on his lips. “Be a good girl and I’ll let you.”

“I don’t need you to let me do anything, mate. This is the twenty-first century; a girl can satisfy herself.” I lean in a little closer to his ear, feeling bolder. Thank you, tequila! His body tenses. “But if you be a good boy... maybe I’ll let you watch.” I purr seductively.

A low growl vibrates in his throat. I can’t help the triumphant smirk on my face as I watch his eyes darken lustfully. I straighten my spine and turn to leave when he pulls me back into him. The second our bodies connect, those familiar tingles shoot up my spine and the mark on my neck rejoices.

“Where do you think you’re going?” His warm breath fans the side of my neck.

I bite my lip, feeling my anger melt away under his fiery touch. His scent makes me dizzy, and with his arms firmly around my midsection, I love and hate the way he makes my body feel.

“Not here, obviously.”

“You’re not going anywhere smelling like that.”

“Smelling like what?” I huff out before I can process what he means.

“Like you just got fucked. At least you smell better than before.”

I shove his arm off me and spin around to tell him to go suck on drywall, but suddenly felt light-headed. His hands instantly shoot out and grab my hips, steadying me. He raises my head, staring into my eyes. I didn’t feel that drunk. Maybe it was an after-effect?

He clenches his jaw. “I took a little too much blood from you. We need to get you fed before you pass out.”

I ignore what he says and ask, “What are you doing here anyway?”

“The better question is what are you doing here?”

I glare at him. “Not that it’s any of your business, but I was out with friends. You know, having a life.”

His grip on my hips tightens with a tick in his jaw. “A life that involves dancing with my brother?”

I scoff, trying to push him away, but he holds firm. “I didn’t know he was your brother. And even if I did, it’s none of your concern who I dance with.”

His eyes darken. “Everything about you is my concern, Avaluna. You belong to me.”

I shiver a mix of anger and desire coursing through me. “I belong to no one. Least of all you.”

“Keep telling yourself that, but we both know the truth.”

Suddenly, he pulls back from me and turns to face the club entrance just as his brother bursts out, flanked by the reapers and a few other men.

“Really, Onyx?” his brother sneers, his voice dripping with contempt. “Is this how you treat family?”

Onyx stares at him with a look of disdain, as if he was beneath his notice. This only seems to enrage his brother further. He sniffs the air as he gets closer, his eyes narrowing when they land on me. “A little midnight snack?” His gaze travels down my body and back up to meet my eyes. “Looks like you almost sucked her dry. Having control problems, brother?”

The innuendo isn’t lost on me, and I can feel my cheeks heating up. Onyx’s lips tug into a faint smirk, sharing the same thought. Aurora and Skylar look worried, while Ace and Sirius seem poised to attack if his brother makes a wrong move.

“I am,” Onyx says, his voice smooth and lethal. “You wouldn’t want me to prove that to you now, would you, Octavius?”

Octavius’ lips thinned, his eyes blazing with anger. Just as he is about to retort, his gaze shifts to my neck. “What is that on her neck? Why is it covered in makeup?” His tone a mix of surprise, irritation, and confusion.

“Good question,” Onyx replies, arching a brow at me, his annoyance evident in the tight set of his jaw.

I swallow hard, feeling the weight of both their gazes on me. “It’s, um, nothing?” My voice wavering, sounding more like a question than a statement.

Bollocks. I had nothing. I shrug, giving Onyx a nervous smile, hoping he wouldn’t murder me and dump my body in the garbage bin beside us.

He sighs, shaking his head. With a firm grip on my hip, he begins leading us out of the alleyway. But Octavius sidesteps into our path, his presence radiating a deadly power.

“I asked you a question, brother,” Octavius snarls.

“And I choose not to answer, brother,” Onyx shoots back, his voice dangerously calm. “Get the fuck out of my way, or I’ll remove you piece by piece.”

The words were delivered with such chilling calmness that a shiver ran down my spine. This is not a side of Onyx I had seen before, and it terrifies me.

Octavius’s eyes flicker with fury. “You’re protecting her?”

“That’s none of your business. So are you going to move or do I have to make you?”

Sometimes, I forget just who Onyx is. His voice, so dominant and filled with an unsettling power, makes me shiver and clench with a mixture of fear and arousal. Bloody hell, I was both terrified and turned on. Octavius isn’t as clueless as he seemed; he knew Onyx’s threat was genuine and that he wouldn’t hesitate to follow through.

As Onyx and I moved to leave, Octavius stepped aside, his eyes burning with a murderous intensity. “See you soon, baby girl,” he purrs, his wink making my skin crawl.

Onyx’s body tenses beside me, his expression cold and unyielding. “Not if you want to live,” Onyx says matter-of-factly as he winks cheekly at his brother.

It is obvious there’s no love lost between them.

---

Chapter: 45: The Pull and the Push.

Onyx took us to this quaint little café. The waitress finally returns, setting a steaming plate of mashed potatoes drenched in rich gravy and succulent roast beef in front of me. Or what I think is roast beef. She said something in Romanian batting her lashes and licking her lips.

Thirsty much.

The aroma of the food has my belly grumbling. Theron, Onyx, and Sirius sit across from us looking stoic and pissed. Ace and Damian pull two chairs and position themselves at opposite ends of the table.

“Eat,” Onyx commands, his voice leaving no room for argument.

I didn’t feel hungry anymore, a knot of anxiety tightening in my stomach, but the last thing I want is to make him any madder than he already is.

Midway through my meal, he broke the silence, his voice a low, menacing rumble. “Which one of you is going to explain what the fuck happened tonight?”

Sirius follows, his tone equally chilling. “And why did you three leave the house without telling any of us where you were going?”

Theron’s voice, though steady, was laced with barely restrained fury. “And drunk, dressed like that,” he spat, his jaw clenched so tight it looks like he might crack his molars.

Their calm, deadly tones make us flinch.

Ace, grins. “Not that you girls don’t look hot as hell.”

Damian nods in agreement, a smile playing on his lips.

“Leave,” Onyx growls, his voice a dark threat.

“Now,” Sirius hisses, his eyes flashing with anger.

“Both of you,” Theron adds through gritted teeth, his stare piercing.

Ace frowns, the playful glint in his eyes dimming. Damian raises his hands in surrender, backing away from the intensity of their wrath.

“We wanted to dance,” Aurora murmurs, her eyes fixed on her lap, fingers fidgeting nervously.

“Was that decision inspired by your little performance at the pool?!” Onyx retorts sharply.

“Having all those guards lusting after you?!” Sirius hisses, his tone dripping with disdain.

“And then leaving without a guard in a cab!” Theron concluded, his voice rising in exasperation.

“Why does it matter? It’s our bodies,” I grumble, forcing down another bite of food.

Their laughter was cold and humourless. Skylar and Aurora visibly stiffen.

“Is that what you two think as well?” Theron asks, his gaze shifting to them.

“Answer him!” Sirius’s voice booms, making us jump.

“It’s not the first time we’ve done it,” Skylar replies, her defiance tempered by the tremor in her voice.

“What’s the big deal anyway,” Aurora adds softly, her nervousness palpable.

“The big deal is she’s human, and you two should have known better!” Onyx shoots back.

“She’s your princess, and you put her life and your own at risk!” Sirius follows, his eyes blazing with fury.

I wanted to argue that I wasn’t their princess, but the fierce look in Onyx’s eyes made the words die in my throat.

“If we hadn’t shown up and Octavius had found that mark on her neck that you so diligently covered up, what do you think he would have done to her, huh?” Theron’s voice was louder now, his frustration evident.

A growl rumbles from Onyx’s chest, making us flinch. They were angrier than a wet cat in a doghouse.

“We just wanted to have some fun,” I mutter, staring down at my mashed potatoes, too afraid to meet his gaze.

“Fun?” Onyx’s voice is too calm.

“We didn’t mean for things to get out of hand,” Aurora whispers.

Sirius leans forward, his intensity matching Onyx’s. “Intentions mean nothing when lives are at stake. Octavius is ruthless. Do you know what would have happened if he had discovered that mark?”

Skylar and Aurora nervously exchange glances.

“We thought we were being careful,” Skylar says, her voice barely audible.

Sirius’s eyes soften slightly as he looks at his beloved but his words are no less severe. “We can’t afford mistakes like this. Your safety, all of our safety, depends on it.”

“We’re sorry,” Aurora says. “We didn’t think—”

“That’s the problem,” Onyx interrupted, his tone harsh. “You didn’t think. You acted recklessly.”

Without another word, Sirius and Theron rise abruptly from the booth and extend their hands to their beloveds. Skylar and Aurora yelp as they are pulled into their arms and vanish. Only Onyx and I remained.

“Finish,” he orders, his tone brooking no argument.

“I-I’m full,” I stammer, my appetite long gone.

Onyx took my fork and took a bite, his eyes never leaving mine. Then he stands up, extending his hand. “Let’s go,” he commands.

Reluctantly, I place my hand in his, and he leads me to his sleek black Lamborghini.

Once inside, he hands me a small box of tissues. “Clean that shit off your neck,” he orders. I glare at him, clutching the box tightly. “You do it, or I will.”

Without a word, he starts the engine and pulls out of the parking lot. The moment we hit the road, I roll down the window and fling the box out, feeling a fleeting surge of triumph. Ha, eat dirt, you fanger! My victory was short-lived when Onyx slammed on the brakes, sending me hurling towards the dashboard. In a flash, he catches me, pulling me onto his lap.

Straddling him, I scream to be let go, thrashing in his grip. He seizes my wrists, pinning them behind my back, and grabbing a fistful of my hair.

“Let me go, you bastard!” I spat back, struggling against his hold.

“So stubborn and don’t listen,” he snarls, tightening his grip.

“Because I don’t take orders from you,” I shoot back defiantly, glaring at him. “You’re not in control of me!”

“And never learn.” He pulls my hair tighter, forcing my head back.

“Piss off.”

His eyes lock onto mine, that wicked gleam lighting up as if he was ready to devour me whole. Before I even knew it, his fangs sank into my neck, and what should’ve been a scream came out as something closer to a moan – a proper mix of pleasure and pain that hit me harder than I’d like to admit.

My body had a mind of its own, grinding down on him as I felt him getting harder under me. It feels like fireworks under my skin.

His bite knocked the fight right out of me. My mind went to mush, everything scrambled, and it was just him – his touch, his scent, bloody everywhere like he was all I’d ever known. In that moment, nothing else matters. He properly claimed every bit of me, and I was done for, lost in the sheer weight of him, giving in without a second thought.

His bite sank deeper, and he let out this groan that was downright filthy – sexiest sound I’ve ever heard. His grip tightened on me, and once again I was done for. My breathing went all ragged, and then… yeah, that was it. I came undone right there, shuddering like I’d lost every ounce of control. My body convulsed, waves of pleasure crashing over me as I came, crying out his name. Every nerve was alight, every sense overwhelmed, and all I can think of is him. He withdraws his fangs, using his sleeve to wipe away the makeup smudged on my neck as I remain on his lap, still trembling from the intensity. There is something different about him something I couldn’t quite put my fingers on.

He holds me close for a moment until I can gather myself and then something flashes across his face, his jaw tightens and he commands, “Get off.”

The sharpness in his voice pierces through the haze of vampire voodoo-induced lust that had clouded my mind. Did I really just bloody do that? I glare at him with all the venom I can summon.

He arches an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. “You should be grateful.”

Fury surges through me. “Grateful?!”

In response, he thrusts his hips upward, pressing me harder against him so I can feel how hard he is. My cheeks flush with heat, a mix of embarrassment and anger. Is dry humping even a thing anymore?

“I should’ve bent you over the hood of the car,” he growls, his voice low and dangerous, “and fuck that greedy little cunt of yours until you can’t walk straight. But something tells me you’d enjoy that far too much.”

I try to hide the shiver that runs down my spine at his words, but the undeniable heat pooling between my legs is harder to hide as he inhales deeply with a smug knowing look on his stupid face.

He leans in closer, his breath hot against my ear. “Now get off me,” he whispers.

He is still pissed that was for sure.

I give him one last glare before getting off his lap. I can’t believe I find him attractive or let him touch me.

“Put your seatbelt on.” I open my mouth to rebut but he quickly adds, “Say one more fuckin’ word and I’ll do worse than remark you,” he threatens.

“You what?!” I screech, twisting the rearview mirror towards me. I gasp at the sight. The mark was redder and deeper, the circles more vivid. “What the bloody hell is wrong with you?!”

“What’s the bloody hell is wrong with me?” He mimics my accent with a sneer. “What the fuck is wrong with you?! How dare you hide my mark?! Then dance like some tart with that piece-of-shit brother of mine!” His voice rose, full of fury.

Oh, we’re back to this again, are we?

I let out a bitter laugh. “Why do you care if I cover up your mistake, huh?” I spat the word ‘mistake’ with venom. “You said it yourself, you don’t want me!” Did he flinch? It was so quick, I wondered if my eyes were playing tricks on me. I press on. “Who I dance with or how I dance is none of your business! If I want to shake my ass, belly dance, twerk, pop and lock, and grind on the entire bloody dance floor, I will!”

“With that mark on your fuckin’ neck, it is my goddamn business! The only person you’ll be shaking that ass for is me! Because you fuckin’ belong to me!” He roars, his anger palpable.

“I think you’ve been out in the sun too long, mate, because it’s clearly fried your brain. Read. My. Lips. I am not yours!!!”

“Oh, baby, you were mine from the day you were born! Your stubborn mind, that defiant tongue, all the way to that pink, wet pussy is mine!! And if you think I’ll let another man touch you, then princess, you’re in for a rude fuckin’ awakening!”

He’s all over the bloody place. First, he didn’t want me, now he does. I’m getting whiplash. “You need some serious help if you think you can own a person by shagging, biting, and stamping your name on them!” I shout, my voice trembling with anger. “I’m not a bloody possession you can claim whenever you feel like it. One minute you don’t want me, and the next you’re acting like I’m your bloody property!”

“Oh, I’ll do more than that soon.” His laugh is dark and menacing. “By the time I’m finished with you, the whole fuckin’ world will know Avaluna Chesmore is mine and mine alone!”

“Why do you suddenly care if I’m yours or not? Huh?” I yell, my frustration reaching its peak.

“You think I want to feel this way? To be so fuckin’ terrified of losing you that it drives me mad?”

His eyes widen in shock. For the first time, I saw genuine surprise on his face. I don’t think he meant to say that. His grip on the steering wheel tightens, his knuckles turning chalk white. He grumbles something under his breath, but I can’t make out the words. The tension between us is so thick you could cut it with a knife. A million thoughts race through my mind, each one more confusing than the last.

We drive in awkward silence, neither of us speaking or even looking at each other after that. The weight of unspoken words hung heavy in the air.

“So,” I began, breaking the thick silence that had settled between us. “Your brother, huh?”

He didn’t respond, his eyes fixed on the road ahead, the muscles in his jaw tightening. I watch him carefully, noting the way he grips on the steering wheel. He clearly didn’t like being questioned. Too bad for him—I have plenty more.

“What’s the deal anyway?”

His lips pulled into a thin line, a silent warning. Still, he says nothing.

“Is he your only brother? I thought vampires couldn’t, you know, reproduce.”. The silence between us growing heavier, almost suffocating.

“What’s wrong? Your brother got your tongue? Or are you just too shy to talk about your family? I mean, I get it—daddy issues, mommy issues, sibling rivalry… It’s all very relatable.”

His eyes flicker toward me, the barest hint of annoyance flashing in them, but he remains silent.

I smirk, sensing I was getting under his skin. “Come on, don’t be like that. You can tell me. We’re stuck in this car together—might as well make it interesting.”

He finally speaks, his voice low and dripping with irritation. “You’re really not going to drop this, are you?”

“Not a chance,” I shoot back, grinning. “Besides, you look like you need someone to talk to. Therapy on wheels, right?”

His expression darkens, the grin fading as he mutters through gritted teeth, “Did it help you?”

“Maybe.” I shift uncomfortably in my seat, that was a touchy subject for me and he seems to catch on to that real quick. “It wasn’t my choice.”

“I know the feeling,” he grumbles.

“It was all your fault. Ethan deserves better…” My voice trails off.

Better than me.

“His death was honourable.”

“Is that what you tell yourself so you can sleep at night?”

“I sleep like a baby. It’s all warm and fuzzy thoughts before bed—nothing like a good kill to lull you to sleep.”

“You could have spared him.”

“He was already dead.”

“You don’t know that,” I snap back, riddled with guilt.

“I know you’re trying to psychoanalyse me. Trying to dig up all the deep, dark guilt so we can have a nice, heartfelt bonding moment. Guess what, Angel I’m fresh out of warm, fuzzy feelings.”

His words are like daggers, each one laced with bitter sarcasm. I clench my fists, feeling the anger rise in me. “That was not your call to make.”

“You’re right, it wasn’t,” he says. “It was his and he made it.” He turns back to the road, clearly done with the conversation.

I know deep down he was right I just can’t bring myself to admit it. I stare out the window, trying to make sense of this thing I call life when the flashing lights ahead snap me out of my thoughts. A roadblock? At this time of night? Onyx’s jaw tightens as we approach the blockade.

“Keep your mouth shut and don’t try anything. I swear you’ll regret it,” he growls his tone a warning.

I roll my eyes. “Have I tried anything so far?” I mutter under my breath.

“You think it’s an accident or something?”

“No.”

“How do you know?”

“It’s too quiet.”

Suddenly, he threw the car into reverse, slamming down on the gas. The cops open fire instantly, bullets ricocheting off the car.

“Get your head down!” he barks.

I scream, burying my head in my lap, my hands pressing into my ears to block out the deafening noise. He spun the car around, shifting gears as we sped in the opposite direction.

“Oh God, I’m a fugitive now. First, you kidnap me, and now we’re running from the cops! What’s next, huh? Stealing candy from babies and shoving little old ladies down?” I exclaim, my voice rising with hysteria.

“Don’t be stupid. Those aren’t cops. They’re hunters,” he snaps, pulling out his phone. “Where’s everyone?”

“Damian and I are at the airstrip,” Ace answers.

“Aurora and I are almost there,” Theron adds.

“So are we,” Skylar chimes in.

“Hunters are on the bend. I’ll have to go around. Be prepared to leave as soon as we arrive.”

“Is Luna okay?” Aurora asks, concern evident in her voice.

“For now,” I grumble.

“Someone’s grouchy,” she teases.

“That’s because someone is always bloody shooting at us,” I snort, hearing Aurora snicker on the other end.

“Have someone deal with them,” he orders and ends the call.

“Why can’t you deal with them? Is the big bad hybrid scared?” I taunt, adopting a mocking baby voice.

“Not when I have to babysit your ass,” he retorts.

“I’ll have you know I can take care of myself!” I shoot back, folding my arms stubbornly like a child.

“Sure,” he drawls, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

I shoot him a glare, but he doesn’t even flinch. We’ve lost the hunters and ended up on some random back road, and honestly, I hadn’t a clue where we were or if I’d ever see my family again. Right now, I don’t even know what to think. If I’m honest, the whole thing feels like some mad ride I’m absolutely not ready for. As soon as we arrive at the private airstrip—one he owned—we hurry aboard the plane bound for England because the hunters are not far behind. The tequila shots from earlier started to hit, and I was grateful for the aspirin stocked on the plane. The engines roar to life as we take off, leaving the chaos behind.

For now.

---

Chapter 46: Fasten Your Seatbelt.

I wake up with my head on a lap, which is definitely not how I planned to start my day. I jerk upright, immediately regretting the decision as a throbbing headache pounds behind my eyes. Oh, fantastic. Just what I needed—another hangover. I squint against the sunlight streaming through the window.

“Bloody brilliant,” I mutter, rubbing my temples in a futile attempt to stave off the hangover-induced drum solo going on in my skull. It takes me a second to remember why I am on this plane.

“About time you woke up. My legs were starting to go numb,” Onyx says.

I shoot him a glare, then turn to lean against the window, trying to ignore the pounding in my head. A flight attendant appears, her uniform straining at the seams as she sashays down the aisle, a tray balanced expertly in one hand with a glass of amber liquid on it. She leans over him, practically pouring herself into his lap, giggling something in Romanian that I didn’t need to understand to know exactly what she was up to.

Her blouse is so tight I half-expected it to burst open any second, sending her over-inflated fake tits tumbling out like a couple of melons rolling off a cart. I stifle a groan as she bats her eyelashes at him, her skirt so tight it looks like a sausage casing. She is all but drooling over him, her eyes glued to him as if he were the only bloke left on earth.

I clench my jaw, staring out the window with a simmering rage that takes me by surprise. I don’t care if he flirts with that shameless hussy. Not at all. Except I did care, and the tightness in my chest wouldn’t let me forget it. My heart twisted painfully as I fought the urge to cry, hating myself for feeling this way.

He must’ve noticed the shift in my mood because I watched his tone change, suddenly curt and dismissive as he says something to her in return. Her flirty smile falters, and with a huff, she straightens up, her gaze flicking between us before she turns on her heel and struts away.

“You know there is no reason to be jealous of her,” he murmurs, his voice low and teasing.

“I’m not jealous,” I snap, the words sharper than I intended.

I feel him lean in closer, his breath warm against the side of my neck. The hairs on my arms are standing on end, and those damn butterflies flutter to life in my stomach, relentless and infuriating. I really need to invest in a butterfly net—or maybe a shotgun.

“Don’t lie to me, princess,” he whispers, his voice dipping into something almost dangerous. “I can feel it.”

“You’re imagining things,” I bit out, but my voice wavers.

He chuckles softly, the sound rich and dark, sending my heart into a wild leap. Bloody hell. Can’t I have just one moment where my body doesn’t betray me? He then leans in even closer, his lips brushing the shell of my ear as he whispers. “Am I?”

I whip my head around, ready to tell him to go kiss a toilet seat, only to freeze when I realize just how close he is. One more inch and our lips would touch. His smirk deepens, that cocky, infuriating grin that makes me want to slap him—and kiss him—all at once. His eyes flicker down to my lips, darkening with intent, and then he slowly licks his own. I bite down on my bottom lip, unable to stop myself from staring at the way his moist, red lips glistened.

Why did he have this effect on me? I was a grown woman, not some lovestruck teenager, yet here I was, practically trembling under his gaze.

“That’s so fuckin’ sexy,” he murmurs, his voice low and rough, dripping with lust as his eyes lock onto my lips. “How many times do I have to warn you about biting that lip?”

His hand moves under the blanket, sliding up my thigh with agonizing slowness, leaving a trail of tingling heat in its wake. My breath catches in my throat as his touch sends a shiver racing through me.

“Do you have any idea,” he continues, his voice a dark whisper, “how fuckin’ crazy it drives me?”

The intensity in his eyes makes my heart pound erratically, each beat sending a pulse of electricity straight down between my legs.

“W-what are you doing?” The question came out in a stammer.

“Open your legs,” he commands and I shake my head not trusting my voice. “Open your legs or I’ll do it for you,” he growls, his tone a dangerous mix of authority and lust. When I hesitate, his patience snaps. He grabs my thighs, forcing them apart with a firm grip.

“You think you can deny me?” he sneers, his fingers digging into my skin as he spreads my legs wider, exposing me to his gaze. “I’ll take what I want, and you’ll love every second of it.”

His hand slides between my thighs, fingers brushing over my soaked panties, and I gasp, my body betraying the thrill of his rough control. His eyes are dark and predatory, as he leans in close, his lips hovering over mine.

“By the time I’m done with you, you’ll be begging me to take more.” His hand moves slowly, deliberately, rubbing me over the thin fabric of my panties, and I can feel myself growing wetter under his touch.

“Screw you.” My body trembling, betraying me with every subtle stroke of his fingers. 

“Soon. Have I told you how sexy you look in this dress?” His voice dripping with lust.

I swallow hard, shaking my head.

What is this game he is playing? One moment, he is distant and cold, and the next, he has me teetering on the edge of losing all control. And to think, they say women are the moody ones. Clearly, they never met this bloke.

“Fuck, you’re responsive,” he growls, his voice rough with desire. “And you smell so damn good.”

A swarm of butterflies explode in my stomach as my core heats up. He dips his head, his lips brushing the side of my neck, each kiss igniting a trail of fire down my spine. His fingers massage my swollen clit through my panties, sending shivers cascading through my entire body. This is madness—I can’t let him toy with me like this. I am a grown-ass woman, not some plaything for him to manipulate.

Just as I summon the will to push him away, he catches my gaze, flashing that sinful, naughty grin that makes my resolve crumble. I shoot him a look that is meant to say, “Don’t you dare,” but it only seems to fuel his amusement.

I place my hand on his, intending to shove him away, but it’s too late. My breath hitches as he slides his thick long fingers in my aching hole and curls it just how I like. My head falls back against the headrest, my legs widening on their own as he drills his fingers in and out of me. Heat surges through me, every nerve ending alive with sensation.

My breathing grows ragged as I try to shift my hips, desperate to touch myself, to find some release. But he is one step ahead, grabbing my hand with a firm grip. “Oh no, princess,” he murmurs, his tone both commanding and teasing. “You’re not in control here. That’s my job.”

The teasing was pushing me to the brink of madness, every nerve stretched tight with need. And the mark on my neck humming his praises.

“Why are you doing this?!” my voice breathy and frustrated.

He leans in closer, his breath hot against my ear as he whispers, “You’re so easy to drive wild. It’s almost too much fun.”

“Go to hell!”

“I’d be bored to death without you there to entertain me.” He chuckles slowing his pace.

Each movement sends a jolt of pleasure through me, my body arching instinctively, craving more. My pulse races, every muscle tensing with anticipation and frustration as he keeps me on the edge.

I shoot him a defiant glare, even as my body betrays me. “Oh, so I’m your personal entertainment now?” I quip, my voice laced with sarcasm as I try to twist out of his grip. “Guess I’ll have to start charging you by the hour.”

He grabs my breast and squeezes with a low growl. “Put it on my tab.”

I try to form a retort, something to regain control, but my mind is a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. I want to push him away, to demand that he stop—yet my body screams for him to continue. My breath hitches as his thumb brushes over my nipple, sending another wave of heat through me.

“Stop…” I manage to whisper, though even to my own ears it sounds dreadfully unconvincing. My body arches into his touch, betraying every ounce of my so-called resistance.

He smirks, his eyes glinting with that maddening mix of amusement and challenge. “Stop?” he repeats, tilting his head as though I’d just told him the most entertaining joke of the century. “Are you quite sure about that?” And then, without another word, he brushes his lips over my mark. Any shred of resistance I have left simply melts away as I clench around his fingers.

He watches me with a knowing smirk. “I think I’m going to enjoy this.”

I could have rolled my eyes if I wasn’t too busy drowning in sensation. One simple lick on that bloody mark and I am ready to go weak at the knees, practically begging him to have his way with me. It was a feeling like no other—honestly, I might as well have painted a target on myself and shouted, “Come and get it, love.”

Bastard. “Please,” I whisper, my voice trembling, desperate for relief.

His lips brush against my mark, as his fingers pick up their pace just slightly, maintaining a maddening rhythm. “Please what, princess?” he teases, his voice thick with desire. “Tell me exactly what you want.”

I bite my lip, fighting back tears of frustration. “You know what I want,” I manage to say, though the words felt almost absurd in their simplicity.

He chuckles darkly, pulling back just enough to meet my gaze. His eyes are alight with satisfaction, the smirk never leaving his lips. “Do I? Or do you need to spell it out for me?”

My hands clench into fists, and I try to force my body to stay still, but it is a losing battle. Every fibre of my being is on fire, every touch sending waves of pleasure that I can’t escape. His fingers never falter, never speeding up beyond the pace he has set and it is driving me insane.

The heat in my core builds to an unbearable crescendo, and I find myself desperately trying to move with his touch, to find that release he was so cruelly withholding. I can hardly think straight, the only thing clear in my mind is the relentless pleasure and the need to break free from this maddening control he has over me. And this blasphemous mark only seems to amplify it all and he knows it.. He is a horrible man! HORRIBLE I TELL YOU!

“Make me cum,” I whimper, surrendering to the intense desire coursing through me. He has won, and all I can think about is the unbearable ache between my legs.

A low, primal growl rumbles from his chest as he grabs me, pulling me onto his lap. He positions me in reverse cowgirl, his hands gripping my hips as his fingers plunge deep inside me. The pressure of his hard length straining against his pants only fuels the fire within me, making my body tremble with need.

“Onyx,” I moan, my voice a desperate blend of whimper and plea, as I rock my hips against his fingers, chasing that sweet edge.

His breath is hot against my neck, his voice a husky whisper in my ear. “Tell me, angel,” he purrs, his fingers curling finding my sweet spot. “Do you want to cum like this, or on my cock?”

The choice dangles between us like a wicked promise, and the intensity of his words sends a fresh wave of lust crashing over me. I clench around his fingers, the tension inside me coiling, ready to snap, as I teeter on the brink of ecstasy.

“I—”

“Too long, angel,” he growls, withdrawing his fingers abruptly. I whined at the loss, the emptiness almost unbearable.

---

Chapter 47: Fasten Your Seatbelt for a Wild Ride!

“Don’t whine,” he chastises, his voice low and commanding as his hand slides to my breast, squeezing with a possessive intensity. “You’ve no idea how long I’ve been waiting for you to wake up,” he murmurs against my neck before nipping at my skin, sending electric pulses through my body. “Be a good girl and ride Daddy’s hard cock.”

That’s so hot. Not like I have a daddy fetish or anything. Without warning, he lifts me and guides me down on this thick hard cock. Even though I am soaking wet I still let out a hiss of pain as I struggle to take him in. God, I forgot how big he is. My breath hitches, and I can’t stifle the moans that spilt from my lips as he stretches my tight cunt in the most delicious way.

“What a needy little cunt you have,” he growls, his voice rough with lust. His hands yank down my dress, and my breasts spilt into his hands, the sensation sending shudders through me.

I can’t hold back anymore. I start bouncing on him, my fingers digging into his thighs for support. Both his hands on my breasts, groping, teasing, driving me higher and higher. The wet slapping sound of our bodies colliding filled the air, my moans growing louder. A jolt of pleasure rips through me, my muscles tightening.

“Cum for me,” he murmurs, his voice dripping with that delicious authority.

Just as I hit the edge, he sinks his teeth into my neck. My pussy clenches around him and I let out a deep, throaty moan that is anything but ladylike. The pleasure hit me in waves, leaving me boneless, a complete mess, and utterly spent. Thoughts? Gone. All I can feel is him, every sinful inch, leaving me thoroughly and wonderfully ruined. He withdraws his fangs from my neck, and in one swift motion, he rips my dress off, taking my panties with it. Before I can even catch my breath, he lays me down on the seat, his eyes dark with hunger. A new excitement bubbles inside me, the heat in my core building once more.

“Wrap your legs around me and hold on tight,” he growls, his voice laced with a dark promise.

The command sends a thrill through me, and I do as he says, wrapping my legs around his waist and my arms around his neck, holding on for dear life. His elbow is braced beside me, his hand cradling my head, preventing me from banging my head.

He slides in me as he kisses, bites, and licks at my neck and the mark he had left. There is no time to adjust to his thick length as he moves impossibly fast, hard, and deep, his rhythm relentless. For some reason, my eyes are drawn to the rhythm of his pulse, and a strange, unsettling sensation ripples through me. Before I can make sense of it, a brief but intense thought flashes through my mind…What would his blood taste like?

The idea was bizarre and confusing, yet it stirred something deep within me. My heart races, a mix of unease and unexpected desire swirling together, leaving me both disoriented and inexplicably turned on. And then, without warning, a sudden hunger blooms inside me, raw and primal, as if the very thought had awakened something I didn’t know I craved. His hips ground against my clit, sending waves of pleasure shooting through me and all was forgotten.

For now…

“Oh god! Right there! Don’t stop!” I moan, my voice growing louder with each thrust, mixing with his guttural grunts of approval.

“You like that?”

“Yess, yess, yesss!”

He lets out an approving growl and picks up his pace. My body convulses as I come, pleasure exploding through me, but he doesn’t slow down. If anything, his pace only quickens, relentless and hungry, driving deeper into me. He pounds into me mercilessly, pushing me straight into another mind-shattering orgasm, my screams of ecstasy echoing around us as he claims every last bit of my pleasure. That hunger suddenly returns and this time I can’t shake it.

Onyx’s jaw tightens as if he knows what I am thinking. Which he does. Bastard. Suddenly he slices the side of his neck with a claw, and I watch, entranced, as the crimson liquid drips down his throat. Instinct takes over, and I lick up the blood dripping down his neck. I clamp my mouth down on the wound. His body shudders, an approving growl vibrating through his chest. I never imagined I’d like the taste of blood, but he was tangy, sweet, and intoxicating in a way that defied reason and logic. It should repulse me, but instead, it feels euphoric, his warm blood sliding down my throat, binding us even closer.

As he pounds into me mercilessly, I can feel his balls slapping against me, his thrusts growing more aggressive, more frantic. His fangs sink into my neck once more, and I release his neck with a scream as a pleasure I never felt before rips through me again. My pussy clenches around him, squeezing, milking him, pushing him over the edge. He groans deeply, his body jerking as he spills his hot seed into me.

My eyes roll back while he moves slowly, and deliberately, prolonging my orgasm, emptying himself inside me. He withdraws his fangs from my neck, and I gasp for air, my body spent, my mind reeling. I don’t think I can come anymore.

“Fucking hell, Ava,” he pants, staring down at me with something that looks like adoration—maybe even love.

“That was…” I had no idea what that was other than other worldly and the best orgasm I ever had.

We were both drenched in sweat, panting for air, our bodies still humming with the aftershocks of what had just happened. But then something dark flickers in his eyes, and without warning, he pulls away from me. I can feel the mixture of our juices slipping out of me, leaving a cold, empty sensation that matches the confusion swirling in my head. This sudden shift was like a punch to the gut. PMS had nothing on this fool.

“The shower’s in the back,” he says, his voice now icy and distant, a tone that makes me flinch as if he slapped me.

I frown, unable to understand how he could switch from passionate and tender to cruel and indifferent in the blink of an eye. Just moments ago, he had been all-consuming, his touch setting my skin on fire. And now, he is an unfeeling stranger.

“I was hungry. It was either you or the flight attendant,” he shrugs as if it meant nothing at all.

The casual cruelty of his words cut deep. My eyes welling up with tears, my bottom lip quivering as I try to hold them back. He doesn’t even bother to glance at me as he turns and walks away, leaving me alone in the aftermath of what feels like rejection and shame.

Sometimes, I can feel the way he feels about me. I catch him watching me when he thinks I’m not paying attention, his gaze burning into my skin like a secret he’s desperate to keep. And when we sleep, he always pulls me into his arms, holding me close as if I’m the only thing keeping him tethered to this world—yet he’s careful to never let me catch him doing it. I’ve never told him I know.

There’s something about him, something I can sense even when I can’t see him. He’s always there, always lurking in the shadows, possessive and protective, his presence as inescapable as my own thoughts. He’s territorial, and fierce in the way he claims me without ever acknowledging it. And yet, he acts as if I’m nothing to him, just another passing moment in his life.

Maybe it’s all in my head. Maybe I’m just imagining things, my wild imagination spinning fantasies out of thin air. But I can’t shake the feeling that there’s something real beneath his cold exterior, something he’s too afraid to admit. God, this jerk is going to drive me bonkers. I’m going to end up in a nuthouse, locked away with nothing but these maddening thoughts of him, trying to decipher the puzzle of his heart while mine shatters in the process. Every single time, I let myself fall into his trap, handing over my heart only for him to shatter it once more. Every single time, he takes a piece of me, leaving it in ruins, and yet I keep coming back. God, how gullible could I be? When will I learn that this is all just a twisted game to him, a cycle he revels in? The man is incapable of love—he acts like he cares, says things that make me question everything, but it’s all a facade. And still, here I am, broken and bewildered, wondering how I let it happen again.

I quickly pull myself together and padded over to the back room. The room is far more luxurious than I expected, especially on a plane. The glass shower is large enough to fit two people comfortably, and its sleek design is a perfect match for the custom-made bed bolted in the centre of the room. The bed is draped in soft linens, with a dark brown bench at its foot and a matching built-in closet on the far wall. The décor is rich and inviting, with every detail meticulously crafted. This must have cost him a fortune, like who has their own room on a plane?

I stand under the scalding water, letting it cascade over me, hoping it would wash away the tears that wouldn’t stop falling. But even the heat can’t chase away the chill that has settled in my blood or the cold, hollow ache in my heart. I’m unable to wrap my head around why he is doing this—why he keeps tearing me apart when I can feel, deep down, just how much he cares for me. I know he craves my touch, that he wants me. But then, why does he act so cold, so distant? Why does he say things that cut me to the core, as if he takes pleasure in my pain? Maybe I was confusing his feelings with my own, projecting my desires onto him. Who could tell anymore? The lines between what is real and what is in my head have become so blurred that I don’t know which way is up or down anymore.

I shut off the shower and wrap myself in a white, plush towel, feeling the softness against my skin, but it does little to comfort me. I notice the clothes laid out on the bed—a pair of delicate lace knickers, a red crop tee, blue ripped jeans, and a pair of sneakers. I get dressed and sit on the edge of the bed, tying my laces when I hear the door open. Onyx enters the room, his presence immediately commanding the space. Without a word, he begins stripping off his clothes, revealing his stupid Perfect body, each movement fluid and controlled. I watch, my heart tightening with a mix of emotions I can’t even begin to sort out.

He doesn’t acknowledge me as he steps into the shower, the glass fogging up slightly as the water turns on. The sight of him under the spray, his head tilted back as the water streams over his skin, is almost too much to bear. I want to join him, to feel his warmth, and at the same time to drown him. But I stay where I am, rooted to the bed, clutching the edge of the mattress as if it could anchor me in the storm of confusion swirling inside me.

I quickly stand to leave when he orders, “Don’t leave.”

The nerve of him, especially after everything he’s said. It makes my blood boil. I reach for the door, determined to walk out when suddenly, I am yanked into a damp, hard, wet chest. Water from his soaked hair dripping onto my face, adding to the frustration of the moment. The way he looks, so impossibly sexy despite the chaos between us, makes it even harder to maintain my anger.

Not to mention he’s naked and wet and naked.

I squirm, trying to pull away. “You’re getting me wet! Let go!”

He chuckles, the sound low and teasing. “We can fix that.”

“Onyx!” I squeal, and he finally releases me. I glance down, and his fully erect cock is twitching under my gaze. The sight is impossible to ignore, and I feel my cheeks flush.

“If you keep looking at me like that,” he growls, his voice husky and full of promise, “I might just take you against that wall.”

My face burns with heat, and I spin around, desperately trying to control my desire. Honestly, part of me wants him to do just that, but I refuse to admit it. Ugh, I was such a mess. Why can’t he be pale and fat with oversized fangs and a hideous face? That would make everything so much easier. Instead, I’m caught up with Mr. Sex-On-A-Stick dripping water on the plush rug. And naked.

“Ava… About earlier… You were always my first choice,” he says, his voice softer as he walks away. I barely hear him mumbling, “You’ll always be,” more to himself than to me.

Before he steps back into the shower, he looks over his shoulder and asks, not commands, but pleads, “Stay? Please.” Onyx Dreklaus had just said “Please.”

If my world wasn’t already turned upside down, this would be the headline of the century. I stand there, gobsmacked. Onyx Dreklaus—the same Onyx who usually carries on as though he’s God’s gift to vampires and anyone else who happens to be in his line of sight—just said “please.” He said it to me. If this were a novel, I’d be flipping back through pages to make sure I hadn’t missed some pivotal chapter.

“You might want to sit down. Looks like the hot water is having an effect on you.”

I hear him chuckle as he keeps washing himself. Thankfully, the glass fogged up enough to obscure the view of his annoyingly perfect backside and ridiculously toned back. I can’t decide if that was a blessing or a curse, to be honest. Thank heavens the glass was fogged up enough to shield me from the full, sculpted view of him in all his glory. Not that I was interested, of course. I mean, it was just… there. And hard to ignore. Any woman in my position would look.

I’m so screwed.

---

Chapter 48: Meet The Family.

“Wake up.”

“Maa,” I groan. “Five more minutes.”

He chuckles softly. “Ava, wake up. We’re here.”

It takes me a moment to register the voice, but when I do, I jolt upright. I hadn’t even realized I’d fallen asleep. He stands there with his arms crossed, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth as he watches me struggle to get my bearings. I shoot him a glare.

“Let’s go?” He nods toward the door.

“Can I ask you something?”

“Can I stop you?”

“No,” I mutter, catching the amused glint in his eye as he waits for me to continue.

“Why did I want to drink your blood?” I blurt out, my voice shaky. “Am I turning into—into a—” I flounder, the words tangle in my throat. His smirk widens as he watches me flail. “Did you turn me into a vampire or something?” He raises an eyebrow. I glare at him, my frustration mixing with a touch of indignation. “Why do I suddenly crave your blood like it’s the latest superfood trend? What’s next, becoming a bloody bat?”

“Well, if you do turn into a bat, let me know.”

I roll my eyes, trying to keep my cool. “Seriously, what’s going on? I’m not exactly thrilled about suddenly having an urge to drink your blood. This is just fantastic. First, I have to deal with that bloody mark you gave me, which was bad enough. Now, I’m apparently not just stuck with the mark but also this insane need to drink your blood.”

His smirk fades into a look of mild annoyance. “What you’re feeling is the mate bond.”

I frown, struggling to make sense of it all. “So you’re saying my sudden craving for your blood is because we’re… soulmates? But that doesn’t explain why I’m craving blood. Am I supposed to go around biting people and drinking their blood?”

A menacing growl rumbles from his throat, and in a heartbeat, he’s across the room, his hand wrapped around my neck. I gasp, my eyes widen in fear as his grip tightens just enough to warn, but not hurt. His eyes flash dangerously, fangs elongating in a terrifying display.

“You are mine,” he snarls, his voice low and dangerous. “You will drink from no one but me.” His gaze bore into mine, fierce and unyielding. “The reason you’re craving my blood is because part of you has accepted the bond. To complete it and bind us together for eternity, we have to drink from each other.” He releases me abruptly, his jaw clenched tight with irritation. “Believe me, I’d rather not be bound by this mate nonsense either. I didn’t ask for it any more than you did. But here we are, and it seems the universe has a twisted sense of humour.”

“Eternity?” I ask, my voice trembling. I don’t know if I should be thrilled or terrified. “I’m human—I don’t think eternity fits into my lifespan.”

He shakes his head with a sigh. “That’s a question for another day.” He moves toward the door and throws it open. “Let’s go.”

“But—”

“No, not unless you are offering yours.”

“You’re despicable,” I hiss pretending to be insulted when a part of me already had started to wonder what that would feel like.

“All you need to do is ask,” he smirks.

“Will you stay out of my head!”

“Why, when it’s so much more entertaining in there than out here? Now move.”

“No.”

“No?” he growls out.

“You heard me.” I fold my arms pretending I’m not scared of him.

He nods and in a flash, he hoists me effortlessly over his shoulder. I yelp, pounding on his back as he carries me out of the plane. I kick and scream cursing him with every name in the book.

“Put me down, you bloody fanged mongrel!” I yell, my voice a mix of frustration and embarrassment. “You overgrown bat-eared mutt! Let me go, you sodding leech-faced brute!”

I can feel the muscles in his back tense slightly with each of my blows, but he doesn’t slow down. The cool air hits my face as we exit the plane, and I squirm harder, determined to make him regret manhandling me like a sack of potatoes.

“Seriously, you flea-bitten bloodsucker, I will end you!” I hiss, twisting in his grip. “Is this how you get your kicks? Hauling women around like some deranged, overgrown pack mule?”

He stops suddenly, his grip on me tightening just enough to make me gasp. “If you don’t stop wiggling, love, I might just drop you.”

“You arrogant, coffin-dwelling knuckle-dragger!” I spat, but my heart raced at his tone. There was something darkly thrilling about being at his mercy, though I’d never admit it.

“Now be a good girl and stop fussing, or I might have to put that pretty mouth of yours to better use.”

My breath catches in my throat, and I freeze, the fight momentarily draining out of me as his words echo in my ears. Despite the fury still bubbling inside me, a traitorous part of me finds his teasing voice impossible to ignore.

“Put me down now, you waste of oxygen or I swear, I’ll shove my foot so far up your ass you’ll need a map to find it. Then again you’d probably enjoy it!” I glare, emphasizing “enjoy” with a sharp edge in my voice.

He matches my venom with a wicked grin. “I got something I can shove up your ass, and I guarantee you’d love it.” He stresses “guarantee,” and delivers a firm smack to my backside.

I yelp. For God’s sake, it’s too bloody early for this nonsense!

“You know what? I’m not wasting my breath arguing with a walking fairytale gone wrong.” I fold my arms in a show of defiance as he strides down the stairs with me slung over his shoulder. Sunlight assaults my eyes, forcing a squint as I adjust to the unwelcome brightness. I catch a glimpse of the reapers’ faces, smirking like they’ve paid for front-row seats to this ridiculous performance.

“I am a grown, mature woman, and I refuse to lower myself to your juvenile level.”

He snorts, not breaking his stride. “Is that the best comeback you’ve got?”

“I could always come at you with a wooden stake.”

He finally sets me down, leaning in close, his lips curling into a mischievous smirk. “Or you could just come for me again.”

I stumble slightly, glaring up at him, but the words die on my lips as I take in his smirk. He looks every bit the predatory creature I accused him of being, and yet, there is something undeniably magnetic about him. I am torn between throttling him and laughing at the sheer audacity. I open my mouth to retort, but he takes a step closer, his presence overwhelming. I can feel the heat radiating off him, mingling with the cool air that clings to my skin. He is close enough that I can see the faint hint of fangs as he smiles, and for a moment, I forget how to breathe.

“For someone who claims to despise my kind, you seem awfully interested in getting under my skin.”

For a split second, I consider backing down, but the stubborn part of me refuses to give him the satisfaction. “You’re not nearly as scary as you think, you nocturnal nuisance.”

“And you,” he breathes, his lips dangerously close to mine, “are more trouble than any female I’ve ever met.”

Someone clears their throat, snapping me back to reality, and it’s only then do I remember they were all on the plane. Bloody hell! My cheeks blaze with embarrassment as I storm off in the opposite direction, cursing under my breath.

Lucky for me, I recognize the terrain as soon as we land—the open field near the old trail my family and I used to take on our camping trips. The nostalgia does little to calm my nerves, though. Aurora and Skylar are by my side in seconds, flanking me like shadowy conspirators, their lips twitching with barely contained amusement.

“Just say it!” I huff, throwing my hands in the air, exasperation oozing from every pore.

“Say what?” Aurora feigns innocence, her voice wobbling with suppressed laughter.

“Oh, Daddy, right there—don’t stop!” Skylar moans, perfectly imitating my voice.

I screech to a halt, eyes wide, and we all dissolve into hysterics, doubled over with our hands clutching our stomachs.

“You’re bloody awful,” I gasp between bouts of laughter.

“And you, darling, are a screamer,” Skylar fires back without missing a beat.

“Ugh!” I groan, shaking my head at them.

“It wasn’t that bad,” Aurora says, but the flicker of amusement in her eyes tells me she’s just trying to soften the blow.

“Really?” I raise an eyebrow, hoping for a sliver of sympathy.

“Nope,” Skylar says, striding ahead with a careless shrug.

“Sky!” Aurora scolds, shooting her a disapproving look.

“What? I’m just being honest,” Skylar retorts with a smirk, as we trail behind her. “Nothing to be embarrassed about, especially after you pulled off the impossible and got him to turn his humanity back on.”

“Wait, his humanity’s back on?” I blink, stopping in my tracks.

Skylar glances back, rolling her eyes. “You didn’t notice?”

“No”. How could I have missed that?

“Well, he’s still the same bastard you know—minus the occasional murder spree,” Skylar explains, almost too casually. “Don’t get me wrong, his body count is still impressive, just significantly… reduced.”

“Oh, joy,” I mutter, sarcasm dripping from my words. So he’s slightly less homicidal.

Big bloody whoop.

Now that I think about it his eyes had changed—no longer dulled by that lifeless, glazed-over look.

Aurora squeezes my arm gently, offering a faint smile. “Hey, it’s a start. You’re the reason he’s changed at all.”

I scoff, though a part of me—one I refuse to acknowledge—thrums with the uncomfortable realization that I might have made a difference. And in this twisted, apocalyptic dance we’re caught in, maybe that’s the most dangerous thing of all.

“Why did he turn off his humanity?” I ask.

“It’s… complicated,” Aurora says.

“The only person he’s ever been different around is you,” Skylar says, looking directly at me. “And that started long before the whole beloved thing. Remember when Wyatt claimed her?” She turns to Aurora.

Aurora smirks, her eyes glinting with a dark amusement. “Wyatt was lucky the prince’s humanity switch was off then. Otherwise, he’d be six feet under.”

I furrow my brows, trying to piece together their cryptic words. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Skylar gives a half-shrug, her expression suddenly serious. “If you weren’t scared out of your mind, you’d have noticed how pissed he was when Wyatt claimed you.”

“And that wolfgirl…” Aurora’s voice drops, almost conspiratorial. “The only reason she’s still breathing is because of you.”

“Humanity on or off, the prince is still the prince.” Skylar’s voice is low and weighted with truth. “He’s just… more emotional now.”

“That’s a good thing, right?” I ask hesitantly, trying to find some reassurance. The look on their faces silences me, filling the air with unspoken dread. “Oh.”

“More emotions mean…” Aurora starts, but Skylar finishes.

“Means I pity anyone who dares piss him off,” Skylar says bluntly. “But you? You’ve got nothing to worry about.”

“Because I’m his beloved,” I mock, air-quoting the word like it’s some kind of sick joke. I roll my eyes, but the weight of the title feels heavier than ever.

“Even before all that beloved nonsense,” Skylar mimics my air quotes. “I told Ro you’d be dead by the time we got to Romania.”

“But then… the way he held you that night,” Aurora continues, her tone softening. “When you fell asleep in his arms, and he carried you to the plane, letting you sleep like that…” My cheeks flush with the memory, warmth spreading unbidden. “I knew you were different. Special.”

Skylar snickers. “His arms must’ve been damn comfortable because you were out cold.”

“Pfft. No, that’s not—” I begin to protest, but Aurora shushes me sharply.

“Quiet!” Aurora’s eyes suddenly focused elsewhere. “I’m trying to hear what they’re saying.”

Skylar narrows her eyes at her. “Eavesdropping? Really?”

Aurora shrugs. “Fine, I won’t tell you anything then.”

“You better spill,” I warn playfully.

“Sirius is saying—no, shouting at this point—’We heard what you told her about the flight attendant. What the hell is wrong with you?” Aurora’s smile wavers as she glances at me nervously.

I force a smile, even as the sting of tears prick my eyes.

“He’s an asshole,” Skylar says cutting through the tension.

I nod.

Aurora goes back to eavesdropping, leaning closer to catch every word. “You fed her your blood, for crying out loud! Theron’s voice is strains, a mix of exasperation and anger.”

“It was just a drop,” the prince replies dismissively.

Aurora and Skylar exchange a knowing eye-roll. ‘Yeah, right,’ their expressions scream.

“That wasn’t a drop! The entire flight crew went into a frenzy from the scent of your blood. We had to physically restrain them while you fed her!” Sirius’s voice rises, and Aurora cringes.

Without warning, Aurora blurts out, “What does his blood taste like?”

I blink at her, startled. “Blood?” I shrug, my stomach twisting. “I don’t know… It’s just blood.” My voice wavers, and I grimace, disgusted with myself. What kind of person drinks someone else’s blood?

“When you’re mating and feeding, his blood will taste specific to you,” Aurora explains with a touch of seriousness. “As a human, blood should repel you, but because he’s your beloved, his blood is irresistible.”

“And even more so because he’s royal,” Skylar adds, her tone almost reverent.

I scoff, my lips curling in distaste. “I bet all the other slags he’s fed were thrilled.” I cross my arms, pouting.

Aurora giggles, eyes sparkling with mischief. “You really think he’s fed other women?”

“Well… yeah?” I admit, wrinkling my nose in annoyance and disgust.

“To drink a royal’s blood is a divine privilege,” Aurora says, her voice taking on a dark, almost haunting quality. “Only a beloved is allowed that taste.” She glances at me, and I tense up at the hint of something unspoken. Sensing my unease, she quickly adds, “We may be slaves to our bloodlust, but our loyalty is to the prince. We’d never act on it—especially knowing he’s feeding you.”

Skylar steps closer, her voice low and deliberate. “You’re the only one he’s ever fed his blood to. And you’ll be the last. Vampires can’t help themselves when it comes to their beloveds—especially males. Human or not, his instinct to feed you will always dominate.” She leans in, a teasing smirk playing on her lips. “Especially when you’re riding daddy.”

My cheeks flame as I gasp. “You’ll never let me live that down, will you?”

“Nope,” Skylar and Aurora laugh, their voices ringing with delight.

I huff. “It doesn’t matter. Whatever this is, he’ll get over it and move on to his next beloved.”

Aurora’s hand suddenly whips out, smacking my arm. “Ouch!” I glare at her, rubbing the sting away.

“Do you even realise what you are to him?”

I snort, sarcasm dripping from my voice. “His blood-bag harlot?”

Skylar smacks my other arm, harder this time. “You’re his soulmate. His princess. His beloved.”

“Tell that to him,” I snap back, my words sharp and cutting.

Aurora’s expression softens, her voice tinged with quiet confidence. “He knows.”

I narrow my eyes, doubt flickering. “You sure about that?” She frowns but doesn’t answer, the silence hanging heavy between us. “That’s what I thought.” I turn and continue my way uphill.

I felt like I was trapped on a twisted roller coaster, spiralling through some deranged alternate universe. Vampires, werewolves, witches, fairies, princes, beloveds, humanity, hunters, rogues—love, hate, and mood swings all collide into one chaotic mess. It’s like the universe threw everything at me, just to see how much I could take before I’d snap. I longed for the days when my biggest worries were surviving finals, dodging my parents’ expectations, and lying through my teeth to my therapist about how “well-adjusted” I was. Back then, my sanctuary was a dark dorm room with my night lights and the scariest thing was my overdue assignments.

But now? Now I’m stuck dealing with a temperamental, Greek god-like hybrid vampire alpha prince whose mood swings could rival a tornado. I never know which version of him I’m waking up to: the tender lover, the arrogant ruler, or the brooding immortal. I can’t keep up, and I sure as bloody hell can’t figure him out. Why can’t he come with a bloody manual, like one of those incomprehensible IKEA booklets? At least then, when I’m hopelessly lost, I’d know it’s not just me—anyone would struggle. And to think, they say women are complicated in relationships. No, mate, the truth is, you just don’t listen.

Why can’t he be a normal guy? Or, better yet, just a plain old human. Is that really too much to ask? Instead, I’m left trying to decipher the mind of a centuries-old prince with a god complex, whose idea of communication is more cryptic than the Da Vinci code.

“Do I even want to know?” A familiar voice says, and my head snaps up.

Aurora and Skylar are instantly at my side, hissing defensively at the newcomer. But I barely register their reaction because the moment I see him, I squeal and launch myself into his arms, my legs wrapping around his waist, arms looping around his neck. Aurora and Skylar exchange bewildered glances, but I ignore them.

“Avaluna!” Onyx’s voice rumbles, deep and furious, jealousy dripping from every syllable.

Great, now he’s jealous. Possessiveness, anger, and a searing heat radiate from him burning through me like wildfire. Before I can even think, Avin shoves me behind him, pulling out a gun and aiming it squarely at Onyx.

“Will you put that away!” I snap, smacking Avin’s arm down, exasperated by the sheer insanity of it all.

“Have you gone bloody bonkers? What the hell have they done to you?” Avin’s eyes flicker with a mix of fury and concern.

I roll my eyes, planting my hands on my hips. “You’re the one waving around a bloody gun, and you think I’m the one who’s gone bonkers?”

All eyes locked on us with mixed expressions.

Avin glares. “Do you even know what they are?”

“Pfft… Do you?”

He sighs heavily, dragging a hand through his hair, gun still in hand. “Avaluna Chesmore, what the hell have you gotten yourself mixed up in this time?” His tone is somewhere between a scolding father and a desperate plea. “Please tell me it’s not what I think.”

I bite my lip. “Depends. What do you think?”

“I think you’re taking them to Bellary.” His voice is tight with suspicion.

“Pfft.” I cross my arms defiantly, refusing to confirm anything.

Avin’s gaze sweeps over me, his eyes narrowing as he takes in the details. “You’re not compelled, and you’re not wearing a collar, so you’re not a pet.” He glances at Onyx, noting the fury simmering beneath his steely exterior. “And judging by the way he’s staring at me like he wants me dead…” Avin’s gaze shifts to my neck, and before I can react, he pulls back the collar of my shirt, revealing Onyx’s mark. The forest crackles with tension as Onyx’s growl reverberates like a warning bell, his rage spiking so fiercely I can feel it clawing at my insides.

I leap in front of Avin, arms outstretched, just as Onyx lunges. “Stop!” I shout, eyes clenched shut, bracing for impact. But nothing happens.

When I open my eyes, Onyx is towering over me, his eyes swirling with fury, fangs bared, and claws extended. His face is a terrifying mix of rage and something far darker. I exhale shakily, lowering my trembling arms.

“O-Onyx—” I start, but my words are cut off as he yanks me into his chest, his grip fierce and unyielding. His head buries into my neck, and I shiver as he brushes his lips over his mark, possessively claiming me all over again.

“Eww, Luna. Spare me the mate bullshit,” Avin groans, disgust twisting his features. “I can’t believe you let a blood-sucking leech mark you.”

I feel my cheeks flush with embarrassment as I try to wiggle free. “Onyx, let go.”

“No,” he growls, tightening his hold, his body rigid with unspoken anger.

“Please,” I whisper, my voice barely audible.

He curses under his breath, refusing to release me. I try to turn back to Avin, but Onyx yanks me back by my hips, his grip bruising.

“You’re not going near him,” Onyx snaps, his voice laced with a deadly promise. “Or I swear, I’ll kill him this time.”

“Luna?” Avin drawls out wanting answers.

“Avin, m-meet Onyx, my…” kidnapper with benefit… “b-boyfriend… Onyx, this is Avin, my big brother.” My laugh comes out shaky and nervous, sweat prickling my skin.

God, is it getting hot out here?

Avin arches an eyebrow. “Boyfriend, huh?”

---

Chapter 49: Between a Rosé and a Hard Place.

To say everyone was surprised is an understatement. Onyx remains impassive as always. I shouldn’t be surprised that Avin pieced everything together so quickly, but it left me with a gnawing question, how did he know so much?

I let out a nervous laugh, the kind that slips out when the silence becomes too heavy to bear. “Well, this is… awkward.”

Avin’s gaze didn’t waver. “Does Mum know about your boyfriend?”

“Pfft—yes, no, maybe… Not yet?”

Avin raised an eyebrow. “So that’s a no.”

“I’m working up to it, alright? It’s not exactly a pass-the-salt dinner conversation, is it?”

Avin gives me a dry look. “So, what’s the plan? Keep dodging until she figures it out herself? Classic strategy. What happens when she finds out? We know she will.”

“I’ll cross that bridge when I’m halfway across it,” I say, half-grinning.

“And when it blows up halfway?” Avin tilts his head, clearly unimpressed.

I wave him off. “Look, she’s too busy these days with her wine-tasting and romantic getaways. Plus, you know how she gets with a bottle of rosé—it’ll soften the blow.”

“Great. We’ll just schedule the meeting between her third and fourth glass. Timing is everything,” he deadpans.

“Exactly! Besides, worst-case scenario, I’ll just throw him under the bus. Tell her it was all his fault.”

“You do realize he’s got a higher survival rate than you, right?”

I shrug. “Well, I guess I’ll have to keep buying her those fancy candles she loves. Every disaster can be diffused with enough lavender and eucalyptus.”

“Candles won’t save you from the wrath of Mum, Ava.”

“Then it’s a good thing I have a very fast exit strategy.”

“Ah, yes. Jumping out of windows. Mature. I see we’re handling this like adults.”

“Absolutely. What could possibly go wrong?”

“And dad?”

“Lucky for us he’s bulletproof.” I shrug half serious, half joking. “What does it even matter anyway? I’m old enough to have a boyfriend.”

“Nobody said you can’t have a boyfriend but he’s not even human.”

I roll my eyes, trying to ignore the knot forming in my stomach. “Yeah, well, humans are overrated. Have you seen the dating pool lately? At least he doesn’t ghost me—literally or figuratively.”

“Real funny,” Avin says, his tone dry enough to parch the Sahara. “You’re dating a vampire, Ava. It’s not the same as swiping right on some bloke named Liam who works in IT.”

“They know we’re all standing right here, right?” Ace says.

I scoff. “You’re being dramatic. And She doesn’t have to know.”

“That’s not just a minor detail you can gloss over like forgetting to RSVP to a wedding. Mum will take one look at you and know you’re keeping something from her. And then what? This would be like the rug thing all over again.”

“That’s unfair,” I shoot back, pointing at him. “That was years ago, and to be fair, the dog looked guilty.”

“He wasn’t even in the house when you spilt the wine on the rug!” Avin’s voice rose slightly, but the smirk tugging at his lips betrayed him.

“Minor detail,” I say with a dismissive wave. “And why is that so hard for you to accept? Not every vampire is a walking horror movie trope.”

“Because,” he says, his voice hard, “when things go wrong—and they will—it’s not just your neck on the line.”

I narrow my eyes, feeling the heat rise in my cheeks. “You don’t even know him, Avin. You’re judging him based on what he is, not who he is. That’s so—so—”

“Practical?” he interjects smoothly. “Cautious? Sensible?”

“Prejudiced,” I snap not knowing why I was defending him in the first place. Avin is right. Yet here I am, it’s like I can’t help myself. “You’re acting like Mum when she found out I pierced my nose. All doom and gloom, like the world’s ending.”

“This isn’t about piercings, Ava,” he says, his voice dropping into that infuriatingly calm tone he used when he thought he was being the reasonable one. “This is about your safety. And while we’re on the subject—how much do you really know about him? About his kind?”

“I know enough.”

Avin’s expression hardens. “You’re sure about that? Because he and his Reapers have a reputation. And it’s not the kind that gets you a plaque in the town square.”

“You’re my brother. You’re supposed to trust me to make my own decisions.”

“And what if those decisions get you killed?”

The words hit harder than I want to admit. “Then at least it’ll be my choice,” I say finally, my voice quieter now but no less resolute.

Avin sighs heavily, running a hand through his hair. “You’re so stubborn.”

“It runs in the family.”

“So… we’re not killing him?” Ace frowns, his tone almost disappointed. “Or can we?” His grin spreads wide, mischievous.

“No!” I snap, shooting him a look.

“He’s a hunter,” Sirius growls, his voice cold as ice.

My eyes widen. A hunter?! Bloody hell! I swallow hard but push down the fear clawing at me. “He’s my brother. He’s family. And family doesn’t kill each other.”

Theron’s gaze pierces through me, voice steady and unforgiving. “He won’t hesitate to kill us.”

“He’s not exactly shooting at us either!” I gesture towards my brother, who’s standing there, hands relaxed by his sides, unreadable.

“Not yet,” Ace mutters, his eyes flicking to the gun holstered at my brother’s hip.

“They’re right,” Avin says, agreeing far too easily for my taste.

I glare at him, silently screaming, Not helping! “Seriously?” I snap, frowning at him.

“The only reason he hasn’t opened fire yet is because of his baby sister,” Damian says.

“Baby sister?” A raspy voice cuts through the tension. Another man steps into view, sliding up beside Avin. He’s bald, his rust-coloured eyes gleaming with a sick hunger, muscles bulging under his shirt like he’s been pumping himself full of steroids. His gaze sweeps over me, lingering far too long, making my skin crawl. “Damn, A, she’s even hotter than the first sister,” he says, his voice thick with desire as he licks his lips.

I can feel Onyx’s murderous rage bubbling beneath the surface, even though his expression remains deceptively calm. But I sense the storm brewing inside him. The way the perv looks at me makes my stomach churn, and I tense under his lecherous gaze.

Sensing my discomfort, Onyx’s hand moves to the small of my back, his fingers slipping beneath the hem of my shirt. He rubs soothing circles into my skin, and my body, traitorously, begins to relax against his touch. I exhale slowly, feeling my pulse steady.

“She’s off-limits,” Avin growls, his voice sharp with irritation as he glares at the slime ball.

The man’s grin widens, his eyes darting to Onyx’s hand on me. “Off-limits to me?” He lets out a dark chuckle, a sick amusement glinting in his eyes. “But you let that thing touch her?”

“Shut the hell up, Garrett,” a familiar voice snarls, venom dripping from the words.

“Sam?” My heart leaps in my chest as I spot him. “Sam!” I gasp, my voice full of delight.

I instinctively move forward, wanting to throw my arms around him, but Onyx’s grip tightens on my waist, a silent warning. He’s not letting me go.

Sam smirks at me, but his gaze shifts warily to Onyx. “Hey there, baby girl,” he says smoothly, though the tension between him and Onyx is palpable.

Behind me, Onyx’s voice drops low and dangerous, a whisper in my ear. “Don’t push me, Ava.”

Sam’s playful smirk falters as his eyes narrow, locking with Onyx’s. The air between them hums with unspoken threat, and Onyx—always cocky—just smirks back, as if daring Sam to make a move.

“Well, well… isn’t this a sweet little reunion,” Garrett drawls, clapping his hands, clearly amused by the whole spectacle. “Baby sis returns with the prince leech and his merry band of Reapers. So what does that make you now, sweetheart? Their whore? Their pet? Or… maybe their food?” He pauses, a wicked grin splitting his face as his eyes gleam with malice. “Or perhaps… his mate?”

The word mate slithers off his tongue like a poison, and before I can react, there’s a deafening bang. I jump, squealing as a bullet pierces Garrett’s skull, the crack echoing through the air. My hands fly to my mouth, stifling my scream as his body crumbles to the ground.

Avin lowers his gun, still trained on the lifeless body, before swinging it over to Sam.

“Whoa, whoa, easy there!” Sam quickly raises his hands in surrender, eyes wide. “You know I love her like a sister! I would never hurt her, man. I’m on your side.”

Avin’s eyes narrow dangerously. “If you ever betray her, Sam—”

“I know, I know,” Sam interrupts, his voice tight. “You’ll kill me. I’m sure he’ll beat you to it, though.” He nods towards Onyx, who hasn’t stopped watching Sam.

Onyx, still rubbing soothing circles into my back, offers Sam a tight nod. “Smart human,” he says, his voice laced with a warning.

“How c-could you?” I stammer, my voice trembling with disbelief.

My heart pounds in my chest, shocked at the sight before me—Avin had just shot a man in cold blood. And now, with his gun still raised, he was ready to do the same to his best friend without a second thought.

Avin pouts. “Don’t look at me like that, princess.”

My voice hardens, disbelief giving way to anger. “You shot a man. In cold blood!”

“That man,” Avin snaps, his voice icy, “would’ve informed the hunters that the vampire prince’s mate—my sister— is a human. What do you think they’d do to you? To us? I knew I shouldn’t have left you there.” His eyes flash, furious like I should understand.

“What? So, I’d end up like you instead? A hunter?” I spit back, my own anger rising, matching his.

“At least you wouldn’t be walking around with a target on your back! This?” He gestures sharply toward the lifeless body at his feet. “This is nothing compared to what they’ve done. All the innocent humans they’ve slaughtered for their own sick entertainment. And yet here you are—defending them.”

“I’m not—” I begin, but he cuts me off.

“You are!” His voice booms, echoing through the forest. “You stand here on their side, while I’ve been out there fighting for people like us. And you have the nerve to judge me for killing one man to protect you?” His gaze darkens as it shifts to Onyx, his tone laced with venom. “And I’m a thousand percent sure he wouldn’t hesitate to slaughter every one of us here for you.”

The words hang heavy between us. My breath catches in my throat as I glance at Onyx, who stands stoic, unflinching. I know he is right. We all do.

“You’re right,” I whisper, pulling away from Onyx’s comforting presence. His fingers twitch as I step out of his reach, but this time he lets me go. “He wouldn’t. And I—I don’t have the right to judge you either.” My voice falters, breaking. “It’s just that… you’re my brother. That makes it different.” My eyes burn with tears.

Avin’s face softens and without a word, he pulls me into a tight hug. His body is warm and familiar, but the blood on his hands feels like a stain between us. “You know I’d do anything to protect you, right?” His voice is low, almost pleading.

“I know,” I sigh. “I just… I just wish it didn’t have to be like this.”

Avin lets out a soft, chuckle, rubbing his hand across my back like he did when we were kids. “We are who we are, princess. There’s no changing that.”

I pull back slightly, looking up at him with a frown. “What’s so funny?”

A smirk tugs at his lips, despite everything. “You. You’re actually a real princess, you know.”

I wrinkle my nose, shaking my head at him even as a small smile forces its way through the tears. I smack his chest lightly, feeling the absurdity of it all. “You’re such a dork.”

“Yeah, but I’m your dork,” he murmurs, pressing a kiss to the top of my head. “And I’ll keep protecting you, no matter what. Except from mum.”

“Coward,” I stick my tongue out at him.

“Tell us, hunter, how many more of you are out there?” Onyx asks, extending his hand toward me.

With a roll of my eyes, I slip my smaller hand into his, stepping back to his side. Now he’s clingy. Onyx arches an eyebrow, and I know he read my mind. Serves him right.

Avin shoots a glance at Sam, then back to Onyx. “Nearly sixty. Not counting a few dozen rogues.”

“How did you know we were here?” Ace cuts in, sharp and probing.

“Boss got a call this morning.”

“And how exactly did you leave without raising suspicion?” Onyx presses, his eyes narrowing.

“You accusing me of something, leech?” Avin growls, his voice like steel.

“Just seems it wouldn’t be easy to slip away from sixty hunters unnoticed.”

Avin’s eyes flash with annoyance. “I saw the plane land. Saw you carrying her out.” His gaze flicks to me, away. “Then I saw her stomp off with those two,” nodding to the girls. “They seemed friendly enough. I know my sister, and I know this path—it’s the one our family takes when we go camping. The others aren’t aware of it.” He gestures toward the lifeless body on the ground. “He must’ve followed me.”

“I followed him,” Sam quickly adds, nodding toward the same dead bloke.

“Do you know who made the call?” Sirius asks.

“No. I don’t think the boss knows either. We just get calls, locations, and orders. No questions asked.”

“All your rogues are marked?” Theron interjects, his tone cold.

“Yeah. They all follow the boss’s commands. And if you’re gonna ask who’s pulling the strings, we don’t know.”

“Are they guarding Bellary ?” Skylar asks, stepping forward.

“They’re guarding the hill, not the entrance.”

The realization hits me. My eyes meet Avin’s with a mischievous glint. “Which hill?” I ask, my smirk growing.

“Old Pine,” Avin smirks back, fully aware of where this is headed.

Onyx watches me, amused but cautious. “You gonna tell me what you’re planning, angel?”

I grin at him, a wild spark in my eyes. “I know a way to the entrance without going through the hunters.”

“Why not just go through them?” Ace frowns, confusion etching across his features.

“Why kill them when we can outsmart them?” I say.

“Because it’s fun,” Damian chimes in, his grin dark and teasing as he glances at Avin, who rolls his eyes in response.

“It won’t be fun for long,” Sam cuts in, his voice a grim warning. “We got a special shipment this morning, and more hunters are arriving as we speak.”

“Special shipment?” My eyebrows knit together, a sense of unease creeping in.

Sam and Avin exchange a glance, the tension between them thickening. Avin pulls out a fully loaded magazine and removes one of the bullets. It’s wooden, but what really catches my eye is the strange pink markings etched into it.

“Wooden bullets. With some fancy pink shit on them,” Avin says.

“That’s it?” Ace scoffs, unimpressed. “They’re gonna have to do better than that.”

Avin twirls the wooden bullet between his fingers. “This isn’t just any wooden bullet. It’s been specifically crafted to kill vampires.”

“Wooden bullets aren’t exactly a new threat,” Damian says, unimpressed. “What’s so special about these?”

“These markings? They’re enchanted—rumour has it, by an evil fairy. Supposedly the best in the business. Whoever she is, she’s put a hell of a curse on these things. The enchantment makes these bullets lethal. Not only does the wood itself penetrate vampire flesh and slow healing, but when it hits, the magic activates. It ruptures on impact and releases a high dose of nitroglycerin inside you. The explosion would tear through even a vampire’s enhanced healing. By the time your body starts to fix itself, it’s too late. You’re already dust.”

Damian lets out a low whistle.

“So… no getting shot, then,” I mutter, staring at the bullet like it’s death itself.

“Is that better?” Sirius asks Ace sarcastically, his arms crossed as he leans against a tree.

“Guess we’re going around then,” Ace grumbles, clearly disappointed at the prospect of avoiding the action.

Avin steps forward, pulling out a handgun and an extra magazine. “Here, take this.” He presses the weapon into my hand. “Headshots only. Got it?” His eyes flick to mine, and when he sees the hesitation on my face, he adds, “They won’t hesitate to kill you. Just in case lover-boy isn’t around, I need you to promise me you’ll do what’s necessary to stay alive.”

“I… p-promise,” I stutter, frowning at the cold weight of the gun in my hand.

“She can shoot a gun?” Damian asks, his surprise evident. “Wouldn’t aiming for the chest be easier?”

Sam laughs. “She learned to shoot before she could walk.”

“And all headshots,” Avin adds, gloating a little.

“We’ll see about that,” Damian huffs, crossing his arms as if to challenge the claim.

Avin just smirks at him, the tension between them easing. It’s subtle, but something’s changed. Damian isn’t looking at Avin with the same suspicion or disgust as the others. Onyx, ever observant, catches on to this too. I can see it in his narrowed eyes—he knows something. Why can’t I read his mind? I frown in frustration.

“Jealous you might not be the best shooter in the group?” Aurora teases Damian, her smile playful.

He grumbles and waves her off.

Sam gives the lifeless body of Garret a nudge with his boot. “What do you want to do with him?”

“Toss him to the rogues,” Avin answers, his voice cold and detached.

“Wait,” I interrupt. “What about you? I can’t leave you here. Come with us.”

“Luna—” Avin starts, his tone firm, but I cut him off.

“No, they’ll figure out you’re my brother eventually.” My voice is urgent. I can’t just leave him to face whatever mess this has become.

He hesitates, clearly torn. But he knows I’m right.

Onyx steps in, sensing the dilemma. “Meet us at the plane. It’ll take you anywhere you need to go.”

Avin glances at me, and I nod, silently pleading with him to accept. He sighs in resignation and finally agrees with a nod. He grabs Garret by the legs, and Sam takes his arms.

“Brother,” I call out as he starts to leave. He stops and looks over his shoulder. “If you’re not there, I’m coming to get you. Even if I have to go through every last one of them,” I say, my voice steady.

A soft smile tugs at his lips. “I know.”

He turns to Onyx, his expression serious. “Take care of her. If she dies… you die.”

Onyx meets his gaze with equal intensity. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

My heart stutters at Onyx’s declaration, completely catching me off guard. Before I can process the flood of emotions, Onyx leans in close, his lips brushing my ear as he whispers in a deep, lustful tone, “That was so fuckin’ hot. You’ve no idea how hard that made me. You should make threats more often.”

Heat rises to my cheeks, and I feel an unmistakable thrill bubbling up inside me. This man… he’s going to be the death of me.

“Now we’ve got a hunter on our side?” Ace tilts his head, his tone sceptical as he glances at Onyx.

“He’s not on our side. He’s on her side.” Onyx nods toward me.

Aurora smirks, her eyes gleaming with amusement. “Then, lucky for us, she’s on our side.”

“Why did you pretend you couldn’t shoot back at the pack?” Everyone else has fallen back, giving us space—probably to give us a moment alone—but I know they can still hear every word.

I shrug, trying to play it off.. “Why let you in on all my secrets? Zuri said any one of you could disarm me. Why didn’t you?”

“The rogue—”

“—has a name,” I interrupt, my voice sharper than I intend.

His jaw clenches, but he stays calm. “I wasn’t going to risk—the rogue with a name— doing something stupid and getting you hurt.”

“Are you ever going to tell me how he died?”

“Quick,” Onyx says, his tone flat, almost cold.

“That’s not what I meant.”

“I know,” he replies, softer this time.

He doesn’t say it to be cruel, but it stings nonetheless. And for reasons I can’t quite explain, it hurts more than it should. There’s something he’s not telling me, something he’s holding back. I can feel it. A part of me wants to press, to demand the truth—but another part isn’t sure if I can handle it. Onyx senses my hesitation because he steps closer, his gaze locked on mine.

“I’m trying to protect you,” he says, his voice low but intense, as if admitting this goes against everything he’s used to.

“From what?” I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.

“From things you don’t want to know. Things that will break you if you let them in.” He steps even closer, his presence overwhelming. “I don’t care how strong you think you are—there’s a line, Ava. And once you cross it, there’s no going back.”

My breath catches in my throat. “And who decides where that line is? You?”

Onyx’s eyes darken, his voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. “No. You do. But I’ll make sure you never have to cross it, not if I can help it.”

We stand there, the silence between us no longer just tension but something electric, something raw. My heart pounds in my chest, and I can’t tell if it’s fear, anger, or something far more dangerous.

“I don’t need your protection, Onyx.”

He smirks, but it’s not the teasing one. It’s darker, more bitter. “You may not need it, but you’ll get it. Whether you like it or not.”

Before I can respond, the sound of footsteps approaching breaks the moment. Ace and the others reappear from the shadows, their faces carefully neutral, but I know they’ve heard everything. Onyx takes a step back, slipping back into his usual composed mask as if the conversation never happened.

Aurora’s voice breaks the tension, light and sarcastic as always. “So, are we playing nice now, or do we need another round of bonding?”

I can’t help but snort. Bonding—yeah, right. With everything going on, I feel like I’m one more revelation away from losing my mind. I continue walking ignoring her question and the snickers. I still can’t believe it. Avin, my brother, is a hunter. A killer. The enemy. The bad guy. Or is he? They’re trying to protect the human race, after all. Which begs the real question, who’s actually the bad guy here? The whole thing is so irritating and way too much to process. I mean, come on—I still can’t fully wrap my head around the fact that werewolves, vampires, witches, and fairies are real.

And let’s not forget that I’ve been kidnapped… again. Now I’m marked as—his beloved—with his teeth embedded in my neck as proof. I used to read books to escape my dull, boring life, but now I could probably write one. One thing’s for sure: my life isn’t boring anymore, not with Onyx in it.

---

Chapter 50: The Dark Lord’s Sister Needs A Hobby.

While the hunters and rogues were all huddled up guarding Old Pine, we slipped around back, down an unmarked trail that was practically invisible if you weren’t looking.

“That was easy,” Ace frowns, clearly underwhelmed.

“Don’t look so deflated. You don’t know what surprise awaits us inside,” Sirius says.

That perks Ace up, though he tries not to show it.

At the cave’s entrance, a massive boulder covered in crude red graffiti which looks more like a gatekeeper than a rock. Skylar pulled out a scuffed-up mug, carefully mixing all the ingredients together. We crouch low and wait until the moon peeks out from behind the clouds. It’s almost seven, and our time is nearly up.

“It’s showtime,” Skylar murmurs, handing the mug over to Onyx.

He cocks an eyebrow at her and lets out a heavy sigh, realizing what we all knew.

“None of us can down werewolf venom,” Aurora points out. “It’s either you or Luna.”

Onyx turns to me, and I flash him my best puppy-dog look, putting on the charm. With a disgruntled shake of his head, he pinches his nose and knocks it back in one grimacing gulp. “Fuckin’ foul,” he mutters, shoving the mug back to Skylar. Then he strides over to the boulder, rolling it aside like it weighs nothing.

The moment we step inside, the boulder rolls shut behind us, sealing us in. Without thinking, I jump closer to Onyx, grabbing his arm. It’s pitch-black and frankly, creepy.

“Scared princess?” he asks, teasing.

“Bollocks, no,” I reply, lying through my teeth.

“Right, sure you’re not.”

I roll my eyes. “Right, well, anyone got a torch?”

“Just hold onto me,” Onyx says, completely unfazed. “You’ll be fine.”

I snort. “Oh, sure. And how do I know you’re not about to lead me straight to my doom?”

He shrugs. “You don’t.”

“Brilliant. Such reassurance,” I deadpan, but when he doesn’t reply, my stomach twists. “Wait…you’re joking, right?” Still no answer. “Onyx?” My voice rises an octave as panic starts to creep in.

“Calm down,” he sighs. “You’re safe.”

“Promise,” I demand, stopping dead in my tracks.

“Would that get you to move?” he asks.

“Yes.”

“Fine. Promise.”

Inside, the air is unexpectedly warm, with a faint, almost soothing scent of freesia drifting through the darkness.

“Remind me again,” I whisper, eyeing the dark cave warily, “why do we need this flower?”

“To trap the dark crystal,” Onyx replies, his voice low and serious. “One that’s been marked.”

“Marked by the hunters?”

“Marked by someone. Humans are barely competent enough to manage their own messy world, let alone meddle with ours.”

“Comforting,” I mutter, glancing around as the shadows seem to thicken. “So, who did the marking, then? Surely you have some theory.”

“If I did, I wouldn’t call it a theory.”

“So helpful, as usual,” I huff, casting him a sidelong look. After a moment of silence, I add with a drawl, “So…we’re mates, huh.”

“Hm,” he replies, barely acknowledging it.

“Wow, try not to get too thrilled all at once,” I say dryly.

“Didn’t realise I need to throw a party.”

“A little enthusiasm wouldn’t kill you, you know.”

“Enthusiasm? And here I thought you’d be the one panicking about lifelong commitments.”

“Oh, I’m absolutely shaking in my boots. Imagine being stuck with you forever.”

“Careful. That almost sounds like fear.”

“Maybe it’s pity,” I reply. “I mean, you get me, and I’m stuck with—” I gesture to him. “Well, you.”

“If I didn’t know better, I’d think you were trying to insult me.”

“Oh, that’s cute. You think I’m trying?” My arm is hooked into his, and despite all the bickering, I couldn’t shake the feeling of comfort and safety that came with it. It was infuriating.

“Keep it up, princess,” he says leading us deeper into the creepy dark cave. “All this bickering feels suspiciously like flirting.”

“Flirting? With you?” I scoff, though I feel my cheeks flush. “I’d sooner charm a brick wall. Probably better conversation.”

“A brick wall wouldn’t make you cum so—”

I slap my hand over his mouth, my face burning from the chuckles echoing around us. “Must you always be this crude?” I remove my hand.

“Part of my charm..”

“What charm? Let’s get this over with and stop touching my hair.”

“Touching your—” A menacing growl suddenly rips from Onyx’s throat as he pulls me into his arms, cradling me against his chest. Just then, a bone-chilling cackle echoes around us, sending icy shivers down my spine. I instinctively ball my fists in the fabric of his shirt, whimpering in fear as my heart races like a wild drumbeat, each thud making every hair on my body stand on end.

“What the fuck was that?” Ace growls, his voice low and tense.

“I-I-it’s an Obius,” Aurora stammers.

“What is an Obius?” Damian asks.

“A woman who eats maidens’ hearts,” Skylar replies.

“Then why is she touching Ava?” Onyx growls, his grip on me tightening protectively.

“She also eats humans... pure of heart,” Aurora adds, fear creeping into her tone.

“Fuck,” Onyx, Ace, and Sirius curse in unison.

“Please don’t let her eat my heart. I need it,” I whimper against Onyx’s chest.

“She won’t be eating shit,” he growls, his voice low and fierce. With a swift motion, he scoops me up bridal style, cradling me against him as if I were the most precious thing in the world.

“Keep an eye out. She could be anywhere. She doesn’t touch Ava.”

We press deeper into the cave, the darkness around us broken only by the steady rhythm of Onyx’s heartbeat beneath my ear. Then, a faint glow catches my attention. I hesitate, slowly lifting my head from his chest, cracking open one eye, then the other, and gasping softly.

Onyx lowers me to my feet, his gaze locked onto me. My fingers found their way to the delicate, velvety petals, brushing them reverently. I take in a deep, heady breath, filling my lungs with the sweet, fragrance that blankets the room.

We step into an egg-shaped chamber, utterly transformed by clusters of freesia in every shade imaginable—white, cream, buttery yellows, fiery oranges, deep reds, blush pinks, soft mauves, and shades of lavender and violet that seem to whisper secrets in their depths. The silver-grey rock walls around us glisten with seeping trails of crimson liquid that look disturbingly like blood, without the scent. Above us, the ceiling sparkles with diamonds and rubies, casting fractured light that dances over the flowers in delicate shards.

In the centre of it all stands a triangular limestone platform, rising like some ancient altar. At its heart, a peculiar blueberry plant took root, twisting and reaching upwards with its disproportioned berries and round purple flowers blooming on woody stems. My eyes widen in recognition. The hole. Coincidence? I shiver, a gnawing suspicion settling over me. Could she be—

Just then, a bone-chilling cackle echoes through the chamber, tearing me from my thoughts. I jump back, clutching at Onyx’s shirt as if my life depends on it. He instantly wraps his arms around me, a low, threatening growl rumbling in his chest. Before I know it, all the Reapers have closed in, forming a protective circle around us.

“That thing gives me the creeps,” Damian mutters, giving an exaggerated shudder.

“That’s the first female I think you ever refused to stick your dick in.” Ace teases him.

“She’d probably bite it off.”

All the guys shiver in unison.

“What in the—?” I gasp, freezing in place.

In front of the triangular platform stands a ghastly, skeletal woman, her skin as pale as death and wrapped in a black robe that clings to her like shadows. She looks like Voldemort’s sister. Her mouth twisted, and a banshee-like shriek rips from her lips as she crouches, ready to attack.

“Looks like we’ve gone and pissed off Voldemort’s sister,” I squeak, unable to tear my eyes away.

“Who’s Voldemort?” Aurora whispers.

“Someone you definitely don’t want to mess with, unless you’ve got Harry Potter backing you up.”

“Less talking, more moving,” Onyx mutters, scanning the room. “We need a distraction. You three get the flower.” He turns to me, his gaze softer for a split second, like he was silently asking if I could do this.

“Right. Time to pull up my big girl knickers. Tit up or go home. I’m ready, I can do this.”

“Ava?”

“Yeah?”

“Angel, you’ve got to let go.” He nods at my hands, which are still fisted in his shirt, knuckles white.

I blink, then look down, mortified. “S-sorry,” I mutter, pulling my hands away.

But before I can pull back completely, he catches my hands in his, pressing a soft kiss to each knuckle, setting my pulse racing. That’s enough to melt my heart. Why is he being this sweet? Is he really Onyx? Did ET get to him? I must be dreaming?

“You’ll be fine,” he says. “And no, you’re not dreaming.”

I swallow hard, cheeks flaming. “Are you…are you actually Onyx? Did ET get to you?”

“I thought you wanted a little more enthusiasm.”

“Yeah well, now it’s weird. I think I like you better as a jerk.”

“Right, lovebirds, any chance we can get on with it before she makes us her midnight snack?” Aurora chimes in, raising an eyebrow and tilting her head toward the terrifying, shrieking woman still crouched like she was about to launch at us.

I swallow hard, glancing at the creature ahead. “Okay, fine, but if I end up needing therapy after this, you’re paying.”

Damian snorts. “Therapy? What happened to that big girl knickers speech from two minutes ago?”

“Oh, shove it, Damian,” I shoot back. “Let’s see how brave you are when Voldemort’s sister has her sights set on you.”

“I’d rather not find out, thanks.” He shudders.

“We’ll handle her while you three grab that flower,” Onyx says.

“Just try not to get hexed, eaten—or whatever it is she does,” I told Onyx a hint of worry in my voice.

“Don’t worry about me, just focus on the flower. You’ll be fine,” he murmurs, pressing a soft kiss to my forehead before stepping back to join the guys.

For a moment he seems surprised just as much as I am.

I can still feel his warmth lingering on my skin as I turn around, cheeks flushed, only to find the girls staring at me with knowing smirks.

“What?” I ask, feeling my face grow even warmer.

They exchange a glance, shaking their heads innocently. “Nothing,” they chimed, though their expressions said otherwise. Before I can demand answers, Voldemort’s sister’s shriek pierces the air. The guys manage to grab her attention, and it’s already going badly—Damian is the first casualty, sent flying across the room like a rag doll and smacking into the wall with a thud.

“Oooh, that’s got to hurt.” We all cringe in unison. “So, what exactly am I meant to do here?” I whisper, eyes darting to the plant. “Just…run up and grab it, like it’s a loaf of bread?”

“Basically,” Aurora replies with a shrug, though her smile is more than a little forced. “You know…just don’t let her see you. “

“Or catch you,” Syklar adds.

“Right, of course, no pressure there,” I mutter, glancing back at the terrifying woman. “Just dart past a banshee who’s tossing men around like crumpets.”

Aurora gives me a pat on the shoulder. “Think of it as a nice little jog. Like, you’re popping down to the shop for milk, only the shop’s a death trap.”

I grimace, eyeing the flower. “Or maybe I could just shout, ‘Oi, Voldemort’s sister! Your shoe’s untied!’ and hope she falls for it?”

“If that doesn’t work, just try not to die,” Skylar says.

“Brilliant. Thanks for the pep talk,” I mutter, stealing another glance at the guys. Damian still groaning on the floor, and Ace is frantically dodging as Voldemort’s sister takes a swipe at him.

“Go on,” Skylar whispers, nudging me forward. “The quicker you grab it, the quicker we can all get out of here.”

“Right, all right,” I say, squaring my shoulders. “Time to be brave—or as close to brave as I can manage while desperately avoiding death.”

I take a steadying breath, my heart pounding loud enough to drown out the shrieks and grunts echoing around the cave. Right then—just a quick grab, no big deal. Only my dignity, sanity, and possibly life on the line. I edge closer, keeping one eye on Voldemort’s sister, who is now stalking around, her robes trailing like shadows.

“Okay, you’ve got this, Ava,” I whisper to myself, inching forward. “You’re quick, you’re clever… you’re not going to die today.”

Just as I was about to make a run for it, I heard Damian’s voice, muffled but amused from where he lay slumped against the wall. “Princess anytime you feel like grabbing that flower would be nice.”.

With one last nod from the girls mouthing, “Go, go, go!”—I take off, darting toward the platform. My boots made a soft scuff against the floor, but she hadn’t noticed me. Yet. I am halfway there, adrenaline spiking.

I finally reach the platform, the flower just inches away. It looks even stranger up close, the berries glistening unnaturally. All right, just grab it, no hesitation. My fingers reach for the stem when a hideous screech echoes behind me.

“Right, plan B!” Aruorua hisses from the sidelines, her eyes wide.

“Plan B?” I mutter in panic, yanking the flower free. “There was a plan B?”

“Run, that’s plan B!” Aurora shouts, practically bouncing in place.

Voldemort’s sister whirls around, locking her cold, soulless eyes on me. My stomach drops.

“Oh, lovely,” I squeak, sprinting back towards the others as fast as I can.

The girls are motioning wildly, urging me to keep running. “Come on, Ava! Pick up the pace!” Skylar yells.

“Not all of us have supernatural speed!” I shout but keep going, legs aching as Voldemort’s sister’s screeches get louder and louder.

Suddenly, I can’t move. My feet are stuck. Glue? Mud? No—golden sand, swirling and pulling me down. Quicksand! I let out a bitter chuckle, the irony not lost on me. If there is trouble to find, I’d be the one to bloody stumble straight into it. My eyes meet hers and I instantly regret looking back. Her eyes glint with an unsettling hunger, as she runs her tongue slowly over her lips.

“Onyx!” I squeal, flailing as Aurora and Skylar grab my arms, desperately trying to haul me free.

She’s gliding toward me—no, floating. She flies too? Seriously?! I clench my eyes shut and hold my breath. But at the last second, Aurora and Skylar give one final, desperate tug, yanking me out of the sand. Before I can catch my breath, Onyx is there, tackling her to the ground in a blur of movement. His fangs sink into her thin, sickly neck. Seconds later, he jerks back, coughing and spitting out a thick, black liquid that clings to his lips like tar.

“Onyx!” I gasp, reaching for him, but Aurora holds me back.

“No!” she whispers urgently. “She’d kill you in seconds. He’s the only one who stands a chance.”

Onyx wipes his mouth, struggling to stay upright, his face twisted with revulsion. She laughs a high, shrill cackle that grates through the cave, searing my ears. As she rises, her eyes glitter with dark delight, as a line of her black, putrid blood trickles down her neck.

“What’s wrong prince?” she sneers, her voice lilting mockingly. “Didn’t enjoy the taste? It’s... an acquired flavour.”

Onyx’s face twists in disgust, but his reply is as deadpan as ever. “So is shit,” he drawls. She let out a furious hiss, her face twisting in anger, but he just gave her a mocking grin. “Fae blood, though... Now, that tastes like honey,” he adds, running his tongue over his lips with a deliberate slowness. It is enough to make her simmer.

Her face contorts, and she lunges at him, claws swiping through the air. But he sidesteps effortlessly, his movements calm, mocking even, as he continues, “You know what’s better, though? Drinking sweet fae blood… while breaking her tender—”

Before he can finish, she shrieks in rage, launching herself at him with renewed fury. She is becoming unhinged, and he’s clearly struck a nerve, but that only makes his smirk grow wider, his stance more daring. Onyx sidesteps her next lunge, his movements smooth, almost taunting. She claws at empty air, her frustration bubbling over in a feral growl.

“Oh, come on,” he jeers, eyes flashing with that infuriating, dangerous amusement. “Is that really the best you can do? I expected a bit more from a self-proclaimed queen of darkness.”

Her eyes blazing, and with an unnatural shriek, she lunges at him again, claws extended, moving faster this time. But Onyx is just as quick, twisting out of her reach and delivering a swift kick to her side, sending her sprawling across the room.

“Looks like you got this Nyx,” Ace says from across the room with Damian and Theron nodding.

Onyx shakes his head at them.

She hisses, scrambling to her feet, her mouth curling into a wicked grin. “Mock me all you want, prince, but you forget... I’m not as fragile.”

Onyx’s smirk doesn’t waver. “Oh, I haven’t forgotten.” He cracks his knuckles, taking a casual step forward. “But I can’t say I’m impressed, either.”

She lunges again, this time faster, her arms swinging in a frenzied blur. Onyx ducks and dodges, but a quick swipe grazes his cheek, leaving a thin line of blood. He flinches slightly, but his smirk doesn’t falter.

“Looks like you finally got a hit in,” he says, wiping the blood away. “Hope you enjoyed it—because that’ll be the last.”

Her laughter hollow, her voice dripping with venom. “You underestimate me, prince. I’ve killed beings stronger than you for fun.”

Onyx laughs—a low, dark chuckle that seems to rattle the very air. “Then why don’t you show me?” he challenges, voice laced with mock sweetness. “Or are you all bark and no bite?”

She screams in fury, charging at him, her claws flashing as she slashes at him again.. He dodges her attack and, in a single fluid movement, grabs her arm and twists it behind her back, forcing her to her knees. She thrashes, but he holds firm, leaning close to her ear.

“See, there’s one thing you should know about me,” he says. “I enjoy a good fight. And I really enjoy watching the mighty fall.” He glances up at me and I know what he was thinking. I don’t know how or why but I suddenly knew the plan. With a swift, brutal movement, he flings her forward, sending her crashing into the wall. And that was my cue.

I sidestep the quicksand, making a beeline for the platform where the plant waited, all twisted and ominous. I can’t help myself—I fist-pumped the air. Yes! Victory! I snap a stem off.

Instantly, an ear-splitting scream tears through the room, freezing my blood. The shriek is so intense it blasts Onyx, Ace, Damian and Theron off their feet, sending them flying across the room like ragdolls.

“Oh, bollocks!” I gasp. I’m dead. This is it. Game over.

In true, classic me fashion, I trip over my own feet and land flat on my face. Brilliant. I slap my hands over my head, squeezing my eyes shut and bracing myself for… whatever gruesome death is hurling my way. But then the screaming stops. Silence fell, cold and heavy.

Something wet drips onto my face. I crack one eye open—and instantly wished I hadn’t. Black, thick liquid oozes down from above, landing on me with a sickening splat. I scramble back, squealing as I crash into Aurora and Skylar.

There, standing before me, was Onyx, his arm buried through her chest. His fingers wrapped around her blackened, twisted heart, still faintly pulsing as it drips that viscous, inky goo. With a swift yank, he tears his hand free, and her body crumbles to the floor with a sickening thud.

Suddenly all the flowers shrivel and curl up, dying in seconds, except for the stem clutched in my hand with its purple berries and blooming flowers.

I let out a long, shaky breath I didn’t even know I was holding. “Right… this is straight out of the bloody Brothers Grimm.”

Onyx turns to me, wiping his clawed hand, slick with that inky goo, against his trousers as if this were all business as usual. “You okay?”

“Absolutely not,” I reply, thrusting the stem at Aurora, who slips it into a clear canister and tucks it neatly into Skylar’s backpack. Because of course they’d brought along magical Tupperware. Why not?

At this point, I honestly wouldn’t blink if a unicorn pranced by covered in pink glitter, the Tooth Fairy on one side and a leprechaun on the other, lugging a pot of gold. This day had officially hit absurd levels. All the chaos, monsters, and death-defying plants? Just a normal Tuesday, apparently.

I sigh, rubbing my temples. “You know, I should’ve just joined that nunnery after all.”

Onyx raises a brow. “Somehow, Angel, I don’t think they’d have you.”

“Cheeky git,” I mutter.

---

Chapter 51: Labyrinth of No Return.

“Fresh air!” I throw my arms up. “I’d almost forgotten what it felt like to not be surrounded by death traps.”

“Don’t be so dramatic,” Onyx says.

“Dramatic? Oh, I’m being perfectly reasonable, thank you. It’s just that I quite like living.” I shoot him a glare. “Besides, not all of us have a death wish. I nearly died twice back there.”

Skylar chimed in, counting on his fingers. “Actually three times but, who’s counting?”

“Oh, cheers, mate. That makes it so much better.”

Aurora and Skylar’s laughter bubbled through the air, and I couldn’t help but crack a smile. But then… something flickered in the corner of my eye—a flash of red hair, pale skin, and a hauntingly familiar figure.

Amber?

My heart drops to my stomach, and I stumble back, breath catching. Instantly, I collide with Onyx, who wraps his arms around me, steadying me. He looks down, his expression softening with genuine concern.

“Ava?” Onyx asks gently, his voice breaking through the haze. “What’s wrong?”

“I—I thought…” My voice catches, eyes glued to the empty spot where she’d stood only moments ago. “Amber,” I whisper, barely able to say her name aloud. “I just saw A-Amber…”

A heavy silence settles over us, the laughter fading instantly. All eyes turn to me, their expressions flickering from confusion to something almost cautious.

Aurora steps closer, creasing her eyebrow. “Amber—the human from the pack?”

Ace raises an eyebrow. “You mean the heartless chick who up and vanished?”

“Out here?” Damian mutters, glancing around. He cocks his head with a sly grin. “So… is she hot?”

Theron rolls his eyes and smacks Damian on the back of the head. “She has a hole in her chest.”

Damian just grins, unbothered. “I know.”

“Ew,” Skylar and Aurora chorused, pulling faces.

“She was right there,” I say, pointing toward the spot where I’d seen her. “I swear, she was looking at us, clear as day.”

Onyx’s hold on me tightens. “Ava,” he says firmly, his voice low. “There’s nothing there.”

But even as he says it, the shadows seem to shift, and I see her again—a pale figure, her eyes hollow, filled with something dark, something that sends chills crawling down my spine. She raises a finger, pointing directly at me, her mouth moving without a sound. Run, it seems to say.

I gasp, clutching Onyx’s arm. “Did you see that? She’s there—again!”

Immediately, everyone went on high alert, their eyes sweeping the area.

“Are you sure, Ava?” Onyx asks.

I swallow, still staring at the empty space where Amber had been. “I’m not going mad. This isn’t the first time I’ve seen her.” My voice came out in a shaky whisper. “She was… she looked like she was warning me.”

Onyx didn’t take his eyes off me, his gaze sharp and unwavering. “Take a walk,” he says, his voice low and controlled.

With a flash of motion, Ace and Theron vanish into the trees, their movements a blur.

“Breathe,” Onyx says as he slides his hand under my shirt, rubbing my back soothingly. Remarkably his touch is doing the trick. “If she’s out here, we’ll find her.”

“I know what I saw, and it’s her.”

He nods, keeping his hand on my back, his touch steady and grounding. I feel a lot calmer and less afraid. It’s as if he is taking away my fear.

“I don’t understand,” Aurora says. “Why have I never heard of anything like this?”

“Dark magic,” Skylar murmurs. “It’s… unpredictable. It bends the rules of life and death and twists them into something unrecognizable. Sometimes, it can tether a soul to this world when they should’ve crossed over.”

Aurora’s eyebrows furrow. “But I’ve studied dark magic. Nothing I’ve read mentions spirits lingering like this. Is she stuck here, like some cursed ghost story?”

“It’s not that simple,” Skylar replies.

I swallow hard. “Could this be the hunters’ doing?”

Onyx shakes his head. “No. This is different.”

“Different how?” I press on, my heart racing. Part of me dreads the answer.

“When I killed her, she was human, but she didn’t die. That’s not normal, even in the supernatural world. It’s not just dark magic; it’s something more sinister. Whoever did this wants her here, for a reason.”

A chill courses through me at his words. “What could they possibly want with her?”

“That’s what we need to figure out,” he says, his gaze locking onto mine with an intensity that makes my heart race. “And why she’s after you.”

“It’s an ambush—” Ace starts, but before he can finish, gunfire erupts through the night, piercing the silence like a barrage of fireworks with bullets whizzing past us. Skylar acts swiftly, her hands weaving a shield of shimmering energy that flares to life just in time to catch the first volley of bullets.

“Retreat to the cave!” Onyx orders.

Before I can fully process it all, Onyx scoops me up into his arms and dashes toward the cave. The world outside becomes a blur, the sound of gunfire fading slightly as we enter the dark, creepy cave. When we cross the threshold, Sirius pushes the boulder into place with a low rumble, sealing us inside the damp, eerie confines of the cave. The heavy stone thudded shut behind us, muffling the sounds from the outside and plunging us into darkness.

“Everyone all right?” Onyx asks.

“They were surrounding us,” Ace snaps, practically seething. “And I’d really love to know how they managed to know our exact route. Care to explain, Avaluna?”

It takes a second for the accusation to register, and when it does, anger flares hot and sharp in my chest. I can barely see through the darkness, but I still glare in the direction of his voice. “Wait—are you seriously suggesting my brother set us up?”

Ace scoffs, dripping with contempt. “Who else would’ve known exactly where we’d be? Face it, Avaluna. He could’ve led them right to us.”

My fists clench so tight I can feel my nails digging into my palms. “My brother wouldn’t betray me. He wouldn’t sell me out.”

“Wouldn’t he? Everyone has a price. Maybe he just found his.”

“You don’t know him like I do,” I grit out. “He’d never do this. Not to me.”

“Why didn’t we hear them approach?” Aurora asks. “No footsteps, no scent.”

“I didn’t sense any trace of magic,” Skylar adds.

“Or maybe she was in on it,” Damian says. “Was this ghost babe even real, or is this whole thing just one elaborate ruse?”

“You really think I would set this up? That we would do this?” No one answers. “Onyx? You don’t really think I made this up, or that—”

“No,” Onyx finally says, his voice breaking through the tense silence. “You’re not that good of a liar.”

Ace scoffs. “So what—you actually believe her, Nyx?”

“I know if Skylar couldn’t sense their magic, and none of us heard or smelled them coming, and Ava was tipped off by a dead female… then there’s more going on here than any of us realize.”

“Convenient, though, isn’t it?” Sirius says. “A dead female only she could see?”

“I’m not making this up.”

“Maybe not, but people do stupid things for family,” Sirius replies.

“Enough,” Onyx interjects, his tone hard.

“So, what’s the plan then, Nyx? Just ignore the fact that they knew our exact route?” Ace asks.

“The plan is to regroup and get answers before we start tearing each other apart,” Onyx snaps back. “Whoever set this up, clearly knows more about us than they should. We need to be smarter. Wiser.”

“Right. Because trusting a hunter is so wise.”

“Onyx is right,” Theron finally spoke. “None of this is adding up. We’re missing something.”

“Or not seeing the whole picture,” Aurora says. “They still have the Crystal.”

“And the dead chick?” Damian asks.

“That part is freaky,” Aurora admits. “If she tried to murder Ava why warn her about the attack? Which means either we’re being played, or we’re missing a huge part of this.”

“So what are we saying here?” Ace challenges, clearly not convinced. “That this… dead female actually wants to help us?”

“If she wants Ava dead, she had a chance. Why warn her? There’s got to be a reason,” Aurora says.

“So we’re trusting this ghost and the girl who claims her brother isn’t involved?” Sirius asks.

“I don’t care if you trust me or believe me,” I shoot back. “This isn’t my brother’s doing.”

Suddenly, a deafening explosion rips through the air, the shockwave reverberating through the cave walls like thunder. The ground shudders beneath us, the ceiling begins to tremble, and small pebbles and dirt rain down. Then, larger rocks start to fall, crashing onto the ground with bone-jarring thuds, each impact sending tremors through the cave. Dust fills the air, thick and gritty. I can feel my lungs constrict, the air sharp with the scent of crushed stone.

“Move!” Onyx growls, scooping me up in his arms. “Hang on, Ava!”

I clench my eyes shut, pressing my face into his chest as he speeds through the collapsing cave. Then, finally, he skids to a stop, and I open my eyes. My ears ring, and everything muffles as if I am underwater. We’re all covered in thick dust, coughing and gasping for air that tastes of grit and earth. I feel raw, every breath scraping against my throat.

Onyx’s arms tighten around me. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah,” I nod, coughing.

He lowers me gently, my feet touching solid ground, though I still cling to his arm, trying to steady myself. Not that he minds. The dust is thick, stinging my eyes and making it impossible to see much of anything. Not like I could in the first place. I catch a hint of something cool and damp in the air-water.

“Where are we?” I ask, my voice raspy.

“Some kind of maze,” Aurora murmurs. “There are narrow passages branching off in every direction.”

“Whatever this place is, it was built to keep people trapped,” Theron adds. “We need to keep moving.”

“We don’t know what else might be lurking in here,” Onyx says. “Keep your eyes open.”

I take a shaky breath, swallowing down the knot of unease tightening in my throat. “Brilliant. Just what we needed. A maze that smells like a wet tomb.”

Onyx scoops me back into his arms, and off we went, weaving through the maze of doom. I had no idea how long we’d been walking or where we even were, and by now I’d given up counting the twists and turns that had led us deeper into this labyrinth. Skylar has tried using her magic to get a read on the place, but the cave seemed to swallow any trace of her power, leaving us as lost as a pack of blindfolded tourists in a haunted house. So much for magic saving the day. Guess we’re doing this the old-fashioned way—getting thoroughly lost and hoping for the best. The further we got the air got thicker and damp, sticking to our skin like a clammy blanket, and the only sound was the steady echo of our footsteps bouncing off the stone.

“Anyone else noticing the delightful smell of mildew and despair?” I mutter, wrinkling my nose as we trudge along. “Honestly, if this cave were a hotel, it’d be about three stars short of a half-decent review. Charming underground labyrinth with exquisite damp patches, questionable air quality, and a constant sense of impending doom. Quite the selling points.”

“Glad to see your sense of humour is as sharp as ever,” Onyx says.

“Oh, don’t worry, it’s all I’ve got left,” I quip. “And really, who designed this place? It’s as if someone said, let’s build a massive stone maze, but make it drippy, miserable, and just confusing enough that you’ll want to hurl yourself at the walls after ten minutes.”

“Are you planning to narrate the entire way out?” Onyx asks.

“I mean, someone’s got to keep up morale. And let’s be honest, I’m only here for the witty commentary. I’m keeping us entertained and distracted from the fact that we’re all likely going to be mouldy by the time we escape this place. Besides, I’d rather go down laughing than silently brooding in the dark.”

Aurora chimes in, a faint laugh in her voice. “Well, she’s not wrong. It does feel like we’re wandering through the world’s dampest tomb.”

“I’m surprised nothing hasn’t tried to kill us or eat us,” I say.

“Careful,” Onyx warns. “The last thing we need is you tempting fate.”

“Oh, please,” I shoot back, waving a dismissive hand. “If anything wanted to eat us, it would’ve been here already. Then again we smell like a wet sock,” I add, crinkling my nose. “Which might be why nothing’s bothered showing up.”

Aurora snickers. “You do have a point. Between the damp and all this dust, we’re about as appealing as soggy breadcrumbs.”

Theron’s voice came from up ahead. “Can we maybe keep the volume down? This place echoes, and if anything is lurking, we don’t want to draw attention—”

Suddenly we hear a shrill cackling that bounces off the stone walls, filling every crevice. It was high-pitched, hollow, and tainted with something almost gleeful, like a predator toying with its prey. The sound seems to swirl around us, coming from everywhere and nowhere all at once. I freeze, every hair on the back of my neck standing up.

“What-what was that?” I swallow the lump in my throat, grateful I can’t see in the dark.

“Let’s not find out,” Onyx says as we move through the maze a lot quicker this time.

Suddenly the laughter grew louder, twisting into a distorted melody that sent a shiver down my spine. It sounded wrong—too warped, too delighted in a way that made the darkness feel even more suffocating.

“I think she’s catching up,” I say panicked.

“Theron?” Onyx calls out, his voice sharp with urgency. “Tell me you’ve got something.”

Theron pauses for a moment, then replies, his voice steady but laced with tension. “We’re close to something, but it’s hard to pinpoint. I think we’re either underwater or near a body of water, like a flooded cavern or an underground river.”

“Eden River,” I say. “It’s an underground river that flows through the mountain.” Why didn’t I think of that before?

The cackling behind us grew sharper, almost shrieking now, echoing against the walls as if mocking our attempt to escape. I swallow, my heart hammering, the darkness feeling thicker and more oppressive with each step.

“Theron!” Onyx shouts, his voice tense. “How close are we?”

“I-I shit.”

We stop.

“Why are we stopping?”

“There’s three paths,” Theron says. “One of them must lead to the river.”

“The question is,” Aurora says, “which one.”

“Well, this one looks... less like a death trap,” Ace says. “But that doesn’t mean it’s not a trick.”

“You’re not wrong,” Sirus mutters. “It’s too quiet. Like something’s waiting for us down there.”

“We don’t have the luxury of time, so we need to pick one,” Onyx says.

I swallow hard. “So, we just flip a coin? Heads, we get eaten first. Tails, we drown.”

“The path on the left... feels... colder,” Skylar says.

“The middle one... there’s something off about it,” Theron says. “But it feels... almost normal compared to the others. It’s not too cold, not too silent.”

“We don’t have much of a choice,” Onyx says, his voice tight. “Left it is.”

I raise an eyebrow but don’t argue. “Cold and creepy it is, then. I’m sure it’ll be just delightful.”

As we begin down the left path, the temperature seems to drop even more, and the air grows heavier, like we are walking through water instead of stone. I can’t shake the feeling that we are being watched, but there is no turning back now.

“What happens if we choose the wrong path?” I ask.

“Then we deal with it.”

“You mean a showdown with the creepy banshee from hell?”

“Yes.”

“You think it could be another one of those things?”

“We can only hope,” he replies.

“What’s worse than her?”

“Trust me, you don’t want to know.”

We round a bend, and the darkness ahead seems to shift. Suddenly, I can see it—a faint glow in the distance. Light, actual light, piercing through the gloom like a promise of something better.

“You were right,” I say, more out of relief than anything else. “There’s light.”

“I know.” His voice is full of that infuriating smugness. I can’t see his face. But I can feel his smirk. I roll my eyes.

The air seems to lighten as we approach, the chill of the cave giving way to something warmer. As we push forward, the narrow passage widens into another cavern, and the glow grows brighter, revealing a large, still pool of water at the centre. The water is dark, almost black, with a slight sheen from the reflected light above. The walls of the cave are slick with moisture, and stalactites hang down like teeth, ready to drip at any moment.

“I guess that’s our way out,” I say inching to the waterhole.

“Seems like it,” Onyx says.

“Look at this,” Aurora says staring at the wall. “There are some strange markings on the wall. “I’ve seen this before…. In those scrolls from the library. It’s an ancient language known only to the Gods.”

“Gods?” I crinkle my eyebrows. “Like Zeus and Athena?”

“Not mythical Gods. The real Gods, the ones that created it all.”

“Can you read it?” Theron asks.

“I can try but I would need more time to decipher it,” Aurora answers. “This right here, she points to a strange symbol, “I’ve seen it a lot in the scrolls. Astra. He was some kind of overseer created by the Gods to maintain balance and order in the realms. But he was corrupted.”

“And why do we care?” Ace asks. “Shouldn’t we be, I don’t know getting the hell out of here?”

“He wanted to rule all realms,” Skylar says. “But then the Aeromora which translates to Crystal in modern English tongue, imprisoned him. Now let’s get out of here.”

“Sounds a lot like those stories your grandmother used to tell us Nyx,” Ace says.

“What stories?” I ask curiously.

“They’re just tales spun to scare children to sleep,” Onyx says moving over to the water hole.

Suddenly, Onyx freezes mid-step, his body stiffening as his eyes dart toward the tunnel entrance. One by one, the others followed his gaze. I turn, my heart leaping into my throat. From the darkness of the tunnel, a shape slowly emerges, slithering forward like a nightmare come to life. A dark, monstrous figure, its limbs unnaturally long and contorted, scraping against the rocky floor with a grotesque, bone-chilling sound. The way it moves is horrifying, like a spider but larger with purplish skin. A low, guttural growl emanates from deep within the monster’s throat. Its eyes—if it has any—are impossible to see, hidden in the shadowy recesses of its misshapen face, but I can feel it watching us, tracking our every move with chilling precision.

I swallow hard, my pulse racing as the horror. “What the bloody hell is that?” I whisper, barely able to speak.

Onyx’s voice was a low growl, his eyes narrowing, his body tense with readiness. “I don’t know, but I don’t plan on sticking around to find out. In the hole now!”

He didn’t need to tell me twice. My heart is in my throat as the sound of the monster’s claws scraping the stone grows louder. I didn’t think, I just reacted. I dive headfirst into the waterhole.

The cold water hits me like a punch to the gut, shocking the air from my lungs as I plunge under. I kick my legs hard, pushing myself deeper, my chest tightening as I swim toward the surface, desperate to get some air. Finally, I break the surface, gasping, my lungs burning for air as I stare up into the sky. The water feels like ice against my skin, but it is a relief compared to what was in the tunnel. I swim towards land and collapse onto the ground.

“I need a vacation.”

---

Chapter 52: When Pride Falls, Love Speaks.