As if sensing our arrival, the two of them looked over their shoulders. Neither of them said anything at first as we approached, but they both grimaced when their gazes landed on my face.
"Who made Sia cry?" Liam asked.
"And please don't say it was Alexander or I'll go up there and kick his ass," Brian grumbled.
"It's nothing." I gave them a smile. "I'm just tired. Can we go home?" My pleading voice was what helped us avoid a chaotic situation. I knew they would want to figure out what could have made me shed tears, but I was exhausted and simply wanted to be around the three of them.
Liam glanced over to Brian, the two of them sharing a look before Brian sighed. "Since your temporary apartment doesn't have a bed that can fit the four of us, why don't we head downtown? There's an exclusive shifter hotel with the perfect suite."
"Isn't it dangerous?" I asked.
"Nah. They have top security. If we call ahead, I'm sure they'll double their staff. Nick and Jaiyana would meet us there and make sure everything goes smoothly as well," Liam explained.
Pix moved to stand next to them. "And I can use a spell to teleport Saturn and Rin back to the pack base. Your dad is still around. He'd easily take care of them if they do need some TLC while we're out tonight. Nothing to worry about."
"Do we need to go out for dinner?" I asked, not really in the mood to dress up and attempt to act happy. The three of them shook their heads.
"I heard the hotel has some amazing room service food," Liam noted.
"And we can always get the best chefs of NYC to come over to cater to us," Brian added.
"I'm sure anyone will be happy to serve four billionaires in our luxurious penthouse suite." Pix added with a grin. "And we’ll enjoy some whipped cream for dessert."
Liam and Brian grinned, catching on to what Pix was implying. "You really are dangerous," the two of them announced.
"I'll take that as a compliment." Pix winked. The three looked at me and I grinned, feeling a little better.
"That sounds...nice. Let's go with that," I replied. Liam walked over to give me a kiss, followed by Brian. Taking my hands, we headed for the exit, but I couldn't help looking over my shoulder, wondering if Alexander really hadn't come down.
The area was still empty and both elevators were still on the bottom floor. Who am I kidding?
Turning my head back to face forward, we headed out of the apartment and towards the TESLA X7 SUV that was wrapped in gold.
"Whose car is this?" I asked, looking between Brian and Liam. I didn't remember either of them buying a new car.
"It's Pixel's," they replied, and I looked to Pix, who shrugged. "I like shiny things."
They helped me into the car and I relaxed in my man sandwich while Pix moved to sit in the passenger seat, explaining to his driver where he wanted to go.
I took one more glance at the building and made a silent vow.
It's time for me to move on. There's no more room for heartbreak. No more room for Alexander.
10
Unworthy To Love
~ALEXANDER~
* * *
Shit. Shit. Shit.
I stared at the door, unsure whether I was angry at Pix or myself. My instinct told me to move, to take that step and race after them, and yet here I was. My wolf looked peeved, but he remained in his place. I felt bad for him. He wasn't like the coward I was, but far too many times he'd tried to push me to do something and I always did the opposite.
His anger wasn't directed to Pixel but was solely on me. He'd tell me to go through that door and claim what I wanted.
What I desperately yearn to have back in my life.
I didn't know when I'd become this way. To see something I wanted and allow it to fall through my grasp over and over again. Maybe I’d always been like this, but with Anastasia in my life, I never needed to see that obvious flaw.
She was my shield that protected me from the multiple stabs my family would dash at me, but with her absence, I had nothing to block the blows. That’s where I fucked up.
I was so easily influenced, wanting to please everyone at once. It wasn't until the quiet moments before bed that I realized what I'd done over and over again, and realized how much I hated the situation I was living in.
I miss Sia.
My heart wished for her to be back. Craved to arrive home and fight her hands that wouldn't let go of her blanket. I wanted to see those sleepy eyes lock on mine and to cuddle her in my arms for a few more minutes. Those luscious lips of hers, so smooth and full of love, would press against mine and ignite a speck of courage inside me.
I missed our talks, and the warming advice she'd give me whenever my family tried to get what they wanted. I'd fucked up over and over again, and now this felt like my last shot.
Yet I remained in place. Like a statue, unable to move toward what I’d envisioned countless times. Just one more chance to tell her how I really feel.
"You're just going to let her slip away?" I looked over to Annie, who crossed her arms over her chest. "They think we slept together!"
"No, they don't," I argued.
My wolf howled and shook his head, retreating to his corner with his back toward my line of vision. That was his way to say I was a blind asshole and he didn't want to be a part of my decision making.
"Are you stupid?" Annie stared at me like I was literally an idiot. "Why are you standing there? Go after her. This isn't some soap opera!"
"Why are you screaming at me? And why the hell were you naked?! You're telling me they think we're sleeping together, but I showed no indication that we had."
"I didn't realize I was naked! You let my wolf in because the town was all dangerous and there were wolf shifters tracking us submissive wolves down. I went straight to sleep in the spare room and woke up back in my human form. I forgot I didn't come with spare clothes," she argued. "And I'm screaming because you're a fucking idiot. You've been moping every single time we've been hanging out because of your silly power-hungry parents, and all you've been thinking about is Sia and how you fucked up!"
"I haven't been moping."
"Do you need a mirror, so you can see how you look right now?"
"Anni-"
"Alexander. If you lose Sia, do not come back and blame me for it. I may be a submissive and everyone loves to walk over me, but I'm a woman and I would have lost interest in you long ago if I was in Sia's shoes."
"You...don't know shit."
"Oh, really?!" she snapped, moving up to stand in front of me. This was the first time I'd ever seen her mad, leaving me slightly confused as I looked down at her. She poked my chest with her finger.
"You know what I saw that night when Sia's wolf went after Nicole and almost killed her? I saw a woman who had enough of what the world had piled on her. I saw a woman who was scared shitless and had to rely on the darker parts of her soul to get her away from that fear. You’ve known her the longest, Alexander. You know every bit about her and yet you let three other guys enter her life."
"It's not like that's my decision or fault!"
"I'm not saying it's your fault! I'm saying open your eyes and see the damn difference. Three men who are different from one another are willing to set their differences aside and love ONE woman. YOUR Sia that you've loved for years. Instead of standing your ground and solidifying that love, you let it flicker and now it's on the edge of extinction. Couldn't you see Sia was on the verge of tears? She still fucking loves you!"
"She..." I trailed off, unable to deny that true fact. I’d known Sia long enough. She'd pretend like everything was okay until she was alone. Then she'd break down and cry over what hurt her.
"She loves you, Alexander. I'm no damn psychic, but I'm sure you still love her too."
"Annie, I c-"
"What? Can't go against your parent's wishes? Don't want to make them mad and pick a fight with our pack? Are you really going to be fooled by your parents? They don't know what Sia is! They think she's some vulnerable succu
bus who got lucky in becoming a self-made billionaire who is only out for your money or whatever. Why are you falling for their games? Jeez, you're not even a submissive wolf like me, but you sure act like one."
Annie sighed and moved away. "Do what you want. If you're really going to let your parents dictate your life, go right ahead. They can't protect us from these crazy packs who are trying to start a war with Brian's family. Your parents say they'll keep us safe, but remember, we're not part of their pack. We're a part of Brian's, and if shit goes down, they won't provide any of us protection. Especially when they find out Sia's now engaged to Brian."
She walked to the hallway but stopped.
"And honestly. If you're going to be a coward, I wouldn't want to marry you. Even if it's by force. I don't get a say in my life. It was only thanks to Brian that I get to walk freely around town without someone treating me like a slave. If you can't fight for what you want, there's no way you'd be able to fight back if someone wanted to take me from you or the pack. Figure out what you want, Alexander. Or you may just let the enemy take everything you care about away from you."
The sound of the door slamming shut was what reminded me to breathe. My eyes looked to the door, remembering the hurt in Sia's eyes that went from silver back to their vivid purple.
Fuck.
Putting on a pair of pants, a grey t-shirt, and snatching my phone, I raced out the door and took the stairs, knowing I'd have a better chance of catching up. I reached the lobby, out of breath as I looked around to see it was empty. Running out the rotating doors, I looked around and caught the glimpse of a gold car turning out of sight.
I missed them.
Biting my lip hard, I took a step forward, trying to make the brave decision to chase after them. To chase after what I want.
The vibration of my phone caught my attention and I looked at the screen and frowned.
Don't pick it up.
My wolf hated my parents. It was intriguing that we could be so opposite, yet he was my wolf. Or maybe he’s the better representation of what I want to be.
Going against his advice once again, I slid my finger across the screen. "Hello, Mom."
"Took you long enough to answer. Were you and Annie busy or something?"
I cringed at the question. "No."
My mom dramatically sighed. "Sweetie. You really need to start moving things along with Annie. We don't have time to dilly-dally anymore. Now that the succubus is out of the way, you two can move in together and live happily ev-"
"Do you even care about how I feel?" I snapped. Didn't she realize I’d had enough of all of this? Tired of ignoring my true feelings. My happiness.
"How you feel?" Mother mocked. "What is there to care about? We raised you, gave you a good start and foundation, and now it's time for you to return the favor. You already know the tension between Annie's family pack and Brian's. At least if Annie marries you, they'll feel one step up for taking Brian's beta."
"You're literally just using me as a pawn in this stupid war happening with you adults," I argued. "Leave us younger generation out of it."
"Alexander." Mother's voice was cold. "You and the younger generation don't see the bigger picture to all of this and your little crush isn't going to help build our odds. You can keep acting like a fool but following our advice for once will give you a far happier ending than the years you've wasted with that slut."
"Sia is NOT a slut, Mom," I growled.
"Tame that anger of yours, son, or I'll cut you off right now," Mother countered.
My wolf was up and without a missed beat, took full control. "Go ahead."
She was silent for a few seconds. "Go back to your corner, wolf."
"Or what? You really aren't ashamed of what you've become. Greed. Power. Fame. That's all your shifters care about. That's what makes you old and downright pitiful. I'm tired of being ignored and I'm not going to be the quiet fool who lets Alexander fall for your games. You really think him marrying Annie is going to stop those experimental wolves from coming after her family's pack? All she is, is bait. The moment they get to her, they'll go after us and anyone else who's a threat to their mission. You and Dad fight your own war. We have better things to do."
My wolf didn't pull back until he slammed his finger on the END button. I took a deep inhale as I pinched my nose. You didn't just do that.
Grow a pair.
He moved back to his usual corner, curled up in a ball, and completely ignored me.
I can't believe this. My phone began to vibrate again, my mother's name on the screen, but my wolf lifted his head to glare at me.
I'll abandon you if you dare answer.
Sliding my phone in my pocket, I rolled my eyes at him. You can't ditch me. That's an empty threat.
His gold eyes narrowed at me.
I can't ditch you, but I'll never let you shift again. Let's see how long you last when you can't shift.
I shut right up. From the look in his eyes, he wasn't kidding around. I had enough to deal with today. Glancing back in the direction I'd seen the gold car, I cursed under my breath.
"How the fuck am I going to fix this?" I whispered in defeat.
I doubt they were going back to the pack site, especially when they took Pix's fancy car.
Wait till Sia has wolf training. Confront her then.
My wolf must have felt pity for me to give me an extra helping hand. It did sound like a good plan, and if I remembered correctly, Annie said she'd be having her wolf session with Sia under Brian's guidance.
My phone began to vibrate again and I pulled it out, only to end the call. My eyes lingered on the picture of me and Sia; her purple eyes were bright just like her brilliant smile. I gripped the phone hard, trying my best not to break down.
I have to fight for her. Even if I'm unworthy of her love, I need to try. Just one more time.
11
His Love Is Not Mine To Obtain
~SIA~
* * *
My paws pushed off the cool ground, aiding in my swift speed. The adrenaline running through my body was exhilarating, while the multiple scents around me left me curious as to where else I wanted to explore.
I began to slow down, my eyes catching a glimpse of sparkling water that seemed to twinkle from the moonlight. It was enough of a distraction to grasp my interest, walking over to inspect it closely.
My exhales were labored but in a good way. I had plenty of energy to run all night if I had to, but the serenity of the tiny pool of water was my current obsession. I dipped my nose just lightly into the cool water, ruffling my fur by shaking my entire body.
I hadn't dipped my whole body in the water, but it felt like it from the tiny touch. I sat down near it, my wolf mind still wanting to appreciate the calm beauty.
A set of approaching steps caught my attention, my ears twitching to get a better grasp of the sound. The scent that rode through the passing breeze was familiar, making me begin to pant in excitement at the approaching wolf.
Soon enough, my mate was running out of the woods, slowing down when his vibrant gold eyes landed on me.
"Woof!" I barked and rubbed my face with my paw.
Brian.
He waltzed over to me, immediately pressing his furry head against mine as we greeted one another through touch.
Since I hadn't had any opportunities to shift, we’d decided tonight was going to be aimed at testing what I could and couldn't do. Annie would be here soon, which I knew would sour my mood.
Better enjoy this alone time before I have to deal with her.
It wasn't like I was necessarily upset with her. I guess I could say she was a victim like Alexander. I didn't know the story, nor did I want to. Whether she wanted to marry Alexander or not, it wasn't my business anymore.
After leaving Alexander's place two days ago, I'd spent the night and yesterday with my men. My lovable fiancés.
We had the best room service experience, followed up with a couple of glasses of wine, and p
ut that new can of whipped cream to work.
I wondered if it was unhealthy to drown your sorrow with sex, At least it was a pleasurable reminder that I wasn't a loner. It also showed that I really had a commitment issue. Even if I kept trying to convince myself that I didn't love Alexander anymore, it still nagged at my brain.
Nevertheless, the guys all reminded me that it would take time for me to move on and I shouldn't stress about it. They had a point, and I was sure that a year from now, I wouldn't worry about Alexander anymore.
Brian nipped at my neck before shaking out his fur coat as he stretched. Facing the little pool of water, he sat down and I moved to snuggle next to him.
We didn't talk much in our wolf forms. It was really relaxing actually. Words didn't need to be exchanged for us to understand one another. It was like we were telepathic, using our emotions to guide us through the forest and serve as our basis of communication.
The mate bond between us was powerful, giving me a lot of comfort in this form. If Brian needed to give me learning advice, he'd speak through the pack bond, directing the communication to remain between us.
The pack bond was another weird thing I was trying to get used to. When I was in human form, it simply felt like Brian was talking into my head like Liam. There was an occasional feeling here and there, but nothing too intense.
When in wolf form, the pack bond seemed to expand. I could feel a bit of the other wolves in Brian's pack, some I hadn't yet met which felt really faint in general, along with Annie, Lilith, and even Alexander.
I'd gotten the hang of ignoring it, but it was always cool to feel Brian's emotions. It was as though the both of us were open books and it felt wonderful. When I'd originally thought about it, I had been a little hesitant.
I didn't want to be deemed as vulnerable or even weak. Brian had helped ease my worries, allowing me to experience how he currently felt. His outer attitude was far different from how he really felt about things.
SEDUCE MY LOVE Page 12