*** Later, I stride into Axton’s lavish study, a blend of ancient elegance and modern chic, where he’s seated, surrounded by a myriad of ancient texts and digital screens—his way of keeping a foot in both worlds. He looks up, one eyebrow arching in mild surprise as I close the door behind me with a
Verena When Axton said a High Priestess would be visiting me today, I expected an older woman. Gray hair, wearing black robes, a permanent scowl on her face. I expected her to be strict, training me until I could no longer stand. To be honest, I pictured McGonagall from Harry Potter. So why is the
As Kris and I sink deeper into the plush cushions of the sunroom, the afternoon light casts a warm glow over the array of mystical paraphernalia she’s brought along. From crystals that shimmer with hidden depths to jars of herbs that smell like a wild forest, each item seems to pulse with an unseen
Niklaus The hum of the jet’s engines still echoes in my ears as I step out onto the tarmac, but it’s quickly drowned out by the sight that greets me. There she is—Verena, standing just beyond the restricted area, her smile as bright as the midday sun. Her eyes light up when she sees me and it’s a
The drive to the restaurant is filled with light conversation, laughter, and an ease that speaks of the deep connection we share. Once seated in the cozy, dimly lit corner I had reserved, we order our food, but it’s clear that neither of us is particularly focused on eating. “So, tell me everything
Verena chuckles, and I can picture her shaking her head. “You’re laying it on thick tonight, Niklaus. What’s got you in such a good mood?” “Just being with you does it,” I confess, letting my sincerity bleed through the flirtation. “Makes me realize how much I miss you when you’re not around.” The
Verena The sunlight streams through the large windows of the sunroom, casting warm patterns on the floor where Kris and I sit, our tea cups sending up little wisps of steam. We’ve just wrapped up another grueling training session, and while my muscles ache, my mind is buzzing with an insatiable nee
The resolve in her words bolsters my spirits. “I want to be ready. I won’t let him harm anyone I love.” Kris reaches over, squeezing my hand. “And you won’t be alone in this fight. You have Axton, you have me, and apparently, you have an incredibly handsome Alpha werewolf who is besotted with you.”