Lily’s POVI walked a while with Clara before we arrived at the garden again. Clara’s excitement over showing me her father was admirable. Shawn and I were like this a lot of times too.“We should see him soon.” She smiled. I smiled back. “Have you been out here in the garden before now?” She asked.“Yes, I have. I recently walked the grounds.” I replied holding my basket in hand.“Then you must have seen my father.” She squealed excitedly.“I guess I have,” I responded. She laughed and walked a bit faster. I could see my younger self in her, but I had to make a promise to myself.I had to stay strong so I could leave this place in one piece and make a comeback. I had to avenge my parent's death, I also had to avenge the death of every member of the Silver Shade pack.“We are here,” Clara announced as she hurried off towards a lone path. Her black curly ponytail bounced to her movements.I embarked on another stroll around the now somewhat familiar garden. We passed that nice spot with

Marcus’s POVI wanted to give her a good response, but I stopped myself. “This is my mansion, so I can do whatever I like and you have no other choice than to obey me,” I replied with an icy tone.“Great! I am seated, what next?” She asked, her voice dripping with disdain.“You eat,” I instructed.I had tried to eat without her, but her stomach kept making little sounds that could not escape my ears.my wolf made sure of it.She sat down quietly as though she was not hungry and with composure began serving herself some food. After dishing out what she wanted, she picked up her spoon and stared at me for a few seconds as though considering her options before finally eating.I sighed in relief. She had barely eaten in days since she had arrived in Mistwood Creek. I made a silent promise to myself to abolish quite several rules binding the slaves to their masters.“You should prepare yourself in the morning.” I began and she slowed down her eating. “Clothes would be waiting for you in yo

Marcus’s POVWe galloped around the four corners of Crimson Valley and made my markings around the borders so anyone coming into Crimson Valley would know they were trading my grounds.Once we were done, I came down from the horse and taking a stance, I howled loudly it almost sounded like a roar.This solidified my claims on Crimson Valley. I climbed back on the horse and strode back to where my men stood.“Should we check on her now or we should head back to Mistwood Creek,” Winston asked.I brought her here so she could visit her home and check if her brother made it out. Part of me wanted to leave her behind, but my innermost desire wanted her with me.“We would stop by the village,” I said to all my men. They nodded and we steered our horses in the direction of the village.If she wanted to come back with me, then she would be waiting for me, but if not, then I would turn my back like she never existed.I kicked my horse and it quickened its pace. I went farther ahead of my men

Lily's POV The day of the banquet had finally arrived. The halls were set, drinks were brought and music and performers were already present and doing what was meant for them.It was a big event that demanded a lot of attention from everyone because even Marcus was nowhere to be seen. Or was he avoiding me?Early in the morning, I heard a knock on my door. I hurried out of bed to check who it was. I unlocked the door and Clara stepped in.“I heard you would be serving with us tonight so I hastened over here. I hope you do not mind?” She asked, wearing her usual bright smile.“That was so thoughtful of you Clara,” I replied, truly grateful for her thoughtfulness.“Who would you be serving?” She asked as she settled into my bed.“Lord Darkwood’s table,” I replied unenthusiastically. “Are you the one serving Marcus?” I asked curiously.“I wish. I will be serving Queen Laurent.” She replied.That would make reaching the royal table easier. No one would suspect a thing. I had to make sure

Marcus’s POV Coming down from my chambers, I was shocked to see Lily in the company of Leila Darkwood.I cursed lightly under my breath. Winston would have ensured she was given to anyone but the Darkwoods.I had to make sure she was released from them. She could serve anybody but them. I tried to ignore their presence, but not until Leila called out.“Marcus.”I stopped and looked in her direction. “Leila Darkwood, welcome to Mistwood Creek,” I said in response to her.I watched as Leila walked towards me, leaving Lily behind. I looked over at her before I noticed her walking away.“How have you been Marcus?” Leila asked, walking up to me in slow steps.Leila Darkwood was a beautiful lady with nice curves and an attractive appearance. Although most times, she is dressed as though she is Maleficent. And her heart is as dark as her father's heart.“I have been well Leila. You should be at the banquet hall.” I replied with an air of indifference.“What the hell Marcus? I wanted to talk