I walked through the towering business district the next day. I felt the weight of scrutinizing eyes—whispers, accusations, and subtle attempts to sabotage me. The reason? Olivia already spread lies towards me after what I did to her yesterday.

I sighed. It seems the defamation she did in my previous life became fast this time. And it still happens…

Tessa’s familiar, sickly-sweet voice drifted from a nearby establishment. She was there with some group of her friends.

“I did see Celeste negotiating with some man last night,” she murmured. “Maybe she really made a collaboration with the one she was bragging about to Olivia yesterday. Her contract with the Phantom, Inc.”

“I’m sure she won’t even disclose the terms.” Bianca, Tessa’s friend, scoffed. “She’s not that good. Or maybe that was her reason for choosing Phantom, Inc. over Blackwood. We know Celeste was just favored being the only granddaughter of the owner of Darkfang. She was just favored, not her being capable.”

“Or maybe some rumors were right…” Claire, another friend of Tessa, spoke. “Celeste must have seduced her way in with the CEO of Phantom, Inc.”

“Don’t say that…” Tessa said after she glimpsed at me. She knew I was staring at her and her friends. “Celeste wasn’t like that. She’s a friend of mine and I know she isn’t like that.”

I shook my head with a sneer in my lips. The audacity from Tessa was truly funny.

“You’re so nice to Celeste, Tessa…” Bianca spoke again. “Even in college you helped her a lot to have good grades. But what you get in return, her making you look bad in Raphael’s eyes.”

“Yeah, Tessa, you’re too kind,” Claire sneered. “And a woman like Celeste would do anything for power. She knows she’s not as good as you so she will use all her resources to make sure she won’t fail her grandfather.”

I exhaled, steadying my heart.

None of what they were saying mattered.

Last night as I had a business dinner with Lucian, I already had an idea how he made the Phantom, Inc. rise in power for just five years. He was brilliant and his Mafia organization made him more powerful than ever both in the business world and underground society. I didn’t ask Lucian about the rumors on his identity, yet he informed me beforehand of me being his mate that he can’t lie to.

The thought I had with Lucian last night in the restaurant vanished as I entered the Darkfang Tower when I saw Raphael waiting for me in the lobby.

I stepped closer to him and addressed him coldly. “You wanted to talk?”

Raphael’s sharp expression softened into a charming smile. “Celeste, I know you were just pissed by Olivia so—”

“Are you dumb?” I snapped. “Are you really going to lower yourself this time just to fool me?”

Raphael looked sad. He sighed. “All I want is to keep you safe, Celeste. That’s why I’m still here making you understand. This is not just for business, but for your safety,” Raphael said smoothly. “You know how much I care, right?”

Onlookers whispered enviously. The most powerful Alpha in the business world vying for my allegiance? Any other woman would have been thrilled. But I felt nothing.

In my past life, I thought being with Raphael and Alexander made me untouchable. I fought hard, believing my intelligence and hard work would secure my place at the top. But in the end, my contracts, my empire, my wealth—it was all stolen, handed over to Tessa while I was vilified by rumors.

And the ones who swore to protect me?

They orchestrated it all.

“You are always so lucky, Celeste.” Tessa’s voice came next as she was already inside the building and approaching me and Raphael. “Born into privilege, and now you have the most influential Alpha making you his Luna. I wish I had your kind of life.”

Raphael immediately turned to comfort Tessa. “Don’t say that, Tessa. You found your mate and true love with Jacob Harrington. You and Celeste are both lucky. And even if you’re married, I'll always be your confidant. Me and Alexander.”

I clenched my fists.

Not once had he ever made such promises to me with that tone. I faked a cough to disturb them. And when Raphael turned back to me, his voice was laced with fake guilt. “Celeste, you know I only care for Tessa because she’s your friend. I care for her and mostly I care for you.”

“Of course, I believe that,” I said in all the sarcastic tone I could muster.

Raphael smirked, as if I were a child he already thought of being fooled. “Come on, let’s celebrate our friendship. I will treat you both for lunch.”

I nodded even though I didn't want to. One last time with these two traitors and then I would soon leave behind. I messaged Lucian next, I informed him of my plan going with Raphael and Tessa.

At the parking lot, Raphael rushed to put Tessa in the front passenger seat.

Tessa perfect her hesitation. “But isn’t that seat supposed for Celeste?”

Raphael smirked. “She won’t mind.”

They only realized I hadn’t entered the car when the engines roared to life. Tessa rolled down her window, confused.

I smiled icily. “You can go. I’ll drive myself.” I headed to my car.

Tessa and Raphael looked surprised by my indifference, but they let me go. Yesterday it was Alexander disturbing me, now Raphael and Tessa.

As I drove, memories I had with Raphael and Alexander resurfaced. We had once been partners in business, inseparable. They had pursued me, claiming I was their equal. But after my parents died, I had only my grandfather left.

Tessa, an Omega and once an orphan, became my friend. I didn’t know why she despised me to the point of seducing the two childhood friends of mine and had turned them against me. I had funded Tessa’s rise, paid for her investments with her now husband’s company, and vouched for her in the industry. I even thought that she was honestly in love with Jacob Harrington.

“Where are you?” Natalie asked as she answered my call. “The front desk personnel said she saw you going out with Tessa and Raphael.”

“Don’t worry, Nat. I just want them to think they could still fool me.” I giggled. “Anyway, I called for you to entertain Alpha Lucian Sanguine of Phantom, Inc. Please tell him to wait for me. I—”

“I’m already here,” Lucian said as he obviously took Natalie’s phone. “And one thing I hate the most… you doing actions that could put you in danger.”

“I’m fine…” I rolled my eyes.

“No, you’re not. You are only fine as long as you’re beside me. Don’t ever forget that, my Luna.”

The air inside the high-end restaurant was thick with tension. I sat across from Raphael and Tessa, watching their every move. They still thought they could manipulate me. I, however, was no longer the innocent girl they once deceived.

Raphael leaned back in his chair, his usual charismatic smile in place. "Celeste, I hope you understand that what happened yesterday was just a misunderstanding. Olivia overreacted, and I was hoping we could still work together."

Tessa sighed dramatically, playing the role of a concerned friend. "Yes, Celeste. You’ve always been so strong, but sometimes it’s okay to rely on those who truly care about you."

I sipped my wine slowly, letting their words hang in the air.

Truly care about me? Like how you cared when you took everything from me in my past life? Like how you plotted my death?

I thought bitterly. Yet, instead, I gave them a cool smile and leaned in slightly. "Yeah… I suppose I was a bit harsh yesterday. Maybe I overreacted, too."

Raphael's eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he nodded. "Exactly. I always knew you were rational, Celeste. This business deal is important not just for us but for you, too. You have the chance to align with the strongest pack in the business world. You wouldn’t want to pass up such an opportunity, would you?"

Tessa reached out, her fingers lightly grazing my hand in what she likely thought was a reassuring gesture. "Celeste, you know I always have your back. Raphael and I just want what’s best for you. If we all work together, no one can stand in our way. And Alexander? He is worrying as well after he had talked to you yesterday. He called me instantly and told me to make sure you’re fine. He is worrying. We all are. And the Phantom, Inc. collaboration you are planning? That’s dangerous."

I secretly smiled. What Tessa said was truly a joke on her part. She, the wife of Jacob Harrington, has a time to nosy on my business with my grandfather’s company.

“I never thought that you could insert me and my concern with your busy life, Tessa. You are so concerned with me, huh?”

“Of course!” Tessa held one of my hands and pressed. “You are the one I always admired from the start. You know how I was grateful for being a friend of someone with Alpha blood like you, Raphael, and Alexander.”

“Yes, I know that. And thanks for showing me ‘all’ of your admiration towards me.”

I emphasized the word ‘all’ because I mean it. Yes, Tessa was right. She truly admired me, Raphael, and Alexander. She also admired my friendship towards the two. She admired me so much and her admiration turned to envy.

“I may be married right now but I’m so happy I have this moment with the two of you. How I wish Alexander was here with us, too. I should video call him!” Tessa excitedly said and started to call Alexander.

I kept my expression neutral, swirling my wine glass as if I were contemplating Tessa’s excitement and words. I let a few moments of silence pass before I sighed, playing the part of someone considering their offer.

"You both make good points," I said smoothly and I saw the flicker of hope light up in their eyes. "If I were to reconsider, what exactly are you proposing for the next project of Darkfang Industries, Raphael?"

Raphael leaned forward, his confidence growing. He pursed his lips and shrugged. "A partnership, Celeste. It has already been discussed with the board a week ago. You align with Blackmoon Enterprises in the designs of the new buildings rising in the north. We ensure your company flourishes beyond anything your grandfather could have imagined. And, of course, Darkfang and Blackmoon being partnered will make our companies stronger than ever." He flashed a knowing smile. "With me by your side to guide, you’d never have to worry about unfinished projects."

"Woah… Unfinished projects?" I tilted my head, feigning curiosity. “Darkfang never had unfinished projects. Why do you have that thought, Raphael?”

Tessa interjected smoothly. "From experience of other companies that Blackmoon helped, of course. You know how the business world and economy are. One moment you are on the top. Next, some company took your place."

I pretended to consider their words, my fingers tapping idly against the table. "You’re right, Tessa. I should rely on those possibilities and probable outcomes. And that’s why I’ve decided to move forward with Phantom, Inc."

The atmosphere shifted instantly. Raphael stiffened. "Celeste, you can’t be serious. That company is dangerous,” he growled in a whisper at me. “Lucian Sanguine isn’t someone to trust. He’s working with the mafia."

“And so?” I raised an eyebrow. "And about trust? Who are you suggesting is trustworthy? You?"

“We’ve known each other since we were three years old. We grew together!” he growled.

Tessa touched Raphael’s arm gently, calming him down. "We just want what’s best for you, Celeste. That’s all."

“Okay…” I yawned.

“I hope you stop whatever nonsense you are doing, Celeste!” Raphael exclaimed.

I laughed softly next, shaking my head. "You and Alexander always know how to twist the truth to suit your narrative, Raphael. But I’m done playing your game." I looked at Tessa and sneered at her. I stood up, grabbing my purse. "Enjoy your meal with the man you truly wanted to marry, Tessa. I have more important business to attend to."

Tessa gasped and stood up, too. She followed me and tried to stop me from leaving the restaurant. “Celeste, whatever you are thinking between me and Raphael isn’t true. We are just close because of you. We—”

“Enough, Tessa,” I nonchalantly stated and continued walking away. My heart pounded—not from fear, but from triumph.

Tessa held my arm to stop me going away, but as I saw Lucian’s car parked and waiting for me. I smiled in amazement.

“Let me go, Tessa.” I pulled my arm from her. “My Alpha mate won’t like the idea of you and Raphael stopping me from going to him.”

“Your Alpha mate?” Tessa asked in her confused tone.

“Yes, Lucian Sanguine is my true Alpha mate, Tessa. Tell that to Raphael and Alexander,” I proudly stated. “And remember that Lucian’s not just an Alpha, Tessa. He’s a ruthless Mafia King. He’s just an Alpha in our circle but he’s the King in the underground society. Like how Raphael described him… he’s dangerous. He truly is.”

“Luna Celeste.” Marcus—Lucian’s Beta—approached me and Tessa. “Alpha Lucian’s waiting.”

“See?” I taunted Tessa and looked at the black car waiting for me. The door opened and Lucian stepped out coming to me.

He towered me and Tessa. The latter was gaping at Lucian. Her eyes obviously feast on Lucian’s handsome and menacing aura.

"Let’s go, Celeste,” Lucian said, his voice smooth yet commanding. “We can’t be late.”

“Late?” I frowned.

“To find you the perfect ring, my dear Luna.”

Tessa’s mouth hung open, her eyes wide with disbelief. I almost laughed at how quickly her mask of fake concern crumbled. But I had no time to gloat. Lucian stood before me, his presence dominating, his silver-gray eyes locked onto mine with an intensity that made my heart race.

“To find the perfect ring,” I repeated, still processing his words. “You’re serious?”

His lips curved into a slow, confident smile. “Deadly.”

I swallowed hard, fighting the warmth spreading through my chest. “We barely know each other.”

His gaze softened, his fingers lightly brushing my cheek. “Our souls know each other. That’s enough for me.”

My breath hitched. Damn him. He was good—too good. I needed to regain control. “I don’t believe in fate,” I said, forcing steel into my voice.

“Then believe in me,” he countered, his voice dropping to a low rumble. “I’ll show you that I’m worth it.”

I hated how much I wanted to believe him. I hated how his words wrapped around my heart, squeezing in a way that felt dangerously close to hope. But I couldn’t fall for this. Not again. Not after Raphael and Alexander. I couldn’t be sure of him. I couldn’t be sure in this second life.

“But…” I pulled back, my voice cold. “I’m not looking for some romance, Lucian. I’m happy on my own.”

His smile didn’t waver. “You want me. I know you proudly told Tessa about me.”

My cheeks burned. “I was just pissing her off. Just some threats for her to stop following and fooling me.”

He chuckled, his eyes gleaming with amusement. “That’s cute.” He extended his hand, his expression turning serious. “Let’s go, Celeste.”

I stared at his outstretched hand, my heart pounding. I could walk away. I could turn my back on him and continue fighting alone, just as I had planned. But the pull between us was undeniable, raw and powerful. I hated it. I craved it.

With a resigned sigh, I placed my hand in his. His fingers closed around mine, warm and strong, sending a jolt of electricity up my arm. His smile softened, and for a brief moment, I saw something vulnerable in his eyes. Something real.

Without another word, he led me to his car. Marcus, his Beta, opened the door, his gaze respectful as he nodded. “Luna.”

I stiffened. “Don’t call me that.”

Lucian’s eyes flicked to Marcus, a silent command. Marcus lowered his head. “Apologies... Celeste.”

I slid into the passenger seat, my mind spinning. Luna. Was that really who I was destined to be? I shook the thought away. I was no one’s Luna. I was Celeste Moretti, heir to Darkfang Industries, and I wasn’t about to let any man—no matter how infuriatingly attractive—control my fate.

The drive was silent, tension hanging heavy between us. I could feel his gaze on me, studying, assessing. It was unnerving how easily he seemed to read me, how effortlessly he saw through my walls.

We arrived at an exclusive jeweler, the kind that catered to the city’s elite. Lucian’s grip on my hand tightened as we entered, his presence commanding attention. The staff practically tripped over themselves to accommodate us.

“Mr. Sanguine, it’s an honor. How can we assist you today?” the manager gushed, his eyes wide with awe.

Lucian’s voice was smooth, confident. “I’m here to find the perfect ring for my mate.”

My heart skipped a beat. I wanted to protest, to deny it. But I remained silent, too stunned by the casual way he claimed me.

The manager’s eyes flicked to me, his smile growing. “Ah, you’re a lucky woman, Miss…”

I hesitated. “Moretti. Celeste Moretti.”

His eyes widened, recognition flickering. Of course, he knew who I was. The granddaughter of a business legend. The rumored partner of Phantom, Inc. But more importantly, the woman Raphael Voss had been pursuing for years.

Lucian’s arm wrapped around my waist, pulling me closer. “She’s mine,” he stated, his voice leaving no room for argument.

Heat rushed to my face. “I can speak for myself, you know.”

He leaned in, his breath warm against my ear. “I know. But I like the way it sounds when I say it.”

I clenched my jaw, my heart racing. He was impossible. Frustrating. Yet, somehow... intoxicating.

We moved through the displays, the manager eagerly presenting one exquisite ring after another. Diamonds, sapphires, emeralds—all shimmering with promises of forever. But none of them felt right. None of them felt like me.

Lucian watched me carefully, his gaze never leaving my face. “You’re not impressed.”

I crossed my arms. “They’re beautiful. Just... not my style.”

He smirked. “I like that you don’t settle for less.” His eyes darkened, his voice dropping. “I won’t either.”

My breath caught. Why did he have to look at me like that? Like he could see every piece of me—even the broken parts I tried so hard to hide.

Before I could respond, his phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen, his jaw tightening. “Raphael’s looking for you.”

My stomach twisted. “How do you know that?”

His expression hardened. “I have my ways.”

I narrowed my eyes. “Are you spying on me?”

“Protecting you,” he corrected, his voice firm. “You have no idea how far he’s willing to go to control you.”

I scoffed. “I can handle Raphael.”

Lucian’s eyes softened, his hand brushing my cheek. “I know you can. But I can’t let you alone.”

For a moment, I let myself believe him. I let myself lean into his touch, let myself feel the warmth and strength he offered. But then the memory of Raphael’s betrayal resurfaced, sharp and bitter. I pulled back, my walls slamming back into place.

I can’t trust anyone. Even my mate.

“I don’t need your protection, Lucian. And I don’t want you to.”

His gaze darkened. “Too bad. You’re getting it anyway.”

Before I could protest, the jeweler presented one final ring—a delicate design with intertwined bands of white gold and rose gold, crowned with a brilliant, fiery diamond. It was beautiful. Elegant. Strong.

Lucian’s eyes met mine, a knowing smile on his lips. “That’s the one.”

I swallowed, my heart pounding. “You don’t even know my style.”

He stepped closer, his voice a whisper. “I know, Celeste. Even if you won’t admit it.”

My breath caught. I hated how easily he affected me, how his words wrapped around my heart and squeezed.

He took my hand, his fingers warm and firm. “This ring is a promise. A promise that I’ll stand by you. That I’ll protect you from anyone who tries to hurt you—including Raphael.”

His words sent a shiver through me. I should have pulled away. I should have walked out. But his eyes were so sincere, so unyielding. And for the first time in a long time, I felt safe.

He slid the ring onto my finger, his lips brushing my knuckles. “Mine,” he whispered, his eyes blazing with possessive fire.

My heart raced, my walls crumbling. I was falling. And I was powerless to stop it.