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.

The boardroom buzzed with anticipation. Eyes flicked toward me, whispering speculations behind polite smiles. They expected hesitation, doubt, maybe even failure. I planned to give them none of it.

I stood at the head of the table, projecting confidence I didn’t fully feel. Not because I was unsure of my decision, but because my past life taught me that showing any vulnerability would be exploited.

Taking a deep breath, I met the gaze of each board member, letting my words sink in. “I am pleased to announce the official partnership between Darkfang Industries and Phantom, Inc.”

Gasps echoed through the room. I caught Olivia’s eyes widening in shock before she masked it with a condescending smirk. Let her try to undermine me. Let them all try. I was ready this time.

One of the older directors, Samuel, cleared his throat, his brows furrowed. “Celeste, do you realize the implications of this alliance? Phantom, Inc. is... unconventional, to say the least. And their CEO—”

“Is standing behind you,” Lucian’s voice sliced through the murmurs like a blade. He stepped into the room, his presence commanding, his silver-gray eyes cold and calculating.

Several board members flinched. I watched in amusement as Olivia’s face drained of color.

Lucian moved beside me, his posture relaxed but his aura radiating dominance. “I trust my company’s reputation isn’t an issue, is it?” His voice was smooth, deceptively calm. But the threat was unmistakable.

Samuel paled, quickly shaking his head. “Of course not, Mr. Sanguine. We’re merely... surprised.”

Lucian’s lips curved into a predatory smile. “Good. I’d hate for there to be any misunderstandings.”

I struggled to hide my satisfaction. Lucian played his part perfectly, reinforcing my authority without overshadowing me. We made a formidable team.

I squared my shoulders, keeping my voice firm. “Phantom, Inc. will provide the resources needed for our expansion projects. In return, they will gain shares in our company. It’s a mutually beneficial collaboration that ensures our growth.”

Olivia scoffed, finally finding her voice. “And what about Blackmoon Enterprises? Are you really willing to burn that bridge?”

I smiled sweetly, letting my gaze harden. “That bridge was never built, Olivia. And even if it was, I would have burned it myself.”

She glared at me, her fists clenching. “You think you’re so clever. But you’ll regret this, Celeste. Raphael won’t let this go.”

Lucian’s voice dropped to a dangerous low. “Raphael has no say in what belongs to me.” His arm slid around my waist, possessive and unyielding. “And Celeste is mine.”

My heart skipped a beat, but I kept my expression neutral. I couldn’t afford to appear vulnerable—not here, not now.

Samuel looked between us, his eyes calculating. “I see. This isn’t just a business alliance, is it?”

I lifted my chin. “It’s a strategic partnership that will secure Darkfang Industries’ future. Nothing more.”

Lucian’s grip tightened, his fingers pressing into my hip. “For now,” he murmured, his voice low enough for only me to hear.

Heat flooded my face, but I refused to let him see the effect he had on me. He was doing it on purpose, testing my control. Two could play that game.

I turned to face him, my eyes locking with his. “Shall we finalize the contract?”

His eyes gleamed with amusement. “I thought you’d never ask.”

The board members shuffled out, casting curious glances over their shoulders. Olivia lingered, her eyes burning with anger. “This isn’t over, Celeste.”

I met her gaze, my smile cold. “No, it’s not. But you are. Better go home, dear.”

Her face twisted in fury before she stormed out, leaving me alone with Lucian.

The room fell silent, tension thickening between us. I moved to the window, staring out at the city skyline, my thoughts racing. This partnership was a risk—a calculated one, but a risk nonetheless.

Lucian approached, his reflection appearing beside mine in the glass. “You handled that well.”

I crossed my arms, keeping my voice steady. “I don’t need your validation.”

His eyes softened. “No, you don’t. But you have it anyway.”

I turned to face him, my defenses up. “Why did you come here?”

His gaze darkened, his voice lowering. “To protect what’s mine.”

My heart skipped a beat, anger bubbling up. “We’re just mates, but I’m not yours. I agreed to this partnership for my company’s sake. Don’t confuse that with anything personal.”

He stepped closer, his presence overwhelming. “It’s personal for me.”

I took a step back, my back hitting the window. “That’s your problem, not mine.”

He leaned in, his face inches from mine. “You can keep denying it, Celeste. But you feel it too. This pull between us... it’s undeniable.”

I clenched my fists, my voice trembling with anger and… excitement. This mate thing is really something! “I won’t be controlled.”

His eyes softened, a flicker of vulnerability breaking through his hard exterior. “I don’t want to control you, Celeste. I want to protect you.”

I turned my head away. “I don’t need protection.”

His fingers brushed my chin, gently forcing me to look at him. “Yes, you do. Tessa and Raphael won’t stop until they destroy you. And I won’t let that happen.”

Emotion surged through me—fear, anger, longing—all tangled together. I hated how easily he could break through my walls. I hated how much I wanted to trust him.

I looked away, my voice wavering. “Why do you care?”

His hand cupped my cheek, his thumb brushing my skin. “I already said… You’re mine to protect, Celeste.”

I swallowed hard, my heart pounding. His words wrapped around me, warm and reassuring. But I couldn’t afford to be vulnerable. Not again. Even though I know how he will be formidable and unstoppable sooner, I still need to make my second chance in this life to be wary of love to avoid misfortune. I need him as a business partner. Merely.

I shoved him away, forcing my voice to stay steady. “This is just business, Lucian.”

His eyes darkened, a dangerous smile curving his lips. “Keep telling yourself that.”

Before I could respond, his lips crashed down on mine, fierce and demanding. I froze, my mind screaming to push him away. But my body betrayed me, melting against him as his arms wrapped around me, pulling me closer.

His kiss was possessive, consuming, leaving me breathless and shaken. When he finally pulled back, his eyes were blazing with determination. “You’re mine, Celeste. And no one will take you from me.”

I slapped him, the sound echoing through the room. “Don’t ever do that again.”

His jaw tightened, but his eyes were filled with amusement. “Liar.”

I stormed out of the room, my heart racing, my lips still tingling from his kiss. Damn him. Damn him for making me feel this way.

But no matter how hard I tried to deny it, one thing was certain—Lucian Sanguine was a dangerous man. And I was dangerously close to falling for him.