Fake Play Turns True Love #aidrama
Watch the full short drama with English subtitles. CEO, billionaire, revenge, betrayal — complete story in one video.
#shortdrama #ceodrama #drama #revenge #fullmovie #englishsub #reelshort #dramabox #miniseries #love #betrayal #drama2026
Watch the full short drama with English subtitles. CEO, billionaire, revenge, betrayal — complete story in one video.
#shortdrama #ceodrama #drama #revenge #fullmovie #englishsub #reelshort #dramabox #miniseries #love #betrayal #drama2026
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00Lucas and Avery shared the same cookie, biting closer and closer until their lips were almost
00:04touched.
00:04With Avery and kissed back with no restraint, pulled away and saw Lucas staring at us with
00:08a dark expression.
00:09Dorian calmly brushed the trace of moisture from the corner of my mouth.
00:12After the car accident, I woke up in the hospital and decided to mess with my boyfriend.
00:16Who are you?
00:17Lucas froze and I nearly burst out laughing, but then he pointed at his best friend, Dorian
00:21West.
00:21I'm your boyfriend's friend.
00:22He's your boyfriend.
00:24The smile on my face stiffened.
00:26Dorian stepped forward.
00:28That's right.
00:30I'm your boyfriend.
00:31Then take me home.
00:33Dorian brought me back to his house.
00:35You've always lived here.
00:36There was no trace of me in his place, but I played along and nodded.
00:39Later, I woke up thirsty and heard Lucas's voice coming from the living room.
00:44Dorian, do me a favor.
00:45Pretend to be Vivian's boyfriend for a while.
00:47Aren't you afraid she'll suddenly remember everything?
00:49If she gets mad after she remembers, I'll just coax her a little.
00:52She loves me too much to really leave me.
00:54Vivian and I have been together since college.
00:56I'm honestly getting a little tired of it.
00:58This is a perfect chance to take a break and have some fun outside.
01:01So you really did get involved with Avery.
01:03You got me.
01:04But Vivian still comes first.
01:06While she's with you, don't touch her.
01:10Out of all my friends, I trust you the most.
01:12You've always seemed to hate Vivian anyway.
01:14Barefoot, I quietly backed away.
01:15I made some noise at the bedroom door, then walked into the living room.
01:18The second Dorian heard me, he shut off his phone and stood up.
01:21The floor is cold.
01:22Why didn't you put on shoes?
01:23He hurried over, lifted me into his arms, and carried me to the couch.
01:27I was thirsty.
01:28I couldn't find the water.
01:29I'll get it for you.
01:30Dorian poured me a glass of water and sat beside me while I drank.
01:32Does anything else feel uncomfortable?
01:34I shook my head.
01:35He reached over, brushed my messy hair away from my face, and kissed my forehead.
01:39My eyes flickered.
01:40I had just heard Lucas tell him not to touch me.
01:43I had also always thought Dorian hated me.
01:45You don't remember me yet.
01:47We can take it slow.
01:48You'll get used to me again.
01:50I looked at him in silence.
01:52It seemed Dorian West was lying to his best friend, too.
01:54By the time Dorian brought me into the private lounge, the game was already in full swing.
01:57People were laughing, shouting, and urging each other to drink.
02:00When they saw me, the whole room went quiet.
02:02Every eye turned toward Lucas.
02:04Vivian!
02:04You're here!
02:05Do you remember me?
02:06I was your roommate in college.
02:09Sorry.
02:10I don't.
02:11That's okay.
02:12We can all get to know each other again.
02:14As she spoke, Avery wrapped both hands around Lucas' arm and leaned against his shoulder.
02:17She had a satisfied look on her face.
02:18Lucas did not pull away.
02:20He seemed to enjoy the thrill of doing it right in front of me.
02:22This is perfect.
02:23Two best friends, and both their boyfriends already know each other.
02:27Exactly.
02:28Memory or no memory, nothing has to change.
02:29We can all hang out together.
02:30They all knew the truth, and they all chose to play along, sharing the same silent joke
02:34at my expense.
02:35Lucas and Avery shared the same cookie, biting closer and closer until their lips were almost
02:39touching.
02:41When it ended, she tucked herself shyly into his arms, then glanced at me with a small,
02:46pleased smile.
02:47Lucas held her close.
02:49Vivian, you lost this round.
02:52Your punishment is to choose someone in this room and kiss him.
02:56Everyone looked at me, waiting.
02:57Would I choose Lucas?
02:58He clearly did not want my memories returning too soon.
03:01Of course I'll choose my boyfriend.
03:03Ready?
03:04He stared at me for a long moment, then leaned in.
03:07I slipped my arms around his neck and kissed him first.
03:10Dorian kissed back with no restraint, pulled away, and saw Lucas staring at us with a dark
03:13expression.
03:14Dorian calmly brushed the trace of moisture from the corner of my mouth.
03:19Why is everyone so quiet?
03:20I completed my punishment, didn't I?
03:24For someone with amnesia, you sure warmed up to your boyfriend fast.
03:28Lucas looked even less pleased.
03:29I went outside to find the restroom and heard voices near the stairwell.
03:32Dorian, I told you not to touch her.
03:34What you did just now wasn't very loyal of you.
03:36It was just a game.
03:41She has amnesia.
03:42If she had to kiss someone, of course she would choose her boyfriend, not you, with
03:44another woman beside you.
03:47Besides, I'm the boyfriend you personally assigned to her.
03:50Fine.
03:51Just know where to draw the line.
03:53I don't believe you'd actually fall for Vivian or sleep with her, but avoid getting too
03:56intimate with her when you can.
03:56I know you don't like her and I'd hate to make you suffer through it.
04:00You really do know me best.
04:01When we returned to Dorian's house, I was about to walk into the bedroom.
04:05He caught my wrist.
04:06Without a word, he lowered his head and kissed me.
04:08I tried to hand rest it against my cheek.
04:10We made progress tonight, didn't we?
04:13We can slowly become familiar with each other again.
04:15Once again, Dorian broke the promise he had made to Lucas.
04:19Lucas and I came from completely different worlds.
04:22He was the one who chased me first.
04:23Step by step, he made me believe him.
04:26Because of Lucas, I met his friends.
04:28They were all rich boys who had grown up with money and privilege.
04:31And among them, Dorian West hated me the most.
04:34Before the accident, I avoided him whenever I could.
04:36But after Lucas used my amnesia as an excuse and pushed me into Dorian's arms, everything
04:41changed.
04:41Dorian kept crossing the line.
04:43Was he doing this just to punish Lucas for forcing us together?
04:48There's a firework show by the lake tonight.
04:50I'll take you to see it.
04:51When we arrived, Lucas and Avery were already standing in the best viewing spot.
04:56Wow!
04:57It's so beautiful!
04:59Lucas smiled at her and tapped the tip of her nose.
05:02Then he turned and saw us.
05:04A flicker of panic crossed his face before he quickly hit it.
05:07Avery noticed us too.
05:09Oh, you're here!
05:11Vivian, could you take a few pictures of Luke and me?
05:15I'm so happy tonight.
05:16Luke arranged this whole firework show for me.
05:19I want to remember this moment forever.
05:20Lucas' expression softened.
05:22He put his arm around her.
05:23My fingers tightened slightly around Avery's phone.
05:26So this grand firework show had been Lucas' gift to her.
05:29I looked through the camera at the two of them standing in each other's arms.
05:32Lucas held Avery gently while she rested against his chest, smiling with complete happiness.
05:36Fireworks exploded above the lake behind them.
05:38The scene was beautiful and romantic.
05:40I quietly took picture after picture for them.
05:42Once, on my birthday, Lucas had filled this same lake with fireworks for me.
05:45Avery had offered to take our pictures that night too.
05:47I must have looked as happy as she did now.
05:48Back then, Avery had said with a sad smile,
05:50I'm so jealous of you two.
05:52I hope one day I meet someone who loves me like that.
05:54I had comforted her and told her she would.
05:56Now she finally had.
05:57Dorian reached over and took the phone from my hand.
05:59That's enough.
06:00You didn't come here to be their personal photographer.
06:02He tossed the phone back.
06:03Lucas caught it and handed it to Avery.
06:04After the fireworks show, Avery and I went toward the restroom together.
06:07Wow, the line is so long.
06:09I think I'll skip it.
06:10On my way back, I heard Dorian and Lucas talking while they waited for us.
06:14You seem to be enjoying yourself with Avery.
06:15You and Vivian haven't looked this happy together in a long time, have you?
06:19That's true.
06:20Lately, being with Avery reminds me of how Vivian and I were when we first got together.
06:24Avery is softer than Vivian.
06:26She makes everything feel easy.
06:27Then why not just let things stay this way?
06:31Avery does seem better suited to you.
06:33You've complained before that Vivian can be stubborn and difficult.
06:36Dorian, Vivian, and I have been together for years.
06:38That isn't something I can just throw away.
06:42Besides, Avery said she doesn't require me to be responsible.
06:45She only wants us to enjoy the time we have.
06:47Such a silly girl.
06:50After the car accident, I woke up in the hospital and decided to mess with my boyfriend.
06:54Who are you?
06:55Lucas froze and I nearly burst out laughing.
06:57But then he pointed at his best friend, Dorian West.
06:59I'm your boyfriend's friend.
07:00He's your boyfriend.
07:02The smile on my face stiffened.
07:04Dorian stepped forward.
07:06That's right.
07:07I'm your boyfriend.
07:09Then take me home.
07:10Dorian brought me back to his house.
07:12You've always lived here.
07:14There was no trace of me in his place, but I played along and nodded.
07:17Later, I woke up thirsty and heard Lucas' voice coming from the living room.
07:22Dorian, do me a favor.
07:23Pretend to be Vivian's boyfriend for a while.
07:25Aren't you afraid she'll suddenly remember everything?
07:27If she gets mad after she remembers, I'll just coax her a little.
07:29She loves me too much to really leave me.
07:32Vivian and I have been together since college.
07:34I'm honestly getting a little tired of it.
07:35This is a perfect chance to take a break and have some fun outside.
07:38So you really did get involved with Avery.
07:40You got me.
07:42But Vivian still comes first.
07:44While she's with you, don't touch her.
07:47Out of all my friends, I trust you the most.
07:49You've always seemed to hate Vivian anyway.
07:51Barefoot, I quietly backed away.
07:53I made some noise at the bedroom door, then walked into the living room.
07:56The second Dorian heard me, he shut off his phone and stood up.
07:58The floor is cold.
07:59Why didn't you put on shoes?
08:00He hurried over, lifted me into his arms, and carried me to the couch.
08:04I was thirsty.
08:05I couldn't find the water.
08:06I'll get it for you.
08:07Dorian poured me a glass of water and sat beside me while I drank.
08:10Does anything else feel uncomfortable?
08:12I shook my head.
08:13He reached over, brushed my messy hair away from my face, and kissed my forehead.
08:17My eyes flickered.
08:18I had just heard Lucas tell him not to touch me.
08:20I had also always thought Dorian hated me.
08:22You don't remember me yet.
08:24We can take it slow.
08:26You'll get used to me again.
08:28I looked at him in silence.
08:29It seemed Dorian West was lying to his best friend, too.
08:33When I said too rushed, I meant a ceremony like that isn't worthy of you.
08:36I only then saw the red roses in his hand.
08:39He went down on one knee.
08:41I'm Lucian Sterling.
08:42I've wanted to mate with you for a long time.
08:45But I won't let you sign yourself away in a place like this.
08:48Like it's nothing.
08:49He slid the ring on my finger.
08:51Keep the ring.
08:51The wedding I'll redo.
08:53The proposal I'll redo.
08:55But we sign right now.
08:56The day we planned to register our mating, the number soon got called.
08:59My fiancé Kyle yanked the bloodline folder out of my hand and pulled Chloe up to the counter instead.
09:04Let Chloe sign first.
09:06She's carrying my pup.
09:07The Sterling bloodline can't be born a bastard.
09:10You two are besties, right?
09:11Does it really matter who I mate with?
09:13Chloe leaned into his chest, blushing.
09:15The clerk hands it over the mating license.
09:17Kyle finally remembered I existed.
09:18He ruffled my hair.
09:20Relax.
09:20To the outside world, you're still Mrs. Sterling.
09:23After she gives birth, the pup gets registered under your bloodline.
09:26Saves you the pain of burying one yourself.
09:28Even for both our family's sake, I won't humiliate you.
09:31He thought I'd cave like always.
09:33Cry and beg him not to leave.
09:34I just smiled, turned around, and grabbed his older brother by the wrist.
09:38Lucian, our turn.
09:39I slapped my bloodline folder on the counter.
09:41You two are brothers, right?
09:43Does it really matter who I mate with?
09:44The whole registry went dead silent.
09:46Eyes ping-ponged between the three of us.
09:49Do you even know who he is?
09:50Lucian Sterling, my blood brother.
09:51You think he'd ever mate you?
09:52Chloe peeked out from his arms.
09:54Selena, sweetie.
09:55I know you're hurt, but you can't just throw yourself at anyone.
09:57He's the Sterling heir.
09:58Don't embarrass yourself.
09:59The friends around us started whispering.
10:01Someone laughed under their breath.
10:03Can't land the younger one, so she's going for the older one.
10:05The Vance princess really knows how to swing low.
10:08I ignored them and looked at Lucian.
10:10His eyes were so dark.
10:12Three years ago.
10:13The first time I walked into the Sterling estate, I ran straight into Lucian in the hallway.
10:17I looked up, panicked.
10:18The way he looked at me was strange.
10:20Then he dropped his lashes fast, and it was gone.
10:23After that, Lucian helped me out a few times.
10:25I blacked out alone at a bar once.
10:26I woke up in his penthouse.
10:28I got cornered on a business deal.
10:29He stepped in and handled it.
10:32Then, this time, I was in trouble again.
10:34I forced the words out.
10:36Would you?
10:37I have 80% of Vance Industries, and both your family's contracts.
10:41If you sign with me, I can hand all of it over.
10:44So, would you?
10:45Kyle's voice tightened.
10:47Lucian, don't listen to her.
10:49She's lost it.
10:50Lucian avoided my gaze.
10:52Too rushed.
10:53Then he walked out, didn't look back, and left me alone in utter disgrace.
10:56Kyle stepped in close.
10:57He grabbed a fistful of my hair and shook it like he was scolding a bad dog.
11:01That's my brother's polite way of rejecting you.
11:03You actually thought he wanted you?
11:05Selena, you've been simping after me for how many years?
11:09The whole pack knows you can't live without me.
11:11These words unlock something in my head.
11:13Right after Kyle graduated, he came to me about starting a pack venture.
11:17I sold the penthouse my mother left me and wired him every cent.
11:20No equity, no paperwork, just for love.
11:23He turned that money into a fortune.
11:25But in the second round of funding, the lead investor wouldn't sign.
11:28I went behind Kyle's back, set up a Vance name dinner, and drank until my stomach bled.
11:33The investor signed.
11:34The night Kyle closed the round, he had a few drinks, pinned me against the wall, and kissed me all
11:38night long.
11:41Selena, why are you so good to me?
11:44I was just glad I could help.
11:45Everyone in our circle knew it.
11:47To my face, they called me devoted.
11:49Behind my back, I was the Vance family disgrace.
11:51My mother screamed at me about it more times than I could count.
11:54Your father's reputation is in shreds because of you.
11:58I didn't get it back then.
11:59I thought loving someone wasn't shameful.
12:01Hearing Simp come out of his mouth, I realized I was a joke.
12:04Kyle saw my face and smiled, almost gently.
12:07His thumb brushed my cheek.
12:08That's when I realized I was crying.
12:10Don't cry.
12:12People will think I did something to you.
12:13He sighed.
12:14Selena, you love me too much.
12:15I can't bring myself to really hurt you.
12:17So behave.
12:18I don't want to embarrass you.
12:19I don't want your parents losing face.
12:20You get me?
12:21Kyle was like hard liquor.
12:22First sip burned, but you kept drinking until you were too gone to know you were dying.
12:26He pulled out a red mating license and shoved it into my hand.
12:29A photo of him and me on the front.
12:31Names, ID numbers, even the registry seal.
12:34But I saw it was fake at a glance.
12:35The face in the photo was mine.
12:37But the small mole just below the collarbone wasn't.
12:40That mole belonged to Chloe.
12:41Kyle had just grabbed a photo of him and Chloe, slapped my face over hers.
12:45He didn't even bother forging it properly.
12:47Chloe nestled into his arms, playing the bigger person.
12:50Kyle didn't want you to lose yours.
12:52So he had this fake license made up.
12:54Show it to your parents when you gome, Selena.
12:55The wedding in three days is still yours.
12:57I won't steal your spotlight.
12:58I gripped the license.
13:00My fingertips went cold.
13:01Kyle, aren't you afraid my dad will see through it?
13:04Kyle was casual.
13:05Certain.
13:05You've been faking it in front of your dad for 20 years.
13:09Sweet little daddy's girl.
13:10One more time won't kill you.
13:13Every time I lied to my family, it was to cover for him.
13:16I didn't get the chance to say it.
13:18A cough behind us.
13:19Chloe clutched her belly.
13:20I'll come find you tonight.
13:22Kyle scooped Chloe up bridal style and walked out.
13:24I don't know how long I stood there.
13:26My phone buzzed.
13:27It's a video.
13:28I tapped it without thinking.
13:30Kyle's voice came through.
13:31Lazy in the window.
13:32I flipped the phone face down on the floor.
13:34My tears hit the tile.
13:36Four years ago, the day Chloe moved into the dorm,
13:39she stood at the door clutching a plastic bag too scared to come in.
13:42I pulled her inside, laughing.
13:44Gave her half my freshly made bed.
13:46The first time she had crab, I cracked it open and put it in her bowl.
13:49I took her shopping.
13:50The first time she bought a dress over $100, she spun around the dorm.
13:54Selina, you're my best friend in the whole world.
13:57Later, she asked if I had a crush on anyone.
13:59I said yes.
14:00I'd loved him since I was 16.
14:02Let me see him.
14:03What kind of guy is good enough for my Selina?
14:05Then I introduced them.
14:07This is my best friend.
14:08Kyle looked at her twice.
14:10Your friend's cute.
14:11Chloe ducked her head.
14:13Her ears went red.
14:14I was happy about it.
14:15I thought it was a good thing he liked my friend.
14:17I handed them the knife myself.
14:19Now it was slicing back into me.
14:20Stop crying.
14:22Lucian, I didn't know when he came back.
14:24Don't worry.
14:25I won't cling to you.
14:27When I said too rushed, I meant a ceremony like that isn't worthy of you.
14:31I only then saw the red roses in his hand.
14:33He went down on one knee.
14:35I'm Lucian Sterling.
14:36I've wanted to mate with you for a long time.
14:39But I won't let you sign yourself away in a place like this.
14:42Like it's nothing.
14:43He slid the ring on my finger.
14:45Keep the ring.
14:46The wedding I'll redo.
14:47The proposal I'll redo.
14:49But we sign right now.
14:50The new mating licenses in my hand.
14:52I posted them on my socials.
14:53Kyle liked it instantly.
14:55He probably didn't even open it.
14:57Always.
14:57He never paid attention to anything that was mine.
15:00Chloe's message came first.
15:01Kyle said you posted on socials.
15:03That fake license he made you, you actually treat it like a treasure?
15:05Take it down before someone sees.
15:07So embarrassing.
15:08Half an hour later, Kyle's message finally crawled in.
15:11Good girl.
15:12Knew I didn't spoil you for nothing.
15:14Chloe says she doesn't care about titles.
15:15The three of us are family now.
15:16You're the main one.
15:17She's the side one.
15:18Don't get jealous again.
15:19For the first time, I didn't reply him.
15:21I waited quietly for the look on his face on wedding day.
15:24The day before the wedding, Lucian sent me an address.
15:27I pushed the door open and froze.
15:28The dress on display across the room.
15:30It was the wedding dress I designed myself back in college.
15:33The sketch was tucked on Kyle's desk back then.
15:36He was gaming.
15:37Just said looks nice without looking up.
15:38After that, I never saw it again.
15:40The clerk said Lucian had a commission three months ago.
15:43That was right when Kyle and I had just finalized our wedding date.
15:46I walked out of the fitting room.
15:48Chloe's sharp voice cut in.
15:49Kyle, I want this one.
15:51Kyle's eyes flickered.
15:52Caught.
15:53Then Chloe's pout pulled him back.
15:55Babe, you said you owed me a real wedding.
15:57I want this one.
15:58Selena won't mind, right?
15:59Kyle tucked a stray hair behind my ear.
16:01Selena, Chloe's pregnant.
16:03Don't upset her.
16:04Let her have this one.
16:05I'll buy you something more expensive later.
16:07I didn't move.
16:08Kyle lost his patience.
16:09This kind of fitted style doesn't flatter you anyway.
16:12Chloe's shape works better for it.
16:14He grabbed me, rough, and yanked.
16:15The whole dress lit off my shoulders.
16:17I crossed my arms and backed away.
16:19Kyle handed his black card to the clerk.
16:21All casual.
16:22Triple price.
16:23Ring it up.
16:23Chloe held the dress and beamed at me.
16:25Kyle ruffled her hair.
16:26Then he turned, like he just remembered something.
16:29Right.
16:30About tomorrow.
16:31Keep it low-key.
16:32Doctor says Chloe's hormones can't take stress.
16:34Just that haul on maple.
16:35A few tables, a few friends.
16:36You've never liked anything flashy, right?
16:38I swallowed the bile rising in my throat.
16:40Kept my face civil.
16:41Don't worry about my wedding.
16:42Save that one for you and Chloe.
16:44Chloe's been running around three days pregnant to find that venue.
16:47She got on her hands and knees to pick those cloths and flowers for you.
16:49She's thinking of you in every detail.
16:51What's with the attitude?
16:52He stepped up to me.
16:53Stripped the jewelry off my neck, my wrist, my ears.
16:56Oh, and tomorrow don't wear the wedding set.
16:58Chloe had someone read your charts.
17:00Your energy's too strong.
17:01The sapphire will clash with the puff.
17:02He's still small.
17:03Can't take the hit.
17:04Better safe than sorry.
17:05You're the older one.
17:06Let the little one have his way.
17:07That's just how it works.
17:08He nodded, satisfied.
17:10Picked up a dress off the rack.
17:11Wear this tomorrow.
17:12Stones splintered beneath my heels.
17:14A silver white wolf phantom lunged out from behind me.
17:16A massive beast.
17:17Ancient runes.
17:18A glowing crescent moon on its forehead.
17:20Blue fire dripped from its cause.
17:22One deafening roar shattered every glass in the hall.
17:24Before the mating ceremony, my fiancé asked to meet where he proposed, the exact spot
17:27we first made love.
17:28I thought he had prepared another surprise.
17:30But when I opened the door, he was both against the table.
17:33This is Isabella.
17:34It's exactly what it looks like.
17:36And honestly, I'm done hiding.
17:38Don't worry, you'll still be my wife on paper.
17:40He expected me to cry, to beg.
17:42Instead, I ripped off the moonstone necklace he proposed with, tossing it into Isabella's
17:45discarded stockings.
17:46Then I turned and walked away.
17:48Three days later, Julian stood at the doors of the moon temple, dressed like a king, waiting
17:52for my submission.
17:53But I wasn't about to run.
17:54I walked up to him, linking arms with his enemy instead.
17:56You wanted a wedding?
17:57Here it is.
17:59But the mating bond now belongs to him.
18:05Serafina!
18:06Look over here!
18:08He doesn't mind that you're a wolf-less creak?
18:09You must be so grateful!
18:11I stepped out of the Rolls Royce, walking the red carpet in custom stilettos.
18:15True to Julian's word, he was giving me the grand show he promised.
18:18Ignoring the flashing lights and interviews, I walked toward the moon temple, surrounded
18:21by bodyguards.
18:22Julian stood on the steps in a designer suit, a smut smile on his face.
18:25He looked every bit the proud wolf king.
18:27He called this morning just to brag and show up on my own.
18:30Baby, you're finally here.
18:32He walked toward me, pressing a quick kiss to my lips.
18:35His eyes filled with raw lust.
18:36File rose in my throat.
18:37Last night, that exact mouth was all over Isabella's tits.
18:40It's fine.
18:41I know you're a busy man.
18:43Brutal move last night, boss.
18:45You screwed a side piece till dawn, and she still showed up in white?
18:49You own her.
18:50Yeah, any other woman would have lost her mind.
18:53Serafina really has balls.
18:54Of course.
18:56Five years, Rocco.
18:57She's obsessed with me.
18:59His fingers traced my waist as if I were nothing but his personal property.
19:02Besides, who else in this city would even dare to take her?
19:05Everyone present knew how many deals I negotiated and how many messes I cleaned up for him over
19:08the past five years.
19:09I'd even ended up in the ER several times with alcohol poisoning for him.
19:12He was right.
19:13Who else wanted a woman this tragically loyal?
19:16What's wrong?
19:17Didn't I tell you to call later?
19:18Julian, I am flying to Paris this night.
19:20Come see me.
19:21I want us to bond before I leave.
19:24Hanging up, Julian shoved his phone into his pocket and sneered at me.
19:27Isabella's throwing a tantrum.
19:28I have to go.
19:29As for the ceremony, wait here.
19:31Be a good girl.
19:33Julian, if you walk away today, I'm replacing the groom.
19:37You're lucky you're gorgeous, Serafina.
19:39That's the only reason I've been this patient.
19:41But replacing the groom?
19:43Where are you gonna find one?
19:44A she-wolf?
19:45Who can't even shift?
19:47In your dreams.
19:48Stop throwing tantrums.
19:50Just wait for me to get back.
19:51The engine roared as he sped off.
19:53I watched his car disappear into the distance.
19:55Go on, Julian.
19:57Mark your Omega.
19:58Today is still my mating ceremony.
20:00And as for who I'm bonding with?
20:01That's none of your damn business.
20:0530 minutes before the ceremony, I walked out onto the terrace for some fresh air.
20:09Approaching the door, I heard those gray wolves chatting inside.
20:11Is Julian really not coming back?
20:13With Serafina's temper, how long is she gonna take this?
20:15Look at her today.
20:16The groom bailed and she didn't even blink.
20:18I wonder if something's gonna go wrong.
20:20A wolf-less freak who can't even shift?
20:23What right does a defect like her have to be angry?
20:27Finished.
20:28I kicked the terrace door open.
20:29Their smiles froze instantly.
20:30The wolf on the phone scrambled to hide it behind his back.
20:33Serafina.
20:34I didn't spare them a glance.
20:35I spun on my heel and marched inside.
20:39Serafina, where's the groom?
20:41Or did he back out?
20:42Preferring to mark an Omega over marrying you?
20:44Ignoring them, I marched straight toward the statue of the moon goddess in the center of the temple.
20:48Closing my eyes, the wolf's soul I had sealed for five years thudded violently against my chest.
20:52The sound of bones cracking and rebuilding echoed through the silence.
20:55Instantly, a heavy alpha aura slammed down.
20:57Chandeliers rattled.
20:58Stones splintered beneath my heels.
21:00A silver-white wolf phantom lunged out from behind me.
21:02A massive beast.
21:03Ancient runes.
21:04A glowing crescent moon on its forehead.
21:06Blue fire dripped from its cause.
21:07One deafening roar shattered every glass in the hall.
21:10The gray wolves dropped their cigarettes, collapsing to the floor under the pressure,
21:13trembling too hard to speak.
21:14The guests who had just been mocking my lack of a wolf froze, turning deathly pale.
21:18A few tried to resist, but as soon as they straightened their knees, they were crushed back down,
21:22foreheads bleeding against the cold stone.
21:23The wolf has returned.
21:25My alpha, our king, do we proceed with the ceremony?
21:29I opened my amber wolf eyes and scanned the room, my voice quiet but cutting through the silence.
21:33The ceremony goes on.
21:36Everyone in the temple knelt under the weight of my aura.
21:38Lena smiled through her tears.
21:41Serafina, you're finally back.
21:43My eyes ignored her, fixing on the entrance.
21:45A tall silhouette stepped in.
21:46His aura grew heavier with every step.
21:48The pressure forced the gray wolves to the floor.
21:50Alpha Serafina?
21:51I'm Cassian.
21:53Your father's choice.
21:54Alpha of the North.
21:55I gave a silent nod.
21:56The elder stepped up, opening the sacred tome to begin.
21:59Cassian offered his hand.
22:01I placed mine and his.
22:02His skin was scorching hot.
22:03The touch sent a jolt of electricity up my spine.
22:05I felt it.
22:07A bond forged by the moon.
22:08My true mate.
22:09A desperate howl shattered the silence.
22:11Nearby, Julian's friend sat frozen.
22:13His phone still on a live call.
22:15Julian had seen everything.
22:18Julian stared at his screen.
22:20Serafina's amber eyes looked down at the temple.
22:22Her alpha aura pinned the gray wolves flailing.
22:24Julian, they're about to mark each other.
22:27Stop them!
22:28What the fuck are you doing?
22:29We can't!
22:30The pressure!
22:31We can't even stand up!
22:34That girl was Jessica.
22:36The cheerleader.
22:37The campus it girl every guy drools over.
22:40Ryan's teammates were cheering them on.
22:42Spraying champagne everywhere.
22:43The whole scene was so festive.
22:45It almost made me want to join in and celebrate.
22:46My boyfriend Ryan is the captain of our school's football team.
22:49I'm just nerdy girl.
22:51Every girl on campus is jealous that I'm his girlfriend.
22:54His team won the state championship.
22:56And I spent three whole weeks hand making him a jersey as a gift.
22:59The moment I pushed open the locker room door, I saw Ryan making out with a girl.
23:04That girl was Jessica.
23:05The cheerleader.
23:06The campus it girl every guy drools over.
23:09Ryan's teammates were cheering them on.
23:11Spraying champagne everywhere.
23:12The whole scene was so festive it almost made me want to join in and celebrate.
23:16But excuse me, wasn't that my boyfriend?
23:18Finally, someone noticed me standing there with murder in my eyes.
23:22Ryan, your girlfriend's here.
23:23Ryan didn't give a shit.
23:24He even pulled Jessica closer.
23:26Relax.
23:27My girlfriend's obsessed with me.
23:29She'll never leave.
23:30Don't be so jealous, Avery.
23:31We're just messing around.
23:34Jessica scanned me head to toe.
23:36We're just playing truth or dare.
23:38Don't worry.
23:39If we had any other intentions, you wouldn't even be in the picture.
23:41Why does that sound so familiar?
23:43Jessica showing up at his hotel room.
23:45Going out for dinner alone as a so-called celebration.
23:48Her calling him while we were in bed.
23:50Oh my god.
23:50So this bitch has been messing with my boyfriend all along.
23:54I slammed the handmade jersey straight into Ryan's face.
23:57Then smiled at Jessica.
23:59Congrats.
24:00You two are fucking perfect for each other.
24:03Makes to a tech drink.
24:05I turned around and walked out like nothing happened.
24:09Apologize to her!
24:10I yanked my hand out of Ryan's grip.
24:12Ryan Carter, we're done.
24:14Ryan looked like he was about to say something to stop me.
24:17But Jessica quickly grabbed his arm.
24:19It's okay, Ryan.
24:21Just let Avery go.
24:23I don't want any drama.
24:25Ryan immediately acted all tough after hearing that and waved me off.
24:28Yeah, go ahead.
24:29Just don't come crawling back begging me to take you back.
24:32I couldn't be bothered arguing anymore.
24:33So I turned to leave.
24:35Right as I reached the door, the jersey came flying into my back.
24:38Take your crap!
24:39The door slammed shut in front of me.
24:40I stood there for a moment, humiliated,
24:43before finally bending down to pick up the jersey.
24:45The next second, I could clearly hear his teammates laughing from inside.
24:49How long do you think Avery's gonna last before she comes begging you to get back together?
24:54She looked pretty pissed this time!
24:55Two weeks, maybe?
24:58Her?
24:58Please.
24:59One week tops before she comes back begging.
25:01I clenched the jersey tightly.
25:03For a second, I almost kicked the door open just to scream at all of them.
25:06But that would only make me look pathetic.
25:09You planning to stand here all day?
25:11Slowly, I turned around.
25:13Leaning casually against the wall was Logan.
25:16The former captain of Ryan's team.
25:18Ryan's biggest rival now.
25:20I felt awkward after having my entire humiliation witnessed.
25:23Uh, what are you doing here?
25:25Spying on the enemy?
25:26Logan let out a low chuckle.
25:27He took the jersey from my hands and looked it over carefully.
25:30A jersey this well made?
25:31Some people just have no taste.
25:33I was about to say something when the door behind me suddenly swung open.
25:37Ryan stepped out.
25:38Still can't bring yourself to leave?
25:40Then he noticed Logan, and his face immediately darkened.
25:43What the hell are you doing here?
25:45Logan reached over and took my hand.
25:47I'm confessing to Avery.
25:49I couldn't even look at Ryan.
25:51I grabbed Logan's wrist and practically dragged him down the hallway at a sprint.
25:54We didn't stop until we reached the far end of the corridor.
25:57I finally let go of his hand, breathing hard.
26:00Is this some kind of joke?
26:02Logan rolled his eyes slightly.
26:05I was getting you out of an awkward situation.
26:07You're welcome.
26:07When he noticed me staring at him.
26:09Something on my face?
26:11Back when Logan was still Ryan's team captain, I'd always thought he had it in for me.
26:15Every time he caught Ryan with his arm around me.
26:17You're going to live a long life.
26:19The words were out before I knew it.
26:21What?
26:22He sat up fast.
26:23Did you just speak?
26:24I was born the same day as my brother.
26:26The son my father always wanted.
26:27I was mute.
26:28Our pack was poor.
26:29My mother stopped him from sending me away.
26:31Me after that.
26:32I kept my head down.
26:33Did more work.
26:34Ate less.
26:35Stayed out of trouble.
26:35Until I was 15.
26:37The Thornwood heir was cursed.
26:38Only his fated mate could save him.
26:40If the curse didn't break, I would share his death right.
26:43The Thornwood pack moved fast.
26:45I raised you.
26:47Today that counts for something.
26:48Take care of your mate.
26:49Don't come back.
26:50My sister slipped her favorite snack into my hands.
26:53Still warm.
26:53Still broken.
26:54She was afraid I'd blame her.
26:56But when it comes to life and death, who isn't afraid?
26:58The Thornwood estate was decorated for the occasion.
27:01Ethan was too sick to stand, so his older brother took his place.
27:04After the ceremony, I was brought to his room.
27:06Passing through the hall, I snuck a look and saw a large coffin outside the door.
27:11Alpha Ethan.
27:14Everyone out.
27:21I'm sorry.
27:22This was never what I wanted.
27:24I won't be the reason an innocent person dies.
27:27Take the money and go.
27:28I have someone waiting at the back gate.
27:30I sat there looking at him.
27:31Miss?
27:32I shook my head.
27:34He started to speak, but a coughing fit hit him hard, so I held him up and patted his back.
27:38Blood came up and I stood to call for help.
27:40He grabbed my sleeve.
27:41I'm fine.
27:42Don't call anyone.
27:44Can you get me some water?
27:45After he drank, he looked at me with an apologetic smile.
27:48I'm sorry.
27:49I know my own condition.
27:50I shouldn't have dragged another innocent person into this.
27:53I apologize on my parents' behalf.
27:56If you leave tonight, I'll make sure everything is handled.
27:58You and your family won't be touched.
27:59I shook my head again.
28:00I helped him lie back.
28:01He looked confused and pointed at his throat.
28:04Can you not?
28:07Just the two of us, breathing in the dark, and I was too hungry to sleep.
28:11I hadn't eaten since my sister's snack that morning.
28:13After a while, Ethan got out of bed.
28:16Is he going to the bathroom?
28:18Do I need to help?
28:20I heard something being set down nearby.
28:21I picked up a meat pie and bit into it.
28:24I ate the whole plate, lay back down, and Ethan spoke.
28:27Since you won't go, stay.
28:28Call it my selfishness.
28:30I swear on my wolf.
28:31As long as I'm breathing, I'll keep you safe.
28:34If I don't make it, I'll make sure you're taken care of.
28:37You won't go down with me.
28:42You're going to live a long life.
28:43The words were out before I knew it.
28:45What?
28:46He sat up fast.
28:47Did you just speak?
28:49Ethan, you're going to live a long life.
28:51It was the first time I'd ever wanted something for someone else.
28:55Nobody knew.
28:56I wasn't incapable of speech.
28:57I just couldn't, because anything I said out loud would come true.
29:00But the cost was immense.
29:03I had been numb my whole life.
29:04Nothing my parents did ever moved me.
29:06Going to the Thornwood Pack settled my debt to my father.
29:09I agreed without hesitating.
29:10But now I thought, maybe being with Ethan wasn't so bad.
29:13The next morning, Ethan looked up when I got up.
29:15Can you help me sit up?
29:24Vivian.
29:25I'm coming with you.
29:26Almost no one had ever called me by name before.
29:29He waited, no response from me.
29:31He called the staff to help him up.
29:32I went over and supported him myself.
29:34Every staff member we passed looked surprised.
29:37It stayed that way until we reached his parents' wing.
29:39Luna Serena had lived a comfortable life.
29:41Well loved.
29:42Never wanting.
29:43Until her son was born sick.
29:44She rushed out before we reached the door.
29:46Ethan!
29:47I told you to rest!
29:49Why are you up?
29:50Ethan smiled.
29:51Don't worry, mother.
29:51I already feel better.
29:53Sorry for making you worry.
29:55Vivian, these are my parents.
29:57I came back to myself and bowed.
30:00Luna Serena grabbed my hands.
30:06Sweetheart, bringing you in was the right call.
30:08Ethan can get out of bed now.
30:10She was so warm I didn't know what to do.
30:12My dear.
30:15Right.
30:15The gift.
30:17I almost forgot.
30:19Vivian, this is the mark bracelet my mother-in-law gave me when I made it in.
30:23Now I'm passing it to you.
30:25I accepted it and bowed immediately.
30:29These are deeds to several properties on the south side of our territory.
30:33As long as you stay by Ethan's side, the Thornwood Pack takes care of its own.
30:39The gift was too large.
30:40I hesitated.
30:41Ethan took it for me.
30:42I'll thank father on Vivian's behalf.
30:49Sit down and eat first.
30:50There was an issue with one of our trade routes.
30:53Vivian left at dawn to handle it.
30:54When he's back, he'll come meet you.
30:57He'll be over the moon when he hears Ethan is doing better.
31:00The wolf soul I had sealed for five years thudded violently against my chest.
31:04The sound of bones cracking and rebuilding echoed through the silence.
31:07Instantly, a heavy alpha aura slammed down.
31:09Chandeliers rattled.
31:10Stones splintered beneath my heels.
31:11A silver white wolf phantom lunged out from behind me.
31:14A massive beast.
31:15Ancient runes.
31:16A glowing crescent moon on its forehead.
31:18Blue fire dripped from its cause.
31:19One deafening roar shattered every glass in the hall.
31:22Before the mating ceremony, my fiancé asked to meet where he proposed,
31:24the exact spot we first made love.
31:26I thought he had prepared another surprise.
31:28But when I opened the door, he was wolf against the table.
31:31This is Isabella.
31:32It's exactly what it looks like.
31:33And honestly, I'm done hiding.
31:36Don't worry, you'll still be my wife on paper.
31:37He expected me to cry, to beg.
31:39Instead, I ripped off the moonstone necklace he proposed with,
31:42tossing it into Isabella's discarded stockings.
31:44Then I turned and walked away.
31:46Three days later, Julian stood at the doors of the moon temple,
31:48dressed like a king, waiting for my submission.
31:50But I wasn't about to run.
31:52I walked up to him, linking arms with his enemy instead.
31:54You wanted a wedding?
31:55Here it is.
31:57But the mating bond now belongs to him.
32:08I stepped out of the Rolls Royce, walking the red carpet in custom stilettos.
32:12True to Julian's word, he was giving me the grand show he promised.
32:15Ignoring the flashing lights and interviews, I walked toward the moon temple,
32:18surrounded by bodyguards.
32:20Julian stood on the steps in a designer suit, a smut smile on his face.
32:23He looked every bit the proud wolf king.
32:25He called this morning just to brag, show up on my own.
32:28Baby, you're finally here.
32:29He walked toward me, pressing a quick kiss to my lips.
32:32His eyes filled with raw lust.
32:34File rose in my throat.
32:35Last night, that exact mouth was all over Isabella's tits.
32:38It's fine.
32:39I know you're a busy man.
32:40Brutal move last night, boss.
32:42You screwed a side piece till dawn, and she still showed up in white?
32:46You own her.
32:48Yeah, any other woman would have lost her mind.
32:50Serafina really has balls.
32:52Of course.
32:53Five years, Rocco.
32:55She's obsessed with me.
32:56His fingers traced my waist as if I were nothing but his personal property.
33:00Besides, who else in this city would even dare to take her?
33:03Everyone present knew how many deals I negotiated and how many messes I'd cleaned up for him over
33:06the past five years.
33:07I'd even ended up in the ER several times with alcohol poisoning for him.
33:10He was right.
33:11Who else wanted a woman this tragically loyal?
33:14What's wrong?
33:15Didn't I tell you to call later?
33:16Julian, I am flying to Paris this night.
33:18Come see me.
33:19I want us to bond before I leave.
33:22Hanging up, Julian shut his phone into his pocket and sneered at me.
33:25Isabella's throwing a tantrum.
33:26I have to go.
33:27As for the ceremony, wait here.
33:29Be a good girl.
33:30Julian, if you walk away today, I'm replacing the groom.
33:34You're lucky you're gorgeous, Serafina.
33:36That's the only reason I've been this patient.
33:38But replacing the groom?
33:41Where are you going to find one?
33:42A she-wolf?
33:43Who can't even shift?
33:45In your dreams.
33:46Stop throwing tantrums.
33:47Just wait for me to get back.
33:49The engine roared as he sped off.
33:51I watched his car disappear into the distance.
33:53Go on, Julian.
33:54Mark your Omega.
33:55Today is still my mating ceremony.
33:57And as for who I'm bonding with?
33:59That's none of your damn business.
34:0230 minutes before the ceremony, I walked out onto the terrace for some fresh air.
34:06Approaching the door, I heard those gray wolves chatting inside.
34:09Is Julian really not coming back?
34:11With Serafina's temper, how long is she going to take this?
34:13Look at her today.
34:14The groom bailed and she didn't even blink.
34:16I wonder if something's going to go wrong.
34:18A wolf-less freak who can't even shift?
34:20What right does a defect like her have to be angry?
34:25Finished.
34:25I kicked the terrace door open.
34:27Their smiles froze instantly.
34:28You have a boyfriend?
34:29Or head rests against mine.
34:30What does he have that I don't?
34:32Because the terrifying part.
34:34You're not real.
34:35And if I am?
34:36Campus.
34:37Day.
34:38My best friend Mia stares at me in class.
34:40You dreamed about him again?
34:42Six months straight.
34:44Girl, that's not a dream.
34:46That's a haunting.
34:47My phone buzzes.
34:49Message.
34:50Adrian.
34:51Be ready by tomorrow.
34:53Wait.
34:53The Blackwoods?
34:55The rich psycho wolf dynasty Blackwoods?
34:58Apparently.
35:03Wear something tight tomorrow.
35:05I have work at the coffee shop.
35:08Then don't come.
35:10I don't have money for some fancy dress.
35:13Yeah, I figured.
35:14Don't embarrass me.
35:16As I walk out, his friends start laughing behind the door.
35:19Bro, wasn't this supposed to be a three-week bet?
35:21I thought you dumped the scholarship girl already.
35:23And now you're bringing her to the Blackwood estate?
35:25She writes my papers and doesn't complain.
35:27Works for me.
35:28So why is your family suddenly interested?
35:31My brother asked to meet her.
35:33Wait.
35:34Lucien Blackwood?
35:35The alpha himself?
35:37Relax.
35:37Lucien would never look twice at a girl without a scent.
35:40Well, he'd scent.
35:40No omega pull.
35:42Nothing.
35:42My brother never touches anyone.
35:44Not broke little nobodies pretending to belong in our world.
35:46My hand tightens around the black card.
35:50One month ago, Adrian suddenly decided he wanted me.
35:53After a football game, he walked straight through a crowd of screaming girls and stopped in front of me.
35:57Can I take you out sometime?
35:59Everyone knew Adrian had just broken up with his model girlfriend.
36:02Guys like him didn't date girls like me unless...
36:04I still said yes, because my mother was dying.
36:07I'm okay, Lyra.
36:08You don't need to keep working yourself to death.
36:11The doctor steps outside with me.
36:13My chest tightens.
36:14We can't delay surgery anymore.
36:17How much time does she have?
36:19A few months.
36:20Less if her condition worsens.
36:23If I stayed close enough to him, enough to save my mom.
36:27The only thing Adrian didn't know?
36:30I never loved him.
36:31Told you my family's insane.
36:34Mr. Blackwood, your brother specifically quested that we make tonight's comfortable for Miss Vale.
36:38Yeah, yeah. Lucian's in one of his control freak moods again.
36:42Don't bother me unless the plane explodes.
36:45Noted.
36:45Dark leather. Amber lighting. Cedar smoke. That...
36:49Where are you going?
36:51To my boyfriend's family gathering.
36:53You have a boyfriend?
36:56Your head rests against mine.
36:58What does he have that I don't?
36:59Because the terrifying part.
37:01You're not real.
37:03And if I am?
37:04Before I can answer, the plane violently shakes.
37:07Dammit.
37:08You okay?
37:09Why are you so red?
37:11It's warm.
37:13Another dream.
37:14For six months, the same man has been waiting for me in the dark.
37:17At first, the dreams were harmless.
37:19Then one night, I realized how beautiful he was.
37:22After that, his mouth on my...
37:24But I was frostborn.
37:25Wherever I moved, cold spread behind me.
37:27It slowed the flames enough to matter.
37:29I remembered what Maren taught me.
37:30Clear a line.
37:31Deny the fire somewhere to go.
37:33I shifted to full form and called out.
37:37Stags, wolves, elephants, and bears.
37:40Here they come.
37:41This home end is exactly as it was in my previous life.
37:44Prince Solian of the Phoenix Court arrives in his full power, in surface form.
37:48And Mira is in his arms.
37:50My sister.
37:51My husband's arms.
37:52Around my sister.
37:54She looks at me over his shoulder.
37:56Satisfied?
37:56Certain.
37:57In my previous life, on the day of the bloom rite, my sister chose someone else.
38:02She persuaded the unwanted boar rider to pick me, claiming we were born for each other.
38:06Instead, I saved Prince Solian of the Phoenix Court by accident.
38:10He took me as his queen.
38:12Axe Bloodline.
38:13A clan that had gone generations without children.
38:15I became a legend across the Everlight realm.
38:18My sister, bonded to her chosen lord, was cast out for barrenness.
38:22I came home with my youngest.
38:24While I'm having a meal, my sister poisoned my bowl.
38:27Me and my child, but when I woke, it was the day of the rite again.
38:31Everyone present is a worthy son of their bloodline.
38:34Choose freely.
38:35Everyone began searching for their desired partners and presenting them with flowers.
38:39I didn't want any of it.
38:40In my last life, childbirth had nearly killed me.
38:43I wasn't doing it again.
38:44I'd painted myself plain.
38:46Doll eyes and plain clothing.
38:48A man came over, took one look at my outfit, and left in disgust.
38:52One by one, even the boar knights found partners.
38:55I stood alone.
38:56Then the doors blew open.
38:57Prince Solian of the Phoenix Court, in his full power, in surface form.
39:02Mira saved my life.
39:03From this day forward, she is my true mate.
39:05Elder Sylvan was greatly startled, some even shedding tears of emotion.
39:09Mira looked at me over his shoulder.
39:11Satisfied.
39:12Certain.
39:13I knew then.
39:14She'd been reborn, too.
39:15Now I looked at her, draped against Prince Solian, already victorious.
39:20She thought she'd won.
39:21She hadn't thought through what it would cost her.
39:23Phoenix Court lords are of the flame-touched element.
39:26Their mates sleep in flame-touched air, bathe in flame-touched heat, eat flame-touched food.
39:31For a bloodline like ours, frostborn by nature, that's not a marriage.
39:36It's a slow execution.
39:37Last time I had no choice but to pretend to like it.
39:40Every day.
39:40I smiled through the sacred ember aisles, through the scalding baths, through the meals that felt like swallowing coals.
39:47By the time I was pregnant, my soul core was already cracked.
39:50The children drew what was left.
39:53Mira was frostborn, too.
39:54She just didn't know what she'd agreed to yet.
39:57The whole keep celebrated.
39:59Every unmated girl in the Order delayed her own bonding to help prepare Mira's.
40:03The gift list ran ten feet long.
40:05Elder Sylvan nearly emptied the sanctuary's vaults, trying to impress a man who didn't need impressing.
40:10Being the only one without a partner makes me the perfect candidate for handmaiden.
40:14Mila stepped forward.
40:15Before, you were the Elder.
40:17I deferred to you.
40:18How does this feel, sister?
40:19I said nothing.
40:20She stepped forward and struck my face.
40:22That look.
40:23You'll get used to it.
40:25Elder Sylvan has already agreed.
40:26You belong to me now.
40:28I'll hit you when I want.
40:30Praise you when I want.
40:31You have no say.
40:33Start learning.
40:34A courier arrived from Prince Solian.
40:36A phoenix mantle.
40:37Light as air, heat-resistant.
40:39Enchanted for speed.
40:40Mira touched it with both hands.
40:42I knew that mantle.
40:44For flame-touched bloodlines, it was a treasure.
40:46For frostborn bloodlines, it was a punishment.
40:49I'd worn it every day of my first marriage.
40:51It had carved away at my soul core for years.
40:54Mira would find that out eventually.
40:56Then a girl came running fast.
40:57Flame-touched damage on the Sacred Grove!
41:00What an awful omen.
41:01Today of all days.
41:02I didn't wait.
41:03I ran.
41:04The Sacred Grove was burning hard when I arrived.
41:06Black smoke.
41:07Screaming from inside the tree line.
41:09The Covenant elders stood at the edge and wouldn't move.
41:12That flame-touched power belongs to a phoenix-caught lord.
41:14We interfere.
41:15We offend him.
41:16Your sister's bonding is today.
41:18Don't make trouble.
41:19They're only low-rank familatives.
41:21I looked at him for a long moment.
41:22Then I went in.
41:23The smoke blinded me fast.
41:25The heat scorched my skin.
41:27But I was frostborn.
41:28Wherever I moved, cold spread behind me.
41:30It slowed the flames enough to matter.
41:32I remembered what Maren taught me.
41:34Clear a line.
41:35Deny the fire somewhere to go.
41:37I shifted to full form and called out.
41:40Stags, wolves, elephants, and bears.
41:43Here they come.
41:44A bear used its body as a shield.
41:46The wolves and elephants worked to clear a firebreak.
41:50We were once at a disadvantage.
41:51But then...
41:52Turned the tide.
41:54Then the woods began to shake.
41:55The ground split open.
41:57The crack widening steadily.
41:59Lord Calith of the Void soared out from within.
42:01He opened his maw and exuded bitter cold all around, putting out the flames.
42:06This grove is mine.
42:08Who damaged it?
42:09Hearing the noise, the elders and Mira came running.
42:12The Covenant elders said nothing.
42:14A thousand years in this valley.
42:15And nobody had thought to check whether something older already lived here.
42:19Look at her!
42:20Ash everywhere!
42:21Burned skin!
42:22It had to be her!
42:23Every eye turned.
42:24I was standing there with my hands at my sides.
42:26Charred.
42:26The same hands that had just spent an hour fighting the flames.
42:30I was certain someone would say it.
42:31Any of them.
42:32They'd all seen me go in.
42:33Elder Sylvan glanced at me.
42:35Then turned to look at Lord Calith.
42:36Lord Calith of the Void.
42:38Our wayward daughter did this.
42:39She is yours to punish.
42:41We offer her freely.
42:42I stood still.
42:43Not one of them spoke for me.
42:47Learn your place.
42:49Touch her again.
42:50And I'll have you expelled.
42:53A student at the academy bonds with a guardian spirit at 18.
42:56Headmaster Sterling granted me a rare privilege.
42:58A choice between the two most powerful guardian spirits in existence.
43:02Caleb.
43:02The golden lion.
43:04Or Kale.
43:04The shadow dragon they kept chained in the depths of the academy's dungeon.
43:07Everyone warned me to stay away from the dragon.
43:10They said Kale was a monster.
43:11Volatile.
43:12Violent.
43:13And untamable.
43:14But I looked the headmaster straight in the eye and gave my answer.
43:16I choose Kale.
43:18In my last life.
43:19I chose Caleb.
43:20He was the academy's golden boy.
43:22Headmaster Sterling's pride and joy.
43:23The night we bonded, he was tender, gentle.
43:26But six months later, he threw me into a dungeon and watched me scream as I was tortured to death.
43:30It was Kale who broke into that cell.
43:32Covered in blood and fueled by a rage that shook the heavens.
43:35He held my cool body and let out a roar that tore the world apart.
43:38He gave up his soul for my second chance.
43:40This time, I won't make the same mistake.
43:43I walked out of the headmaster's office and across the training grounds.
43:46That's where I saw him.
43:48Caleb.
43:48He was surrounded by his usual sycophants.
43:51His practice staff slipped from his hand.
43:52It clattered on the ground, stopping just a few feet away from me.
43:56He didn't even glance at me.
43:58Pick it up.
43:59Pick it up yourself.
44:00You dare talk back to me?
44:02Well, I...
44:03This is new.
44:04Two days ago, you were still glued to him.
44:06Weren't you his little shadow?
44:07Your father would roll over in his grave if he saw you now.
44:10Then, Maya arrived.
44:12She was limping, her clothes stained with fresh blood.
44:14She knelt down, her hands trembling as she reached for the staff, cold sweat beating on her forehead.
44:19Caleb grabbed her by the wrist.
44:21You should be resting.
44:22Why are you even out here?
44:24He turned back to me.
44:25Look at her.
44:26She's barely holding herself together, and she still came out here for me.
44:29You?
44:30You can't even be bothered.
44:31You just came from my father's office, didn't you?
44:33What were you doing?
44:34Let me guess.
44:35You tried to play the pity card again, using your father's sacrifice to beg for a bond with me?
44:39You're pathetic, Ivy.
44:41I didn't ask for anything.
44:43The headmaster summoned me because he's personally overseeing my bonding ceremony.
44:46The other students swarmed us immediately.
44:49Caleb!
44:50If your dad is involved, I guess you're stuck with her.
44:53Look on the bright side.
44:54At least the academy will be yours one day.
44:56I'm not bonding with you.
44:57Not unless you want history repeating itself.
45:00And whatever is going on between me and Maya, keep out of it.
45:03My heart skipped a beat.
45:05History?
45:05Did he remember the past life, too?
45:08Was he reborn, just like me?
45:10He swept Maya up into his arms and walked away without a backward glance.
45:13I watched them leave and let out a soft, cold laugh.
45:16Perfect.
45:17Stay with her.
45:18I never planned on being bonded to you anyway.
45:20One week-
45:23Kester, I am not one of your mistresses!
45:26I'm not interested in your games!
45:31No one dares to call you my mistress, Celia.
45:34From the day I brought you back, I've been wanting you.
45:37All along.
45:38What?
45:41What the hell did I do last night?
45:43It's been two hours already.
45:44Is the groom even coming?
45:45Please don't worry, everyone.
45:47Caesar will be here very soon.
45:48Caesar is the Alpha's son, the sole heir to the Vance Mafia family.
45:51Why would he ever marry a vampire like her?
45:53He still hasn't showed up.
45:54He must have ditched the wedding.
45:56The groom another call, ask him to hurry up.
46:07An abandoned bride?
46:08Get the hell off the altar!
46:09Stop wasting our time!
46:14We only showed up out of respect for the Alpha!
46:16Are you messing with us?
46:23Daddy.
46:24Last chance.
46:25You better let go of me.
46:27Me last night?
46:28Was my stepdad?
46:29Caesar's not well.
46:30The wedding's off.
46:31Everyone, please leave.
46:34Good girl.
46:35Let's go home.
46:36What's going on?
46:37Caesar is Keston's son, right?
46:38Why would Kester come in person just to pick up his stepdaughter?
46:41Caesar isn't coming.
46:42Selene, go with Lord Keston now.
46:48Daddy.
46:51Baby, I still prefer what you called me last night.
46:56He knows it was me last night?
46:58Everyone, Selene is my most precious daughter.
47:02Whether she marries Caesar or not, she will be the Lady of the Vance family.
47:06What?
47:07Lady of the Vance family?
47:08What does Lord Kester even mean?
47:18Daddy.
47:20You really like calling me that, huh?
47:23Then call me that in bed, too.
47:24No.
47:25Last night was a mistake.
47:27Please, forget about what happened.
47:29I love Caesar.
47:30We are getting married.
47:31Is that so?
47:33Today is your wedding, but he didn't even show up.
47:41Sorry, baby.
47:42I overslept.
47:43Hang on.
47:44Baby, if you don't put this on before he comes in, you're going to be in trouble.
47:48Give it to me.
47:51Beg me.
47:53Please, give me my clothes.
47:55No, baby.
47:56You have to say, Daddy, please give it to me.
47:59Selene, I'm coming in.
48:00Daddy, please give it to me.
48:08Dad, what are you doing here?
48:10Celia isn't here.
48:11Get out.
48:12Huh?
48:21Kester, I am not one of your mistresses.
48:24I'm not interested in your games.
48:29No one dares to call you my mistress, Celia.
48:32From the day I brought you back, I've been wanting you all along.
48:36What?
48:37If you hadn't chose Caesar, we would have been together long ago.
48:40Selene, last night was an accident, but you're welcome to cancel the engagement.
48:43Let go of me.
48:44This is impossible.
48:45Why?
48:46If you choose me, you will still be the lady of the Vance family.
48:49Because to you, this is just a passing womp.
48:51Because I am marrying your son.
48:52Do you understand that, Kester?
48:54Don't follow me.
48:55She doesn't believe me.
49:00No one dares to call you my mistress, Celia.
49:02From the day I brought you back, I've been wanting you all along.
49:06Kester.
49:19Stay back!
49:20What do you want?
49:22A vampire, wandering alone, in werewolf territory?
49:26I am Caesar's fiancé!
49:28You can't touch me!
49:29Can't even make up a decent lie!
49:31Why don't you just say you're Lord Kester's wife?
49:35Broke free from the handlers and collapsed at my feet.
49:38Please, save me.
49:40I'll be good to you.
49:42I don't want to die, please.
49:45After my fox beastman scratched me yet again.
49:48Scar, has your beastman even been through socialization training?
49:53He has.
49:54Top of his class, actually.
49:56My phone buzzed.
49:57It was Jasper.
49:59It's just a scratch.
50:00Do you really need to go to the clinic?
50:02Come home and make me dinner.
50:04I'm hungry.
50:04You really do a terrible job taking care of me.
50:07So that was what he thought of me.
50:09I turned and walked into the bonding registry.
50:14I'd like to file for a transfer of custody.
50:18You've been registered with him for a full year.
50:20You're almost eligible for a lifetime bond.
50:22Why would you want to switch now?
50:24I used to look forward to that bond so much.
50:27I'd even excitedly discuss the bonding ceremony with him.
50:32Do you really think you deserve me?
50:35The way you cry, it's disgusting.
50:37He doesn't like me.
50:39I'm sorry.
50:40There must have been an issue with our training program.
50:43What kind of beastman are you looking for?
50:45A canine, preferably.
50:47Come with me.
50:48The staff member took me to the archive room.
50:51Her hand glided across the death.
50:53I swiped the screen to view until I saw a man with cold, gray vertical pupils,
50:57broad shoulders, and a slender waist.
51:00This is the only canine we have.
51:02Honestly, he's the most obedient beastman in our entire ward.
51:06But everyone's terrified of wolves going feral.
51:09No one wants him.
51:10Management's afraid of losing money,
51:11so they're sending him to the blood arena today.
51:13Is he really obedient?
51:16Absolutely.
51:19Then I'll take him.
51:33On my way home, I spotted Jasper and Bianca from a distance.
51:37The white-haired beastman stood bathed in the last golden light of sunset,
51:41features sculpted and refined like a work of art.
51:45Bianca is my sister, high clearance, lives in the wealthy district.
51:49Standing next to her, I'm the one who actually looks like she grew up in the foster system.
51:53Ever since she met Jasper, she'd been showing up with expensive premium supplements,
51:56and the two of them had gotten suspiciously close.
51:58My whole life, everything I ever wanted eventually became hers.
52:02Bianca noticed me.
52:03Elwynn, heading to work again?
52:05Elwynn, no offense, but even though you and Jasper are about to enter a soul resonance bond,
52:10you really should put some effort into how you look.
52:14She wouldn't look any better dressed up.
52:18Jasper, how can you say that?
52:20She could never understand a mind like mine.
52:24Bonding with her was my worst mistake.
52:27Jasper was not always like this.
52:29Even though the clothes I bought wore down his tender skin to the point of pain,
52:32he still said without hesitation that meeting me was his blessing.
52:38The turning point was the day my bag slipped off my shoulder.
52:42Jasper, the red fox stepped out of his car and his foot landed right on Jasper's hand.
52:47Well, isn't this the most popular Jasper from back in the day?
52:51How did you end up with such an ordinary human?
52:54Then again it fits, a defect marked retext paired with a nobody.
52:59A perfect match.
53:00That night, Jasper locked himself in his room.
53:03I sat outside his door.
53:05I told him that ranking people into tears was wrong from the start.
53:09That the registry labeling him as defect marked was something he didn't need to take to heart.
53:15You've never been at the top.
53:17Of course you'd think being garbage isn't that bad.
53:20Later he met Bianca.
53:21She was well off.
53:22She could give Jasper things I never could.
53:24They grew closer by the day.
53:26Sometimes mid-conversation, Bianca would lean into him.
53:29You're my bonded beast man.
53:31Can you keep some distance from Bianca?
53:34Elvin, if it weren't for my defect, you never could have afforded to be my guaranteeser.
53:39You took advantage of my desperation.
53:41That's all this ever was.
53:42What right do you have to act like you own me?
53:46But back then, it was Jasper who dropped to his knees and begged me to save him.
53:51In this era, male beastmen bore children for humans.
53:55Jasper, once an elite beastman with an astronomical auction price, was found infertile.
54:00So the higher-ups planned to send him to the Pleasure District to recover their losses.
54:05That day happened to be the day I was going to buy a beastman of my own.
54:08Jasper broke free from the handlers and collapsed at my feet.
54:12Please, save me.
54:14I'll be good to you.
54:16I don't want to die, please.
54:18I know what it feels like to be unwanted.
54:21So I spent every last penny I had, took out a small loan, and bought Jasper's bond.
54:27Because I was afraid of hurting his pride, I never brought up any of it again.
54:30I never imagined that one day I'd hear him twist it all into me taking advantage of his desperation.
54:36The next day, I took a detour back to the registry.
54:39Caleb arrives tomorrow.
54:41I just wanted to see him.
54:44Caleb was curled in the corner.
54:45When he saw me, his eyes softened.
54:48He saw my wound, touched it gently, and it healed.
54:53No ordinary wolfman could do that.
54:56After spending some time with him, I turned and headed home.
54:59As soon as I reached the door, I ran into Jasper.
55:02Same routine.
55:04You always crawl back.
55:07Jasper, do you really feel like being with me is torture?
55:10Yeah.
55:11A low-clearance human like you got lucky to have me.
55:14Can you really let go?
55:15I'll be stuck with you clinging to me for the rest of my life.
55:17A wave of relief passed through me.
55:19I was sure I had made the right call.
55:22What exactly are you trying to say?
55:23I have a gift for you.
55:25You'll find out in a few days.
55:27Not another bottom-shelf supplement even a dog wouldn't drink, is it?
55:30I'd have to waste energy pouring it down the toilet.
55:32No.
55:34This is what you truly desire.
55:35Freedom.
55:36It better be.
55:39The next day, Bianca showed up first thing in the moment.
55:43Jasper and I made plans to go shopping.
55:45He has similar taste to mine.
55:47We always have something to talk about.
55:49Elowen, you're not going to be upset, right?
55:53I don't mind.
55:55Elowen, you're not upset?
55:59I'm not upset.
56:00Go wherever you want.
56:02Less drama from her, even better.
56:04Stop talking and let's go.
56:05I needed to visit Caleb at the registry and buy some essentials for him.
56:09Near the registry, I had just rounded the corner.
56:16The stench hit first.
56:17I had no time to dodge.
56:37Don't be scared.
56:38It was the first time he'd ever spoken to me on his own.
56:43Are you really just an ordinary wolfman?
56:48I stayed with him for a while.
56:50That's at the Malchal L'Alf, Clay de Brasseplein.
56:53I didn't get home until the dar hang.
Comments