Soon, the boat used to cross the river was set in motion.
These waters were treacherous, infested with crocodiles and other dangerous creatures.
I would dare to cross it alone, but not with my woman on my back.
"Were with our people now, love.
Everything will be fine," I kissed Valerias hand, and she kissed the back of my neck.
It was time to plan our revenge and the conquest of this realm.
I didnt care who sat on the throne, as long as it was an ally.
No one would ever threaten my family again.
ook CELINE I felt terrible.
My head ached, dizziness overwhelmed my senses, and my chest tightened with a dull pain.
What was happening to me? Was it the curse of my blood? Was I about to have another relapse? I couldnt think clearly.
Helplessness grew inside me as I sank into the scalding water of the tub, closing my eyes, exhausted.
When I opened them again, I was somewhere else.
Where...
where am I now?" I asked myself, staring blankly around.
---- Iwas standing, submerged up to my hips in what looked like a rectangular pool, filled with steaming water and dark rose petals.
It was an enormous bathroom, the mist from the hot water clouding the air.
White columns supported the high ceiling, where a massive golden chandelier filled with candles illuminated the luxurious space.
At the far end of the pool, small white stairs led up to a resting area, adorned with soft cushions, two goblets, and a golden pitcher that smelled of wine.
It looked like a place designed for lovers, for a steamy bath shared by two but what was I doing here? Before I could call my wolf, I tensed at the sensation of a hand wrapping around my waist from behind.
I hadnt even noticed another presence! I tried to turn, to pull away in fear, but a strong, naked body pressed against my back, hot breath falling dangerously low over my ear.
"Why did you disobey me, Celine?" It was him.
It was Zarek.
My whole body tensed, yet at the same time, it was filled with an unfamiliar longing; my heart pounded wildly.
Icould feel his nakedness, the hard muscles of his chest, and his erect member pressed against my ass.
I didnt dare move.
The deal with my mate was to pretendif Zarek tempted me again, I would make him believe I was falling for his lies, just so I could get Dante into the palace.
ale Iwas scared...
no..."
"Liar," he hissed, making me shudder.
His hand slid up to my neck, and I felt the sharp edge of his claws as he squeezed slightly.
I swallowed hard, a thousand emotions crashing inside my chest.
If this was a dream, could he kill me? "IT would never harm you, little one.
You are my life, Celine.
The mistress of my power and my will, the only one who can command and control me.
His grip loosened, and his fingers trailed down to my breasts, while his other hand hovered over my abdomen.
His seductive words melted into my senses, making me close my eyes, trying to resist his sweet compulsion, but my entire body vibrated with pleasure and repressed desires.
How could these illusions feel so real...
so hot and intoxicating? "Wait a moment..." I swallowed, struggling against the fire igniting within me and grabbed his hands.
I could hear his heavy breathing against my neck and feel the throbbing hardness pressing against my backside.
"Pll come to the palace to free you.
If I do, will you let me in?" Suddenly, I found myself turned around, and I immediately lowered my head.
I didnt know why, but I couldnt bear to look directly into his eyes and lie to him like this.
Wasnt he supposed to be the deceiver here? My eyes fixed on his muscular chest, where strange letters were etched ---- across his left pectoral, along with those scars.
"Look at me, Celine.
Look into my eyes," he commanded, and I slowly lifted my gaze.
Those dangerous red eyes stared at me with such intensity that they seemed to devour me without even touching me, seeing through every lie and secret buried in my soul.
His wet black hair fell over his broad shoulders, contrasting with his pale skin.
The mist swirled between our bodies, his scent overwhelming my senses; I didnt know what to do.
I was never good at seductionI always went straight to the point with my lovers, nothing more.
"Come to the castle, and I will do whatever you desire," he lifted his hand and caressed my cheek without hesitation.
I felt awful, like a traitor.
The words got stuck in my throat.
I wanted to tell him, Tell me no...
please, tell me no, because Im not going to free you, Im lying, and someone else is going to keep you locked away...
oo Ibegan to speak, but my head suddenly felt as if thousands of needles were piercing it, and I clutched my temple with a trembling hand.
Something was wrong, very wrong.
I wanted to resist, to break free, but the more I fought, the more it hurt.
"No, dont resist, Celine.
Dont hurt yourself, little one.
Look at me always look at me, Celine!" he ordered relentlessly, clearing the darkness in my mind like a soothing balm to my agony.
---- When my eyes locked onto his blood-red irises, it was as if he controlled my entire world and banished all my fears.
He cupped my face in his hands, but I kept avoiding his gaze.
My chest burned, my entire being rebelled against betraying him.
Why? "My love, dont be afraid.
Do what you must.
You are the only one in this world who could rip my heart out, and I would still forgive you.
Everything will be fine.
Leave it to me, just come to the castle, Celine.
However you can, come to my lands." "Im not coming alone..."