Their Secret Obsession by Pippa Moon

Chapter 0319

Lottie POV

"Impressive," Astaroth remarked. "You've embraced your heritage more fully than I anticipated." Astaroth sighed dramatically, clapping slowly. I turned to face him fully, barely containing the frustration bubbling within me. His nonchalant attitude, the way he watched me like I was some sort of amusing sideshow-it grated on my nerves. I was done with being a pawn in his twisted game.

"I'm tired of being underestimated," I stated firmly. "I'm a Lycan heir, and I won't be controlled by you or anyone else." He raised an eyebrow, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

"Oh, I have no intention of controlling you. In fact, I'm quite looking forward to seeing what you do next."

"Don't patronise me," I snapped, my voice rising as the frustration threatened to boil over. "You've been manipulating events from the shadows, but your games end here."

"You misunderstand me, Charlotte." He chuckled softly, his tone condescending, making my fists clench. "My interest in you is genuine. There's much you don't know, but all in due time."

"Enough with the cryptic remarks. If you have something to say, say it." I felt a surge of frustration. Every word he spoke was layered in riddles, and I was getting tired of trying to decode his intentions.

"Very well," he conceded. "But perhaps we can have this conversation somewhere more... suitable?" He gestured around at the grim surroundings. "This place hardly befits a discussion of such importance." I glanced around, acknowledging my cousin's body in the damp, claustrophobic tunnel.

"Fine," I agreed reluctantly. "But know this-I don't trust you."

"Trust is earned," he replied smoothly. "And I intend to earn yours."

Fluffy padded over to my side. She nudged me gently, her eyes reflecting concern. I looked down at her, my hand finding comfort in the soft fur around her neck. The warmth of her touch grounded me in a way I hadn't expected.

lingered on Nera as though she were more

"She chooses

testing the name. It felt right, a name that resonated with something deeper within me. "Well, Nera and I are

He inclined his head. As we began to walk, the weight of the cuffs on my

stated, holding up my bound hands, "need to come

thoughtfully. "For now, they serve a purpose." He spoke as though everything he did was part of some

remove them. I'm done being restrained," I demanded, my voice steely, each word laced with the resolve

studied me

to the ground with a dull thud. The moment the restraints fell, a rush of energy surged through

sighed. "I was beginning to think you'd forgotten

relief washing over me. The connection with my wolf felt stronger, clearer. The fog that had dulled my senses lifted, and

voice disturbingly calm, as if he

affirmed, flexing my fingers, feeling the raw power coursing through me again. My body hummed

gestured ahead, but I could feel the weight of his gaze lingering on me, studying me like a predator watching prey that had just learned to

one last glance at Sebastian's still form. A mix of emotions churned within me-regret, resolve, and a hint of sadness. But I pushed them aside. I couldn't afford

we moved forward,

a constant reassurance. Her steps were silent, but her energy was palpable. With her beside me, I felt invincible. The path ahead

tunnels seemed to part for him, as if the very shadows feared him. Despite his calm demeanour, I could sense the danger radiating from him like

you need to learn about your heritage,

start talking," I urged. I wasn't in the mood for more of his