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.

interest. His gaze lingered on Nera as though she were more than just a companion, as if she held a secret he was desperate to unlock. "Why

no ordinary hellhound," he revealed. "She chooses her

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

seems." He inclined his head. As we began to walk, the weight of the

I 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 grand plan, but I was no longer content

cooperation from me, you'll remove them. I'm done being restrained," I demanded, my voice steely, each word laced with the resolve of someone

studied

ground with a dull thud. The moment the restraints fell, a rush of energy surged through me, as if I'd been shackled not just physically but spiritually. Sage stirred awake, her presence

she sighed. "I was beginning to think

my wolf felt stronger, clearer. The fog that had dulled my senses lifted, and for the first time in what felt

his voice disturbingly calm, as if he had expected

coursing through me again. My body hummed

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

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 to dwell on the past; my future, my family's

moved forward, Nera

I felt invincible. The path

if the very shadows feared him. Despite his calm

need to learn

talking," I urged. I wasn't in the mood for more of his games. I wanted answers, not more