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.

with you. Fascinating." I noted how Astaroth watched the exchange with keen 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 does

Fluffy-or rather, Nera-is no ordinary hellhound," he revealed. "She chooses her

that resonated with something

his head. As we began to walk, the weight of

stated, holding up my

spoke as though everything he did

cooperation from me, you'll remove them. I'm done being restrained," I demanded, my voice steely,

He studied me

fell, a rush of energy surged through me, as if I'd been shackled not just physically but

"I was beginning to

fog that had dulled my senses lifted, and for the first time in what felt like ages, I

his voice disturbingly calm, as if he had expected this change all

flexing my fingers, feeling the raw power coursing through me again. My body hummed with a renewed strength, and I felt the flicker of a

the weight of his gaze lingering on me, studying me like a predator watching prey that had just learned

before casting 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

we moved forward, Nera

energy was palpable. With her beside me, I felt invincible. The path ahead was uncertain, but for the first time in a long while, I felt in

him, as if the very shadows feared him. Despite his calm demeanour, I could sense

need to

I urged. I wasn't in the mood for more of