Finding My True Alpha Mate

The first thing I did was tear up the contract binding me to Blackmoon Enterprises, the most powerful conglomerate in the city, owned and controlled by werewolf elites. Then, I coldly rejected the business alliances offered by the most influential Alpha in the business world—Raphael Voss.

In my previous life, I mistakenly swayed and chose him. Raphael was the heir to the Voss Pack and head of the Blackmoon Enterprises. He promised me forever—until he abandoned our engagement for Tessa, the cunning yet delicate CEO of another corporation. My heartbreak sent my grandfather, my only family, to an early grave.

In despair, my childhood friend, Alpha Alexander Devereaux, offered me a partnership. "I'm here for you, always. I’ve got your back, remember? No matter what, Celeste."

I trusted him. We built an empire together, but after merging our companies, he became distant and ruthless. I thought it was because I failed to bear him an heir.

I was fooled until the night of my car accident. I bled. Begging for some help, Alexander appeared and I thought I would be saved but…

But he was there with Tessa by his side, ensuring my death.

Tessa. Again. Indeed, she took the second man I foolishly fell in love with under my nose.

I died alone and unloved.

In death, I discovered the truth. My existence had been a carefully played game between Tessa, Alexander, and Raphael. Tessa had planned everything and connived with the two—consolidating their wealth and power while guaranteeing I could never challenge them.

And the reason I never conceived? They had bribed my doctor to secretly make me unable to bear a child. I was operated because of my appendicitis but it wasn’t just my appendix being removed, also my ovary.

But fate gave me a second chance. Moon Goddess wanted me to find my true mate.

This time, I won’t let them fool me. No Alphas. No friends. No admiration. No betrayals.

I blinked.

What happened?

Where am I?

I roamed my eyes around, looking at my board of directors in front of me. I touched my chest. I heaved a deep breath. All I could remember was Tessa’s gun pointing at me. She shot me! Killed—me.

I gasped. Stood up.

If Tessa killed me then—

Then why am I still alive?

“Celeste?” A concerned one spoke, calling my attention.

I turned roughly recalling her voice. It was her. My executive assistant and best friend—Natalie.

“Are you okay?” she asked.

I couldn’t say anything, just staring at my best friend’s brown eyes. She was murdered in her apartment before my wedding with Alexander.

Am I dreaming?

“Hey…” Natalie’s voice held too many emotions. Mostly, she’s wondering what was wrong with me.

And so do I.

I needed answers. My eyes darted at the documents on the table, I took it. The date. The year… It was the same date but the year was ten years ago.

Ten years ago… Then it means I was in my body when I was only twentyone. And this moment?

Again, I roamed my eyes to the people around me. I remember the moment… This was my first meeting with the company’s board of directors after my grandfather entrusted me with the management of his company. I just graduated from college at this time. So young. So naive. So stupid.

“We can postpone the meeting if you’re not well…” Natalie whispered behind me.

“No. I’m fine.” I smiled at Natalie.

Natalie was my grandfather's secretary before she worked for me. She was only two years older than me and became my best friend. The one who warned me over Raphael and Tessa. I didn’t listen then, not this time.

“Let’s start the meeting, where’s the contract with the Blackmoon Enterprises?”

“Here.” Olivia—Raphael’s sister and representative handed me the contract. She smiled too sweetly. I remembered how she defamed me then.

I took the contract from Olivia and without any words I tore it up. Olivia gasped and all of the board of directors in front of me.

“Celeste, what are you doing?” Natalie asked in shock.

My grandfather built his name as one of the top business strategists in the city, and his every move was watched by both corporate giants and criminal factions. And they thought I was weak unlike my father.

Yes, I was. Yes, I truly failed my grandfather for being dumb in love. No more this time. I may still be wolfless but it doesn’t mean I could be fooled again.

I kept my voice steady. “Because I don’t want to collaborate with Blackmoon anymore.”

“Just like that?!” Olivia stood up and gave me her death stare.

“Yes,” I spat. “Just like that, Olivia Voss. I don’t need Blackmoon Enterprises. I’m about to secure another collaboration contract with another group of companies.”

“What company?” Albert Devereaux—Alexander’s father—asked. He’s one of my grandfather’s favored godson.

“The Phantom, Inc.”

Olivia’s eyes widened. “The Phantom? The one owned by Lucian Sanguine?”

I frowned. Actually, I have no idea about the one who owned the company of Phantom, Inc. I just remember the name of the company from my previous life. Phantom, Inc. rose in power and the one who bought my grandfather’s company after the bankruptcy caused by Alexander when I let him manage the company for me after my appendicitis operation.

“Phantom is rumored as a Mafia,” Albert Devereaux hushed the words. Obviously wanting to hint danger to the board to make me look incompetent at all.

“A syndicate!” Olivia overreacted exclaimed. “You are choosing low lives to collaborate with rather than my brother’s company? Are you sick? Raphael is the most influential businessman and a young Alpha!”

“And so what?” I asked in my venomous voice. “If he’s the most influential then why does he need to be partnered with my grandfather’s company?”

“You are so full of yourself!” Olivia scowled me. “Don’t think that being spoiled and pampered could make you the best CEO of your grandfather’s company. You are just favored by your grandfather! For sure he regrets that his only son didn’t give him a grandson and just died because of some rebel war from rogues! You are a useless one, Celeste. An Alpha’s daughter who has no wolf at all!”

That hurts if I heard those words before. But I became no more than I was in the past. I was me being back from the dead.

“And me being no wolf at all understand better that your brother—Raphael Voss—wanted my grandfather’s company thinking I am weak. Well, sweetie Olivia… Tell Raphael and everyone else who wanted to conspire against me. I ain’t stupid and I ain’t gullible.”

“Raphael will not let this off!” Olivia threatened me.

“As if I’m scared, Olivia dear.”

“You’ll regret this, Celeste!” Olivia hissed.

I straightly looked at her. If only she knew that I already regretted the moment I let my guard down in my previous life, and promised myself that I won’t let anyone fool me in this second life.

I was stupid when I signed the contract with Raphael’s company. I was stupid and foolish then.

Then. Not now.

In fact, that contract was also the reason why Raphael wooed me and made me believe that I was his mate. Idiot I was, I believed him, especially I didn’t have my wolf to warn and contradict the ‘mate thing’ Raphael used to lure me then. I even thought then that I was lucky to find Raphael as my mate before. An Alpha like him as my fated mate was truly a blessing for someone like me.

How naive I was…

“And you can tell your brother, Olivia, that I’m no more interested in his offer. I know what I said could be an insult for someone like him but… it was just that I am not the nitwit one you think of. I know what Raphael wants, my grandfather’s company. He wants to extend his alphadom in our pack, right? Well, sorry to inform him… He will never have what he wants in this lifetime.”

Olivia squinted her eyes but I only smirked at her.

“Ciao, Olivia.”

I sat up next and looked at everyone. “Meeting adjourned.”

The board of directors left and only Natalie left with me in the boardroom. She sighed. Looking at me with disbelief with what I’ve done.

“What was that for?” I asked. “I thought you didn't like Olivia,” I said straightly, for I know that fact because it was her then kept on reminding me that Olivia was just a minion of Tessa to spy on me in my previous life.

Yes, when I was fooled by Raphael’s charm and assigned his sister as an executive assistant of Blackmoon Enterprises detailed in my grandfather’s company, I was nice to her thinking she will soon be my sisterinlaw. But little did I know how she discreetly made me wrong in the eyes of people in the company. Causing trouble for me, encouraging people to rally on me and remove me from being the CEO.

I chuckled. “But I purposely did it that way. It’s the best way to show how I refused Blackmoon Enterprises, Nat. It’s the best way for them to realize I ain’t an easy target.”

Natalie was amused with the way I nicknamed her more than what I said. It was because at this time, she and I weren’t as close as we were. This moment was just a start for our friendship.

“Anyway, are you serious with what you said about the Phantom, Inc.?” she curiously asked. Her tone was full of concern for me on whatever I was planning.

“Certainly.”

“But they’re—”

“Dangerous?” I finished for her. “Yes, but I know they will be my best ally in case.” In case Tessa continues her schemes towards me, then the Phantom, Inc. will be there for Darkfang Industries.

I won’t let Darkfang go bankrupt. I won’t let myself be the reason for my grandfather’s death and also Natalie. I had no idea then who killed Natalie, but I have an idea now… It’s easy now to connect her death in my previous life to Tessa, Raphael, and Alexander.

“Of course…” Natalie smiled and nodded. “Your future, Celeste, is yours to shape. And with your grandfather’s business acumen, you will surely learn it all as soon as you focus on the company.”

I nodded. My past life’s heartbreak no longer mattered. The weight of my death in my previous life has no longer held me down. Now, I felt a sense of control over my fate.

The day ended fast. I was heading home and walked past the lobby as my mind occupied the tangled web of schemes Raphael, Alexander, and Tessa had spun in my previous life. This time, I wouldn’t fall prey to their deceptions. This time, I would be the one leading the game.

All I needed was to find the one behind the Phantom, Inc. and convince him or her to be a shareholder in Darkfang Industries. With Phantom, Inc. I will secure my grandfather’s company’s future. No bankruptcy this time.

Just as I stepped through the grand revolving doors and into the cool night air, a sudden force hit me—like a bolt of lightning straight to my soul.

My steps halted. My breath caught.

A powerful, intoxicating scent filled my senses, a mix of fresh pine, crisp winter air, and something uniquely alluring. My heart pounded so violently that I could feel its echo in my fingertips. My vision blurred for a moment before sharpening with a startling clarity.

What… What is this?

My body turned on its own accord, searching for the source.

And then—I saw him.

A tall, striking man stood near the sidewalk, his piercing silver gray eyes locked onto mine as if he had been waiting for me all along. His presence was magnetic, overwhelming, as if the world itself had quieted around us. The moment our gazes met, a strange warmth unfurled deep within my chest, spreading like wildfire through my veins.

Mate?

The word slammed into my mind, raw and undeniable.

Is he my—

‘Mate!’

A voice, barely audible but unmistakable, echoed in my head. ‘Celeste... he is ours.’

My eyes widened. ‘Who are you?’ I asked her though I already knew who she was.

‘It’s me! Your wolf!’

My wolf? I have my wolf now?

Oh, Moon Goddess… Thank you!

‘What’s your name?’ I asked.

‘Elara.’

I gulped. My inner wolf's voice was soft yet filled with certainty. She had been silent for so long, but now she stirred, her presence strong and insistent. A shiver ran down my spine as the bond between us reawakened, stronger than ever. And she was here to tell me who’s our mate.

‘You need to make him know you, Celeste!’

I sucked in a sharp breath, my wolf—who had been dormant in my previous life—howling to life in recognition. My heart raced, and an inexplicable pull urged me forward especially as my eyes locked to the man who was approaching me already.

He took a slow step towards me, his expression unreadable but his eyes burning with the same awareness that coursed through my blood.

“You…” I whispered, barely able to find my voice. “You’re my—”

“Mate,” he finished my sentence.

The corner of the man’s lips lifted slightly, not quite a smirk but something just as dangerous. “You feel it too.”

It wasn’t a question. It was a statement.

I swallowed hard.

This was real. This was happening.

For the first time, fate had thrown me something entirely unexpected—but whether it was a blessing or another twist in my already complicated life, I wasn’t sure.

All I knew was that I had just found my true mate and my inner wolf. And nothing would ever be the same again for Raphael and Alexander if they tried to fool me again, making me think as their mate.

Before I could say something, my phone buzzed with calls from Alexander, demanding a meeting. I frowned. Alexander was out of the country until the moment he had a chance with me. It was when I was heartbroken with what Raphael did to me in our supposed engagement party.

“This call was not in my previous life…” I whispered to myself. “Some change after I tore that goddamn contract…”

“What contract?” the man asked, his deep voice laced with curiosity.

Bewildered, I looked into his piercing gray eyes. “Contract?” I echoed, frowning.

“You were talking about some contract,” he said smoothly, his gaze never leaving mine. “I hope the bidding for Darkfang Industries' new project is still open.”

I blinked. “Bidding?”

“Yes, the bidding. I was informed that the young and beautiful CEO of Darkfang canceled the contract the company was supposed to sign today with Blackwood. And I heard that my company was mentioned.”

“Your company…” I repeated slowly, trying to piece everything together. Who’s he?

“Phantom, Inc.”

Oh… My breath hitched as realization dawned. The man standing in front of me was the one behind Phantom, Inc. And he’s my mate! My true mate!

“Lucian Sanguine,” he introduced himself next, his name rolling off his tongue with confidence. “I was planning to pay you a visit tomorrow, Miss Moretti, but since I was told it is you walking out the door of your company’s building then…” He shrugged. “The urge to talk to you became my main objective at first, Miss Moretti, I admit. And sensing it’s you that I thought would never have made me realize how kind and cruel the Moon Goddess is to me.”

I gaped at him. I was confused. Just as I was about to respond, my phone buzzed again. Another call from Alexander. Annoyed, I sighed and answered it.

“What do you want, Alexander?” I asked coldly, stepping a few feet away from Lucian.

“Celeste,” Alexander’s voice came through the speaker, smooth yet dripping with feigned concern. “I was worried about you. You’ve been making some rash decisions, I heard.”

So, he heard what I did to Olivia earlier already? What a concern for his friend Raphael’s company!

The three of us actually grew up together and only college life changed our friendship. And Tessa? She used to be my best friend in college who became rich when she married a businessman. Tessa was still married this year. Her husband will die next year and it all makes sense now… Tessa will surely be the one killing her husband, too.

“Are you listening, Celeste?” Alexander asked next. “I know you have some trouble handling your grandfather’s business. It’s big and you’re inexperienced. Anyway, you can ask for Tessa’s help since she’s your friend. I could help you, too.”

I scoffed. Raphael was out now with their plan to fool me. Maybe Raphael and Alexander already changed their roles. Alexander will be the one to fool me and Raphael will be the one who will soon lure me once Alexander dumped me for Tessa.

“I’m listening, Alexander… I just got bored talking to you,” I said in my most cold tone. “And rash? What do you mean by that? I perfectly did what I had to do. Taking control of my grandfather’s company instead of letting Raphael manipulate me is the most justified thing I did in my life.”

“Come on, Celeste,” Alexander said with a light chuckle. “Manipulate? Raphael? You’re only overthinking.”

“Am I really only overthinking, Alexander?” I probed. Of course he would never admit what they are plotting against me, but who cares?! I know what will be my end if I still go down the same path.

“We've been friends since we were toddlers, Celeste, so where did you get the idea that Raphael was trying to manipulate you?” Alexander stated.

I bitterly smiled. How could someone lie like what they were doing straightly? They are evil! All for Tessa? Damn them all!

“Don’t be harsh with Raphael, Celeste. Don’t think that way,” Alexander continued. “We both care for you. We promised you to protect, right? And you know how Raphael adores you so much, right? He won’t do anything you were saying…”

“Okay,” I simply said. “Is that all, Alexander?”

“And I know you—you're just acting strong, Celeste, but deep down, you need support. You need someone who understands you.”

I rolled my eyes. “And let me guess, you think that someone is you?”

“Who else?” Alexander said smoothly. “You and I always had something, didn’t we? If it weren’t for Raphael, I should be the one beside you. You were special to me, Celeste. You still are.”

I clenched my jaw. His voice was laced with an unmistakable charm, the same charm he had used before to make me believe he cared. But I knew better now.

“And you don’t need to worry anymore, Celeste. In fact, if you have some concern, I’m always here for you. You can even tell me why you changed your mind this morning. Maybe Olivia pissed you off. Maybe Raphael did something wrong. Whichever, I’m here to listen.”

“I see what you’re trying to do, Alexander,” I said coolly. “But let me tell you this once and for all… I’m not that naive girl anymore, you and Raphael befriended when we were toddlers. I’m Celeste Moretti, an Alpha daughter of Darkfang and the one who doesn’t need you and Raphael’s guidance. And Tessa? She’s not my friend. Don’t mistake my kindness to an Omega like her in college as friendship.”

I ended the call and blocked Alexander’s number to have some peace of mind. I turned to face Lucian Sanguine again. Thinking how Alexander was disturbing my first meeting with my mate, I got annoyed with him more than ever.

Lucian, who had been silently observing, tilted his head. “Trouble?”

I let out a humorless chuckle. “Nothing I can’t handle.”

He smirked. “That’s my mate,” he said proudly while staring at my eyes.

I swallowed.

“Why?” he asked me with a grin. “You seem like you don’t want me as your mate. Are you already with someone else?”

I walked through the towering business district the next day. I felt the weight of scrutinizing eyes—whispers, accusations, and subtle attempts to sabotage me. The reason? Olivia already spread lies towards me after what I did to her yesterday.

I sighed. It seems the defamation she did in my previous life became fast this time. And it still happens…

Tessa’s familiar, sicklysweet voice drifted from a nearby establishment. She was there with some group of her friends.

“I did see Celeste negotiating with some man last night,” she murmured. “Maybe she really made a collaboration with the one she was bragging about to Olivia yesterday. Her contract with the Phantom, Inc.”

“I’m sure she won’t even disclose the terms.” Bianca, Tessa’s friend, scoffed. “She’s not that good. Or maybe that was her reason for choosing Phantom, Inc. over Blackwood. We know Celeste was just favored being the only granddaughter of the owner of Darkfang. She was just favored, not her being capable.”

“Or maybe some rumors were right…” Claire, another friend of Tessa, spoke. “Celeste must have seduced her way in with the CEO of Phantom, Inc.”

“Don’t say that…” Tessa said after she glimpsed at me. She knew I was staring at her and her friends. “Celeste wasn’t like that. She’s a friend of mine and I know she isn’t like that.”

I shook my head with a sneer in my lips. The audacity from Tessa was truly funny.

“You’re so nice to Celeste, Tessa…” Bianca spoke again. “Even in college you helped her a lot to have good grades. But what you get in return, her making you look bad in Raphael’s eyes.”

“Yeah, Tessa, you’re too kind,” Claire sneered. “And a woman like Celeste would do anything for power. She knows she’s not as good as you so she will use all her resources to make sure she won’t fail her grandfather.”

I exhaled, steadying my heart.

None of what they were saying mattered.

Last night as I had a business dinner with Lucian, I already had an idea how he made the Phantom, Inc. rise in power for just five years. He was brilliant and his Mafia organization made him more powerful than ever both in the business world and underground society. I didn’t ask Lucian about the rumors on his identity, yet he informed me beforehand of me being his mate that he can’t lie to.

The thought I had with Lucian last night in the restaurant vanished as I entered the Darkfang Tower when I saw Raphael waiting for me in the lobby.

I stepped closer to him and addressed him coldly. “You wanted to talk?”

Raphael’s sharp expression softened into a charming smile. “Celeste, I know you were just pissed by Olivia so—”

“Are you dumb?” I snapped. “Are you really going to lower yourself this time just to fool me?”

Raphael looked sad. He sighed. “All I want is to keep you safe, Celeste. That’s why I’m still here making you understand. This is not just for business, but for your safety,” Raphael said smoothly. “You know how much I care, right?”

Onlookers whispered enviously. The most powerful Alpha in the business world vying for my allegiance? Any other woman would have been thrilled. But I felt nothing.

In my past life, I thought being with Raphael and Alexander made me untouchable. I fought hard, believing my intelligence and hard work would secure my place at the top. But in the end, my contracts, my empire, my wealth—it was all stolen, handed over to Tessa while I was vilified by rumors.

And the ones who swore to protect me?

They orchestrated it all.

“You are always so lucky, Celeste.” Tessa’s voice came next as she was already inside the building and approaching me and Raphael. “Born into privilege, and now you have the most influential Alpha making you his Luna. I wish I had your kind of life.”

Raphael immediately turned to comfort Tessa. “Don’t say that, Tessa. You found your mate and true love with Jacob Harrington. You and Celeste are both lucky. And even if you’re married, I'll always be your confidant. Me and Alexander.”

I clenched my fists.

Not once had he ever made such promises to me with that tone. I faked a cough to disturb them. And when Raphael turned back to me, his voice was laced with fake guilt. “Celeste, you know I only care for Tessa because she’s your friend. I care for her and mostly I care for you.”

“Of course, I believe that,” I said in all the sarcastic tone I could muster.

Raphael smirked, as if I were a child he already thought of being fooled. “Come on, let’s celebrate our friendship. I will treat you both for lunch.”

I nodded even though I didn't want to. One last time with these two traitors and then I would soon leave behind. I messaged Lucian next, I informed him of my plan going with Raphael and Tessa.

At the parking lot, Raphael rushed to put Tessa in the front passenger seat.

Tessa perfect her hesitation. “But isn’t that seat supposed for Celeste?”

Raphael smirked. “She won’t mind.”

They only realized I hadn’t entered the car when the engines roared to life. Tessa rolled down her window, confused.

I smiled icily. “You can go. I’ll drive myself.” I headed to my car.

Tessa and Raphael looked surprised by my indifference, but they let me go. Yesterday it was Alexander disturbing me, now Raphael and Tessa.

As I drove, memories I had with Raphael and Alexander resurfaced. We had once been partners in business, inseparable. They had pursued me, claiming I was their equal. But after my parents died, I had only my grandfather left.

Tessa, an Omega and once an orphan, became my friend. I didn’t know why she despised me to the point of seducing the two childhood friends of mine and had turned them against me. I had funded Tessa’s rise, paid for her investments with her now husband’s company, and vouched for her in the industry. I even thought that she was honestly in love with Jacob Harrington.

“Where are you?” Natalie asked as she answered my call. “The front desk personnel said she saw you going out with Tessa and Raphael.”

“Don’t worry, Nat. I just want them to think they could still fool me.” I giggled. “Anyway, I called for you to entertain Alpha Lucian Sanguine of Phantom, Inc. Please tell him to wait for me. I—”

“I’m already here,” Lucian said as he obviously took Natalie’s phone. “And one thing I hate the most… you doing actions that could put you in danger.”

“I’m fine…” I rolled my eyes.

“No, you’re not. You are only fine as long as you’re beside me. Don’t ever forget that, my Luna.”

The air inside the highend restaurant was thick with tension. I sat across from Raphael and Tessa, watching their every move. They still thought they could manipulate me. I, however, was no longer the innocent girl they once deceived.

Raphael leaned back in his chair, his usual charismatic smile in place. "Celeste, I hope you understand that what happened yesterday was just a misunderstanding. Olivia overreacted, and I was hoping we could still work together."

Tessa sighed dramatically, playing the role of a concerned friend. "Yes, Celeste. You’ve always been so strong, but sometimes it’s okay to rely on those who truly care about you."

I sipped my wine slowly, letting their words hang in the air.

Truly care about me? Like how you cared when you took everything from me in my past life? Like how you plotted my death?

I thought bitterly. Yet, instead, I gave them a cool smile and leaned in slightly. "Yeah… I suppose I was a bit harsh yesterday. Maybe I overreacted, too."

Raphael's eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he nodded. "Exactly. I always knew you were rational, Celeste. This business deal is important not just for us but for you, too. You have the chance to align with the strongest pack in the business world. You wouldn’t want to pass up such an opportunity, would you?"

Tessa reached out, her fingers lightly grazing my hand in what she likely thought was a reassuring gesture. "Celeste, you know I always have your back. Raphael and I just want what’s best for you. If we all work together, no one can stand in our way. And Alexander? He is worrying as well after he had talked to you yesterday. He called me instantly and told me to make sure you’re fine. He is worrying. We all are. And the Phantom, Inc. collaboration you are planning? That’s dangerous."

I secretly smiled. What Tessa said was truly a joke on her part. She, the wife of Jacob Harrington, has a time to nosy on my business with my grandfather’s company.

“I never thought that you could insert me and my concern with your busy life, Tessa. You are so concerned with me, huh?”

“Of course!” Tessa held one of my hands and pressed. “You are the one I always admired from the start. You know how I was grateful for being a friend of someone with Alpha blood like you, Raphael, and Alexander.”

“Yes, I know that. And thanks for showing me ‘all’ of your admiration towards me.”

I emphasized the word ‘all’ because I mean it. Yes, Tessa was right. She truly admired me, Raphael, and Alexander. She also admired my friendship towards the two. She admired me so much and her admiration turned to envy.

“I may be married right now but I’m so happy I have this moment with the two of you. How I wish Alexander was here with us, too. I should video call him!” Tessa excitedly said and started to call Alexander.

I kept my expression neutral, swirling my wine glass as if I were contemplating Tessa’s excitement and words. I let a few moments of silence pass before I sighed, playing the part of someone considering their offer.

"You both make good points," I said smoothly and I saw the flicker of hope light up in their eyes. "If I were to reconsider, what exactly are you proposing for the next project of Darkfang Industries, Raphael?"

"Woah… Unfinished projects?" I tilted my head, feigning curiosity. “Darkfang never had unfinished projects. Why do you have that thought, Raphael?”

Tessa interjected smoothly. "From experience of other companies that Blackmoon helped, of course. You know how the business world and economy are. One moment you are on the top. Next, some company took your place."

I pretended to consider their words, my fingers tapping idly against the table. "You’re right, Tessa. I should rely on those possibilities and probable outcomes. And that’s why I’ve decided to move forward with Phantom, Inc."

The atmosphere shifted instantly. Raphael stiffened. "Celeste, you can’t be serious. That company is dangerous,” he growled in a whisper at me. “Lucian Sanguine isn’t someone to trust. He’s working with the mafia."

“And so?” I raised an eyebrow. "And about trust? Who are you suggesting is trustworthy? You?"

“We’ve known each other since we were three years old. We grew together!” he growled.

Tessa touched Raphael’s arm gently, calming him down. "We just want what’s best for you, Celeste. That’s all."

“Okay…” I yawned.

“I hope you stop whatever nonsense you are doing, Celeste!” Raphael exclaimed.

I laughed softly next, shaking my head. "You and Alexander always know how to twist the truth to suit your narrative, Raphael. But I’m done playing your game." I looked at Tessa and sneered at her. I stood up, grabbing my purse. "Enjoy your meal with the man you truly wanted to marry, Tessa. I have more important business to attend to."

Tessa gasped and stood up, too. She followed me and tried to stop me from leaving the restaurant. “Celeste, whatever you are thinking between me and Raphael isn’t true. We are just close because of you. We—”

“Enough, Tessa,” I nonchalantly stated and continued walking away. My heart pounded—not from fear, but from triumph.

Tessa held my arm to stop me going away, but as I saw Lucian’s car parked and waiting for me. I smiled in amazement.

“Let me go, Tessa.” I pulled my arm from her. “My Alpha mate won’t like the idea of you and Raphael stopping me from going to him.”

“Your Alpha mate?” Tessa asked in her confused tone.

“Yes, Lucian Sanguine is my true Alpha mate, Tessa. Tell that to Raphael and Alexander,” I proudly stated. “And remember that Lucian’s not just an Alpha, Tessa. He’s a ruthless Mafia King. He’s just an Alpha in our circle but he’s the King in the underground society. Like how Raphael described him… he’s dangerous. He truly is.”

“Luna Celeste.” Marcus—Lucian’s Beta—approached me and Tessa. “Alpha Lucian’s waiting.”

“See?” I taunted Tessa and looked at the black car waiting for me. The door opened and Lucian stepped out coming to me.

He towered me and Tessa. The latter was gaping at Lucian. Her eyes obviously feast on Lucian’s handsome and menacing aura.

"Let’s go, Celeste,” Lucian said, his voice smooth yet commanding. “We can’t be late.”

“Late?” I frowned.

“To find you the perfect ring, my dear Luna.”

Tessa’s mouth hung open, her eyes wide with disbelief. I almost laughed at how quickly her mask of fake concern crumbled. But I had no time to gloat. Lucian stood before me, his presence dominating, his silvergray eyes locked onto mine with an intensity that made my heart race.

“To find the perfect ring,” I repeated, still processing his words. “You’re serious?”

His lips curved into a slow, confident smile. “Deadly.”

I swallowed hard, fighting the warmth spreading through my chest. “We barely know each other.”

His gaze softened, his fingers lightly brushing my cheek. “Our souls know each other. That’s enough for me.”

My breath hitched. Damn him. He was good—too good. I needed to regain control. “I don’t believe in fate,” I said, forcing steel into my voice.

“Then believe in me,” he countered, his voice dropping to a low rumble. “I’ll show you that I’m worth it.”

I hated how much I wanted to believe him. I hated how his words wrapped around my heart, squeezing in a way that felt dangerously close to hope. But I couldn’t fall for this. Not again. Not after Raphael and Alexander. I couldn’t be sure of him. I couldn’t be sure in this second life.

“But…” I pulled back, my voice cold. “I’m not looking for some romance, Lucian. I’m happy on my own.”

His smile didn’t waver. “You want me. I know you proudly told Tessa about me.”

My cheeks burned. “I was just pissing her off. Just some threats for her to stop following and fooling me.”

He chuckled, his eyes gleaming with amusement. “That’s cute.” He extended his hand, his expression turning serious. “Let’s go, Celeste.”

I stared at his outstretched hand, my heart pounding. I could walk away. I could turn my back on him and continue fighting alone, just as I had planned. But the pull between us was undeniable, raw and powerful. I hated it. I craved it.

With a resigned sigh, I placed my hand in his. His fingers closed around mine, warm and strong, sending a jolt of electricity up my arm. His smile softened, and for a brief moment, I saw something vulnerable in his eyes. Something real.

Without another word, he led me to his car. Marcus, his Beta, opened the door, his gaze respectful as he nodded. “Luna.”

I stiffened. “Don’t call me that.”

Lucian’s eyes flicked to Marcus, a silent command. Marcus lowered his head. “Apologies... Celeste.”

I slid into the passenger seat, my mind spinning. Luna. Was that really who I was destined to be? I shook the thought away. I was no one’s Luna. I was Celeste Moretti, heir to Darkfang Industries, and I wasn’t about to let any man—no matter how infuriatingly attractive—control my fate.

The drive was silent, tension hanging heavy between us. I could feel his gaze on me, studying, assessing. It was unnerving how easily he seemed to read me, how effortlessly he saw through my walls.

We arrived at an exclusive jeweler, the kind that catered to the city’s elite. Lucian’s grip on my hand tightened as we entered, his presence commanding attention. The staff practically tripped over themselves to accommodate us.

“Mr. Sanguine, it’s an honor. How can we assist you today?” the manager gushed, his eyes wide with awe.

Lucian’s voice was smooth, confident. “I’m here to find the perfect ring for my mate.”

My heart skipped a beat. I wanted to protest, to deny it. But I remained silent, too stunned by the casual way he claimed me.

The manager’s eyes flicked to me, his smile growing. “Ah, you’re a lucky woman, Miss…”

I hesitated. “Moretti. Celeste Moretti.”

His eyes widened, recognition flickering. Of course, he knew who I was. The granddaughter of a business legend. The rumored partner of Phantom, Inc. But more importantly, the woman Raphael Voss had been pursuing for years.

Lucian’s arm wrapped around my waist, pulling me closer. “She’s mine,” he stated, his voice leaving no room for argument.

Heat rushed to my face. “I can speak for myself, you know.”

He leaned in, his breath warm against my ear. “I know. But I like the way it sounds when I say it.”

I clenched my jaw, my heart racing. He was impossible. Frustrating. Yet, somehow... intoxicating.

We moved through the displays, the manager eagerly presenting one exquisite ring after another. Diamonds, sapphires, emeralds—all shimmering with promises of forever. But none of them felt right. None of them felt like me.

Lucian watched me carefully, his gaze never leaving my face. “You’re not impressed.”

I crossed my arms. “They’re beautiful. Just... not my style.”

He smirked. “I like that you don’t settle for less.” His eyes darkened, his voice dropping. “I won’t either.”

My breath caught. Why did he have to look at me like that? Like he could see every piece of me—even the broken parts I tried so hard to hide.

Before I could respond, his phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen, his jaw tightening. “Raphael’s looking for you.”

My stomach twisted. “How do you know that?”

His expression hardened. “I have my ways.”

I narrowed my eyes. “Are you spying on me?”

“Protecting you,” he corrected, his voice firm. “You have no idea how far he’s willing to go to control you.”

I scoffed. “I can handle Raphael.”

Lucian’s eyes softened, his hand brushing my cheek. “I know you can. But I can’t let you alone.”

For a moment, I let myself believe him. I let myself lean into his touch, let myself feel the warmth and strength he offered. But then the memory of Raphael’s betrayal resurfaced, sharp and bitter. I pulled back, my walls slamming back into place.

I can’t trust anyone. Even my mate.

“I don’t need your protection, Lucian. And I don’t want you to.”

His gaze darkened. “Too bad. You’re getting it anyway.”

Before I could protest, the jeweler presented one final ring—a delicate design with intertwined bands of white gold and rose gold, crowned with a brilliant, fiery diamond. It was beautiful. Elegant. Strong.

Lucian’s eyes met mine, a knowing smile on his lips. “That’s the one.”

I swallowed, my heart pounding. “You don’t even know my style.”

He stepped closer, his voice a whisper. “I know, Celeste. Even if you won’t admit it.”

My breath caught. I hated how easily he affected me, how his words wrapped around my heart and squeezed.

He took my hand, his fingers warm and firm. “This ring is a promise. A promise that I’ll stand by you. That I’ll protect you from anyone who tries to hurt you—including Raphael.”

His words sent a shiver through me. I should have pulled away. I should have walked out. But his eyes were so sincere, so unyielding. And for the first time in a long time, I felt safe.

He slid the ring onto my finger, his lips brushing my knuckles. “Mine,” he whispered, his eyes blazing with possessive fire.

My heart raced, my walls crumbling. I was falling. And I was powerless to stop it.

The boardroom buzzed with anticipation. Eyes flicked toward me, whispering speculations behind polite smiles. They expected hesitation, doubt, maybe even failure. I planned to give them none of it.

I stood at the head of the table, projecting confidence I didn’t fully feel. Not because I was unsure of my decision, but because my past life taught me that showing any vulnerability would be exploited.

Taking a deep breath, I met the gaze of each board member, letting my words sink in. “I am pleased to announce the official partnership between Darkfang Industries and Phantom, Inc.”

Gasps echoed through the room. I caught Olivia’s eyes widening in shock before she masked it with a condescending smirk. Let her try to undermine me. Let them all try. I was ready this time.

One of the older directors, Samuel, cleared his throat, his brows furrowed. “Celeste, do you realize the implications of this alliance? Phantom, Inc. is... unconventional, to say the least. And their CEO—”

“Is standing behind you,” Lucian’s voice sliced through the murmurs like a blade.

He stepped into the room, his presence commanding, his silvergray eyes cold and calculating.

Several board members flinched. I watched in amusement as Olivia’s face drained of color.

Lucian moved beside me, his posture relaxed but his aura radiating dominance. “I trust my company’s reputation isn’t an issue, is it?” His voice was smooth, deceptively calm. But the threat was unmistakable.

Samuel paled, quickly shaking his head. “Of course not, Mr. Sanguine. We’re merely... surprised.”

Lucian’s lips curved into a predatory smile. “Good. I’d hate for there to be any misunderstandings.”

I struggled to hide my satisfaction. Lucian played his part perfectly, reinforcing my authority without overshadowing me. We made a formidable team.

I squared my shoulders, keeping my voice firm. “Phantom, Inc. will provide the resources needed for our expansion projects. In return, they will gain shares in our company. It’s a mutually beneficial collaboration that ensures our growth.”

Olivia scoffed, finally finding her voice. “And what about Blackmoon Enterprises? Are you really willing to burn that bridge?”

I smiled sweetly, letting my gaze harden. “That bridge was never built, Olivia. And even if it was, I would have burned it myself.”

She glared at me, her fists clenching. “You think you’re so clever. But you’ll regret this, Celeste. Raphael won’t let this go.”

Lucian’s voice dropped to a dangerous low. “Raphael has no say in what belongs to me.” His arm slid around my waist, possessive and unyielding. “And Celeste is mine.”

My heart skipped a beat, but I kept my expression neutral. I couldn’t afford to appear vulnerable—not here, not now.

Samuel looked between us, his eyes calculating. “I see. This isn’t just a business alliance, is it?”

I lifted my chin. “It’s a strategic partnership that will secure Darkfang Industries’ future. Nothing more.”

Lucian’s grip tightened, his fingers pressing into my hip. “For now,” he murmured, his voice low enough for only me to hear.

Heat flooded my face, but I refused to let him see the effect he had on me. He was doing it on purpose, testing my control. Two could play that game.

I turned to face him, my eyes locking with his. “Shall we finalize the contract?”

His eyes gleamed with amusement. “I thought you’d never ask.”

The board members shuffled out, casting curious glances over their shoulders. Olivia lingered, her eyes burning with anger. “This isn’t over, Celeste.”

I met her gaze, my smile cold. “No, it’s not. But you are. Better go home, dear.”

Her face twisted in fury before she stormed out, leaving me alone with Lucian.

The room fell silent, tension thickening between us. I moved to the window, staring out at the city skyline, my thoughts racing. This partnership was a risk—a calculated one, but a risk nonetheless.

Lucian approached, his reflection appearing beside mine in the glass. “You handled that well.”

I crossed my arms, keeping my voice steady. “I don’t need your validation.”

His eyes softened. “No, you don’t. But you have it anyway.”

I turned to face him, my defenses up. “Why did you come here?”

His gaze darkened, his voice lowering. “To protect what’s mine.”

My heart skipped a beat, anger bubbling up. “We’re just mates, but I’m not yours. I agreed to this partnership for my company’s sake. Don’t confuse that with anything personal.”

He stepped closer, his presence overwhelming. “It’s personal for me.”

I took a step back, my back hitting the window. “That’s your problem, not mine.”

He leaned in, his face inches from mine. “You can keep denying it, Celeste. But you feel it too. This pull between us... it’s undeniable.”

I clenched my fists, my voice trembling with anger and… excitement. This mate thing is really something! “I won’t be controlled.”

His eyes softened, a flicker of vulnerability breaking through his hard exterior. “I don’t want to control you, Celeste. I want to protect you.”

I turned my head away. “I don’t need protection.”

His fingers brushed my chin, gently forcing me to look at him. “Yes, you do. Tessa and Raphael won’t stop until they destroy you. And I won’t let that happen.”

Emotion surged through me—fear, anger, longing—all tangled together. I hated how easily he could break through my walls. I hated how much I wanted to trust him.

I looked away, my voice wavering. “Why do you care?”

His hand cupped my cheek, his thumb brushing my skin. “I already said… You’re mine to protect, Celeste.”

I swallowed hard, my heart pounding. His words wrapped around me, warm and reassuring. But I couldn’t afford to be vulnerable. Not again. Even though I know how he will be formidable and unstoppable sooner, I still need to make my second chance in this life to be wary of love to avoid misfortune. I need him as a business partner. Merely.

I shoved him away, forcing my voice to stay steady. “This is just business, Lucian.”

His eyes darkened, a dangerous smile curving his lips. “Keep telling yourself that.”

Before I could respond, his lips crashed down on mine, fierce and demanding!

I froze, my mind screaming to push him away.