Chapter 10
Cassian experiences an unprecedented deep sleep for the first time in ten years, a peaceful rest he attributes to the intoxicating scent of his mate, Jasmine. This scent, unlike any other, captivates his Lycan side, Cyrus, who awakens with fierce hunger and desire for her. Jasmine’s fearless and honest nature sets her apart from others, commanding respect and stirring a powerful connection within Cassian and his Lycan.
Despite the growing tension between regions and his responsibilities as a leader, Cassian is resolute in prioritizing Jasmine above all else. When Lorenzo, his companion, reminds him of an important meeting with the Alphas from Sea Origin, Cassian coldly cancels it, emphasizing his focus on his mate. Lorenzo suggests considering Lady Veronica as a Luna, but Cassian firmly rejects the idea, declaring Jasmine as his chosen mate and warning Lorenzo against interference.
Lorenzo’s loyalty seems wavering, especially with his attention on the former Beta’s daughter, which Cassian views with disdain. As Cassian prepares to face the day, a troubling report arrives about rogue packs near Rainvile, the village where Jasmine lives. Cassian’s unease grows, and Cyrus eagerly proposes using the chaos to claim Jasmine and protect her from others, highlighting the intense and protective bond forming between them.
Chapter 10
Cassian.
For the first time in a decade—ten long years—I slept deeply, as if I were lifeless. Nine uninterrupted hours of rest, free from the usual torment and restlessness that had haunted me for so long.
I had always heard tales about this phenomenon: the scent of a mate would intoxicate you, ensnare you like a drug, and calm your restless soul. But I never believed such stories. Throughout my thirty years, I dismissed them as mere superstition.
I was certain that no one in this cursed world could soothe my Lycan, much less grant him peaceful sleep.
Yet yesterday changed everything. Every ounce of skepticism and pride I harbored about this so-called mate’s scent shattered completely. While she sat there, wasting breath on self-loathing, despising her very existence, convincing herself she could never be anyone’s priority, my Lycan was awakening—hungry, feral. He craved her with a fierce intensity. He wanted to sink his teeth into her skin, to claim her utterly, and to tear apart anyone foolish enough to even glance her way.
Her scent—just one scent—Jasmine—burned through my lungs like smoke from fires burning in the dead of night. I had never encountered anyone whose scent was so pure, so sharp, so unblemished. Others carried scents layered with floral notes tangled in musk, or citrus tainted by desperation. But hers?
Only Jasmine. As if she had been born to carry it.
She was direct, brutally honest, and above all, fearless. No one had ever met my gaze without trembling, yet she held my stare firmly, as if commanding it, as if she owned it.
Other she-wolves would have clung to me like desperate dogs in heat. But not her. She understood the gravity of what she faced and met it on equal terms.
I needed a woman like her—not some pathetic soul who would shake, beg, and act pitiful for my attention.
“She really is something, isn’t she?” my Lycan, Cyrus, growled, his voice thick with hunger. “She looks like a doll, but one without an ounce of fear p>
I let out a humorless chuckle. Doll, yes—fragile in appearance but not in spirit. Her hazel eyes cut sharper than blades, and her lips were ripe, like the succulent segments inside a tangerine.
“Did you notice how she never acted like she didn’t know us? I expected her to be scared, to pretend she didn’t recognize us. But she didn’t hide who she was. I just love her,” Cyrus purred, hunger still echoing in his tone. His mind replayed every moment from yesterday’s encounter.
“Your Majesty! There you are! Good morning p>
The voice of Lorenzo interrupted my thoughts as he entered my chamber carrying a tray of breakfast and a stack of files. My mood soured immediately when I saw the weight of papers in his hands.
“You seem to be in an excellent mood today, Your Majesty. Did you forget you were supposed to meet the Alphas from Sea Origin p>
I fixed him with a cold, steel-like glare. “Do I look like I forgot? Cancel it. I have other matters to attend to p>
Reaching for my robe, I was stopped as Lorenzo grabbed it first and helped me put it on. I allowed it, though irritation bubbled beneath the surface—I could have ripped his hand away without hesitation.
“I don’t know what you’re planning, Your Majesty, but now is not the time for trouble. The conflict between the two regions has escalated p>
“I said cancel it,” I repeated, my voice dropping into a dangerous calm. “If I create trouble, those foolish enough to provoke me will drown in it. That’s not my concern p>
Lorenzo’s jaw clenched tightly. “When will you decide to take a Luna to support you? The former Beta’s daughter has done everything to earn your favor. Maybe it’s time to give her a chance p>
“I already chose p>
His head snapped up, disbelief clear on his face. “Pardon me p>
“I found my mate. A fearless woman. The first who looked me in the eye and denied me without trembling. She’s no fool. She’s grounded. Exactly what I need p>
For a moment, he was stunned, perhaps thinking I was joking or mishearing. I couldn’t blame him—he knew I hadn’t shown interest in bringing another woman into my life for the past five years.
“But… are you certain she is your mate? Lady Veronica has been p>
My voice cut through his words like a blade. “Veronica means nothing to me. Do not speak her name in my presence again. My mate is the only one who will stand by my side p>
Lorenzo faltered, his expression darkening. I could smell the doubt clinging to him like a foul scent. It disgusted me.
“I will meet her today, Lorenzo. Mark my words—if you dare interfere with my choice, I will break you myself p>
He flinched, and I let the weight of my glare hammer the warning home. I could forgive slips in loyalty, but never defiance.
“But… what if she returns? Will your mate still be your Luna p>
I froze at his question, the silence stretching between us. Then I answered, flat and merciless, “That depends on time. And if anyone dares complicate it, they won’t live to regret it p>
I left him standing there and walked into the bath. When I emerged, Lorenzo was laying out breakfast with the obedience of a servant who knew he had pushed me too far. He had been my companion for years, my shield against schemers, but lately… he had grown soft. His eyes lingered too often on that desperate daughter of the former Beta.
Did he truly think I hadn’t noticed?
Pathetic.
After a quick shower, I settled down to eat. The sun had yet to rise. Since my insomnia began, my breakfasts started before dawn, which was why Lorenzo had taken on the chore of preparing them himself.
As I sat, Lorenzo joined me, serving both of us. When he shifted slightly, I caught a scent that definitely didn’t belong to a male.
I pushed the thought aside and ate, only to find him sliding another file across the table. “I canceled your meetings, but you need to see this p>
His expression warned me before the file even opened—trouble.
I flipped it open, my eyes narrowing at the name printed on the cover. “Rainvile? Are you sure p>
“Yes. One of our forest patrol teams reported a large pack of rogues moving in that direction. They’ll inspect as soon as the sun rises p>
“Too late,” I said, voice low and cold. “If the rogues strike before then, the village will burn. Do you expect me to believe a patrol will be enough p>
“Don’t worry. Rogues don’t attack without provocation. And the village head would have informed us if there was any trouble p>
I said nothing, but unease tightened around my chest like a vice. Rainvile—the insignificant village where my little wolf lived.
“Maybe we should go,” Cyrus hissed eagerly. “Let them come. We can use the chaos to drag her out, claim her, keep her where no one else can touch her. I want her gasping for breath beneath my kiss p>
This chapter delicately unveils the profound transformation within Cassian, as he confronts his long-held doubts and embraces the powerful connection with his mate, Jasmine. The intensity of his Lycan’s hunger and his fierce protectiveness mirror the depth of his awakening emotions, blending vulnerability with an unyielding strength. Through the raw honesty of his reflections and interactions, we witness a man breaking free from the chains of skepticism and isolation, stepping into a new chapter fueled by desire, respect, and unwavering commitment.
Yet beneath this newfound hope, the looming threats and political tensions cast a shadow over their fragile peace, reminding us that love in this world is never without its battles. Cassian’s determination to protect Jasmine, even against those closest to him, underscores the stakes of their union and the sacrifices it demands. In this quiet moment before the storm, the chapter leaves us suspended between the promise of passion and the harsh realities that threaten to tear them apart.
The next chapter promises to deepen the tension between duty and desire, as Cassian’s fierce protective instincts clash with the growing threats looming over Rainvile. The fragile peace is on the verge of shattering, and with rogues stirring in the shadows, every decision Cassian makes could ignite a powder keg of conflict. His determination to claim his mate and shield her from harm will be tested like never before, forcing him to confront not only external dangers but the complexities of trust and loyalty within his own ranks.
Meanwhile, the emotional stakes rise as unresolved feelings and hidden agendas simmer beneath the surface. Lorenzo’s wavering allegiance and the mysterious scent that unsettles Cassian hint at secrets waiting to unravel, potentially complicating the bond between Cassian and his mate. As the boundaries between friend and foe blur, the characters will be pushed to their limits, revealing strength, vulnerability, and the fierce hunger that binds them in this perilous world. The next chapter will leave readers breathless, eager to uncover how love and power intertwine amid the encroaching storm.
Cedella
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.