Chapter 106: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Calming tempers!
Following the vampires’ abrupt, then puzzling return, Jeremy’s absence is noted; Philip explains Ryan spirited him away. Gloria, calm amidst the lingering tension, privately seeks Enzo out. “Alright, can I have a chat with you, Enzo?” she asks, initiating a conversation focused on the earlier conflict surrounding Sylver. Enzo, holding Sylver, explains his intention wasn’t to permanently take the child, only for a short time, a point lost on Jeremy. Gloria, understanding, says, “But put yourself in the shoes of the parents,” highlighting the parents’ primal protective instinct.
Enzo and Gloria’s discussion evolves, with Enzo expressing bewilderment at Jeremy’s extreme reaction, noting Jeremy’s “bloody red eyes” and damaged helicopter. He recounts the earlier events in the conference room, revealing the root of the conflict; a simple question about how Jeremy’s father would have reacted to Ryan’s father rejecting him. Gloria reveals the shocking truth: “He wanted both of them dead,” referring to Ryan and his father. The casual conversation illuminates the previously unknown depth of Jeremy’s rage and his complicated family history.
The conversation reveals the surprisingly complex history between Jeremy and Ryan’s father as a source of Jeremy’s extreme reaction and anger towards Enzo. The underlying tension remains, but a path towards resolution is suggested as Gloria urges Enzo to reconcile with Jeremy before their departure. “You need to make peace with him before you leave,” she advises, leaving the reader anticipating a potential confrontation and the future implications of this newly revealed family secret on the werewolf–vampire dynamic.
Chapter 107: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Heartbreak!
A surprising calm settles over the werewolf and vampire families following Jeremy’s earlier outburst. Jeremy formally apologizes for his violent reaction, explaining, “The thought of not seeing my child made me see red…literally,” and offers to compensate for the damaged helicopter. Enzo accepts his apology, admitting his own wrongdoing, stating, “What I said was wrong. Your reaction, although extreme, was only to be expected of any parent. I apologize too.” Ryan supports Jeremy’s offer of compensation, highlighting a shift in the tense dynamic between the families.
Philip then directs attention to Gloria, who intends to address the lingering issue of Sylver’s uncanny ability to appear alongside Enzo. Lighthearted banter between the assembled vampires and werewolves, including Gaia’s teasing of Stan (“He, for instance, is a clown”), briefly overshadows the underlying tension. Gloria’s acceptance of Enzo into the family – “Welcome to the family, sweetie” – punctuates this temporary harmony.
However, the fragile peace is immediately challenged as Gloria introduces the significant problem of Sylver’s unpredictable appearances. Enzo’s visceral reaction to the proposed solution – a spell to sever their psychic link – “No…Please don’t,” reveals the depth of their bond and foreshadows a difficult choice. Sylver’s pained reaction to Enzo’s distress underscores the emotional stakes involved, leaving the reader to wonder how this crucial decision will impact both Enzo and Sylver’s future.
Chapter 108: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Killing the stress!
Following the tense meeting, a lighter mood prevails as Philip expresses gratitude towards Jeremy for preventing a war, leading to Jeremy’s begrudging agreement to invite Enzo to Philip and Ryan’s upcoming mating ceremony. Philip emphasizes Enzo’s inclusion in the family, highlighting the positive shift in relationships. Jeremy, though initially hesitant, ultimately agrees, expressing his happiness for Ryan. “It’s your party,” Jeremy concedes, showcasing the evolving dynamics.
The scene shifts to Troy, overwhelmed by the pressure of his upcoming first exam. He’s struggling to balance his studies, “I just feel so stressed,” he admits, highlighting the contrast between the supernatural world’s conflicts and the mundane pressures of everyday life. Philip enters, finding Troy buried in textbooks and his iPad. Their interaction is tender, with Philip offering comfort and support, creating a heartwarming interlude amidst the ongoing family drama. “Get up and take off your t-shirt,” Philip directs, hinting at a shift from academic stress to intimacy.
The tension between academic stress and romantic intimacy creates a compelling juxtaposition. Philip’s soothing presence and comforting actions provide a welcome respite for Troy, foreshadowing a potential moment of relaxation and intimacy. The contrast between the previous chapter’s supernatural conflicts and this chapter’s focus on personal struggles further enriches the narrative, leaving the reader curious about how these separate plot threads will intertwine.
Chapter 109: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Well needed release!
Troy, overwhelmed by exam stress, seeks comfort from Philip. Their tender interaction quickly escalates into an intimate encounter, beginning with Philip’s teasing and leading to a powerful and prolonged o$$$$m for Troy, brought on by Philip’s skillful manipulation. Troy’s frustrated cries of “Just give me your c$$k already” and later, his breathless admission of “I really need to come, Philip,” highlight his intense desire and vulnerability.
Philip, however, initially focuses on teasing Troy, claiming, “This is not about me. I’m doing what’s necessary to relieve your stress,” while expertly edging him to the brink of climax. Troy’s reaction – a loud m$$n and a gush of precum – underscores the intensity of his experience. The scene is a mix of playful dominance and tender care, emphasized by Philip’s subsequent concern, “Are you okay?” Philip’s strategic teasing, described as “skilled edging”, pushes Troy to an unprecedented level of pleasure.
The aftermath finds Troy initiating a passionate kiss with Philip, “That’s for putting me through all that agony,” he murmurs afterward, a blend of resentment and satisfaction coloring his words. Philip’s response, “You don’t mean that. You enjoyed that,” foreshadows further intimacy and hints at the ongoing power dynamics between them. The chapter concludes with Philip’s desire – held back only by his own self-control – further fueling the anticipation for their continued closeness.
Chapter 110: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Mating combat!
The Stanwood Pack’s mating ceremony is underway, a vibrant celebration attended by thousands, including other supernatural beings. Troy, the alpha’s mate, stands in a giant boxing ring, grinning at the enthusiastic crowd. The traditional combat ritual, where the mate chooses an opponent (usually the alpha, ensuring a staged victory), is about to begin, and the anticipation is palpable. Philip, the alpha, watches with hungry eyes, already anticipating the playful conflict to come.
Troy, after a dramatic pause and cheers from the crowd, announces his choice of opponent: “Tonight, I choose to combat a man I respect so much…But tonight, I plan on kicking his c$$$y a$$e.” This declaration throws the crowd into a frenzy, as everyone expected Troy to pick Philip. Philip, amused yet slightly annoyed (“So sure of himself. Maybe we should have changed that part of the ceremony too”), watches his mate. Jeremy’s comment (“He’s going to hand you your a$$e”) only adds to the anticipation.
Instead of choosing Philip, however, Troy unexpectedly names Stanley Norris, a seasoned warrior and Philip’s head beta, as his opponent. A collective gasp ripples through the crowd; this is no mere formality. Stanley looks pleasantly surprised, while Gloria, whose identity isn’t yet clear, appears smug. The choice sets the stage for an unexpected clash, leaving everyone questioning Troy’s motives and the true nature of the upcoming fight. Philip’s response – a growl and a pointed question “Why does he have to win?” – foreshadows both the intensity of their relationship and the unpredictable events to come.
Chapter 111: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Bragging rights!
Troy’s unexpected choice of Stanley Norris, Philip’s beta, as his mating combat opponent sends shockwaves through the Stanwood Pack’s celebration. The ensuing fight is far from the staged affair expected; both Troy and Stanley fight fiercely, showcasing exceptional skill and power. Despite Stanley’s initial advantage, Troy executes a stunning reversal, securing a surprising victory. The crowd erupts, acknowledging Troy’s impressive win, with Stanley himself congratulating the younger werewolf. “Damn, you’re good,” Stan chuckled breathlessly. “Know what pisses me off? Everyone is going to say you made me win,” Troy retorted, highlighting his competitive spirit.
The atmosphere shifts dramatically as Philip, Troy’s mate, enters the ring. His appearance, described as “ripped perfection,” leaves Troy breathless, the intensity of the moment eclipsing the adrenaline of the fight. Philip’s gaze, filled with awe and pride, melts Troy. “I ought to take you over my knee for what you just pulled,” Philip breathes, the tension palpable between them even amid the celebratory roar of the crowd singing Katy Perry’s “Roar.” The alpha’s overwhelming mix of anxiety and pride perfectly captures the depth of their unique bond.
The chapter culminates in a charged moment between Troy and Philip, their unspoken communication conveying volumes more than words. Their intense gaze, Philip’s tender touch, and the promise of a passionate kiss leave the reader hanging on the edge of their seat, eager to see how their relationship evolves after this unexpected display of strength, skill, and undeniable love.
Chapter 112: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Declarations of love!
Philip, Troy’s mate, delivers a heartfelt declaration of love, revealing his feelings for Troy in a way never before seen in a mating ceremony. He opens his mind to Troy, sharing the depth of his emotions: “Being someone’s first love may be great. But to be their last is beyond perfect,” a statement that deeply moves Troy and leaves the audience awestruck. The emotional intensity is palpable, culminating in a tearful Troy reciprocating Philip’s love with a speech detailing his own profound feelings: “If I had to dream up the perfect man, he wouldn’t even come close to you. To me, you’re the world.” Their passionate kiss seals their bond, eliciting cheers from the ecstatic crowd.
The official ceremony continues with pledges of loyalty from the pack elders and leaders, a playful element added when several choose to kiss Troy on the lips instead of the hand, despite Philip’s initial protest. The chapter highlights the unique dynamics within the Stanwood pack, with glimpses into the personalities of various characters such as the playful Jeremy and the fiercely protective Kate. Philip’s emotional vulnerability and the pack’s joyful acceptance of their unique bond strengthens their relationship further. The unique traditions of the pack’s mating ceremony are established, adding a unique flavour to the world-building.
The chapter concludes with the celebratory feast and an unexpected twist – Troy and Philip’s immediate departure for Venice, with Paul’s excited comment, “That’s supposed to be one of the most romantic cities in the world, you know,” foreshadowing a romantic honeymoon and hinting at the exciting adventures that lie ahead for the newly mated couple.
Chapter 113: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Suite of love!
Troy and Philip arrive in Venice and are immediately awestruck by their luxurious hotel suite, complete with stunning views and extravagant amenities. Troy marvels at the breathtaking panorama, oblivious to Philip’s intensely focused gaze. Their initial awe quickly gives way to burgeoning passion, as Philip’s restrained desire finally breaks free. “I’d really want to wine and dine you first but…I’ll go insane if I don’t have you right now,” Philip murmurs, initiating a steamy encounter fueled by their pent-up longing.
Philip’s self-control, maintained since their mating ceremony, finally crumbles in the face of Troy’s ardent advances. Troy’s proactive pursuit— “I want you in my mouth”—ignites their intimacy, showcasing their undeniable chemistry and raw desire. The alpha’s previously held restraint, along with the anticipation building since the ceremony, is palpable in his reactions: “F$$k, that feels good…” he moans, as Troy initiates passionate lovemaking.
Their honeymoon begins with unrestrained passion amidst the opulent surroundings. The luxurious setting provides a stark contrast to the raw, uninhibited intimacy unfolding between them. The scene ends with Philip’s sensual m$$n and a clear implication of extended passionate encounters – setting the stage for further romantic escapades in the captivating city of Venice, hinting at the exciting adventures still to come for the newly mated pair.
Chapter 114: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Unadulterated Passion!
Philip undresses Troy, beginning with his boots and socks, culminating in a sensual mouth-to-c$$k encounter. He then directs Troy to kneel on a chair, facing the panoramic window, setting the mood with Rihanna’s “Love On The Brain.” Philip proceeds to pleasure Troy anally, teasing and tormenting before finally penetrating him with his tongue, bringing Troy to the brink of o$$$$m. “Oh my god…” Troy gasps, overwhelmed by the intense sensations.
Philip, teasingly withholding complete satisfaction, inserts a finger, building anticipation. “I want to be inside you when you burst,” he growls, a clear demonstration of his possessive nature. The alpha then slowly penetrates Troy, stretching him with his thick member, eliciting a cry of, “Holy hell…” from Troy as he succumbs to the pleasure. The reunion after the mating ceremony is clearly intensely satisfying for both men.
Their lovemaking continues with Philip’s precise movements targeting Troy’s most sensitive areas. “I’ve missed you so much,” Philip breathes, his words laced with raw emotion. Troy’s pleasure reaches a fever pitch as Philip skillfully guides him to climax, his moans filling the luxurious Venetian suite, leaving the reader anticipating the continuation of their passionate honeymoon.
Chapter 115: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Soulmates!
Continuing their passionate reunion, Philip and Troy’s intimacy deepens. Troy’s relentless movements and whispered declarations of love on their mind link drive Philip to the brink, his body trembling with pleasure. A climax is imminent, culminating in Philip’s raw command, “Bite me,” which unlocks a feral response in Troy, initiating a primal exchange of bites and orgasms as they fully consummate their mating bond.
The act of Troy marking Philip with his bite breaks down all barriers, overwhelming Philip with the intensity of Troy’s emotions. The subsequent display of vulnerability, Philip shedding tears after the intense pleasure, initially shocks him. He worries about his alpha image, confessing, “F$$k, I’m sorry,” to Troy’s comforting reassurances.
Troy’s tender response, licking away Philip’s tears and lovingly attending to his mating mark, reassures Philip, their connection strengthening through shared vulnerability. The scene ends with Philip’s renewed arousal, his desire reignited as he rolls over Troy, murmuring, “You smell so f$$$$$g amazing,” setting the stage for a continuation of their passionate encounter.
Chapter 1 Chris Donovan vs. Shane Lewis: There’s no love like the first…The meeting!
Shane Lewis, a remarkably successful and privately reclusive billionaire, grapples with intense anxiety at the unexpected prospect of encountering Chris Donovan. His physical reactions—shaking hands, sweating palms, and rapid breathing—reveal a deep-seated fear stemming from a past transgression. Flashback snippets reveal Shane’s humble beginnings, his rise to unimaginable wealth built on hard work, shrewd business acumen, and a commitment to ethical practices, contrasting sharply with his current internal turmoil. He’d even changed his name to escape his past, whispering to his mother, “Much as I want to make it in life Ma, the thought of him even knowing I exist, gives me the shivers.”
Shane’s immense wealth and physical attractiveness, described in vivid detail, highlighting his athleticism and striking features, only serve to underscore the vulnerability hidden beneath his powerful exterior. His self-deprecating internal monologue, “F$$$$$g pull yourself together,” hints at a deep-seated insecurity and the weight of his secret. The chapter focuses on building Shane’s character, illustrating his impressive achievements while subtly revealing the emotional scars that continue to haunt him.
The narrative strongly suggests a significant shared history between Shane and Chris, the weight of a past relationship or event creating an unbreakable bond and a palpable tension between them. The chapter ends with the unresolved mystery of their past and Shane’s evident fear at the thought of encountering Chris, leaving the reader yearning to uncover the nature of their connection and the reason behind Shane’s terror.
Chapter 2 Chris Donovan vs. Shane Lewis: There’s no love like the first…Shaken!
Damon Thomas-Reid observes the unusual behavior of Shane Lewis and Chris Donovan during a crucial business meeting. Shane, usually assertive and controlling, remains unnervingly silent, a stark contrast to his typical domineering presence. Chris, a usually vocal and active participant, is equally subdued, exhibiting a ghostly pallor that deeply worries Damon. Damon notes the surprised reactions of Shane’s usually unflappable staff, further highlighting the unexpectedness of the situation. He wonders about the connection between Shane and Chris’s unusual silence.
Damon’s frustration mounts as the meeting progresses, punctuated by his internal monologue (“Why the f$$k was Chris sitting down quietly like a mummy?”) and his growing concern for his friends. He attributes Chris’s silence to Shane’s presence. This is further implied by Shane’s hasty departure after the meeting, murmuring to Damon, “…giving him a call later,” before fleeing the room. The unexpected announcement of the next meeting at Shane’s residence adds another layer of intrigue.
The chapter culminates in Damon abruptly ending the meeting, observing Chris’s continued dazed state. Damon’s concern deepens, leaving the reader to ponder the unspoken tension and the possible significance of Shane’s private meeting request and the mystery surrounding his and Chris’s shared past. The unsettling silence and the unexpected ending leave the reader with a palpable sense of suspense, desperate to understand the unspoken connection between Shane and Chris.
Chapter 3 Chris Donovan vs. Shane Lewis: There’s no love like the first…Memory Lane!
Damon, still reeling from the bizarre meeting, presses Chris for answers regarding his unsettling behavior and his connection to Shane Lewis. Chris, visibly shaken, reveals that Shane is actually Nicolas Lewis, a person he knew fifteen years prior. The revelation is unexpected, leaving Damon both surprised and concerned, as Chris recounts his childhood memories of a summer vacation spent with a young Nicolas, a period he describes as “the best vacation of my life,” implying a significant bond between them. “I knew him when we were both kids,” Chris confesses, finally breaking his silence.
Damon’s incredulity is evident as Chris explains that he spent the meeting calculating the exact time elapsed since their last encounter, “Fifteen years, four months, six days…and some hours,” a detail that highlights the profound impact Nicolas/Shane has had on Chris’s life. Damon, teasingly yet concerned, presses Chris to explain their relationship, “So tell me…what’s up with the two of you?” The casual tone masks a growing unease as the weight of the unspoken past between Chris and Shane becomes increasingly apparent.
The chapter ends with Chris’s hesitant beginnings of explaining his past with Nicolas, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of their shared history and the ramifications of their reunion. The revelation of Shane’s true identity and Chris’s emotional state leave the reader anticipating a more detailed explanation of their past and the implications for their present. The mystery surrounding their relationship intensifies, leaving the reader hungry for the next chapter.
Chapter 4 Chris Donovan vs. Shane Lewis: There’s no love like the first…Painful emotions!
Shane, still reeling from his reunion with Chris, furiously punches a punching bag, his anger, sadness, and betrayal manifesting in a brutal workout. He relives the night fifteen years prior when Chris, someone he deeply loved, viciously beat him, leaving physical and emotional scars that linger to this day. The pain of Chris’s words—”filthy, worthless, scum who didn’t deserve to live”—resonated far more deeply than the physical blows, shattering his youthful trust.
His memories vividly recall the attack, the silence after the assault, and the heartbreaking sight of his mother, Sylvia Lewis, discovering his injuries. Sylvia’s understanding gaze, reflecting a shared betrayal, cuts even deeper than the physical pain, as she silently cleans and comforts her son. The scene showcases the depth of Shane’s emotional wounds and the lasting impact of Chris’s actions, leaving the reader to wonder about the nature of their relationship.
Shane’s intense workout and the flashbacks reveal a traumatic past deeply affecting his present. The chapter ends with the image of a devastated Shane and his mother, the unspoken questions hanging heavy in the air. The lingering pain and his mother’s knowing look amplify the mystery surrounding their relationship, leaving the reader craving further exploration of the incident and its consequences.
Chapter 5 Chris Donovan vs. Shane Lewis: There’s no love like the first…Remorse!
Damon confronts Chris about his excessive drinking following the revelation of Chris’s brutal attack on Shane fifteen years prior. Damon, concerned about the impact on their business dealings with Shane, pressures Chris to apologize and move forward, dismissing Shane’s potential anger as “petty.” Chris vehemently disagrees, insisting the severity of his actions can’t be so easily dismissed; “It’s not petty, Damon. You have no idea just how serious it was.” The conversation reveals the depth of Chris’s guilt and remorse, far exceeding a simple drunken apology.
The tension mounts as Chris confesses he never had the chance to apologize. He reveals that Shane and his mother, Sylvia, left the night of the attack, leaving Chris consumed by regret. “They left, Damon,” Chris admits, “His mother took him away that very night. When I realized what I was doing… my heart broke. I ran.” This shocking revelation adds another layer to the mystery surrounding Shane’s past trauma and further complicates the already strained relationship between Chris and Shane.
This unexpected twist throws Damon’s assumptions into disarray, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The scene ends with the weight of Chris’s confession and the unspoken implications for Shane and his future interactions with Chris, leaving the reader to wonder how Shane might react upon learning the full truth and if any reconciliation is possible.