Chapter 31
Wesley’s world is turned upside down as he receives news that the Wainwrights, Haven’s parents, have disappeared without a trace. His dad informs him that they’ve vanished, leaving behind no digital trail, and Wesley’s frustration and concern for Haven’s well-being boil over. His possessive nature takes center stage as he struggles to control his Lycan instincts, worried about marking her before her 21st birthday, which could have devastating consequences.
As Wesley navigates this new development, he’s reminded of the importance of being cautious around Haven, especially with their growing attraction. His dad warns him about the risks of marking a human mate, and Wesley’s inner turmoil grows as he struggles to rein in his desires. The tension between them is palpable, and the stakes are higher than ever.
After the ballet performance, Wesley takes Haven to meet his family at an ice cream parlor, where playful banter and teasing fill the air. However, beneath the surface, Wesley’s possessiveness and protectiveness towards Haven simmer, leaving the reader wondering what other romantic developments await the pair, and how he’ll manage to keep his Lycan in check.
Chapter 32
Wesley has been faithful to his nightly attendance at Haven’s ballet performances, showing his devotion with a bouquet of roses for each show. As the performances come to a close, he arrives at the theater waiting for Haven, who emerges with an envelope in hand, which he expertly extracts while distracting her with a passionate kiss. The letter reveals Haven’s heartfelt apology for her past stubbornness and her desire to reconnect with Wesley, her former pen pal.
As they share a romantic moment, Wesley’s Lycan instincts are on full display, but he reigns in his desires to deepen their relationship slowly. The letter also hints at the complicated past between the two, with mentions of Jack’s hospitalization and Sebastian’s actions. With rehearsals for the next ballet on the horizon, Wesley is determined to make the most of their time together.
Haven’s words in the letter show her vulnerability and introspection, as she reflects on their shared history and her reluctance to forgive Wesley in the past. The chapter ends with a sense of new beginnings, as the two share a tender moment, and the possibilities for their future seem endless.
Chapter 33
Haven gazes out the truck window, disoriented, as Wesley drives them away from the mountains and into a new, breathtaking landscape – rolling hills, colorful houses, and the majestic California coastline. As they arrive at the beach, Haven’s exhaustion gives way to excitement, and she can’t help but be grateful for Wesley’s thoughtful surprise. With his family owning the campgrounds, they settle in, and Wesley takes charge, expertly setting up their campsite while Haven watches, her mind wandering to delicious, dirty thoughts.
As Wesley works, Haven can’t help but be drawn to his physical strength and agility, her phone serving as a poor distraction from ogling him. Wesley, seemingly aware of her gaze, flashes her a self-satisfied glance, his eyes sparkling with amusement. With the tent up, he turns his attention to Haven, his hands resting on either side of her on the tailgate, his voice low and husky as he asks if she’s ready.
Ready for what, Haven wonders, as Wesley teases her about heading to the beach. Her concerns about not having a swimsuit or extra clothes are quickly alleviated by Wesley’s promise to take care of everything, leaving Haven no choice but to surrender to his thoughtful plans. As they prepare to head to the water, Haven’s heart swells with gratitude, her defenses slowly crumbling under Wesley’s gentle, persistent care.
Chapter 34
Haven and Wesley finally arrive at the beach, and Haven is thrilled to be experiencing the ocean for the first time. Wesley takes charge, setting up their campsite and providing for Haven’s every need, including a new swimsuit and beach gear. As they prepare to head into the water, Haven can’t help but ogle Wesley’s chiseled physique, which leaves her breathless and blushing.
As they settle in on their beach towels, Wesley takes it upon himself to apply sunscreen to Haven’s back, his gentle touch sending shivers down her spine. The intimate moment is filled with tension, and Haven struggles to maintain her composure. Wesley, seemingly aware of her reaction, doesn’t relent, tracing circles on her skin with his thumbs.
After applying sunscreen to Wesley’s back in return, the two decide to take a swim, with Wesley bounding towards the water like an excited puppy. Haven follows close behind, her feet struggling to keep up with Wesley’s effortless stride. The stage is set for a fun-filled beach adventure, but with the palpable attraction between them, it’s clear that this day will be about more than just sun, sand, and surf.
Chapter 35
Wesley’s beach day with Haven is a picturesque scene of bliss, with Haven’s laughter and joy infectious as she experiences the ocean for the first time. Wesley’s Lycan is enamored with Haven, but Wesley resists his instincts, allowing her to enjoy herself without constant supervision. As they bask in the sun, Wesley can’t help but steal glances at Haven, who falls asleep on her towel, snoring softly. He’s struck by her vulnerability and beauty, struggling to keep his desire in check.
As they pack up to leave, Wesley can’t help but notice Haven’s curves in her swimsuit, and his resolve is tested. He suggests they rinse off and grab dinner, and Haven agrees, brushing off her exhaustion from her shows. At the campsite, Wesley shows her how to use the coin-operated showers, and they change into clean clothes. Wesley is proud to introduce her to his favorite dinner spots on the pier, pointing out landmarks that hold sentimental value for him and his friends.
As they stroll along the pier, Wesley’s affection for Haven deepens, and he can’t resist stealing a tender kiss. He’s thrilled that she’s finally understanding the true extent of his devotion, and he’s determined to shower her with love and care. But as they walk, Wesley’s subtle lies about his past slip out, and he hopes Haven won’t notice the cracks in his facade. Little does he know, his secrets will soon come to light, threatening to upend their budding romance.
Chapter 36
Wesley’s attempt to maintain a facade of normalcy crumbles as he and Haven settle in for the night in their tent. With only one sleeping bag, the air is electric with tension as they navigate the intimacy of shared sleeping arrangements. Haven’s innocence and vulnerability are on full display as she changes into one of Wesley’s old t-shirts, her scent and proximity sending his desire into overdrive.
As they settle in, Wesley’s inner struggle to maintain control reaches a boiling point, his Lycan instincts clamoring to take over. The atmosphere is charged with s$$$$l tension, and Haven’s subtle hints at wanting to snuggle only add fuel to the fire. Despite his best efforts, Wesley finds himself losing control, his words tumbling out in a nervous babble as he tries to explain the sleeping situation.
As they finally come together, the connection between them is explosive, their kisses and caresses igniting a passion that threatens to consume them both. With Haven wrapped in his arms, Wesley is torn between his desire to claim her and his need to maintain the fragile balance of their relationship. As the night wears on, one thing is clear: their bond is about to be tested in ways they never imagined.
Chapter 37
Wesley wakes up with Haven snuggled close, feeling a deep connection and desire for her. As they slowly come to, they exchange gentle touches and whispers, with Haven tracing Wesley’s tattoo of the lake where they first met. As they drift back to sleep, Wesley’s Lycan instincts threaten to surface, and he struggles to maintain control.
When they wake up again, the sun is shining, and Haven is sprawled across Wesley’s chest. He’s torn between his desire to claim her and the need to reveal the truth about his nature. As they begin to pack up, Haven’s unintentional flashes of nudity drive Wesley wild, and he teases her about it. They share a passionate kiss, but Wesley’s growling stomach interrupts the moment, and they decide to prioritize breakfast.
As they prepare to leave the campsite, Wesley knows he must confess the truth about his Lycan nature to Haven. He’s determined to do so before they can take their relationship further, but for now, he’s content to bask in the warmth and comfort of their budding romance. The chapter ends with Wesley and Haven wrapped in each other’s arms, savoring the intimacy of their moment together.
Chapter 38
Haven stands on Wesley’s porch, smoothing out her dress and trying to calm her nerves for their dinner date. As he lets her in, she’s struck by his reaction to her outfit, and they share a passionate kiss before he leads her to the kitchen, where he’s prepared a romantic dinner. The atmosphere is intimate, with Wesley’s gaze filled with heat and desire as he serves her his mom’s bolognese recipe, accompanied by wine and charming conversation.
As they sit down to eat, Haven can’t help but tease Wesley, blowing on her pasta and savoring the flavor, making him squirm in his seat. Their banter is playful, and Wesley’s cooking skills impress her, despite his mom’s recipe being the original. They chat about their days apart, laughing and joking, with Wesley’s thumb rubbing her hand as they share a moment of tenderness.
As the evening wears on, Haven helps with the dishes, feeling a sense of comfort and belonging in Wesley’s home. The night is filled with promise, and Haven’s preparations for a romantic evening seem to be paying off.
Chapter 39
Wesley wakes up with Haven in his arms, feeling a deep sense of connection and contentment. He begins to explore her body, reigniting the passion and intimacy they shared the previous night. As they entwine themselves in each other’s embrace, Haven’s responsiveness and insatiable desire leave Wesley breathless, and he realizes he’s never felt this way about anyone before.
Their morning lovemaking is filled with tender touches, sultry whispers, and ravenous kisses. Wesley’s fingers roam Haven’s body, tracing her curves and awakening her senses. As they surrender to their desires, Wesley’s Lycan stirs, content in the knowledge that they need to wait to mark her as theirs. The air is thick with anticipation, their bodies craving more of each other.
As they eventually roll out of bed, sated and sleepy, Wesley suggests breakfast, but not before Haven’s fingers dance across his chest, her body still waking up from their passionate encounter. With full bellies and sated desires, they bask in the afterglow of their morning together, Wesley already craving more mornings just like this one.
Chapter 40
Haven’s world is turned upside down as Wesley transforms into a dark gray, humanoid beast before her eyes. She screams and tries to flee, but Nolan intervenes, explaining that if she runs, Wesley’s Lycan instincts will take over, and he’ll chase her to mate with her. Nolan calms her down, revealing that he’s also a Lycan, and that Wesley’s father is their alpha.
Nolan explains that Lycans are stronger than werewolves and were created by the moon goddess Selene to be their leaders. Haven struggles to reconcile the beast in front of her with the man who made her happy, her mind reeling from the revelation. As she stands frozen in fear, Wesley, still in his Lycan form, takes tentative steps towards her, his dark brown eyes locked onto hers.
The air is thick with tension as Haven tries to process the truth about Wesley and his world. Nolan’s girlfriend, Rachel, watches from the sidelines, adding to the sense of unease. With her heart racing and her instincts screaming at her to flee, Haven stands firm, unsure of what will happen next or how she’ll navigate this new reality.
Chapter 41
Wesley’s world is in disarray as he struggles to come to terms with revealing his Lycan form to Haven. Nolan’s criticism of his approach sparks a heated argument, with the two Lycans clashing physically until Rachel intervenes. Wesley orders Nolan to ensure Haven’s safe return home, still reeling from the terror in her eyes. He’s consumed by regret and longing, torn between giving her space and pursuing her.
As Wesley tries to process the aftermath, he’s forced to confront the consequences of his actions and the potential repercussions within his pack. A surprise meeting with Alpha Timothy Pierce and his children, Benjamin and Nicole, at the packhouse reveals a proposal for an alliance between their packs. The contract outlines a deal that could guarantee cooperation and prosperity, but Wesley’s instincts scream warning.
With the proposal in hand, Wesley begins to strategize, weighing the benefits and potential risks of the alliance. His thoughts whirl with the implications, and he starts to formulate a plan to use the alliance to the pack’s advantage, all while grappling with the uncertainty of his future with Haven.
Chapter 42
Wesley’s world remains in turmoil as he grapples with the aftermath of revealing his Lycan form to Haven. His father, the pack’s alpha, summons him to discuss a sudden rogue Lycan sighting on their territory. The alpha believes Sebastian’s exceptional intuition can help discern the rogues’ intentions. Meanwhile, Wesley’s Lycan instincts continue to simmer, still reeling from the terror in Haven’s eyes and longing for her presence.
As they prepare to investigate the rogue Lycans, Wesley’s father reminds him to erase any trace of Haven’s scent from his belongings and warns against contacting her until the pretend alliance with Timothy Pierce is complete. Wesley’s frustration grows, simmering beneath the surface as he’s forced to suppress his desires and focus on the task at hand.
With Reid and Sebastian by his side, Wesley sets out to gather more information on the rogue Lycans. However, Reid’s careless comments about Haven ignite Wesley’s anger, and he nearly loses control, issuing a dire warning to his beta. As tensions simmer, the trio continues their mission, navigating the treacherous world of Lycan politics and alliances, all while keeping their true intentions hidden from their adversaries.
Chapter 43
Haven’s frustration and anger simmer as she waits for Wesley’s response, five days after he revealed his Lycan form to her. She’s been calling him with no answer, feeling abandoned and used after their romantic night together. Her emotions swirl as she grapples with the consequences of his lies, her anger directed mostly at him for not being honest with her.
With her emotions in turmoil, Haven attends a birthday dinner at Jack and Shirley’s, where she’s surprised to find her old friend Scott waiting for her. As they reminisce and catch up, Haven omits key details about her relationship with Wesley, unsure of how to process her feelings. Scott’s warmth and familiarity provide a brief respite from her turmoil, but Haven can’t shake off the sense of abandonment and anger towards Wesley.
As Haven delves deeper into her emotions, she begins to confront the reasons behind her anger, realizing that it’s rooted in a deep-seated fear of being ignored and abandoned. Her conversation with Scott and her hosts provides a temporary distraction, but the underlying tension between her and Wesley remains unresolved, leaving readers wondering what will happen next in their complicated relationship.
Chapter 44
Wesley’s world is crumbling as he struggles to uncover evidence to take down Tim, all while keeping his distance from Haven to ensure her safety. The charade continues as he agrees to a private mating ceremony with Nicole, but his conscience is eating away at him, knowing Haven must feel used and abandoned. A surprise visit from Nicole and Benjamin brings a glimmer of hope as they deliver crucial evidence to incriminate Tim, but at a steep cost – Wesley must continue the act, even if it means losing Haven forever.
Meanwhile, Haven is lost in her own turmoil, using dance as an outlet for her anger and pain. Her emotions swirl as she grapples with Wesley’s deception, her trust shattered. As she performs a powerful routine in the studio, she’s unexpectedly interrupted by an unwelcome visitor, forcing her to confront her feelings once more.
The stakes are higher than ever as Wesley and Haven navigate their complicated web of lies, deceit, and unrequited love. Will the evidence be enough to bring Tim down, or will it cost Wesley the one person he truly cares about?
Chapter 45
Wesley waits anxiously in the conference room, his nerves frayed as he watches Alpha Pierce pace back and forth, growing increasingly agitated. The room is sparse, cleared of most furniture, as Wesley’s mom and Fiona have rearranged it for the charade of a mating ceremony between Wesley and Nicole. The tension builds as Nicole is late, and Wesley’s Lycan grows restless, sensing the unease.
As the minutes tick by, Wesley’s frustration mounts, his mind racing with worst-case scenarios. Where is Nicole? And why is King Malachi’s representative from the palace late? Wesley’s plan to take down Tim is on the brink of falling apart. His Lycan snarls and paces in his head, as Wesley struggles to maintain his calm exterior.
Nicole finally arrives, but with an unexpected twist – she’s accompanied by Alpha Alton Bauer, her mate. The air is electric as Timothy explodes in rage, his anger directed at Nicole for her betrayal. Alton stands firm, protectively wrapping his arm around Nicole, his claws extended as he faces off against Timothy. The scene is intense, the players locked in a tense standoff as they wait for the council representative to arrive and bring Tim to justice.
