war of hearts

ch.1

The soft chime of the doorbell echoed through the bar as he entered. His black shiny shoes clicked against the wooden floor, his long black coat flowing with each step. He claimed a seat at the bar. Leaning forward slightly, he caught her eye and in a thick, almost sensual British accent, he spoke, "I'll have a glass of your finest Scotch."

He smiled, eyeing her, and Hayley felt herself almost blush. "Right away."

As she poured his drink, he noticed the tattoo on her hand but chose not to comment on it. "So, are you a tourist or from around here?" she asked, handing him the glass.

He smiled again, this time with a bit more enthusiasm. "I'm here on a special occasion," he replied, his voice smooth. "I intend to bring back order."

His demeanor made it clear he wasn't just any passerby, especially with the massive ring on his finger, adorned with what looked like a lapis lazuli gemstone. Hayley swallowed nervously, her mind racing.

She was well aware that Marcel was the only one who handed out daylight rings, and only to his closest associates. But she'd never seen this man around here before.

"Sounds serious," she remarked, her sarcastic tone not lost on him.

As she turned around for a moment, he noticed her birthmark. It took a split second for him to recognize it as one associated with a specific pack, and not just any pack, but a royal pack that originally lived in Louisiana.

And suddenly, the pretty bartender became a little more impressive.

"How do you find living here?" he asked, although there was an edge to his voice.

She froze for a moment, noticing the look in his eyes. It was a trick question.

"It's just fine," she replied cautiously. "I've never run into trouble before."

He hummed, squinting slightly. "Lucky girl," he said, taking a sip from his now half-empty glass before leaving a considerable amount of cash on the counter.

"Customers don't usually leave such a... generous tip," she spoke.

He leaned in slightly, a flirtatious smile playing on his lips. "A pretty girl like you deserves it," he said. "Besides, I'm aware of the limits of the city's hospitality."

"It's been a pleasant stay for me for years now, actually," Hayley replied, her tone firm.

The conversation felt like it was getting heated, with both of them trying to make a point. She then leaned in close, close enough for him to clearly smell her cherry lip gloss. "I know what you are," she said softly.

He lightly smirked, his eyes moving from her full lips to her hazel eyes. "I seriously doubt it, sweetheart," he murmured.

With both hands, he gently tapped the counter. "As stimulating as this little chit chat is, I have more pressing matters to tend to," he said, before turning and leaving.