Bound by Blood & Moonlight

Chapter 18

Chapter 18

Kian

The pack has finally accepted Scarlet as one of our own. After everything that's happened, and with the truth now out in the open, everyone is on high alert, making sure we don't face another ambush.

Scarlet, thankfully, used her abilities to help the young ones forget the horrors of that night. It was for the best. They didn't need to carry the memory of bloodshed during a night that was supposed to be full of joy. But now, our next challenge was ahead. Convincing the Faes and humans to form an alliance with Scarlet. Gaining their trust, especially of a Vamp, wouldn't be easy. But we had to try.

As I thought about our upcoming negotiations, I turned to Scarlet. The task that lay ahead required more than words. I cleared my throat, feeling a bit awkward as I spoke.

"I have to leave my mark on you."

Her eyes immediately narrowed with suspicion, clearly not thrilled by my choice of words. "You have to... what?"

I internally winced. That did not come out right. I cleared my throat again, trying to explain without sounding ridiculous. "Leave my mark on you. The Faes are like us—they rely on scent. They'll be able to tell if something is off. I told them you're my wife, and well... they'll expect you to smell like me. Because, you know... you're my wife."

Scarlet raised an eyebrow at me, clearly unimpressed. "And how exactly are you going to do that?" she asked, crossing her arms over her chest.

I tried not to falter under her gaze, even though I felt my face heating up. "It's simple," I said, trying to keep my voice steady. "Wolves leave a scent on their mates. It's a way to show others that you belong to me... that you're part of the pack."

She stared at me for a moment, processing my words. "So, what? Are you going to rub yourself on me or something?"

I bit back a groan. "I'm going to start now." I took a step closer, gently brushing a few strands of hair away from her neck, where my scent would need to linger.

For a moment, she hesitated, but then nodded, giving me her silent permission. I leaned in, close enough for her to feel my breath against her skin, and I nuzzled against her neck, went around her not breaking any skin to skin contact. I moved to the back of her neck, she smells so good, so irresistible. I could feel her shivers under my touch.

I moved back to the front and cupped her cheeks, and there I made a mistake. I made a mistake of looking at her. Her fire whiskey eyes, fully dilated, she was biting her lip, looking like she was stifling a moan. I can tell that she was enjoying this as much as I am.

I let my wolf's scent mark her. It was almost impossible to let go but it was enough. Just enough that they would know that she's mine.

"Mine." I breathe out just as I got done marking her with my scent.

When I pulled back, I swear I almost heard a silent whimper from her and Scarlet exhaled, still watching me closely. "There," I said quietly, my voice soft. "Now they'll know that you're mine."

Her expression softened a little.

"Well, that wasn't what I was expecting," she murmured.

"And what did you expect exactly, princess?" I teased, noticing how her cheeks flushed with warmth. She rolled her eyes at me, and I couldn't help but smirk at the sight.

She didn't answer, clearly avoiding the question, and I decided not to press her any further. There was something light about this moment, and I didn't want to break it.

"So, when are we leaving to meet with the Faes?" she asked, shifting the conversation.

"In a few days' time. Robyn doesn't like unexpected visitors, so I sent out a message that she'll be receiving guests soon." Scarlet simply hummed in response, thoughtful.

"Is there anything I should know about her?" she added, her eyes searching mine with a hint of curiosity.

I shrugged nonchalantly, "She's just like any other female. Moody, clingy, and unpredictable."

"Idiot," Scarlet scoffed, though I caught the faint smile tugging at the corner of her lips. It was the first time I'd ever seen her close to smiling like that, and for a moment, I was completely taken aback. She was breath-taking.

"But I'm sure you could take her down, easily." I said softly, watching her with amusement.

Her eyes met mine, and for the briefest moment, everything seemed to pause. There was something different between us now, something more than just an alliance built on politics or family expectations. Something real.

"Of course I could" she grinned.

I didn't want to let it go.

~

I received an unexpected visitor in the great hall today. Titan Monroe stood before me, staring at the paintings that adorned the walls, his expression unreadable.

"To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?" I asked, keeping my voice calm and even.

"I need to see my sister," he replied curtly, striding toward me with purpose. One thing I've noticed about both Titan and Scarlet is how they manage to appear calm and collected, no matter the situation. Their vulnerabilities are always well hidden.

"Why do you need to see my wife?" My tone sharpened, protective instincts kicking in. Ever since the ambush orchestrated by their father, I've been wary, and I wasn't eager to let Scarlet anywhere near Titan without knowing his intentions.

"She is my sister first, my twin before she became your wife," Titan replied, his composed facade almost cracking. "I have every right to see her."

Before I could respond, the door creaked open. I turned to see Scarlet walking in, her usual calm masking any sign of surprise

"Kian, when we are there..." her words trailed off, and for the first time in a while, I saw genuine shock flicker across her face, until her gaze landed on her brother. She stopped mid-step, clearly taken off guard.

I raised my brows and looked at them both. Titan cleared his throat and I knew it was a sign for me to go. I wasn't willing to leave Scarlet alone with him but I know I had to. As much as I hate it, it was her brother.

"Why do you smell like...him?" Titan looked at her sister, wearing disgust in his face. I could see Scarlet's cheeks turn a shade of crimson and I turned away, satisfied, leaving with a grin on my face.