"Ezekiel...." I whispered softly into his ear, my crimson lips tugging into a sly smirk as I felt his body shake grow stiff against mine. My finger trailed softly against his arm, goosebumps raising along the path I traveled. "Stop." He whispered, I noticed how utterly breathless he had become. Causing the smirk that tugged at my lips to expand into a sinister smile. My fingers left his arm, lifting my fingers in the air I delicately grasp his chin, as if I squeezed too hard he'd crumple to dust beneath my fingers. "Why do you want me to stop, Zeke?" I questioned, my eyes feigning fake innocence as I awaited his answer. His eyes searched mine, and I felt my own proud look faltering as I undoubtably started to melt looking into his pools of Amber. "Because..." he started, his lip being tugged into his mouth by his white teeth. "Because...?" I assisted, as I got as close to him as physically possible. His eyes hardened, glaring into my soulless ones. "It feels, Sinful."

"Are you sure you want to do this?" I asked Xander, my voice void of any emotions. I was in my warrior stance in front of the whole pack. Back straight, hands folded in front of me and feet shoulder-width apart. I know I looked composed because that's my training. Be composed; don't lose control. Don't lose the battle. But all I wanted to do was run into his arms. Beg him to reconsider. Promise him that I would be the best for him. "I, Xander Valverde, Future Alpha of The Nightfall Pack reject you Anala Rozinov as my mate." With those words, I felt our bond begin to break. It was agonizing like being whipped and have those wounds have acid poured on them. That burning sensation started in my heart, and I felt it spread throughout my body. I took a shaky breath but remained cold and emotionless. I needed to leave quickly; I need to find somewhere safe. "I, Anala Rozinov, Daughter of Beta Keone Rozinov accept your rejection as your mate," I replied my voice, surprisingly even and cold. "You are now free to join the Alpha King's Army. Please go pack your things and report to my office. The King will be sending someone to collect you." He said, his voice rough with emotions. "Sorry Alpha. But I have decided I will go rogue." There were gasps among the crowd. The Alpha looked appalled this wasn't a part of the plan. No one refused the King. But I refuse to be another playing card for another pack. No more. I want my freedom. If my mate isn't it, I will find my own way. PS: I do not own any of the images used within the story; they have been borrowed from Pinterest or Google and belong to their respected owners. #TheLitAwards2019