The Lycan King and his Dark Temptation (Valeria) novel Chapter 357

BRENDA

I was furious and wounded by Elliot’s public rejection. I thought he was truly leaving me for a new lover.

That story about wanting to be with his wife—I didn’t buy it. And yet, here he was, using her as an excuse once again in front of everyone.

I watched him walk away in a hurry, and soon enough, I had that idiot Thesio trailing behind me. What an insufferable, overbearing man!

He brought me boxes of gifts—the shine of the jewels did dazzle me for a second.

Thesio wasn’t an ugly man; he had aged well. A widower with no children, willing to give me the title of Duchess that so many women longed for.

But seeing his face, already nearing forty-five, and knowing that this simple elemental would soon be an old man while I remained in my prime as a supernatural being, was more than enough to dissuade me and clear my mind.

Not to mention, I didn’t trust him enough to reveal myself as a she-wolf.

He had me nearly cornered against the library’s divan, groping me all over while whispering lewd words into my ear. I was on the verge of unsheathing my claws and exposing myself, rage boiling in my veins, when something unexpected saved me at the last second.

His assistant knocked on the door and stepped inside, forcing him to pull away from me with an irritated expression.

Thesio stood to speak with the man, who whispered something in his ear; but I had excellent hearing.

He had said:

“You must return to the castle, Your Excellency. I believe the Duke of Everhart has discovered our dealings, and his men are planning to sabotage us.”

I straightened immediately, pretending I hadn’t heard a thing.

“My dear, I’m sorry, but I must leave,” he approached me in hurried strides.

Before I could fully stand, he grabbed my waist, pulling me flush against his body.

Without giving me time to react, he pressed a wet kiss onto my lips.

“Sapphire, think carefully about my proposal. Each day I grow more impatient, woman. I need an heir for my duchy,” he murmured against my mouth as I struggled to break free. “Brenda!”

His angry voice made me stop, his eyes locking onto mine.

“That man will never give you your rightful place, and he’s headed for ruin. I know you’re a smart woman—beauty doesn’t last forever, do you understand?”

“Are you threatening me?” I hissed through clenched teeth.

“I’m giving you an ultimatum. You could rise to the top by my side, or with the Duke of Everhart, you’ll only ever be a mistress he’ll discard when he tires of fucking you.”

He spoke with contempt, colder than he ever had before.

The jealousy was evident in his venomous words, his warnings cutting deeper than I wanted to admit.

Still, I pressed my lips together and remained silent.

“I will be hosting a grand party at my castle soon. I expect you to attend. And if you do, know that I will take it as a yes. Your parents and you can move to my territory,” he proposed bluntly, skipping any pretense this time.

“You will live a life you’ve never even dreamed of. I desire you so much, you untamed woman.”

When he leaned in to kiss me again, I turned my face away; his lips landed on my cheek instead, and he pulled back with a sigh.

“Soon, you won’t have many options left,” he said before storming off with his assistant, slamming the door behind him.

I had to warn Elliot that this man knew about whatever plans he had against him.

Grabbing my dress, I hurried out of the mansion. As I reached the side gardens, I heard gasps and the neighing of horses.

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