The Secret Heirs of the Lycan King (by Misha K) novel Chapter 23

**When Midnight Winds Carry Secrets Toward Worlds Yet Unknown – Chapter 23**

Scott

As we drove along the winding roads, Troy filled me in on the latest updates. “The villa staff will be all set by this evening. Tasha is scheduled to move in tomorrow. Oh, and just so you know, you’ve made the owner quite happy.” He pulled out the sale deed, its crisp paper reflecting the sunlight streaming through the window.

“Make sure she’s oblivious to the fact that she’s under surveillance,” I replied, my tone bordering on obsessive. It felt possessive, but I couldn’t shake the feeling.

“Don’t worry, I’ll handle it,” he assured me, a hint of amusement in his voice.

We rounded the final corner, and the construction site came into view, sprawling before us like a canvas waiting for the artist’s touch. A few of my wolves were already milling about, their presence a comforting reminder of our pack. The skeletal walls stood tall, taped lines marking the future layout, and here was the beginning of what would soon become the boutique. Sunlight filtered through the glass dome overhead, casting a warm glow on the floor, and for a moment, I felt a surge of hope. This space was meant for my moon.

Then, her scent wafted toward me, intoxicating and familiar, and my spirits soared before I even laid eyes on her. Slowly, I turned, anticipation bubbling within me.

Bella approached, a folder clutched in her hands, her hair swept up in a ponytail, intensely focused on me. She looked absolutely enchanting in her peach dress, a vision that momentarily stole my breath away. A rush of heat coursed through me, and I felt a stirring that I struggled to contain.

Troy caught my expression and let out a dramatic sigh, feigning despair. “There it is,” he remarked. “That eerie smile. Those moonlit eyes of yours. If you start humming a love song, I’m calling for backup.”

I chose to ignore him, my focus solely on Bella as I crossed the floor, my mind racing with fantasies that danced just out of reach. Behind me, Troy muttered something about needing earplugs for the team if I continued down this path of reckless daydreaming. What a jerk. I slammed the door shut on those thoughts.

“Good morning,” I greeted her when I finally reached her side.

She looked up, and the world around us seemed to brighten. I gently lifted her chin with my finger, closing her mouth with a playful gesture. In a low voice, I teased, “It’s the season for tiny creatures. If you leave your mouth open for too long, one might just sneak in.” A flush crept across her cheeks, as if I’d caught her off guard. “And believe me, I’d rather not have anything in your beautiful mouth except for my—”

She gasped, and I could see Troy wince, while the other wolves nearby coughed in shock. I had completely forgotten about their sensitive hearing in my moment of boldness.

“Are you always this obnoxious? Is it your style with every woman?” she shot back, her scowl fierce.

“Jealous?” I couldn’t help but grin, my smile stretching wide.

“What? No!” she retorted, brushing past me, but I could sense the truth beneath her words. She was jealous.

Ah, love was indeed in the air.

**Bella POV**

I arrived at the site a few minutes early, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. Scott was already there, hands shoved deep into his pockets, exuding an aura of restrained power, like a lion trapped in a cage. The moment our eyes met, his shoulders relaxed, and that roguish smile returned, lighting up his face. Dressed in a fitted black shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his forearms and two buttons undone, paired with sleek black trousers, he looked devastatingly attractive. For a heartbeat, I found myself breathless.

My mouth must have fallen open because he approached, gently tapping my chin with his finger to close it, a cheeky comment about his cock escaping his lips. Heat flooded my cheeks, and I hastily walked past him, trying to regain my composure. “Can you show me the site?” I asked, eager to shift the focus.

“Gladly,” he replied, placing a warm hand on the small of my back, guiding me inside.

Inside, four people and Troy were already waiting with notepads in hand. Their curious gazes flicked over me, but thankfully, no one dared to cross any lines. Scott introduced me to the team, his voice steady and confident.

“It’s a two-level unit,” he explained, gesturing expansively to the space. “Ground level plus a mezzanine.”

Once the initial briefing was complete, the architect unfurled the floor plan. “We can create a soft entry here,” he indicated, pointing toward the front. “An arched doorway, subtle lighting, and low-profile signage. It should feel private, inviting, not overwhelming.”

“I like the sound of that,” I nodded in agreement.

“What about zoning?” the project manager inquired, flipping through his notes.

I took a moment to walk the area, letting my imagination paint the possibilities. “I envision the front third dedicated to new collections and bestsellers. Racks should be stocked with soft fabrics that guests can touch and feel. The middle zone will house fitting rooms, while the back should serve as storage, alterations, and an office.”

Scott chimed in, “What about mirror placement for the fitting rooms?”

Taking a deep breath, I envisioned the layout. “Full-length angled mirrors would be perfect. I prefer soft bulbs; I want people to feel confident the moment they step out of a fitting room.”

The designer nodded, clearly impressed with my vision. “For the walls, I was considering pale blush tones accented with warm wood.”

“Yes,” I replied enthusiastically. “And let’s add a cozy seating nook toward the back with two chairs for friends or partners.”

“What about the mezzanine?” Scott asked, his brow furrowing slightly.

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