The Secret Heirs of the Lycan King (by Misha K) novel Chapter 3

**When Midnight Winds Carry Secrets Toward Worlds Yet Unknown**
**Chapter 3**

Bella

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I found myself at a loss, wandering aimlessly after my abrupt departure from Craig’s apartment. The weight of betrayal pressed heavily on my chest, a persistent ache that seemed to echo the turmoil within me. My mind was a storm, cycling through the same agonizing question—how could Maya possibly betray me like this again?

Before long, I realized I had parked in front of the Phoenix Mall, the most magnificent shopping center in the entire city. It was renowned worldwide, boasting an array of luxury brands and upscale boutiques. I had heard whispers about its enigmatic CEO, Scott Moore—a billionaire bachelor shrouded in mystery. He was said to be as arrogant as he was stunning, with an allure that left countless women swooning at his feet.

As I meandered through the mall’s vibrant corridors, my heart felt heavy, and I instinctively sought refuge in a cozy café tucked away from the bustling shoppers. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries enveloped me like a comforting embrace. I ordered a cappuccino, then settled into a quaint little table by the window, seeking solace in the view outside. But as soon as the cup warmed my hands, tears began to spill down my cheeks. I tried to stifle my sobs, wiping my eyes hastily, but the tears kept flowing, each drop a reminder of my shattered trust. I couldn’t fathom how my life had spiraled into this chaos. How could I possibly thwart a marriage that my entire family had meticulously orchestrated? Would my father even believe the damning evidence I had? The thought of making the video go viral flickered in my mind, a desperate measure that felt both thrilling and terrifying.

Just as I lowered my head to take a sip of my coffee, the café door swung open, and two familiar figures stepped inside. My heart raced—it was Luke and Mark, Craig’s friends. Luke, the very boy I had harbored feelings for back in high school, before Maya had so callously torn us apart. Instinctively, I ducked my head, praying they wouldn’t spot me. They settled into a booth two tables behind me, their laughter ringing out like jarring bells, and I couldn’t help but overhear their conversation.

“Bella has always been a moron,” Luke chuckled, stirring his coffee with a casual air. “She never even realized Craig and Maya were in love. Stupid blind brat. And guess what? Maya is back in town, and she’ll be crashing with me for a while.”

Mark let out a loud, boisterous laugh. “But it works out perfectly for us, Luke. Craig played his cards smartly after you messed things up with her. Once he gets his hands on Bella’s inheritance, we’re set for life. Our contracts are already drafted. The moment the money comes in, we’ll sign. Our businesses will finally take off. Just a month until we say goodbye to the bitch!” They erupted into laughter again.

A chill washed over me, and I clutched my cup so tightly that I feared it would shatter in my hands. Their words pierced through me like daggers, the realization settling in with a sickening heaviness. They were all in on it—Craig, Maya, Luke, and Mark. It wasn’t just a betrayal of love; they were scheming about my inheritance, plotting behind my back. My stomach twisted in knots, bitterness clawing at my insides. How could I have been so naïve? All these years, I had been oblivious to their treachery.

Rage ignited within me, a fire that demanded to be unleashed. I yearned to march over to their table, to confront them, to scream that I was onto their game. In a moment of impulsive determination, I pushed my chair back and stood up, ready to face them. But just as I turned, I collided with a solid figure. Strong arms caught me, preventing me from falling.

I looked up, and for a heartbeat, I forgot how to breathe. A strikingly handsome man stood before me, his broad shoulders filling the space around us. Dressed in a tailored pinstripe suit, he exuded an aura of authority and charm. His sharp jawline, high cheekbones, and piercing dark eyes seemed to hold an intensity that was almost otherworldly. His lips were firm and bow-shaped, and his straight nose complemented the tousled black hair that fell across his forehead. He looked like a king, a man who belonged to a realm far beyond this one.

Suddenly, the café fell into a hushed silence, the atmosphere thick with tension. In that instant, a reckless idea sparked in my mind—an audacious plan that might just save me from the impending marriage.

I tilted my head slightly, casting a furtive glance at Luke and Mark, then turned back to the mysterious man. Without allowing myself a moment to think, I pressed my lips against his.

A low growl rumbled in his throat as his hand shot out, gripping my waist and pulling me close. The gesture was both protective and possessive, leaving me startled yet exhilarated. My body stiffened in his embrace, but from the corner of my eye, I caught Luke and Mark staring at us, their mouths agape. The entire café had turned to witness our unexpected display.

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