Chapter 18 Chapter 18
The sun was beginning to peek over the horizon, tinting the sky with hues of pink and gold, as Selene awoke to another day. The dawn, which should have been a relief, seemed only a harbinger of the chaos that was about to unfold. She rose from bed, trying to ignore the weight of her worries, and prepared for college. Every movement was a reminder of the complications in her life, but routine gave her some sense of normalcy.
Meanwhile, at home, Victor Darkblood was furious. Selene's disobedience had triggered a new plan of action. He summoned Gabriel and Lucien to an urgent meeting.
— I don't want to see Rael around anymore — Victor said with calculated coldness. — You two will go to the hotel where he's staying and make it clear that he must stay away from any vampires. If he doesn't understand, use force. I want him to know there's no place for him in our world, especially not around my daughter.
Gabriel and Lucien, their expressions serious, exchanged a knowing look. Without another word, they immediately set off to carry out Victor's orders. They knew this wasn't just a mission; it was a test of their loyalty to the clan.
Arriving at the hotel where Rael was staying, Gabriel, with his imposing strength, advanced toward Rael's room door. Without hesitation, he broke it down with a single powerful blow, the sound of splintering wood echoing through the hotel corridors.
Rael, who was in the middle of a workout, looked up in surprise at Gabriel and Lucien's sudden entrance. The tension in the air was palpable, and his wolf instincts sharpened.
— Who do you think you are, barging into my room like that? — Rael growled, defiant.
Gabriel stepped forward, his gaze icy and menacing.
— Rael, we're sent by Victor Darkblood. He made it clear that you must stay away from any vampire, especially my sister, his daughter Selene. We're not here for negotiations.
Lucien remained silent, observing the scene with calculated calm. His gaze was cold but not as piercing as Gabriel's. He was there to ensure nothing got out of hand.
Rael raised an eyebrow, keeping his composure.
— What if I don't do what you want? What are you going to do? I have my own principles, and I'm not easily intimidated.
Gabriel took a step closer, his aura menacing.
— This isn't about your principles, Rael. It's about respect for the clan's rules and Victor's authority. If you need a demonstration to understand, we can provide one.
Rael could tell the situation was about to escalate. He kept his gaze steady, though his heart was racing.
— I get the message. I don't need any further demonstrations. I'll keep my distance, but you should know this approach won't intimidate me.
Gabriel smiled coldly, satisfied with Rael's response, and turned to leave. Lucien, however, paused at the door.
— I suggest you remember Victor’s words — Lucien said calmly. — This is not an empty warning.
With that, they left, leaving Rael alone. He stared at the broken door, frustration building inside him. The challenge he faced was growing increasingly complex, and the threatening presence of Gabriel and Lucien only intensified the tension. Rael knew he had to be cautious and strategic to handle the Darkblood clan and protect what he had with Selene.
Meanwhile, Selene, unaware of what had happened, walked through college with a growing sense of unease. She tried to focus on her classes and maintain normalcy, but the image of Rael and her family’s looming threat shadowed her every thought. The day felt endless, the weight of her decisions and fears pressing down on her.
When the afternoon finally arrived, Selene eagerly awaited the moment she could speak to Rael again. But in her mind, the fear of what Victor might do to ensure Rael stayed away troubled her deeply. What else lay ahead in her battle to protect her love and her freedom?
Selene’s phone rang while she was in her room, trying to concentrate on her studies. The unfamiliar number made her heart race. She answered, her voice a mix of curiosity and apprehension.
— Hello?
Rael’s voice came through the line, firm and reassuring.
— Selene, it’s Rael. Can we meet tonight? I have something important to tell you.
Her pulse quickened.
— Sure, where do you want to meet?
— At the hotel where I’m staying. I can wait for you in the lobby.
Selene agreed, and after getting ready, she headed to the hotel. With every step, nervousness and anticipation tangled inside her. Arriving at the hotel, she saw Rael waiting for her in the lobby. He seemed calm, but his eyes held that deep intensity she knew so well.
— Hi — Selene said, approaching him.
Rael greeted her with a faint smile.
— Hi, Selene. Shall we go to my room? I have something important to tell you.