Chapter 4
619words
"She's your fiancée?" I ask.
Kayden sighs, pouring himself a drink. "A political arrangement. Ashley is the daughter of the Eastern Pack Alpha. Our union would strengthen both packs."
"Do you want to marry her?"
He pauses briefly. "It's not about what I want. In my position, I don't have that luxury."
"That doesn't seem fair," I say quietly.
"Fair? A human who lives under such unfairness now worries about fairness for werewolves?"
"I thought you had complete freedom," I answer.
He approaches me. "You should be more concerned about yourself. After what happened with Lucas tonight, we can't delay the claiming ceremony."
"Now?"
"It's simple," he says. "I mark you with my scent. You wear my insignia. That's all."
He pulls out a silver pendant on a chain—a wolf with amber eyes.
"This marks you as under my protection," he explains. "No werewolf can touch you without answering to me."
I take it, the metal cool against my palm. "And the scent marking?"
"A formality. It won't hurt."
He gently tilts my head, exposing my neck. My pulse quickens as he leans in.
I feel his teeth graze the curve where my neck meets my shoulder—not breaking skin, but leaving an impression.
The contact sends an unexpected shiver down my spine. When he pulls away, his eyes have darkened.
"It's done," he says, his voice rougher than before. "You're claimed."
I touch the spot where his mouth had been. "That's it?"
"That's it. Put on the pendant. It will help others recognize my claim."
I slip the chain over my head. "What happens now?"
"Now you rest. Tomorrow, I'll show you your duties. The servant quarters are yours. No one will disturb you there."
He disappears into his room.
I retreat to the servant quarters. The silver pendant gleams against my skin, a slight redness marking where his teeth pressed.
Claimed. I should feel violated, angry. Instead, I feel a sense of security mixed with confusion.
Sleep eludes me as questions swirl. Is Kayden truly different from the other cruel werewolves? And why does Ashley seem intimidated by me, an insignificant human?
---
Morning arrives with a knock. Eliza enters with a uniform and breakfast tray.
"Good morning, miss," she says. Her eyes widen at the pendant. "Oh! He's claimed you properly."
"Is that surprising?"
"Some lords just use a collar or bracelet for servants. His insignia is an honor, but don't expect special treatment. You'll still work like the rest of us."
"What will my duties be?"
"You'll report to the head housekeeper after breakfast for your assignments."
The main door opens. Kayden enters, his expression serious.
"Eliza, leave us," he commands.
"Did you sleep well?" he asks gently.
"Well enough," I lie. "Eliza was just explaining my duties."
"Yes, you'll work with the other servants during the day. The pendant will keep you safe, but don't expect it to shield you from all unpleasantness. Some werewolves resent humans who wear noble insignias."
"I can handle unpleasantness. I've had practice."
"Report to Mrs. Winters in the main kitchen. She'll assign your duties. Return to these quarters by sunset."
As he reaches the door, he pauses. "One more thing. Be careful around your sister."
"Melissa? Why?"
His jaw tightens. "Lucas is ambitious. He believes strength is measured by how much fear you inspire. He didn't choose your sister randomly."
"What do you mean?"
"He's using her. To get to me. To get to you. Lucas suspects there's something unusual about you. About why I brought you here."
I nod.
"We'll discuss more when there's time," he says, then leaves.
