The air inside the high-end restaurant was thick with tension. I sat across from Raphael and Tessa, watching their every move. They still thought they could manipulate me. I, however, was no longer the innocent girl they once deceived.
Raphael leaned back in his chair, his usual charismatic smile in place. "Celeste, I hope you understand that what happened yesterday was just a misunderstanding. Olivia overreacted, and I was hoping we could still work together."
Tessa sighed dramatically, playing the role of a concerned friend. "Yes, Celeste. You’ve always been so strong, but sometimes it’s okay to rely on those who truly care about you."
I sipped my wine slowly, letting their words hang in the air.
Truly care about me? Like how you cared when you took everything from me in my past life? Like how you plotted my death?
I thought bitterly. Yet, instead, I gave them a cool smile and leaned in slightly. "Yeah… I suppose I was a bit harsh yesterday. Maybe I overreacted, too."
Raphael's eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he nodded. "Exactly. I always knew you were rational, Celeste. This business deal is important not just for us but for you, too. You have the chance to align with the strongest pack in the business world. You wouldn’t want to pass up such an opportunity, would you?"
Tessa reached out, her fingers lightly grazing my hand in what she likely thought was a reassuring gesture. "Celeste, you know I always have your back. Raphael and I just want what’s best for you. If we all work together, no one can stand in our way. And Alexander? He is worrying as well after he had talked to you yesterday. He called me instantly and told me to make sure you’re fine. He is worrying. We all are. And the Phantom, Inc. collaboration you are planning? That’s dangerous."
I secretly smiled. What Tessa said was truly a joke on her part. She, the wife of Jacob Harrington, has a time to nosy on my business with my grandfather’s company.
“I never thought that you could insert me and my concern with your busy life, Tessa. You are so concerned with me, huh?”
“Of course!” Tessa held one of my hands and pressed. “You are the one I always admired from the start. You know how I was grateful for being a friend of someone with Alpha blood like you, Raphael, and Alexander.”
“Yes, I know that. And thanks for showing me ‘all’ of your admiration towards me.”
I emphasized the word ‘all’ because I mean it. Yes, Tessa was right. She truly admired me, Raphael, and Alexander. She also admired my friendship towards the two. She admired me so much and her admiration turned to envy.
“I may be married right now but I’m so happy I have this moment with the two of you. How I wish Alexander was here with us, too. I should video call him!” Tessa excitedly said and started to call Alexander.
I kept my expression neutral, swirling my wine glass as if I were contemplating Tessa’s excitement and words. I let a few moments of silence pass before I sighed, playing the part of someone considering their offer.
"You both make good points," I said smoothly and I saw the flicker of hope light up in their eyes. "If I were to reconsider, what exactly are you proposing for the next project of Darkfang Industries, Raphael?"
Raphael leaned forward, his confidence growing. He pursed his lips and shrugged. "A partnership, Celeste. It has already been discussed with the board a week ago. You align with Blackmoon Enterprises in the designs of the new buildings rising in the north. We ensure your company flourishes beyond anything your grandfather could have imagined. And, of course, Darkfang and Blackmoon being partnered will make our companies stronger than ever." He flashed a knowing smile. "With me by your side to guide, you’d never have to worry about unfinished projects."
"Woah… Unfinished projects?" I tilted my head, feigning curiosity. “Darkfang never had unfinished projects. Why do you have that thought, Raphael?”
Tessa interjected smoothly. "From experience of other companies that Blackmoon helped, of course. You know how the business world and economy are. One moment you are on the top. Next, some company took your place."
I pretended to consider their words, my fingers tapping idly against the table. "You’re right, Tessa. I should rely on those possibilities and probable outcomes. And that’s why I’ve decided to move forward with Phantom, Inc."
The atmosphere shifted instantly. Raphael stiffened. "Celeste, you can’t be serious. That company is dangerous,” he growled in a whisper at me. “Lucian Sanguine isn’t someone to trust. He’s working with the mafia."
“And so?” I raised an eyebrow. "And about trust? Who are you suggesting is trustworthy? You?"
“We’ve known each other since we were three years old. We grew together!” he growled.
Tessa touched Raphael’s arm gently, calming him down. "We just want what’s best for you, Celeste. That’s all."
“Okay…” I yawned.
“I hope you stop whatever nonsense you are doing, Celeste!” Raphael exclaimed.
I laughed softly next, shaking my head. "You and Alexander always know how to twist the truth to suit your narrative, Raphael. But I’m done playing your game." I looked at Tessa and sneered at her. I stood up, grabbing my purse. "Enjoy your meal with the man you truly wanted to marry, Tessa. I have more important business to attend to."
Tessa gasped and stood up, too. She followed me and tried to stop me from leaving the restaurant. “Celeste, whatever you are thinking between me and Raphael isn’t true. We are just close because of you. We—”
“Enough, Tessa,” I nonchalantly stated and continued walking away. My heart pounded—not from fear, but from triumph.
Tessa held my arm to stop me going away, but as I saw Lucian’s car parked and waiting for me. I smiled in amazement.
“Let me go, Tessa.” I pulled my arm from her. “My Alpha mate won’t like the idea of you and Raphael stopping me from going to him.”
“Your Alpha mate?” Tessa asked in her confused tone.
“Yes, Lucian Sanguine is my true Alpha mate, Tessa. Tell that to Raphael and Alexander,” I proudly stated. “And remember that Lucian’s not just an Alpha, Tessa. He’s a ruthless Mafia King. He’s just an Alpha in our circle but he’s the King in the underground society. Like how Raphael described him… he’s dangerous. He truly is.”
“Luna Celeste.” Marcus—Lucian’s Beta—approached me and Tessa. “Alpha Lucian’s waiting.”
“See?” I taunted Tessa and looked at the black car waiting for me. The door opened and Lucian stepped out coming to me.
He towered me and Tessa. The latter was gaping at Lucian. Her eyes obviously feast on Lucian’s handsome and menacing aura.
"Let’s go, Celeste,” Lucian said, his voice smooth yet commanding. “We can’t be late.”
“Late?” I frowned.
“To find you the perfect ring, my dear Luna.”
