Return With The Alpha's Secret Baby

Kayla's POV

"Hey, look! Isn't that Kayla sitting next to Kelowna? She's actually back?"

"Kayla? Which Kayla?"

"Kayla Reeves! The alpha's daughter from The Obsidian Pack. We went to the same high school with her, remember?"

After hearing her friend's words, Vivian, dressed in a deep red strapless dress, displayed a knowing expression, but quickly shifted to a disdainful look.

"That pretentious Kayla, huh! I've never understood why she could go to the same school as us. After all, The Obsidian Pack is just a small pack, they've fallen even further now. The nobles and big names have almost forgotten about their pack. She doesn't deserve any of our attention!"

"You should be careful of women like her from small packs who act all innocent! Guess why she's here? Look at her dress! Tsk tsk, I'd say even the hookers on 92nd Street would blush at it."

Betty, dressed in a blue gown, sneered and glanced at Vivian beside her. "I have to say, your couture dress is being overshadowed by hers, Vivian."

"Hmph, why would I compare myself to her?! Our Silver Moon Pack isn't as low as the Obsidian Pack. We are noble aristocrats, while they are just poor people selling their daughters. Look, Kayla's father sent her daughter to this party as a commodity for people to choose from. How ridiculous! Besides, only a fallen pack like hers would try to please merchants like Kelowna!"

Vivian Leech fixated her gaze on a specific point, her teeth clenched as she tugged at the slightly snug bodice of her dress. Yet, her thoughts were consumed by the determination to continue her diet next week and shed an additional four pounds.

"Yeah, the Kelowna family is just a bunch of merchant folks. They're just new money and your dad looks down on them. But if the person who showed up today was Harrison, then things might be different..."

"What are you talking about?!"

Confronted with Vivian's fiercely hostile stare, Betty instantly snapped out of her reverie. Even though she couldn't stand Vivian's affectation, it was through being Vivian's sidekick that she gained access to the upper echelons.

Betty said with caution, "Um, what I meant is, Harrison became the alpha of The Dark Night Pack, the most powerful pack, at such a young age. He's handsome, loaded, and he's still single! All the big shots in Gorden City are scrambling to connect with him! If you could snag him as your mate and become Luna of The Dark Night Pack, that'd be a total win!"

Betty's honeyed words indeed succeeded in softening Vivian's demeanor. A hint of girlish blush even tinged her cheeks.

"It's just too bad Harrison barely turns up at these shindigs. He's super private on normal days and it's rare to get a bead on his whereabouts..."

"'Rare to get a bead' is an understatement. If you get enough strings to pull, nothing's impossible. If you hustle, you'll always find an opening."

Vivian lowered her head, deep in thought. "I just got some connections. Tonight, Harrison's gonna rendezvous with a buddy at the private villa tucked away in the deepest corner of Covert Garden."

"So, doesn't that mean we might bump into Harrison? We're in Covert Garden now."

The news that Harrison was on the premises made Betty so giddy she forgot to suck up to Vivian.

Betty cried. "I get it now. So, that is why you are coming for tonight's gala, right? Not to hobnob with that annoying merchant, Kelowna, but for..."

"Shh!"

Vivian clapped her hand over Betty's mouth, her gaze sharp as she swept the surroundings. Once she was convinced that nobody had eavesdropped on them, she shot Betty a dark look.

"Lower your voice! Do you want everyone to hear you? And what's gotten you so excited? With your background, do you dare to even fantasize about Harrison? Come on! Let me warn you! You better not embarrass me and tarnish the image I have in Harrison's eyes!"

"..."

"Are you mute or deaf? Didn't you hear me talking?!"

"I understand, Vivian."

Betty begrudgingly bit her lip, falling silent.

……

In the meantime, positioned at the heart of the banquet, I could no longer make out what they were saying behind me, as my attention had been captured entirely by that name. Harrison.

He did it. He became the alpha of the most powerful pack, a living legend in everyone's eyes. And me... I looked down at the alluring dress I was wearing, shaking my head with a tinge of sorrow. It's been six years, and my father hasn't changed. Even after six years of absence, upon my return, my father still sees me as a commodity or bait to lure in more men for his money. I once thought he had some love left for me. I believed this was merely a business party, but little did I know it was a "select a woman" soirée set up for that old man, Kelowna, and I was the "gift" my parents presented.

I should understand one thing. I've had no family since my mother's passing six years ago. I shouldn't have any expectations left for my father. Anxiously, I gripped the bodice of my dress. It's too tight, making it nearly impossible to breathe. The scent of the hall's perfume was making me uneasy. I figured I should leave soon. I lowered my head to glance at the text message my daughter had sent me.

"Mommy, when are you coming back?"

"Mommy's coming back soon." I replied to her message immediately, attaching a cute emoji.

Yes, I have a daughter. She was my solace during those six dark years, the best gift the moon goddess ever granted me. Nobody in this country knows about this. I'm glad I haven't informed my father yet.

I clutched my handbag, ready to leave.

"Hi, Kayla. I heard you just returned to the country. This must be your first time at Covert Garden, the most luxurious estate, right?"

The old businessman Kelowna suddenly approached me, and I could practically smell his repugnant breath.

"Please call me Miss Reeves, Mr. Kelowna. This is our first meeting, and I believe we're not that familiar yet." I turned my head slightly, responding with stiffness.

"Relax, Kayla. Your father's brought you to this event, and you're wearing a dress like that. Isn't it all to help us get acquainted quickly? Isn't that right, darling?"

Kelowna lightly draped his arm over my shoulder, pulling me into an embrace with half my body nestled against his.

And his palm conveniently hung over my chest. If I hadn't been using my arms to shield myself against his hand, Kelowna's hand would've nearly covered my entire breast.

"You've got it all wrong. I didn't choose this dress! I didn't even want to attend this event! There's been a misunderstanding, and I'm leaving."

My father just asked me to attend a business party for him, and I was forced into this dress by the makeup artist he arranged before the party.

I struggled, attempting to break free from Kelowna's embrace.

"You don't want to attend?"

Kelowna's demeanor instantly turned menacing, his grip on my arm tightening. The bulging muscles in his strong arm clamped down like a pair of iron pincers.

"Do you know? Covert Garden symbolizes money and power in this city. It's always been open only to the wealthiest and most prestigious guests! And here I am, as the heir of my family, hosting an event here today. It demonstrates the high society's recognition of me. Moreover, alphas from small packs like your father are practically offering up their daughters to me, begging for a chance to collaborate. Now I'm willing to give you a chance to please me, and you dare refuse me?"

"Let me go!"

Kelowna's threat escalated my struggle. This man was not to be trifled with. The thought sent a shiver down my spine.

The mix of sweat and perfume began to thicken the air around me.

Kelowna's eyes started turning red, emitting an unpleasant scent from his body.

I instantly realized he must've ingested some sort of aphrodisiac-laced drink.

I have to get out of here, right now!

Rip

I couldn't escape in time. Driven by lust, Kelowna seized me and, in front of all the guests, tore the hem of my dress.

I could feel my thighs being exposed to the gaze of everyone. If he continued his assault, my dress could very well be torn apart by him.

"No!"

Whether it was for the sake of my daughter or my future, I couldn't let this repulsive man succeed.

"You'll regret this," I gritted my teeth.

The Third Person's POV

A gentle breeze-filled evening.

A sleek black luxury Lincoln glided through the tranquil tree-lined paths of Covert Garden, heading towards a private edifice at the road's terminus. The moment the car came to a halt, a gloved hand of a valet, stationed beforehand at the building's entrance, extended to open the car door for the guest. Meanwhile, another attendant withdrew a black card from his pocket, using it to unlock the gates that were rarely made accessible to the public. These were trained professionals, performing their tasks in absolute silence. After all, their boss had given a specific directive. The guest tonight held an aversion to clamorous surroundings. Silence and swift motions were imperative.

In the next second, a man alighted from the vehicle.

His tailor-made suit draped elegantly over his powerful, sinewy frame. With a prominently carved nose and exquisitely defined features, he appeared akin to a high-priced sculpture borrowed from the Renaissance era— both opulent and emanating an aura of detachment. The service personnel kept their gazes averted, refraining from direct eye contact with this guest. Although their curiosity about him was profound, the chill that radiated from him sent shivers cascading down their spines. And they certainly hadn't forgotten their boss's final injunction. "Avoid locking eyes with this guest, unless you desire expulsion from this city."

In this city, his name invariably elicited a mixture of reverence and trepidation, all while hungering for his favor. He was Harrison, and at times, he was addressed as The Dominator. In the world of werewolves, he was the true Dominator, with his wrath capable of unleashing seismic reverberations throughout all the packs.

"Never stand against The Dominator." This was the first rule every adult werewolf learned.

It was a cardinal rule and a testament to Harrison's standing.

...

This mansion stood ensconced within the heart of Covert Garden, the most opulent and secluded precinct. At that moment, a small-scale gathering was in progress. Though the guest list was succinct, these individuals commanded over ninety percent of the werewolf world's wealth and authority. Among them, Harrison Morris constituted no less than fifty percent.

"Harrison! We've been waiting for your arrival!"

Peter Rufus, glass in hand, shouted as Harrison strode in. Peter was the host. He was Harrison's closest friend, their fellowship tracing back to their childhood. Furthermore, he was the sole individual who dared to converse with Harrison using such an informal tone.

Today marked Peter's twenty-fifth birthday, coinciding with his bachelor party prior to his impending wedding.

"Wishing you a happy birthday, Peter, and congratulations on your upcoming nuptials."

Harrison greeted him as he entered.

Harrison signaled to the Bate beside him, indicating to present the gift. Peter accepted the gift and, upon unwrapping it, grinned, "I was right on the money. It's always a Ferrari or a mansion whenever you give a gift. You're generous, but your taste is unwavering."

"Who would've thought Peter would be the first one among us to get hitched? I wonder how many ladies are shedding tears over that news," a man engrossed in a game of Texas Hold'em commented with a chuckle.

"Have you met your bride, Peter?" another man inquired.

Peter's marriage was one of business marriage. If he wanted to inherit his father's alpha status, he had to marry. In high society, these types of marriages were commonplace, and sometimes, grooms didn't even meet their brides until the wedding night.

"Once," Peter replied, taking a sip of his drink, as if discussing something inconsequential.

"I hope she's not a fiery little spitfire; otherwise, your wedding night might involve being kicked off the bed," another man added, eliciting a round of laughter from the group.

"She doesn't seem like the fiery type," Peter reflected, rubbing his chin. "She comes across as gentle. Anyway, it's a duty, and I've fulfilled it. Now it's your turn."

Peter deftly diverted the conversation to the others. Another man chuckled, "Our weddings aren't exactly headline news. But if Harrison were to announce his marriage, I bet the whole city would go into a frenzy. It'd be a scene like no other."

All eyes shifted to Harrison.

Beyond power, wealth, and status, another secret about Harrison was that he didn't have a mate. He defied tradition, which dictated that an alpha must marry to secure his status. So he's the only single alpha at the moment. Once he became an alpha, countless women sought his attention. He had no shortage of girlfriends or companions if he so wished, but over the years, no woman had stood by his side, and he hadn't declared a mate.

"I don't need a woman," Harrison casually remarked, downing the contents of his glass.

"Cheers, to my birthday and the last days of my bachelorhood," Peter redirected the conversation once more. Within this mansion, he was only privy to Harrison's past romantic story, and why he remained mateless until now. It was a touchy subject, and he knew Harrison didn't want anyone to bring it up.

The atmosphere regained its liveliness. Nobody broached the topic of Harrison's mate.

Harrison surveyed the gambling game on the table, casually picking up a few high-value chips in front of him. Just as he was about to toss them in, a strong waft of perfume suddenly enveloped him.

A delicately beautiful young woman, champagne glass in hand, swayed her hips, her alluring gown barely containing her generous curves.

She subtly or not-so-subtly rubbed against Harrison as she moved.

The thick perfume hung in the air, causing Harrison to crease his brow.

Across from him, Peter observed the scene and furrowed his brows.

Before Peter could summon someone to remove the woman, Harrison swiftly reached out, snagging her by the waist, and pulled her into his embrace.

"Ah!" The woman quickly switched to a shy expression. "Be gentle, Mr. Morris."

"You like a tender way?" Harrison's fingers caressed the woman's hair.

"What a pity." Harrison's playful expression vanished as he received the woman's bashful confirmation. "I'd rather play it rough."

Harrison's grip loosened, and he pushed the woman to the side.

"Rick!"

"What? Ouch! Mr. Morris! Mr. Morris!"

A Beta dressed in black stepped forward, pulling the fallen woman off the ground. Paying no mind to her revealing dress, he yanked her outside.

"Let go of me, help!"

The woman finally grasped the gravity of the situation, and her pleas for help shifted targets.

"Mr. Levis! Save me!"

However, her pleas fell on deaf ears. Soon, her desperate cries disappeared within the mansion.

The man she called Mr. Levis, upon learning that the woman he had brought had provoked Harrison, promptly set down his drink and nervously bowed before Harrison.

"You are..." Harrison looked at the man with his head down, momentarily unable to recall his name.

"Levis, just call me Levis. Mr. Morris."

"Mr. Levis," Harrison leaned forward, "what made you think I'd be attracted to someone like that woman?"

"I... Mr. Morris, I never thought that way."

Seeing Levis nearly on the verge of kneeling before him, Harrison felt that saying even one more word would be wasteful.

So, he redirected his gaze and looked at Peter.

"Ever since your brother took over Covert Garden's management, things have taken a turn for the worse."

"Yeah." Peter nodded, "He knew I was hosting an event here today. But just to annoy me, that guy rented out a hall in Covert Garden for a businessman's dinner party! And it's a 'select a woman' party! Damn it! I should've persuaded my grandfather more. Handing Covert Garden over to him will lead to its ruin sooner or later!"

"A 'select a woman' party?"

Harrison's gaze darkened. He recalled that faint hint of grassy scent that drifted into the car as he had entered the Covert Garden.

"Yeah, remember that Kelowna guy? I heard he killed his lover while drunk back when he was underage and he couldn't find a mate after he came of age. Many old money families won't even let him near their daughters," Peter scoffed, his face showing a mix of disdain and amusement.

Another guy chimed in, "But Kelowna's been making a killing smuggling arms recently and managed to attract some cash-strapped small packs, like the Flashlights Pack, and even The Silver Moon Pack. Oh, and Kayla Reeves, do you remember her?"

Harrison's grip on the glass paused mid-air. No one noticed the subtle shift in his eyes.

Peter cast a surprised glance at Harrison, and the other man continued, "Yeah, Kayla! I remember she used to attend a fancy school."

"Why bring her up?" Harrison's tone was cold.

Peter's concern deepened in his eyes.

"She's here today too, at Kelowna's party."

"Oh?" Another guy joined in, curiosity evident. "Is she in a tight spot financially?"

Harrison, hidden within the shadows, exuded a sense of foreboding like a demon on the prowl.

"Seems that way. Her old man's on the verge of bankruptcy. If he goes under, his pack will be swallowed up, and he'll become the first alpha to lose power. That's why he's scrambling to find someone to team up with."

More people joined the conversation.

"But I never heard of this Kayla Reeves before."

"She went abroad a few years ago. I have no idea why she's back."

"So her old man's planning to pawn her off?"

"I hope she doesn't catch Kelowna's eye. That guy can turn ugly when he's had a few too many. I don't want any bloodshed in Covert Garden."

The topic shifted, and everyone prepared to continue drinking, while an agitated Harrison forcefully placed his glass on the table.

"Excuse me a moment," Harrison abruptly left.

Others exchanged puzzled glances, but Peter's headache deepened.

Kayla had returned. This city was in for quite a stir soon.

Because she was Harrison's Achilles' heel.

Kayla's POV

"You're gonna regret this," I ground my teeth.

All eyes were on me now. Anger and humiliation raged in my mind, making me shiver uncontrollably.

"Listen up, Kayla," Kelowna sneered, getting closer.

"Everybody knows you're mine now. You're my plaything in their eyes. Think anyone's gonna step in for you? You better listen and do what I say, or I'll—"

"Screw off!" I gripped the edge of my dress, spat at him.

"You goddamn bitch! I'm gonna teach you a lesson!"

"Ah!"

Kelowna grabbed a handful of hair hanging down my back and yanked hard. I stumbled and fell to the ground, looking up at his towering figure in fear.

"No!"

I swung my arms in a futile attempt to keep him away. But to Kelowna, my resistance meant nothing.

He reached out, his fingers curling around my ankle. Then, with a powerful pull, I was dragged closer to him.

"Help me! Somebody, please help!" I cried out.

No one lifted a finger. The people around us even stepped back, creating a space between me and Kelowna.

Despair wrapped around me.

"Don't even bother, Kayla," Kelowna spat.

He tore at my clothes with aggression, exposing my thighs to everyone's view.

"Just give in to me, and I'll give you anything you want."

Kelowna's hand slid up the inside of my thigh.

I gritted my teeth and, seizing the moment, lifted my leg to kick him.

"You filthy bastard!"

Kelowna crumpled to his knees from my kick, his hands clutching his crotch, a pained groan escaping him.

My right leg was numb from the impact. As I tried to get back on my feet and escape, I stumbled and fell once more.

"Trying to run, huh? Let me show you."

Kelowna's eyes burned with hatred as he advanced toward me. Veins pulsated on his forehead. His muscular arm swung down towards me.

I was too weak to flee any longer, so I closed my eyes in resignation.

It's such a shame... I was gone for six years. The first thing I did was get sold by my father.

A tear rolled down my cheek.

"Ah!"

Instead of the expected pain, I heard Kelowna's cry of agony.

I opened my eyes and saw Kelowna's arm hanging at an unnatural angle.

He was immobilized, pinned down by a foot.

"So, you're Kelowna?"

A deep voice echoed. Strangely, I felt like I recognized that voice.

"Who are you? You dare touch me? I'm gonna kill you!"

"Kill me?" The man scoffed. "I doubt you've got the guts."

"You son of a—" Ah!

Kelowna had barely begun to speak when the man ruthlessly delivered a series of kicks, cutting off his profanity and causing a tooth coated in bloody spittle to fly out.

"Listen up," the man started to say, only to be interrupted by a sudden outburst of gasps that swept through the attendees.

The atmosphere at the banquet grew restless, as everyone sought to understand what had happened.

Amidst the clamor, a man's voice rang out, loud and piercing, "It's him! The Dominator! It's Harrison!"

A wave of astonishment rippled through the gathering.

I stared at the figure with his back turned to me, momentarily frozen in place.

Moon Goddess, could it be that you heard my plea?

"Look, it's really Harrison!"

"Oh my God, why is Harrison here?"

"I can't believe it, he's even more handsome than the stories say!"

"He's just as fierce as the rumors describe. Did you see? He nearly took Kelowna down!"

"Kelowna got what was coming to him! If he hadn't started attacking that woman first, none of this would've—"

"Well, why didn't you go help her then?"

"I, I..."

Harrison, now recognized by all, turned his head, his cold eyes sweeping over the hushed crowd. As the whispers faded, he shifted his gaze downwards.

Finally realizing the true identity of the imposing figure in front of him amidst the subdued chatter, Kelowna curled up and crawled on his knees toward Harrison's feet. He clung to Harrison's blood-stained black shoes, quivering as he pleaded.

"Mr. Morris! Please forgive me! Forgive me! I shouldn't have treated this lady that way! I haven't laid a finger on her! If you're willing, take her away, Mr. Morris!"

"You haven't touched her?"

Harrison leaned down, clutching Kelowna's hair and forcing his head to lift.

"Then who tore her clothes apart?"

"N-no... I... I..."

Harrison's eyes darkened as he looked at the flustered Kelowna, and suddenly a sinister smile crept onto his face.

"You're not a lefty, are you?"

"I... I use my right hand."

Kelowna was taken aback, his fear causing him to answer Harrison's question honestly.

"Rick!" Harrison let go and forcefully slammed Kelowna's head onto the ground.

"Cut off his right hand and toss it in the river."

"Yes, Alpha."

"No! Please! Mr. Morris... I was wrong! I won't ever dare mistreat this lady again!"

As Kelowna's cries faded into the distance, a heavy silence fell over the banquet.

Harrison scanned the scene, and the guests diverted their gazes, adopting a submissive demeanor. Nobody dared to confront those deep eyes head-on.

Ultimately, Harrison's gaze settled on me.

Seeing the smoldering anger in his eyes, I involuntarily took a step back. However, Harrison calmly closed the distance, crouching in front of me.

"You're still here. Do you want everyone to catch a glimpse of you in this state?"

Harrison coldly examined my clothes, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

"No! My legs... I can't stand up."

"Can't stand up?" Harrison shifted his gaze to my legs, issuing a disdainful snort.

"Don't resort to these tactics with me, Kayla. They're cheap and futile."

The humiliation emanating from Harrison cut deeper than Kelowna's violence, and it gnawed at my heart even more.

Gritting my teeth, I defiantly fought to regain my footing, laboriously moving towards the edge of the crowd.

Yet, Harrison shifted his stance, blocking my path.

"Mr. Morris, please step aside."

Harrison didn't budge.

"Mr. Morris, I'm be... Ah!"

Suddenly, the world before me spun. Harrison, in front of the entire assembly, carried me in his arms.

"Let me go! Ah! Harrison!"

"Oh my God! Harrison is actually holding that woman! What's her connection with him? Could she be Harrison's girlfriend?"

"No way! If she could be Harrison's girlfriend, why would Kelowna go after her?"

"Also, we've never heard her name before. She looks like the daughter of some minor pack's alpha. How could Harrison even be interested in her?"

...

As I was carried out of the hall, the voices of the crowd discussing the situation faded into the background. My face burned with embarrassment, and my mind was buzzing like a beehive, overwhelmed by a thousand thoughts. I knew I should respond somehow, but the familiar scent and warmth of Harrison surrounded me, leaving me unsure how to react.

A sleek black Lincoln was parked on the steps just outside the entrance. A servant in uniform opened the car door for Harrison and stepped aside, awaiting his next command.

Was he taking me away?

No, my daughter was waiting for me. And this is the first meeting after so many years... I didn't want it to unfold like this.

"Harrison, I appreciate your help. I think I should..."

"Shut up," he interjected, giving a light pat to my buttocks.

My cheeks flushed as his unexpected touch sent a rush of blood to my head.

Did he just pat my buttocks?

"You attend an event like this right after returning to the country. Kayla, I must admit I underestimated you."

His tone dripped with sarcasm.

"I... I was deceived into coming here by my father."

He let out a contemptuous snort, yet his grip on me relaxed. He carefully carried me down the steps and guided me into the plush backseat of the black Lincoln.

"Harrison, I believe I should head back."

"Shut up!"

His words were infused with an authoritative power. I found myself momentarily at a loss for words.

After a brief hesitation, the car's engine roared to life, setting us in motion toward an uncertain destination.

The atmosphere inside the car turned heavy with silence. Even my breathing seemed to become cautious.

Six years had passed, and yet here we were, meeting again in this extraordinary way.

He had matured, achieved success, and realized his dreams. In contrast, I was still the girl ensnared in my father's web of control.

He must despise encountering me like this. My head bowed, and a sense of sadness washed over me.

Just as I was lost in my thoughts, he calmly grabbed a bottle of wine and poured it into a glass.

However, his unpredictable behavior only amplified my unease.

"Thank you, Harrison. But I.…

A thud

Harrison slammed the wine bottle onto the floor of the car. He looked up at me again, and there was something in his eyes in the shadows that I could not read.

Kayla's POV

The bottle rolled and clinked against the car door, and the rich red liquid spilled out, staining the floor.

"Did you pick out this dress? Huh? Who were you originally planning to meet?"

"What?"

I recoiled slightly, looking at Harrison's furious expression with a mix of fear and confusion, utterly uncertain about the cause of his anger.

"And where did Kelowna touch you? Your chest or your legs?" Harrison suddenly grew agitated. He undid his cufflinks and rolled up his sleeves, exposing his well-defined, sun-kissed arms.

He then reached out and firmly grasped my chin, forcing me to meet his gaze. A yelp escaped me due to the pain, but Harrison wasn't done. His hand trailed downward, stopping at my thigh.

"Did he touch you here?"

Harrison's palm pressed against the inner side of my thigh.

"No! Don't do this!"

"Kayla, spare me the innocent act."

Harrison sneered, his gaze becoming even more intense as he struggled to control his anger.

"But I know you, Kayla. You enjoy these games, don't you?"

Harrison pushed me down onto the backseat.

"Like six years ago when you walked up to me, claiming you could smell your mate's scent on me."

"Or after graduation when you disappeared overseas without a trace."

"Oh, you like catching people off guard, don't you?"

"I don't understand what you're saying! Let me get out of the car! Sob..."

The atmosphere inside the car grew charged with tension. I can't stay here any longer. His words and expressions pushed me to my limits.

"It hurts."

His grip on my wrist loosened, and Harrison sat back, adjusting his slightly disheveled shirt. His gaze remained fixed on the backseat.

The suffocating silence returned, but his breaths were louder. I dared not make any noise that could further provoke him, and I held my body stiff in its posture.

"Your methods don't work for me anymore."

Suddenly, he spoke again. I looked up to see Harrison pull out a freshly packaged shirt from a box and toss it to me.

I inspected the shirt. Its fabric appeared similar to what Harrison was wearing, devoid of any branding or logo. However, the exquisite packaging hinted at its hefty price.

"No... I..."

I hesitated, but Harrison abruptly leaned down, firmly grasping one of my ankles.

"Has anyone ever told you that high heels aren't your thing?"

Instinctively, I tried to pull my foot back, but his grip tightened.

I then realized my foot was swollen and red.

He removed my high heels and placed my foot onto the luxurious fabric of the shirt.

"No..." I instinctively tried to retreat.

"Don't move. I'd rather not repeat myself. Now stay still. I don't want to hear any more noise."

Every word Harrison spoke was impossible to defy. I could only gradually relax my body and let my foot rest on the silk-like texture of the fabric.

The car fell silent. Rain had started to fall, the drops creating a rhythmic tapping against the windows. In the otherwise hushed environment of the car, the warmth emanating from the shirt, akin to the one on Harrison's clothes, alleviated my tired and anxious nerves.

In this serene setting, the alcohol I had consumed at the party began to cloud my mind. I couldn't resist the encroaching drowsiness, and I slowly closed my eyes.

……

"Ah... damn, it hurts..."

The searing pain that radiated from my calf jolted me awake. Blinking away sleep, I struggled to adjust to the dim lighting in the room.

Where am I?

I pushed myself upright, trying to piece together the events leading up to this moment. I had recently returned to the country, lured into an evening soiree by my father, only to be threatened and verbally abused by Kelowna. After that, Harrison had taken me away...

Wait, something's missing...

Daisy!

My daughter!

In an instant, full alertness flooded me. Ignoring the throbbing in my leg and my disheveled appearance, I hastily looked around for my phone.

My phone screen lit up right then. I hastily unlocked it, reading a text message from Nathan.

"I'm with Daisy. She had a sudden heart palpitation, and I rushed her to St. Paul Hospital. Contact me once you've read this."

What's wrong with Daisy?

Panic consumed me. Throwing aside the covers, I paid no heed to my disordered clothes. My sole focus was on leaving as swiftly as possible.

"Are you awake?"

A deep, masculine voice sliced through the air, nearly making me cry out in surprise. Harrison was lounging in an indulgent manner on a plush couch. His taut, muscular right arm was draped over the golden armrest, occasionally swaying the whiskey within his glass. The tinkling of ice against glass created a resonant melody in the otherwise serene ambiance.

"Harrison..."

The moon hung aloft in the night sky outside the window. The curtain intercepted half its light, casting a gentle glow on the left half of Harrison's face. Yet, his right side remained enshrouded in darkness, veiling his expression from my view.

I gulped, attempting to maintain my cool composure.

"Thanks for helping tonight, but I really need to leave."

Harrison remained silent, the heavy scent of alcohol wafting from him a few meters away.

"It's late. I won't bother your rest."

"What's the deal? Don't you want to see me?"

Harrison raised his hand, draining the last of the whiskey from his glass.

"No, it's not that..."

"Not that? So why the hurry to leave? Got other plans?"

"I..."

My mind raced to Daisy in the hospital, leaving me unsure of how to respond. Harrison took my hesitation as confirmation.

A snap echoed, and a splatter of liquid adorned the white wall as the whiskey glass shattered on the floor. Harrison, saturated with both alcohol and fury, marched towards me.

He grabbed my throat, pushing me back onto the bed with force.

"Meeting other guys?"

"Cut it out, Harrison!"

I struggled, managing to prop myself up a bit, but Harrison pressed me down again.

"Cut it out?"

Harrison's face was dangerously close. Accompanied by his cold laughter, a potent wave of alcohol surrounded me.

"Kayla, you still think we're mates? Who do you think you are? Want to be my mate and then just vanish?"

"No, Harrison, I actually..."

I wanted to explain everything tonight, but my anxiety was overpowering.

Daisy was still waiting for her mom at the hospital. I had to be there for her.

"Harrison, I have to leave now. Thank you again. Emergency at the hospital..."

"Listen up, Kayla, no games."

Harrison forcefully interrupted me. He pinned my wrists, his grip unyielding, and his weight pressing me down on the bed.

"You thank me? I want payback now."

Fury burning in his eyes, red veins coursing through them, he seemed ready to unleash his inner wolf to tear me apart any second.

Harrison's overpowering alpha aura dominated me. I shut my eyes, shivering as his alcohol-soaked lips pressed against mine. The wet sensation traced from my neck down to my chest.

But Harrison wasn't satisfied. His hand slipped between my legs, his palm brushing the inside of my thigh, inching deeper and deeper...

"No..."

Our relationship wasn't supposed to morph into this.

A tear rolled down my cheek.

Harrison's kiss came to an abrupt halt near my cheek when he tasted my tear. He withdrew his hand from beneath my skirt and positioned them on either side of my head.

The silk sheets beneath me bore evidence of dampness. Those were the tracks of my tears.

Harrison paused for a few drawn-out heartbeats, then relinquished his hold on me. He rolled over, settling on the edge of the bed, and meticulously began fastening his rumpled shirt. He shot me a glacial, penetrating look.

Just when I feared he might resort to further methods of humiliation, Harrison strode over to the wardrobe and retrieved a bundle of pristine white fabric. He tossed it onto my lap.

"Get dressed and get out."

Kayla's POV

Once Harrison reluctantly gave me permission, I hurriedly got dressed and left his mansion. It was quite clear that Harrison's mansion was situated on the outskirts. The streets in this area were wide open, devoid of any cars passing by.

I pulled out my phone to check the time. It was already 2 a.m., and I couldn't think of anyone to call for help at that hour. But the thought of my daughter still being at the hospital urged me forward.

With a firm resolve, I began walking, fully prepared to reach the hospital on foot if necessary. The road ahead was cloaked in darkness, yet my determination remained unwavering. Time was of the essence.

Tap, tap—

As a car horn sounded behind me, a strong beam of light cut through the darkness, casting light upon my path. I turned my head, shielding my eyes from the intense glare. Before I could even open my mouth to ask for assistance from the driver, I heard Harrison's voice again.

"Get in the car."

Afraid that he might change his mind, I didn't hesitate. I swung open the door and climbed inside.

"Thank you, Harrison. I truly had an emergency tonight..."

While fastening my seatbelt, I expressed my gratitude to Harrison, who was seated next to me, his expression stern and unwavering.

"This entire area is my private property." Harrison's tone lacked emotion. "I don't want any mishaps happening here that might attract a swarm of police officers and disrupt my life."

"Regardless, Harrison, I'm really grateful."

Meeting Harrison's gaze, I sincerely conveyed my thanks. He averted his eyes, refusing to hold my gaze.

"Are you heading home?"

"No," I addressed the driver in the front seat, "please take me to St. Paul Hospital. Thank you."

"St. Paul Hospital?"

Harrison turned his head, regarding me skeptically. He studied me for a moment, then sneered, "Are you sure? As far as I know, St. Paul Hospital only admits children."

"I," I averted his gaze, biting down on my lip. "My friend's kid is sick. I came back this time to visit them, but I got tricked into going to Kelowna's party..."

"Kayla, have I ever told you that deceiving me comes with a price?"

"I'm not lying!" I retorted, though a small voice in me whispered, "At least not entirely."

"Which friend?" Harrison's voice sounded calmer than before, but his look still held suspicion as he scrutinized me. Just as I struggled with how to answer to satisfy him, Harrison's expression turned mocking again. "Going to the hospital to visit your friend's kid at 2 a.m., huh? I almost thought it was your child."

I stood silent, bowing my head, not wanting to let him catch my expression. However, at that moment, I noticed the dress I was changing in his home. It was the same one I had left behind years ago when I spent the first night at Harrison's house. After all these years, he had kept it.

I raised my hand and took the sleeve to my nose, giving it a sniff. A faint scent of grass mixed with a hint of flowers, just like the mate scent I had sensed on Harrison that night.

...

The car smoothly pulled up at the entrance of St. Paul Hospital. Once again, I thanked Harrison before preparing to get out. As soon as I opened the car door, the cold night breeze rushed in, carrying a sharp chill.

I quickly closed the door, but a force prevented it from fully closing. I turned around to see Harrison holding the door with one hand and his suit jacket that he had just taken off with the other. Before I could react, he tossed the deep blue suit jacket into my arms.

With a thud, the car door closed, and the car drove away. The suit jacket in my hands still carried the lingering warmth of Harrison. After hesitating for a moment, I draped it over my shoulders.

...

"Mommy!"

When I hurriedly arrived at the hospital room, Daisy was sitting on the bed, playing with a Rubik's cube alongside Nathan. As soon as she saw me, Daisy quickly dropped her toy and rushed into my arms.

"Oh, Daisy, how do you feel? Is there anything wrong?"

"I'm good and brave! Even when the doctor gave me a shot, I didn't cry! You can ask Nathan if you don't believe me."

Daisy patted my back gently, just like I used to do when she was sick, and I'd pat her to help her fall asleep.

"Yes, Daisy is really brave. The doctors and nurses said she's the bravest little girl they've ever seen." Nathan's enthusiastic praise brought a sweet smile to Daisy's face.

Seeing Daisy's pale complexion gaining a touch of rosy color, I turned to Nathan and asked about the specifics of tonight's events.

"The doctor explained that Daisy experienced a sudden heart palpitation due to the change in cities. You know, Gorden City has a larger temperature difference and drier climate compared to Europe. Given Daisy's preexisting heart condition, her adaptability is somewhat compromised. But the doctor assured me it was not a major concern. As Daisy grows up, everything should gradually improve."

"That's a relief." I breathed a sigh of relief, finally feeling at ease.

"But Nathan, what brings you here?"

Nathan was my best friend during my time abroad. I met him during my most sorrowful and vulnerable moments. He introduced me to freelance writing, enabling me to earn enough to support my daughter who had a heart condition.

"Do you recall when I mentioned our company's plan to expand the business division? I'm here on a business trip for that. After I landed, I tried calling you but couldn't reach you. So, I called Daisy, and she told me she had chest pain."

Nathan smiled and turned his gaze to Daisy. "Daisy is quite smart. She gave me the exact address, which helped me find your place quickly. It's like destiny. Don't you think, Daisy?"

"Yeah!" Daisy nodded and returned to playing with the Rubik's cube.

I stopped pondering the reasons for Nathan's sudden appearance in the city. Regardless, he was a lifesaver for my daughter.

As I watched my daughter play with such innocence, memories of the events over the past few days flooded my mind — from my father to Kelowna, and then Harrison. Maybe returning with Daisy was a mistake.

"Mommy, don't cry."

Before I could react, Daisy had wrapped her arms around my waist. She tilted her little face up to wipe away the tears from the corners of my eyes, her expression radiating concern.

"I'm okay, Mommy. As long as I'm with you, I am happy every day."

"Oh, my darling!"

I embraced Daisy tightly in my arms, tears welled up and cascaded down my cheeks uncontrollably.

"Mommy, is this your new jacket? I really love its scent. It reminds me of the little daisies on the park lawn."

Perhaps aiming to divert my attention, Daisy suddenly commented on the coat I was wearing. It was Harrison's coat. Even Nathan's gaze settled on the coat that was clearly designed for men.

I had to explain, "I just came from a party, and this coat was borrowed from a friend."

Confronted with my flimsy explanation, Nathan flashed a wry smile.

He stood up, saying, "It's getting late, Kayla. I'll head back to the hotel. I won't disturb your rest. Once I've sorted out my work, I'll come by to check on you guys."

"Thank you so much, Nathan."

I walked Nathan to the entrance of the ward.

Nathan nodded at me and waved goodbye to Daisy inside the room.

"Goodbye, Daisy."

"Goodbye, Nathan. Don't forget to visit me, okay?"

...

The Third Person's POV

On the opposite side of St. Paul's Hospital, a black car had been parked for half an hour.

Harrison leaned against the car's body, a cigar half-smoked between his fingers, his gaze fixed on the white building across the street.

"Alpha."

As his beta, Rick, crossed the road, emanating a frigid aura, Harrison finally redirected his gaze.

"Tell me."

"Miss Reeves went directly to a room on the third floor as soon as she entered the hospital. I asked a nurse, and indeed, there's a child in that room."

"Got it. Anything else?"

"Since the inpatient area isn't accessible to the public, I had to observe from outside. Apart from the child and the woman's voices in the room, there seemed a man in the room."

"A man?" Harrison arched an eyebrow, a hint of coldness evident in his eyes.

"Based on the snippets I overheard. The man was explaining the child's condition to Miss Reeves. I presume he's a doctor."

"I know. She didn't deceive me this time."

Harrison sighed, flicking the half-smoked cigar on the ground, the embers gradually fading away.

His Beta remained bowed, refraining from uttering a single word.

Harrisonzai took one last look at a room on the third floor before leaving.

"Let's go."

"Yes, Alpha."