Jasmine's life had always been a cage, and Alaric, her stepbrother, held the key. His control began subtly, a seemingly protective concern that slowly twisted into a possessive obsession. As the Alpha, his power was absolute. He dictated her friendships, forbade any romantic relationships, and stripped her of all personal freedom.
Her one hope was her twenty-first birthday—a milestone that promised to change everything. She fantasized about finding her true mate, breaking free from Alaric's suffocating grip, and finally living a life of her own. But destiny, it seemed, had a cruel sense of humor.
On the eve of her birthday, her hopes shattered. The person meant to be her one and only was the very man she despised—Alaric, her tormentor, her stepbrother.
The thought of being bound to him was a fate worse than death. How could she be mated to the man who had stolen her youth? A man who would stop at nothing to possess her completely? But in a world where love sours into possession and possession  draws blood, how far can one person truly run before they are forced to face the inevitable?

Why did I feel there was more to this woman's demeanor than meets the eye?


Someone didn't want these records seen.


The realization sent a sharp pulse of adrenaline through me, but I forced my expression to remain neutral.


Another perfect idea slipped into my head.


I flicked a glance at the clock on the wall. 17:18.


Four more hours until the close of work.


I plastered a smile on my face and met her glare. "Thanks, ma'am. Sorry for bothering you. Do have a splendid day ahead!"


In the actual sense, I wished she'd live the worst day of her life today for treating me the way she just did.


I strode into the living room and was greeted by a troubling sight.


My stepmother sat hunched up on the couch, her shoulders tense, her arms wrapped around herself like she was trying to keep from unraveling. Her eyes–puffy, red–rimmed, glassy–told me everything I needed to know.


Chapter 216 - Chapter 216