Her Immortal Destiny

Offer

Wyatt POV

I did not want to lie to her, but as soon as I laid eyes on her at the club, I knew I may lose her. Her piercing gaze spoke volumes, signaling that this might be our final exchange. I contemplated deceiving her, hoping it would grant me a few more stolen moments with her. However, I knew she was smart, capable of uncovering the truth, which would only deepen her disdain for me and my lineage.

When she inquired about my connection to Endora's family, I instantly recognized her true identity. It was foolish of me not to notice earlier; she bore a striking resemblance to her mother, Ravenna. She belonged to the very coven that aimed to eradicate the cursed child. The head of the coven had a daughter, shrouded in mystery. Some whispered that she had perished, while others believed she was powerless. Yet, here she stood before me, her face etched with anguish.

In that moment, I wanted to pull her close, to convey that we need not be adversaries dictated by our families. But I could discern her resistance, evident in the slight tremor of her hand by her side. "So, it is you," she uttered, her voice a tapestry of conflicting emotions. "The one responsible for the deaths of my fellow coven members, who sought to extinguish a curse capable of unraveling the delicate equilibrium of nature."

Surprised, I met her gaze, understanding that while I sought to protect the curse, I had never taken the life of a witch from her coven, nor had anyone in my bloodline, to the best of my knowledge. Though doubtful of her belief in my words, I resolved to speak the truth. "Neither I nor my family have ever harmed witches or warlocks. We guard a curse, one essential for maintaining balance. If you allow me, I can show you the reasons behind my actions," I reassured, my voice steady and gentle.

She studied me intently, grappling with the weight of what she had been taught, the rules she had sworn to abide by, and undoubtedly, the directives she had received. Despite it all, I knew she felt the same undeniable connection I did, the pull that bound us together, the string of fate. It was the sole reason we could experience such profound emotions, even though we lacked the innate ability of wolves to sense our destined mates.

She took a step further away from me. I reached out gently, placing my hand on her arm. "Don't," she snapped, her voice sharp and cutting. I quickly withdrew, feeling a pang of rejection.

"It's bad enough I spent time with you yesterday," she continued, her words laced with disdain. "But just beyond these doors is another member of my coven. I can't be seen with you when you're my enemy. I don't even know why I'm still talking with you."

I couldn't help but chuckle. "If I were your enemy, I would have already acted on it," I stated, my voice calm and confident. "I don't like wasting time, even when I have an eternity." With a deliberate gesture, I dropped the guard I had placed on myself, allowing her to sense the true depth of my power. Her eyes widened slightly, a flicker of surprise crossing her face before she quickly concealed it.

"Now, why not give me a chance to show you why I'm here to protect the cursed child?" I proposed, my voice persuasive. "I'll even help you figure out who really eliminated your coven members. I won't force you, Misty. You're free to walk away from me, and other than my duty to protect, I'll stay out of your way. I have no interest in causing harm to you or your coven members. I may deal in black market sales and work with those many of our kind see as evil, but I have my reasoning. One thing I am not is a killer."

She hesitated, her gaze shifting towards the door for a moment. "If you are caught with me, you simply need to say you were getting information," I suggested, trying to ease her apprehension. It was clear that she was not used to working outside of her coven, bound by their rules and restrictions.

“I’ll allow you to show me your reasoning,” she said, “but in return, you must secure an invitation for me into the grand estate of the Werewolf king.” she said, a small smirk forming on my face as she looked me over. Her voice carried a hint of skepticism, expecting me to decline.

"Very well," I said. "You would do that? Help someone who is your enemy?" she asked, her voice laced with doubt.

"Are you really my enemy, Misty?" I questioned, my tone calm. "I'm assuming your coven dictates if you are to run into me or another member of my bloodline, you are to eliminate them. Well, you know where I'm staying, so have at it."

She lifted her hand to twirl her hair, contemplating my words. "Tomorrow, 9am. Meet me at my room and come alone," I proposed. "If I am to bring you to the Werewolf King's estate, you are to act as my partner. I have business to attend to there, and that will be your ticket in, as I'm assuming you want to observe the protections he has in place."

"How can I trust this is not a trap?" she questioned, her voice tinged with caution.

"You can't," I replied, my voice steady. "You will just have to make a choice: believe the lies you have been told of me and my coven, and see me as nothing but your enemy, or trust the string of fate pulling us together. I have a feeling you will choose fate, especially for one whose own powers are being bound by her coven. Do you really think those who would restrict a part of who you are are the ones you should trust?"

She opened her mouth to speak, but I interrupted her. "You are no longer blocking your power. I can sense the restricted power in you. You have a great gift, Misty, in order to be truly yourself. I do hope someday you accept it and embrace it.”

I won't take up any more of your time unless you want me to. If you'd like to join me in the morning, I'll see you then. Before I go, I have a piece of advice for you. Your date has been drugging the champagne. Those two are regulars and have an agreement with the bartender. The drink was drugged before it was even served. It's difficult to detect, but I guarantee you'll start feeling its effects in about an hour.” I said to her.

I reached into the pocket of my tailored suit, the fabric smooth against my fingertips, and handed her a small vial. The cool glass felt reassuring in my hand as I placed it in her palm. "This will clear your system of it," I assured her, my gaze steady. "It's up to you to trust my words."

As I walked away, the floor creaked beneath my feet, a reminder of the countless footsteps that had echoed through this place. I resisted the urge to look back at her, knowing that if I did, my resolve would crumble. It angered me that she was with another man, a feeling I had never experienced before.

Once I reached my room, the scent of aged cognac enveloped me as I poured myself a drink. The liquid swirled in the glass, its amber hues catching the light. I sank into the plush couch, the soft leather cool against my skin, and let out a weary sigh. Dealing with the black market had never bothered me before, but tonight, with Misty catching me on an exchange, a sense of resentment washed over me. How was it that she was making me want to be better, after just a few hours in her presence?

Finishing my drink in one swift motion, the fiery liquid burned my throat, leaving behind a lingering warmth. I decided to call it a night, my mind filled with thoughts of Misty.

_______

As the new day greeted me, I stepped out into the crisp morning air, the scent of dew-covered grass filling my nostrils. The sun cast a golden glow over the surroundings, illuminating the path before me. I took the opportunity to go for a morning walk, the rhythmic sound of my footsteps keeping me company. The tranquil atmosphere allowed me to focus on my thoughts and some work before I had to leave for my business at the werewolf king's estate.

To my surprise, Misty was waiting at my door at precisely 9 am. Her presence brought a mix of emotions, but I maintained a calm demeanor. "I am happy you have chosen to see the truth on your own," I said, my voice carrying a hint of satisfaction.

"I'm sure it will reveal that you are my enemy," she admitted, her voice tinged with suspicion.

"Yet, you still came," I smirked, extending my arm towards her, offering it as a gesture of partnership. But she declined, a hint of defiance in her eyes. "I'll play along as your partner in business, but that's all," she declared.

"Suit yourself," I replied, unfazed. "Don't worry, I'll do all the talking and get you permission to walk around," I assured her.

She reached into the depths of her pocket, retrieving a small vial. As she handed it to me, I noticed the familiar container from last night, but there was something new inside. The scent of herbs and spices wafted from the vial, a promising aroma. "I don't trust you," she admitted, "but you did help me out and were correct. So, here is a good hangover remedy." Her words hung in the air, accompanied by the subtle sound of her voice and the rustling of the vial in her hand. Grateful, I accepted the offering, feeling the cool glass against my skin as I carefully tucked it away in my pocket.

"Ready?" I asked, breaking the silence as we stepped outside. She nodded in response, her eyes scanning the surroundings with caution. Curiosity got the better of me, and I couldn't help but ask, "Are you afraid of those you traveled with? It's not unusual to be seen with those you consider enemies. You could always claim that you were using me for information or entry, especially since your face is unfamiliar to most of us." Her hesitation was palpable as she began to answer, "I'm not afraid of them, it's just..." I finished her sentence, understanding her unspoken thoughts. "They don't respect you," I said, voicing her unspoken truth. She let out a weary sigh, acknowledging the accuracy of my words. "I really shouldn't be having these conversations with you," she confessed, a hint of regret in her voice.

I chuckled softly, breaking the tension. "Very well, should I act more like your enemy, rather than someone who may actually be starting to care about you?" I teased, guiding her towards the designated spot where our ride awaited us. She shook her head, her eyes meeting mine. "No, you don't have to act that way. I guess this is all just a lot for me to process," she admitted, her vulnerability shining through. I reassured her, my voice gentle yet sincere. "Well then, I'm glad you're being honest about it. I have no intention of treating you as an enemy, at least not now, nor do I want to." We reached the small wagon, and I offered her a hand to help her in. As she settled beside me, the werewolf escorting me spoke up. "Two now?" he questioned, his voice gruff. I nodded, confirming his assumption. "My partner," I stated. The werewolf grumbled in annoyance, a low growl rumbling from his throat. "Next time, give notice. The King is not one for surprises," he huffed. I held my ground, asserting my independence. "I will always do as I please. If I'm not mistaken, it was The King who approached me. If he would like my services, he will have to accept how I work." The werewolf's response was a menacing growl, while Misty gave me a perplexed look.

The ride was not long, and soon we were pulling up to a heavily guarded estate. The magic protecting it was already very strong, its presence palpable in the air. The scent of ancient spells mingled with the earthy aroma of the surrounding forest. Misty's eyes scanned the property, taking in the towering walls and the mystical wards that danced along its edges.

As we approached, one of the king's main guards approached the wagon, his footsteps echoing on the gravel path. "I will take you to the King's office now," he said, his voice filled with authority. His piercing gaze fell upon Misty, but he remained silent. It was safe to assume that the werewolf who had escorted us had already communicated Misty's arrival through their mysterious telepathic link, a bond shared by all members of their pack.

We were led through opulent halls, adorned with extravagant decorations that bordered on excess. The scent of polished wood and delicate flowers wafted through the air as we made our way closer to the king's office. As we rounded a corner, a child, the king's heir Kash, peeked out and studied us intently. Finally, we reached the office, a sanctuary of power and intrigue. Misty continued to regard me as her enemy, her eyes filled with suspicion. She found it peculiar that I, the one responsible for protecting the curse in the king's possession, would offer her this opportunity. However, I was determined to help her see the truth, to unravel the web of deception that had ensnared her. I knew she possessed the gift of premonition, even if it had been suppressed by her kin. She would soon sense the purpose that the cursed one served and feel the subtle guidance that would lead her towards it. Her eyes would open to the reality that I was not the one causing harm, and I would stand by her side throughout this revelation.