The Traitor and her Hybrid Husband

Chapter 9~Sweet~

Gabe

The bride’s presence demanded attention. Her tall slim figure was fully displayed by the dress I had gifted her. I had it designed to expose as much skin as possible, making sure to leave little to the imagination. My goal was to embarrass her and to make her look scandalously cheap. But she stood there looking regal and timeless. My plan was a complete and utter failure. It made me despise her even more.

The strapless dress was made of thousands of swarovski crystals embedded in thin sheer mesh. The crystals covered her modest bust down to her navel. Her back was exposed and the mesh and silk skirt gathered at her lower waist then flowed gracefully down to the floor. The stones sparkled against the dark contrast of her skin. She had left her coily hair natural and untamed. She looked like the night sky, the stones shining as bright as stars.

Her dark skin glistened under the lights, her long toned legs moved with ease and elegance. She held her head high, her face covered by a delicate veil that matched her dress. The room held their breath as they watched her glide down the aisle. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her. I tried to take a deep breath to calm myself and instantly regretted it. The air was charged with a delicious smell. My mouth began to water, the scent of sweet blood was making me dizzy.

I wanted to look around to find where the source was coming from, but I couldn’t peel my eyes away from the woman. She was right in front of me now. Hell, it was coming from her. She handed her bouquet to her maid of honor and turned to face me. My treacherous heart began to beat with wild excitement. Goddess, this woman smelled so sweet that my teeth ached. I wanted a taste.

My wolf began to stir, confused by my body’s reaction. I inwardly frowned. Atlas hasn’t been interested in anything or anyone in years. Why was he so agitated? The officiant cleared his throat, signaling the start of the ceremony. At least that's what I think is happening. I can't hear anything above the beating of the woman's heart.

I stared down at my bride, unable to focus on anything other than her. I couldn’t take my eyes off of her neck, my attention on the hollowed part of her throat. I licked my lips, watching her rapid pulse. I wanted her. I needed to taste her. Atlas began to growl and whine in confusion. Both of us were startled by this sudden attraction. It didn’t make sense. I hadn’t even seen her face!

“Do you, Octavia Sullivan, take this man as your eternal partner and accept him until your last breath?” the officiant asked.

The rapid beating of her heart intensified. “I do.” She stated, her whimsical voice slightly hitched.

The officiant turned to me, “Do you, Gabriel Noctem, take this woman as your eternal partner and accept her until your last breath?”

My blood ran cold. I didn’t want this. Abel gave a slight nod of encouragement. My bride shifted nervously at my hesitation. My tongue felt heavy as I said, “I do.” The officiant grinned as he said the final words to conclude the ceremony. I drowned him out, my focus back on the woman who was now my wife.

“You may kiss the bride.” the officiant suddenly announced. I swung my head to gawk at him.

“What?” I snapped. He frowned and repeated himself.

I looked out at the audience, their faces expectant. Anger surged through me. I didn’t want this! I’m going to walk away. I'd probably be disinherited if I disobeyed Abel but at least I would humiliate her in the process. All of my hard work these past five years would be worth it if it meant I’d be free of this curse. I was about to turn to leave when my bride started to remove her veil. Abel mentioned my bride’s beauty, but his words could never prepare me for this.

I froze, my eyes drinking in her gorgeous features. She was blessed with big brown eyes that could be easily mistaken as black. Her long lashes fluttered against her high cheekbones. Her nose was small and pointed, and her big dark pink lips were set in a perfect pout. She was stunning.

Octavia nervously bit down on her plump bottom lip. Abel cleared his throat and inclined his head towards her. The whole room was waiting for me as I tried to fight against the urge to flee. It was just a kiss. I needed to do this in order to have this marriage annulled. I growled as I roughly grabbed her chin, tilting her head up. I expected her to pout her lips, her confidence soaring now that she has managed to trap me.

But instead, she looked nervous as she gently parted her lips. Her warm breath was coming out in quiet pants. I couldn’t help myself as I ran my thumb across her bottom lip, making her shiver. It's just a kiss, it means nothing, I told myself. I glided my hand down to gently cup her throat. My mind couldn’t react as I had moved my other hand to grab her hip to pull her closer.

I closed my eyes and leaned in. My lips hovered above hers for a moment before I kissed her. My head spun as the scent of her blood overpowered me. So damn sweet! I wanted to give her a short kiss but everything about her was quickly consuming me. The way she smelled, how soft her skin felt underneath my touch. Goddess, even the way she tastes was maddeningly sweet. I couldn't control myself as I deepened the kiss, stealing her breath with my need.

Atlas began to howl, demanding that I stop. I couldn't! I was trapped in this spell. She felt so good and tasted even better. More. I needed more. I could hardly keep control as Atlas threatened to take over our body.

Octavia

The sudden eruption of applause broke our kiss. My heart thundered in my chest as I took a startled step back. My husband, Gabriel, I think that was his name, tightened his grip on my hips. His eyes were stormy as he stared at me. I ignored the quiver of excitement that ran through my body and took a gentle step out of his embrace. Gabriel looked confused and angry, letting his hands fall at his sides.

Holy Hell, he smelled amazing. The urge to rush back into his arms was appallingly strong. I wanted to feel his warmth. He felt like an anchor that would hold me steady no matter the weather. The officiant congratulated us, the guests' applause drowning out his words. Gabriel's face darkened before he turned on his heel and stormed down the aisle alone. I frowned, what the hell? Nalina tilted her head to the side, equally confused.

Abel clapped as he approached us with Raven. He handed him off to Nalina then offered his arm. I gladly accepted it, allowing him to lead me back down the aisle. Nalina followed, chuckling at Raven, who was beside himself from all of the attention. He frantically waved at the guests, his smile from ear to ear. Abel led us to a small corridor that connected to the room where the reception would be held. “Mija, you look absolutely stunning.” he grinned.

“Mama, you look like a princess!” Raven squealed, his small arms reaching up for a hug.

“Thank you my sweet prince.” I said, squeezing him tightly.

“It was a beautiful ceremony but why did the groom leave in such a rush?” Nalina asked, her arms crossed in annoyance.

“Eh, it’s fine. He should be returning momentarily.” Abel replied dismissively.

Nalina pulled me to the side and studied my face. “Are you ok? I think there’s more going on than what Abel is telling us. It’s not too late to leave. Just say the word.” she whispered.

I slowly shook my head. I don’t know why Garbiel reacted like that, but I’m positive this attraction to him meant something. “It’s fine. I-I think he’s my pair.” I confessed with an unsteady voice.

Nalina’s eyes widened with surprise, “Holy Hell.”

“Mija, it’s time!” Abel exclaimed, his face flushed with excitement.

Nalina smiled, “We’ll finish this conversation later. I think Raven and I will get some food. I’m sure Abel cannot wait to introduce his new granddaughter.”

“Granddaughter, ha!” Abel let out a joyous laugh. Goddess, he looked like he had won the lottery. Nalina marched Raven out of the door. Abel tucked my hand into the crook of his arm and tugged me towards the reception hall.

Sounds of clinking glasses, laughter and animated conversation clamored against my ears. I smiled politely as Abel towed me around the room to greet his guests. We had been at it for thirty minutes already. How many damned people did he invite?!

My feet were killing me but Abel showed no signs of wanting to slow down. He was excitedly chatting with a new group of well wishers. Perfect, this was my chance to escape. I quietly excused myself while Able was distracted. I sighed with relief, thank goddess. I was finally alone.

My face was stiff from all of the smiling but I stayed strong as I made my way towards the bathrooms. I just needed a minute to breathe and think. I'm married again. It felt strange. My husband was strange. Where did he disappear to? I rolled my eyes, I wish he had taken me with him. The crush of the crowd was becoming overwhelming.

“Well, Octavia, I knew you couldn't stay in hiding forever.” A menacing voice called out. My fear had left me mute as my ex in-laws approached me with repulsive sneers.

I clasped my trembling hands together in an attempt to regain my composure. “Steven, Melissa. I wasn’t expecting to see you here.” I murmured.

Melissa scoffed, “As if we could turn down a hand delivered invitation from the Noctem Clan leader.” Hand delivered? Why would Abel do something like that?

“Have you been enjoying your time hiding like the traitor that you are?” Steven hissed.

“I have committed no crimes.” I defended myself quietly. My lips trembled. Why was I so afraid of him?

Melissa sucked her teeth as she shook her head in disappointment. “You have some nerve coming back. Don’t you feel any shame wearing that vulgar dress?’ she taunted.

My fear began to turn into anger. I raised a haughty eyebrow, “Aren’t you ashamed to be seen in that shabby one?” Melissa’s jaw dropped. “Thank you for coming to support me, but I believe you’ve overstayed your welcome. Please leave.” I smiled sweetly and turned to leave.

“I see your offspring survived. You won’t be so lucky next time.” Steven threatened in a low voice. The blood drained from my face. “Don’t forget who you really are, Octavia. Just because you’ve come out of hiding doesn’t mean you are safe. There is nowhere for you to hide now. You have no real power.” he spat.

I took a staggering breath. I’m so sick and tired of being afraid. I wanted to find my own voice. ‘Seize your opportunity’, Abel’s words echoed. A genuine smile formed as I turned around and made eye contact with Steven, finally understanding.

“Do you want to know why the head of the most powerful clans in the nation personally invited you?” I asked them.

Melissa tilted her head at my sudden question. “Why?” Steven asked gruffly.

I closed the distance between us, my smile growing wider. “He delivered it personally to relay a message. He’s warning you.” I could tell that my words made Steven nervous, his eyes no longer unable to meet mine. “He’s telling you that my child, my husband and I are at the head of Noctem. If you come after either one of us, it would mean the death of your clan. So, actually, it is you who should remember their place.”

He became flustered while Melissa puffed. I grinned, reveling in their panic. So this is what it’s like to threaten someone. “As I stated, it was great that you came all this way to celebrate my new marriage, but you have overstayed your welcome. Get out of my house or I'll have you thrown out.” I demanded icily.

The couple gave me a look over and turned to leave. I called out to them, “Oh, and you should be prepared. I fully intend to call upon the Council. My son will reclaim his birthright.”

“You little b*tch!” Steven screamed as he threw a punch at me. I waited for the hit to connect, ready to make my counter attack. But the hit never came. My husband was suddenly in front of me, his hand holding back Steven’s. He immediately paled at the sight of Gabriel.

“M-Mr. Noctem.” he sputtered. “It’s not what it looks like.”

“You heard my wife. Get out before I rip your arm off.” Gabriel snapped. The couple was swarmed by security who not so gently escorted them out of the room.

“Thank-” my words of gratitude fell short as my husband’s cold gaze seared into me.