Episode one: FAMILY REUNION

Helena’s POV

My dad called me early this morning, saying there would be a family reunion with my stepmom and stepsister. My chest sank at the thought. Those two were always a thorn in my side, yet I had no choice but to attend. I quickly dialed my friends Hana and Joyce.

“Dad called me for another family reunion,” I said. “I have to go.”

“Are you sure you’ll be okay?” Joyce asked softly. She knew the kind of torment my stepfamily could dish out.

I forced a weak smile. “Yeah… I’ll be fine.”

The day felt heavier than usual. I couldn’t stop thinking about my father—how easily he seemed swayed by my stepmom’s charm. Was it really love? Or had she bewitched him somehow? I shook my head, trying to focus. Focus, Helena. Don’t think about that now.

The restaurant was luxurious, more extravagant than I expected. Crystal chandeliers glimmered, reflecting soft golden light across polished marble floors. Waiters moved silently between tables, balancing trays of sparkling glasses and plates of food. I felt out of place among the elegance; it reminded me that my stepmom thrived on showing off wealth, while I had to carve my own way in life.

I approached the table, trying to hide my irritation. Meg’s eyes lit up with mischief.

“Oh, dear sister, how have you been surviving?” she asked, a cruel smirk playing on her lips.

I straightened my shoulders, meeting her gaze. “I’m a writer. I just got employed at Blake Holdings—that’s what I was about to say before you interrupted.”

Meg and my stepmom laughed, loud and sharp.

“Seriously, a writer? What a shameful job,” my stepmom said.

I felt heat rising to my cheeks. “HOW DARE YOU! Do you even know how much I earn? Even your daughter can’t touch it, yet she sits at home eating Dad’s money—and you’re laughing at my career?”

My father’s face fell. “STOP, Helena! Your mom was only showing concern!” he said.

I stared at him. “So you agree with her then?”

He didn’t reply. Of course, he agrees.

Suddenly, the restaurant buzzed with excitement.

“Damon Blake is here! The heir to Blake Holdings!” someone shouted.

“OMG, he’s so handsome!” another added.

I groaned. The notorious Damon Blake—handsome, arrogant, and infuriating. My friends always gushed about him, which made me hate him even more. And yet, I had to admit… he was dangerously captivating.

I was about to leave. “Dad, I have to go. Work at the office,” I said.

He waved me off. “Whatever.”

Meg, ever malicious, kicked her leg out. I stumbled into someone. Looking up… it was Damon Blake. Gasps filled the restaurant.

“I’m so sorry!” I stammered.

Before I could finish, he took my hand and guided me outside.

Dark clouds rolled in, and rain began to fall heavily. Thunder rumbled, shaking the air, and lightning split the sky. My heart raced uncontrollably. Since I was a child, I had always feared thunder—it made me feel small and helpless. My legs gave way, and I instinctively clung to Damon, pressing my face against his chest.

“Please… I don’t want to be out here… I’m scared,” I whispered, trembling.

Damon stiffened briefly, then wrapped his large hands around me in a comforting hug. “It’s okay, Helena,” he said softly. “You’re safe now. Nothing will hurt you.”

He draped his leather jacket around my shoulders, shielding me from the rain. The fear that had gripped me since childhood slowly eased in the warmth of his embrace. I whispered again, “Thank you…”

For a moment, I forgot everything—my stepfamily, my controlling fiancé, even the chaos of the restaurant. All I could feel was the safety and strength of the man holding me, and the strange, undeniable pull in my chest that told me he was more than just a stranger.

Damon’s POV

I had come to the restaurant because of Helena. She didn’t remember me, but in our werewolf lineage, mates are never forgotten. The scene inside wasn’t what I expected; her family’s cruelty was clear. When she accidentally spilled drinks, I had no choice but to guide her outside.

Seeing her trembling in the rain, clinging to me, sent a jolt through me. She’s our mate… how is this possible?

I kept her close as we walked to my car. Her small frame, her vulnerability, even the fear in her eyes—it all made me want to protect her forever. She was unlike anyone I had ever met, and I could feel the bond forming between us.

“She’s going to be mine,” I thought silently, remembering the ring she always wore. Only a few in the pack knew its secret.

When she left in a cab, I stood watching until she disappeared. My wolf stirred within me, restless and insistent. I muttered, “She’s ours. She’s mine.”

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