Their Secret Obsession (A Reverse Harem) by Pippa Moon novel Chapter 319

Lottie POV

"Impressive," Astaroth remarked. "You've embraced your heritage more fully than I anticipated." Astaroth sighed dramatically, clapping slowly. I turned to face him fully, barely containing the frustration bubbling within me. His nonchalant attitude, the way he watched me like I was some sort of amusing sideshow—it grated on my nerves. I was done with being a pawn in his twisted game.

"I'm tired of being underestimated," I stated firmly. "I'm a Lycan heir, and I won't be controlled by you or anyone else." He raised an eyebrow, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

"Oh, I have no intention of controlling you. In fact, I'm quite looking forward to seeing what you do next."

"Don't patronise me," I snapped, my voice rising as the frustration threatened to boil over. "You've been manipulating events from the shadows, but your games end here."

"You misunderstand me, Charlotte." He chuckled softly, his tone condescending, making my fists clench. "My interest in you is genuine. There's much you don't know, but all in due time."

"Enough with the cryptic remarks. If you have something to say, say it." I felt a surge of frustration. Every word he spoke was layered in riddles, and I was getting tired of trying to decode his intentions.

"Very well," he conceded. "But perhaps we can have this conversation somewhere more... suitable?" He gestured around at the grim surroundings. "This place hardly befits a discussion of such importance." I glanced around, acknowledging my cousin's body in the damp, claustrophobic tunnel.

"Fine," I agreed reluctantly. "But know this—I don't trust you."

"Trust is earned," he replied smoothly. "And I intend to earn yours."

Fluffy padded over to my side. She nudged me gently, her eyes reflecting concern. I looked down at her, my hand finding comfort in the soft fur around her neck. The warmth of her touch grounded me in a way I hadn't expected.

"She truly has bonded with you. Fascinating." I noted how Astaroth watched the exchange with keen interest. His gaze lingered on Nera as though she were more than just a companion, as if she held a secret he was desperate to unlock.

"Why does that matter?" I questioned, eyeing him warily.

"Because Fluffy—or rather, Nera—is no ordinary hellhound," he revealed. "She chooses her companions carefully. That she has chosen you speaks volumes."

"Nera," I repeated, testing the name. It felt right, a name that resonated with something deeper within me. "Well, Nera and I are a package deal."

"So it seems." He inclined his head. As we began to walk, the weight of the cuffs on my wrists became more pronounced.

"These," I stated, holding up my bound hands, "need to come off."

"In time." He regarded me thoughtfully. "For now, they serve a purpose." He spoke as though everything he did was part of some grand plan, but I was no longer content being a pawn.