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In the wild world of old-school mafia survival, where the big shots ruled the roost and the government played cozy with the fallen bigwigs or the weaker links... A powerhouse mafia clan with Vixen and her crew: Isabella, Raven, and Seraphina. But here’s the twisted rub—these girls were victims of their own father, Vito Moretti's incеstuous sexual behavior, Vito Morеtti, a man who didn't give a damn about family boundaries. So, Vixen, the rebel, decides it’s payback time. She discovers this whole hidden society thriving within the mafia, and guess what? She dives right in, dead set on climbing the ranks and tearing down her own family's criminal kingdom. But dang, just when Vixen’s about to spill all her family’s darkest secrets to the world, cue the dramatic entrance of a mysterious figure from the shadows - some creepy villain Hold onto your hats, 'cause here’s the gut punch: her father’s twisted actions were all part of someone else’s sick game plan, a puppet master pulling strings in the shadows with their own perverse agenda. And bam! They drop this bombshell about having some secret weapon that could turn Vixen's world upside down. Cue the creepy smile and the ominous whisper, "Hey, remember, revenge always comes with a price." Drama, suspense, and plot twists—this tale's got 'em all!5
When Ukraine Song is assigned a nerve-racking mission to investigate an immortal woman, he thinks his life is over. He luckily lands a job as the woman's personal assistant and his bitter-sweet days commence. Little by little, he starts learning more about the supernatural woman, and finding out that she's nothing like everyone said. He's then faced with a choice of either proceeding with the mission which ends brutally for the woman or forsake his family and the mission and protect the woman from the world of the cruel. •••••• Kro has been alive for over 5 centuries. She's a cursed immortal who never bleeds. Her past is comprised of painful betrayal from the people she trusted the most, and her fate turns cruel. After witnessing deaths of everyone she cared about, her only wish is for her to die. But as the witch declared her fate, she's to be stabbed to death by the man who hurt her the most in the past. Now Kro awaits his reincarnation. But will she recognize him when he comes back into her life again? ..... Point to note: This novel comprises of two parts, the present story and a past story to tell more about the mysterious woman’s origin. (Don’t be confused) •••••• *Instagram @ _nzungu *Story by Teemzie (Original work) Thanks!!5
In a post-apocalyptic world, Princess Sofia fancies a commoner on the streets and follows him to the Mountains of Death from where she ends up in a 17th-century mansion, where the commoner - Heinrich - is the owner of the mansion and the Princess is forced to work for him. __ “What do you want from me?” The Princess asked frustratingly. “You must think you are the main character or something.” The man chuckled, “Sofia, I want nothing from you. You followed me. I did not abduct you.” “I made a mistake. I request you to send me back.” “I cannot,” The man replied. “It is not under my command. It comes and goes.” “What does that mean?” “That means you are stuck here. Probably for life.” __ [Excerpt] Heinrich completely ignored her, slipped the keys to the room into the little pocket of his coat, and tried to walk away from the crime scene. The Princess quickly grabbed his arm, trying to reach out for his pocket with her other hand. Heinrich immediately grabbed her hand and pulled her toward himself, then pushed her to the wall, holding both her hands to it. He frowned at her with all the rage he had in his body. But it didn’t hide the lingering sorrow in his eyes. They could tear up any moment now. The Princess didn’t know if she wanted to feel sad for him or resent him. He was a confusing man. “L-Let me go…” The Princess sheepishly demanded. “Why?” Heinrich asked with anger. “Who told you to meddle in my affairs?” __ [Disclaimer: This novel is a slow burn.] — This novel is the prequel to 'Dilemma: The Chip System'. However, it's a standalone novel and you don't need to read 'Dilemma: The Chip System' to understand it. I do recommend reading it for extra spice. — This novel has taken intuition from the history of Europe. However, it is fictional and by no means connected to the real events of history. **** Cover Artist: https://www.instagram.com/alina._.smthng/4.8
“No matter what, never fall for the vampire king.” Kiara Whitman always knew her fate was twisted because she is the first hybrid, but things took a drastic turn when she was offered a contract marriage with the ruthless Valerian King. There was just one clause on the contract: "Falling for Adriel Valerian is equivalent to death.” But how could she follow such a clause? Her heart raced under his gaze, and when he spoke, her thoughts became foggy. It was clear as day that if the clause was meant to keep her alive, she wouldn’t survive. Unfortunately, Adriel, the vampire king, didn’t feel the same for her because he had his own plans for the hybrid princess; she was the key to everything he craved—his ultimate freedom from hell. He had sworn never to let himself fall for her because it would be messy; he had to be smart, vigilant, and stay in control. What will happen when Kiara finds out the real reason behind the contract marriage? Or when she discovers that she was just a tool for survival all along, just a possession to the vampire king and nothing less? Will she decide to leave for good or stay to find out her purpose? Or at least seduce the vampire king, if at all that’s possible.4.8
Being 19 years old is never an easy task, with a world so dark and people so toxic, a simple weak girl could only fall victim to people's wrath. So alone, abandoned and scarred, would Zina make it? ========================= "I promise you, that I will fix you," She told him as tears fell from her sweet brown eyes. He raised his head to meet her painful gaze. He felt his heart sink. If only she knew she was in no place to fix me, he thought. ************************************************************************** "At just 19 years old, Zina finds herself navigating a dark and toxic world, abandoned and scarred. Will she overcome the challenges that threaten to consume her? With a promise to fix others while battling her own struggles, Zina's journey unfolds in a gripping tale of resilience and redemption. Dive into this captivating urban novel filled with raw emotions, unexpected twists, and the power of human connection. Join Zina on a quest for survival and self-discovery in a world where hope shines brightest in the darkest moments."4.9
[Webnovel Spirity Awards 2024 Entry] CONTENT WARNING! ONLY 18+ Contains: Violence, triggers, and disturbing scenes (in later chapters). However, a happy ending is guaranteed! Synopsis: Tiana's idyllic life as a nomad is shattered when she arrives at the capital, she is declared to be the missing princess of Averlyon! Thrown into the glamour and wealth of the royal palace, she soon realizes that something dark lurks underneath the pretty smiles and graceful curtsies. As she struggles to come to terms with her new identity, her old life seems to call her back. Years after Tiana’s disappearance, Crown Prince Yuden is still waiting for her. However, he can no longer ignore his duty. He finally agrees to marry her younger sister Layla to secure the alliance between Averlyon and Yurania. As he prepares to slip the ring on Layla's finger, a man appears and announces that the princess has been found! Caught between two women, Yuden cannot help but wonder whether their reunion is one of joy or grief. —— English is not author’s first language. However, I will try my best to write this book! —— Mass Release Rate: 200 Power Stones: 1 chapter 500 power stones: 2 chapters 1 golden ticket: 1 chapter 3 golden tickets: 2 chapters 5 golden tickets: 5 chapters4.7
"Erhard." Her voice was bold like her fiery hair. "Who are you?!" The saint of light wasn't pleased. But Andromeda wasn't deterred. "I'm your future monarch. So I have kindly come to declare war on you~" "I will come to claim you and the crown, Erhard." "Lets play this game once more~" ---------------------------------------------- At the end of her life, Andromeda strikes a deal with the Deity of darkness to rewrite the chapters of her life. The story unfolds as Andromeda, the Saintess of the Sacred Flame, returns to her past with a mission: to exact revenge on those who orchestrated her downfall and make Eirhard hers. Andromeda's obsessive love for Eirhard, the fallen King of an enemy kingdom, despite her previous cruelty, unravels a tale of passion, forgiveness, and unexpected alliances in the face of the greatest dangers, cunning enemies, and even in the hands of fickle Deities. Will Andromeda and Eirhard be able to unite, or will they be ripped apart by the hands of destiny and the Gods playing their own games? Join them on this journey of Love, Revenge, and Obsession.4.9
She wanted shadow, he bathed with limelight. He was center of attraction but she was unknown to all. She was always there for him but he was unaware. She never wanted to appear in his life yet they cross-pathed each other. Just out of blue, a bold and daring girl came to him. She even dare to kiss him in her drunken state. But in her sober state, she played the role of a weak and timid little girl perfectly in front of outsiders. But he could tell she wasn't some weak girl as she seemed. This is because of her complicated emotions, life's point of view, cold heart and somehow cold in person. Every single information about her perfectly indicated that she was a commoner, an adoptive daughter. But her personality indicated something more. Mu Qinzhe, the heir of Mushi Group who controlled the economy of Asia, couldn't dig any information about "Yao Siya". Mu Qinzhe found himself falling for Yao Siya as their life got entangled to each other. By every single moments passed, his feelings for her got stronger than before despite knowing nothing about her. Now, the question here would she ever let her icy cold heart melt for his intense love?? Would she open up to him or leave him hanging?? Would she able to stop her falling for him or return his love with same intense??5
"Maybe I never wanted to forget about you, how could I?" He whispered in her ear, as he caressed her face lovingly, she couldn't move, his close proximity held her back, she knew not to give in, she was acquainted of the consequences that would follow, but her body didn't care, it craved for his touch like a kid did their candy. "Derek, please..." She begged, unsure of what she was begging for, he moved his soft lips to her neck, placing those familiar kisses on her nape, causing her squirm a little. He pulled her closer to him and lifted her chin up, he loved how shy and submissive she had suddenly become, staring deeply into her eyes, he asked her of the one thing she knew would be impossible to deny. "I want to be inside of you at any time and any place as long as it's convenient, no attachments, just sex, whenever we both want, what do you say?"4.9
Kyla is a young woman with hidden abilities. When her village is attacked by shadows and she is captured, a light comes to her aid, urging her to venture into the mysterious forest. In the forest she meets attractive deities who divulge that she is the first human in a long time to threaten the balance of powers and she is the sole individual able to save both the mortal and immaterial worlds, as long as she can master her powers and keep her feelings under control. Living with the Four elemental gods seems like an easy task, but it brings its share of...trouble?4.8
[My WSA 2024 Entry novel! Please vote] In a world where mythical beings have fallen into an "eternal slumber," a thriving underground market exploits the stolen essence of these dormant creatures. At its epicenter are dragons—majestic beings desired for their scales, organs, and prized eggs. The most coveted treasure of all is a dragon's name, a key that holds the power to control its very existence. Dragon Lord, guardian of a clutch of dormant eggs, lives in isolation atop a hill, surrounded by a forest that veils his castle. He bears the scars of past betrayals, having been deceived by those who feigned love to steal his treasures or claim his head as a bounty. Jaded and cold, he trusts no one, living a solitary existence. However, his solitude is shattered when a woman unwittingly stumbles into his life. Yara finds herself in Dragon Lord's treasured den amidst a battle between the dragon and thieves. In a twist of fate, she mistakenly bonds with the dormant eggs, breathing life into them. Reluctantly, Dragon Lord allows Yara into his world, and their journey unfolds amid the looming threat of underground organizations seeking to exploit the dragons for profit. As the eggs come to life, so does an unexpected connection between Dragon Lord and Yara. Despite his cold and jaded exterior, he finds himself unable to ignore her presence. Yara, too, cannot deny the pull she feels towards him, and emotions begin to burn beneath the surface. Together, they must navigate the challenges of waiting for the eggs to hatch, fend off those who seek to exploit the dragon and its offspring, and confront the secrets that Yara harbors—a revelation that could destroy everything. In this tale of flames and gold, two scarred souls in a world where trust is a rare and precious commodity must confront the ghosts of their pasts. They navigate the dangerous currents of love and deception, protecting unborn dragons from a world hungry for their magic. Will their bond withstand the trials ahead, or will the flames of betrayal engulf them in the end? A/N: It starts out SLOW, because I tend to get lost in the pages and be descriptive but once it gets to the action, it really picks up! Looking forward to growing with you all on this journey!!!4.6
Evelyn Valentia believes herself as nothing more than an average witch. Refusing the help of her late mother's coven, she navigates her magic on her own until the day she becomes the chosen protector of the fae. However, the dark fae that were cast out of the fae kingdom long ago did not stop amassing their own powers since then. Now, it is up to Evelyn to stop them before war breaks out. Clyde Dillington is a ruthless, cold royal vampire, but he cast the crown aside long ago. Unexpectedly, he finds his mate in a young witch. Clyde will do anything and everything he can for Evelyn but tell her that he is her mate. He has many enemies, and he worries for Evelyn's safety should her connection to him be made know. Will her secrets keep her loved ones safe? Will Clyde ever allow Evelyn to know the truth of the secrets he is caring? . . Slow burn romance with R18 content. . "Clyde smiled tightly, “well, you did ask for a story,” he replied. Evelyn laughed quietly. “Do you ever miss your home?” She asked. Clyde sighed and stared into her deep green eyes, “sometimes I miss being near the resting place of my father, but that is all it is to me now, a resting place. I have built a life here that I am proud of and I can only continue to improve upon it,” he replied truthfully. Evelyn admired the way that Clyde carried himself. He was never afraid to simply be what he truly felt and wanted to be. She could only hope that she would one day match his spirit. For now, she was too nervous about the weight of her responsibilities to worry about anything else. “You should get some rest,” Clyde said and moved to get off the bed. Evelyn reached her hand out and stared straight into his eyes, “I cannot thank you enough for all that you have done for me,” she said sincerely. “I know that this is probably the last thing you thought you would be doing, but I am glad that you have chosen to stay by my side. I promise you, I will get stronger from here on out.” Clyde smiled, his eyes full of sincerity, “you are already enough. Try not to worry so much about letting us down. We are here to catch you if you fall,” he replied. Evelyn smiled softly and released his hand from hers, the sparks of their bond still lingered under her skin. She wanted so desperately to be close to him, but she knew that she needed to become strong enough to stand next to him before she mentioned that she could feel their bond." . . . Follow on discord for updates and discussions https://discord.gg/Afk48f3B4.9
[COMPLETED] “Master, don’t let anyone serve you… except me.” Ivory Sprucemint summoned Sigmund, a stubborn and possessive Servant! Her wish is to win the Servant Competition in the academy, and become a Royal Knight, but to achieve these, she needs to make him obey her orders! But Sigmund calls Ivory by her name, he keeps on sucking her blood on any part of her body, and he does whatever he wants! How will Ivory tame her Vampire Servant and achieve her dreams? ------ A love story between a Submissive Master and Domineering Servant! WARNING: Mature/R-18 scenes included and lots of biting and bloodsucking scenes! To name a few: on the neck, on the foot, on the chest- Ooof! :)) Don't let the first few chapters fool you! XD ------ PREVIEW: “Ivory... I asked, what the hell are you thinking of.” Ivory was surprised to hear him say her name for the first time, and it made her heart beat like war drums. His deep voice sounded so sexy. She wanted to avoid his gaze because of embarrassment, but because of the way he firmly held the back of her head, she couldn’t look away. “I said it’s nothing, why are you-” Ivory was interrupted when she saw his eyes glow once again. Sigmund’s eyes glow whenever he’s serious. “Fine! Fine! I’ll tell you what’s on my mind!” “Good girl. So what is it about?” “It’s… you! I was thinking about you!” Ivory exclaimed. Her reply made her Servant calm down, so he finally let go of her head and sat up straight. She added while blushing, “I was thinking about… where you would… bite…” Pleased that he was the one occupying his Master’s mind, Sigmund smirked, “Where do you want me to bite you?” “Uhm… I… Uhh…” She stuttered, still avoiding his gaze. “In my… p… pfinger!” Sigmund chuckled as he took his Master’s hand, “As you wish, dimwit.” He licked her pointing finger, then lightly bit her with his fangs. His bite was not that deep; it was just enough to let the blood ooze. Sigmund’s tongue gently licked her bleeding finger before grazing his lips on her fingertip. He then noticed his Master staring at him which caused her to blush even more, making her pull away her hand from his. Ivory, whose heart was already beating crazy, quickly turned around, laid on the bed, and faced the wall. She was about to cover herself with the blanket, but Sigmund slid next to her and tucked themselves under the cover. “Go to your bed, Sigmund,” Ivory murmured before shutting her eyes. “You might get cold, so I’m staying next to you, weakling,” Sigmund murmured as well and almost rested his forehead on her nape. Ivory felt his breath on her skin. She thought of sleeping on the other bed, so she slowly tried to get up, but Sigmund placed his arm around her waist the moment he felt his Master moving away from him. “You’re not going anywhere.” ------ [A Webnovel Spirity Awards Spring 2021 Entry] Theme: Vampires and Werewolves ------ Story, Main Body: AinaWang Editor: iridescentdream Proofreaders: portholes_29, moonwitch89 Book Cover (commissioned): @omichiart on IG ------ Official Instagram: @ainawang.official Official Discord: https://discord.gg/HYkU3Rr Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ainawang4.8
What if they are real? Will it be weird to find out? There are times you feel so eager to know if something is real. Sometimes you go extra miles to get what you're looking for. And other days you'll find yourself doubting. Before you know it, you're confused. When you sit down to think it through, you finally realize that everything is just a myth... We all have different stages of beliefs and obsession, you could be obsessed with books, games, movies etc... But what happens when your obsession shift to another insane level? The female lead in this book is so obsessed with things which aren't even real, she goes extra miles to get what she wants even though she knew it was a dangerous move....5
[WARNING: Rated 18: NO RAPE] All it took was her first kiss and everything changed. Having lived her whole life miserably and pathetically, Yennefer Bellegard gets a chance to live an unexpected life the instant she crosses paths with an unknown man. It turns out that this new life was not what she expected it to be at all. She awoke in a different world in the body of an assassin, whose life was hanging by a thread, resulting in her encounter with the unapproachable general, Luthiel Winston, whose actions spoke louder than his words. Luckily, she managed to escape an agonizing death and ended up becoming Luthiel's responsibility, which, in the end, caused unexpected feelings to develop between them. The unavoidable desire to satisfy carnal needs, to touch and claim each other. Their encounter was not an ordinary one, but a sinful one that should not have occurred…. Will these two give in to their desires or would they allow their heads to lead them? —————— COVER IS NOT MINE. Credit to the Artist!!!4.7
(Warning: Mature content) She is dreadful and has no mercy. She isn't scared of anything, even death is scared of her. But, the ever daring man dared to look at her, straight at her piercing eyes. Something no one has ever done. Well, she is the QUEEN of her territory and he is the KING TO TAME HER. * To get his sister back from the hands of the evil woman who had kidnapped her, Darren Vladimir is ready to do anything even thought it means putting his life on the life. But it wouldn't go easy as thought as she is not one to please. They made a deal..... A deal with consequences if broken. "You will replace your sister and become my slave, and I will give her back to you..... If this deal is breached, the person you love the most will have to DIE" "Yes I accept..... Just let my sister go." A dangerous deal..... But the famous arrogant researcher, Darren Vladimir, has a different plan in mind. The deal might backfire and he was ready for it...... He is going to TAME HER, the forest vampire and send her to hell where she belong. .......... Ambrosia drew closer and raised his jaw using her middle fingers, staring at his grey orbs, never taking her eyes off or blinking away. The man was determined. He raised a corner of his lips, smiling at her lopsidedly. He wasn't blinking away too but staring at the gorgeous but cold woman who leaned so close to him. "Are you falling for me already?" he asked. She raised a brow at the sudden question but her face went back to her usual deadpan state. "I see you are determined......Fine then, I give you fourteen days. Fourteen days to get me on your bed. If after the fourteenth day, and nothing happened between us, then I might end up punishing you severally. A punishment you will never forget." His smile broadened, "Fine then, but if after that fourteenth day, I succeed, you will also be punished." She smiled and moved back, "You are crazy, aren't you?" she said staring at him. "Fine then, let's make that part of our deal."5
The hunt is on... Cara, a shy and friendless librarian, doesn't know why the notorious player Rig Landon has suddenly started paying her attention. After escaping the iron grip of her alcoholic father, she's at university to learn, not to play, and she tells Rig so repeatedly. But Rig bet his packmates that he could seduce any human female they choose—and they chose Cara. Cara's total lack of game puts every one of Rig's seductive talents to the test. However, he's persistent, and the more time they spend together, the less Rig cares about the bet and the more he cares about Cara. Which poses a problem because Rig is carrying a big secret. A deadly secret. Turns out Rig isn't the only one hunting Cara... Will Rig's secrets end Cara's life before he can show her she's more to him than just prey?4.9
Renee is a fun loving girl who meets up with Kevin and falls in love. What she doesn’t know is that Kevin has a dark past. It comes back to haunt him in the worst way. Unfortunately, Renee is caught up into it and it makes her own life a living hell. She is forced to become another man’s prisoner. She spends her days and her nights being tortured by him, until one day, things change. Will she ever see the man she loves again? Or will the rest of her life be one long running nightmare?5
Mylar Rodriguez is a waitress at Gentleman's club, a famous night club in Brooklyn, New York city. She finds herself in a hassle after her boss from the club revealed his intention of keeping her with him for as long as he wanted while using the excuse of a repayment of $80,000. And in the long run, she is involved in a one night stand with a big shot known as Camilo Wylder. Camilo is a young man who can't stand on his own without depending on his daddy who is a very rich business tycoon. Mylar finds out later on that she was in a really deep mess due to what she did out of compulsion and finds it difficult to think of a solution to her problem. Rumours about Camilo's habits are quite famous in the New York's papers and social media. Mylar took a big step after being pressurized by Vida, her best friend from gentleman's club. Mr Julian, Camilo's daddy accepted her into the family with open arms but with a condition of a contract marriage that will last for three years only. Elio, Camilo's younger brother and Mrs Camila, Camilo's mom liked Mylar very much and treated her like family but some others hated her especially Miss Emelda, Camilo's nanny and confidant. Elio falls in love with Vida and a new love story is formed. Mylar's curiosity reveals all the family's dirty secrets. Mr Julian's love affair and his plan to make Mrs Camila totally crazy by giving her the wrong drugs just to keep her properties for himself. Mylar saves Camilo from being killed by Mr Julian after he found out that he isn't his dad. Mystery finds it way into romance and romance finds it way into Mystery. PART TWO ROmance MYstery2 (FAMILY DRAMA) SYNOPSIS In order to cover up her secret about having a child out of wedlock, Mylar Tiffany Rodriguez had to find someone to put the blame on and that someone was going to be Camilo Diego Wylder, rich billionaire and mummy's spoilt boy. After a one night stand with a woman whom he almost ran over with his car, his life turned upside down. Mylar, the crazy and most popular stripper in Magic City Strip Club on 241 Forsyth St SW, Atlanta Georgia had recorded their sex video. Camilo's mom was forced to organized a contest to find a wife for her son by her father-in-law to please him after his failed seven dates but Mylar had to ruin it with her pregnancy news. His granddad literally ruined his life by arranging a contract marriage for both of them with the hope that one day, they will begin to love each other. "Hey daughter, we are moving in." Mylar's insanely terrible mom suddenly informed her that they'll be moving into her daughter's in-law's house because her gambler dad made a bet with their house and now they are homeless, broke and they do not have a place to live. More trouble for both Mylar and Camilo other than their daily trouble because Camilo's mom, his grandma and Mylar's parents despised each other. Here is a romance and a family drama with a twist for you to read. Enjoy.......4.9
In a world where mythical creatures coexist with humans, a power struggle ensues when the dominant Werewolves seek to rule over all. However, the other creatures and humans reject this notion and strive for peaceful coexistence within their respective communities. Defying the collective decision, the Alpha Werewolf, Dimitri Quinn, brutally murders a Witch, a Vampire, and a Human as a warning to anyone who challenges his authority. Enraged by the ruthless killings, the remaining creatures unite and launch an attack against the mighty Werewolves, despite their inherent strength disadvantage. The ensuing war rages on for three days and three nights until an unexpected intervention occurs on the third night. The moon goddess, Sierra, appears in all her radiant beauty, captivating everyone with her presence. Her enchanting voice echoes through the night as she condemns the Werewolves for initiating the conflict. Sierra strips Dimitri of his Alpha status, transferring it to his twin sons, Jayden and Kayden Quinn. Under the new leadership, the Werewolves are cursed by Sierra to never harm any creature outside their kind, lest they lose their inner strength and half of their powers. However, the curse arrives too late to prevent the loss of countless lives in the war. Despite the devastating aftermath, peace gradually returns to the realm. Years later, the once-established norms of finding mates within one's own kind are shattered. Sierra's curse mandates that Werewolves must now have human partners, while Witches and Vampires retain the freedom to choose their mates. Amidst this backdrop, Muna Carmichael, an eighteen-year-old girl, and her younger brother Nathan find themselves orphaned due to the war. Forced to relocate to a new city and live with their childless aunt and uncle, Muna's life takes an unexpected turn. She discovers that she may be the destined mate of a Werewolf, the very creatures responsible for her parents' deaths. Caught between the past and an uncertain future, Muna faces a series of difficult choices. Will she accept her fate as a Werewolf's mate? Can she overcome her deep-seated hatred and learn to coexist with the being who took her parents' lives? And what will happen if she uncovers the truth of her destined connection as the Alpha's mate? Muna's journey is one of love, forgiveness, and discovering the strength to embrace an unexpected destiny.