The Lycan King’s Secret Child: Rejected Mate Billionaire Werewolf
The Lycan King’s Secret Child: Chapter 3

The city lights twinkled like stars fallen to earth as Amelia stood on the balcony of her apartment, a gentle breeze playing with her hair. Her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts—questions without answers, mysteries entangled with emotions. The events of the past few days had left her both exhilarated and unsettled.

Her phone buzzed, breaking her reverie. It was a message from Xander:

Xander (Text): ‘Thinking of you. Can I see you tonight?’

Her heart skipped a beat. Despite the unanswered questions, the pull she felt toward him was undeniable.

Amelia (Text): ‘I’d like that. Where should we meet?’

Almost immediately, a reply came:

Xander (Text): ‘I’ll pick you up at 8. Dress comfortably.’

She glanced at the clock—6:30 PM. Enough time to prepare, but not enough to overthink. She headed inside to get ready, opting for a simple yet elegant outfit: jeans, a soft blouse, and a light jacket.

At precisely 8 PM, a soft knock sounded at her door. She opened it to replace Xander, looking effortlessly handsome in a casual shirt and dark trousers.

Xander: ‘You look beautiful.’

Amelia: Smiling ‘You’re punctual.’

Xander: ‘I didn’t want to waste a moment.’

She grabbed her purse and stepped out, locking the door behind her.

Amelia: ‘So, where are we going?’

Xander: ‘It’s a surprise.’

They walked to the elevator, the silence between them comfortable yet charged with unspoken words. As they reached the lobby, a classic car awaited them—a sleek, midnight-blue convertible.

Amelia: Impressed ‘Nice ride.’

Xander: ‘Thought we’d take the scenic route.’

He opened the passenger door for her, and she slid in, the leather seats soft beneath her. Once he joined her, they set off into the night.

The cityscape gradually gave way to winding roads flanked by tall trees, their leaves whispering in the evening air.

Amelia: ‘Are you going to keep me in suspense all night?’

Xander: Grinning ‘Perhaps. Do you trust me?’

Amelia: ‘I’m beginning to.’

He glanced at her, his eyes reflecting the passing lights.

Xander: ‘Good.’

They drove for about half an hour before turning onto a secluded path that led to a clearing overlooking the city. A beautifully set picnic awaited them: blankets, cushions, and a basket filled with an array of delicacies.

Amelia: Surprised ‘You did all this?’

Xander: ‘I wanted to share something special with you.’

They got out of the car, and he guided her to the picnic area.

Amelia: ‘It’s breathtaking.’

Xander: ‘Not as much as you are.’

She felt warmth rise to her cheeks.

Amelia: ‘You’re quite the charmer.’

Xander: ‘Only when inspired.’

They settled onto the blankets, and he began to unpack the basket.

Xander: ‘I wasn’t sure what you liked, so I brought a bit of everything.’

Amelia: Amused ‘Everything, huh? Planning to keep me here all night?’

Xander: ‘Would that be so bad?’

She met his gaze, a playful glint in her eyes.

Amelia: ‘Depends on your intentions.’

Xander: ‘My intentions are to enjoy this evening with you—to get to know you better.’

He poured them each a glass of wine.

Amelia: ‘To new experiences.’

Xander: ‘To unforgettable nights.’

They clinked glasses and took a sip.

Amelia: ‘So, Mr. Drakov, what’s your favorite food?’

Xander: Laughing softly ‘Starting with the hard-hitting questions, I see.’

Amelia: ‘I am a journalist.’

Xander: ‘Fair enough. I’d have to say… a perfectly cooked steak.’

Amelia: ‘Classic. Let me guess—medium rare?’

Xander: ‘Of course. And you?’

Amelia: ‘I’m a sucker for Italian cuisine. Pasta, to be specific.’

Xander: ‘Comfort food.’

Amelia: ‘Exactly. It reminds me of family dinners when I was a kid.’

He observed her thoughtfully.

Xander: ‘You speak fondly of your childhood.’

Amelia: ‘I was lucky. My mother worked hard to make sure we had everything we needed.’

Xander: ‘And your father?’

She hesitated briefly.

Amelia: ‘He passed away when I was young.’

Xander: ‘I’m sorry.’

Amelia: ‘It’s okay. It was a long time ago. What about your family?’

He looked away for a moment, the shadows playing across his face.

Xander: ‘Complicated. My parents were… strict.’

Amelia: ‘Sounds like there’s a story there.’

Xander: ‘Perhaps one for another time.’

Amelia: Gently ‘I didn’t mean to pry.’

Xander: ‘No, it’s alright. It’s just not something I talk about often.’

They lapsed into a comfortable silence, the sounds of nature surrounding them. The stars above twinkled brightly, unobscured by city lights.

Amelia: ‘The sky is incredible out here.’

Xander: ‘It’s one of my favorite places to think.’

Amelia: ‘Do you come here often?’

Xander: ‘Whenever I need to clear my head.’

She leaned back on her elbows, gazing upward.

Amelia: ‘Thank you for bringing me here.’

Xander: ‘I’m glad you came.’

He lay back beside her, their shoulders nearly touching.

Amelia: ‘Do you ever wonder what’s out there?’

Xander: ‘In the universe?’

Amelia: ‘Yeah. If there’s more than what we know.’

Xander: Smirking slightly ‘I think there’s more than most people realize, even here on Earth.’

She turned her head to look at him.

Amelia: ‘Cryptic as always.’

Xander: ‘Just honest.’

She propped herself up on one elbow, facing him.

Amelia: ‘You know, you fascinate me.’

Xander: ‘The feeling is mutual.’

Amelia: ‘There’s so much I don’t know about you.’

Xander: ‘And yet, here you are.’

Amelia: ‘Maybe I like a bit of mystery.’

Xander: ‘Or maybe you’re hoping to solve it.’

She laughed softly.

Amelia: ‘Guilty.’

He reached out, his fingers brushing a strand of hair from her face.

Xander: ‘Some mysteries aren’t meant to be solved.’

Amelia: ‘That won’t stop me from trying.’

Their eyes locked, the air thick with unspoken tension.

Xander: ‘You’re relentless.’

Amelia: ‘Is that a problem?’

Xander: ‘Not at all. It’s one of the things I admire about you.’

She felt her heart quicken.

Amelia: ‘What else do you admire?’

He traced a gentle line along her jaw.

Xander: ‘Your courage. Your wit. The way your eyes light up when you’re determined.’

Her breath caught.

Amelia: ‘You’re quite the observer.’

Xander: ‘Only when someone captivates me.’

She leaned in slightly.

Amelia: ‘And what happens when you’re captivated?’

Xander: ‘I replace it hard to stay away.’

Their faces were mere inches apart.

Amelia: ‘Then maybe you shouldn’t.’

He hesitated for a brief moment before closing the distance between them, his lips meeting hers in a soft, tentative kiss. She responded, the kiss deepening as their mutual attraction ignited.

When they finally pulled apart, both were slightly breathless.

Amelia: Whispering ‘Wow.’

Xander: ‘I’ve wanted to do that since the night we met.’

Amelia: ‘What took you so long?’

Xander: Smiling ‘I was trying to be a gentleman.’

Amelia: ‘Maybe I don’t mind if you’re not always a gentleman.’

He chuckled softly.

Xander: ‘Noted.’

She lay back down, and he joined her, their hands replaceing each other in the space between them.

Amelia: ‘Tell me something real.’

Xander: ‘Like what?’

Amelia: ‘Anything. Something you don’t usually share.’

He was quiet for a moment.

Xander: ‘I often feel like an outsider, even among those closest to me.’

Amelia: ‘Why?’

Xander: ‘Because there’s a part of me that I have to keep hidden.’

Amelia: ‘You can be yourself with me.’

He turned his head to look at her.

Xander: ‘I want to believe that.’

Amelia: ‘What’s stopping you?’

Xander: ‘Fear. Responsibility. The possibility that the truth could change everything.’

She squeezed his hand gently.

Amelia: ‘Sometimes taking a risk is worth it.’

Xander: ‘Perhaps.’

She sat up slightly.

Amelia: ‘You can trust me, Xander.’

He sat up as well, his expression serious.

Xander: ‘There’s so much you don’t know.’

Amelia: ‘Then tell me.’

He reached into his pocket and pulled out the silver wolf pendant she had found at his estate.

Amelia: ‘You have it.’

Xander: ‘It belongs to my family. I believe you found it.’

Amelia: ‘I did. I was going to return it.’

Xander: ‘Keep it. Consider it a token of… trust.’

She accepted the pendant, her fingers brushing against his.

Amelia: ‘Thank you.’

He looked deeply into her eyes.

Xander: ‘Amelia, there’s something I need to tell you.’

A sudden rustling in the nearby trees interrupted them. Xander’s posture shifted instantly, alert and tense.

Amelia: ‘What was that?’

Xander: ‘Probably just an animal.’

She noticed the change in his demeanor.

Amelia: ‘Are you sure?’

Xander: ‘Stay here.’

He stood up, moving toward the edge of the clearing.

Amelia: ‘Wait, don’t go alone.’

Xander: ‘I’ll be right back.’

He disappeared into the shadows, leaving her feeling suddenly vulnerable. Minutes passed, and the silence grew heavier.

She stood up, calling out softly.

Amelia: ‘Xander?’

No response.

Her phone had no signal, and a sense of unease began to creep in.

Suddenly, he emerged from the darkness, his expression calmer.

Amelia: ‘Is everything okay?’

Xander: ‘Yes, just a deer.’

She sighed in relief.

Amelia: ‘You made me worried.’

He returned to her side.

Xander: ‘I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to alarm you.’

She looked up at him.

Amelia: ‘You seem on edge.’

Xander: ‘It’s nothing. Let’s not let it ruin our evening.’

He took her hand, his thumb brushing over her knuckles.

Amelia: ‘You were about to tell me something.’

He hesitated.

Xander: ‘Perhaps it’s best if we save it for another time.’

Amelia: ‘You can’t leave me hanging like that.’

He gave a half-smile.

Xander: ‘I suppose I enjoy being mysterious.’

Amelia: ‘You’re impossible.’

He leaned in, kissing her softly.

Xander: ‘And yet, you’re still here.’

She laughed lightly.

Amelia: ‘I must be a glutton for intrigue.’

They settled back onto the blankets, the earlier tension easing. He pulled her close, and she rested her head on his shoulder.

Amelia: ‘This feels nice.’

Xander: ‘It does.’

They watched as the moon rose higher, casting a silvery glow over everything.

Amelia: ‘Tell me about your dreams.’

Xander: ‘My dreams?’

Amelia: ‘Yes. What do you aspire to? Beyond responsibilities and duties.’

He thought for a moment.

Xander: ‘I’ve always wanted to replace someone who sees me for who I am—not what I am.’

Amelia: ‘And have you found that person?’

He looked down at her.

Xander: ‘I think I might have.’

She smiled softly.

Amelia: ‘I hope you have.’

He traced circles on her arm.

Xander: ‘What about you? What do you dream of?’

Amelia: ‘Adventure. Love. Making a difference. Maybe write a book one day.’

Xander: ‘You have the talent for it.’

Amelia: ‘You haven’t read anything I’ve written.’

Xander: ‘I’ve read your articles. They’re insightful and well-crafted.’

Amelia: Surprised ‘You have?’

Xander: ‘Of course. I like to know who’s investigating me.’

She playfully swatted his arm.

Amelia: ‘So you’ve been spying on me?’

Xander: ‘Researching.’

She shook her head, amused.

Amelia: ‘I guess that makes us even.’

They shared a comfortable silence, the world around them fading away.

After a while, she sat up.

Amelia: ‘It’s getting late.’

Xander: ‘Do you have to go?’

She hesitated.

Amelia: ‘I suppose not.’

He stood up, offering his hand.

Xander: ‘Come with me. There’s something I want to show you.’

She took his hand, and they walked a short distance to a small path leading into the trees.

Amelia: ‘Where are we going?’

Xander: ‘You’ll see.’

They emerged into a hidden grove where a small waterfall cascaded into a clear pool, illuminated by the moonlight.

Amelia: ‘It’s magical.’

Xander: ‘I come here when I need peace.’

She stepped closer to the water’s edge.

Amelia: ‘It’s like a secret world.’

He stood behind her, his hands resting gently on her shoulders.

Xander: ‘I’m glad I can share it with you.’

She turned to face him.

Amelia: ‘Thank you for tonight. It’s been… perfect.’

Xander: ‘The night’s not over yet.’

He drew her into his arms, their lips meeting once more. The kiss deepened, filled with unspoken promises.

She pulled back slightly, her eyes searching for him.

Amelia: ‘Are you sure about this?’

Xander: ‘More than anything.’

They returned to the picnic area, and he stoked a small fire that provided warmth against the cool night air.

They sat close, wrapped in each other’s embrace.

Amelia: ‘I feel like I’ve known you longer than I have.’

Xander: ‘Perhaps we were meant to replace each other.’

Amelia: ‘Do you believe in fate?’

Xander: ‘I believe that certain paths are destined to cross.’

She rested her head against his chest.

Amelia: ‘I could stay here forever.’

Xander: ‘Then do.’

She looked up at him.

Amelia: ‘What about your responsibilities? Your secrets?’

Xander: ‘Tonight, they can wait.’

He kissed her forehead gently.

Time seemed to stand still as they shared stories, laughter, and quiet moments of reflection.

Eventually, fatigue began to set in.

Amelia: ‘I think I might fall asleep right here.’

Xander: ‘You’re welcome to.’

She smiled sleepily.

Amelia: ‘You make it hard to say no.’

He wrapped a blanket around them both.

Xander: ‘Rest. I’ll keep watch.’

Amelia: ‘Over what?’

Xander: With a hint of mischief ‘Just in case any deer decides to interrupt again.’

She laughed softly.

Amelia: ‘Alright then.’

Her eyes closed, and she drifted off, feeling safe in his arms.

—

When she awoke, the first light of dawn was painting the sky with hues of pink and gold. Xander was still beside her, gazing into the distance.

Amelia: Sleepily ‘Morning.’

Xander: ‘Good morning.’

She stretched, savoring the peacefulness.

Amelia: ‘Did you stay up all night?’

Xander: ‘Old habits.’

Amelia: ‘You should have woken me.’

Xander: ‘You looked too peaceful.’

She sat up, taking in the serene surroundings.

Amelia: ‘I can’t remember the last time I felt this content.’

Xander: ‘I’m glad.’

He began to pack up their things.

Amelia: ‘Do you have plans for today?’

Xander: ‘Nothing that can’t wait.’

Amelia: ‘Ever the mysterious man.’

He smirked.

Xander: ‘Keeps things interesting.’

They loaded the car and began the drive back to the city.

As they approached her apartment, a sense of reality settled back in.

Amelia: ‘Thank you for an incredible night.’

Xander: ‘We should do it again.’

Amelia: ‘I’d like that.’

He walked her to her door.

Xander: ‘Until next time.’

She hesitated before standing on her tiptoes to kiss his cheek.

Amelia: ‘Take care, Xander.’

He watched her enter the building before returning to his car, a satisfied expression on his face.

—

Inside her apartment, Amelia set her things down and flopped onto the couch, a dreamy smile lingering.

Her phone buzzed with a voicemail notification. She played the message.

Unknown Voice: ‘Miss Hart, this is a friendly warning. Stay away from Alexander Drakov.’

She sat up abruptly, the pleasant haze dissipating.

Amelia: ‘Who is this?’

But the message ended there.

An uneasy feeling settled in. She needed to replace out who was behind these cryptic warnings.

Determined, she decided to do some research. Opening her laptop, she delved into online records, forums, and any information she could replace about Xander and his connections.

Hours passed with little to show for it. Frustrated, she considered calling Sophie but decided against it.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door.

She approached cautiously.

Amelia: ‘Who is it?’

Voice: ‘It’s Sophie!’

She exhaled in relief, opening the door.

Amelia: ‘Hey! What are you doing here?’

Sophie: ‘I was in the neighborhood and thought I’d drop by. You weren’t answering your phone.’

Amelia glanced at her phone—it was silent.

Amelia: ‘Sorry, I must have missed your calls.’

They settled on the couch.

Sophie: ‘So, how was your night?’

Amelia hesitated, debating how much to share.

Amelia: ‘It was… amazing.’

Sophie: ‘Details!’

Amelia: ‘We went to this beautiful spot overlooking the city. Had a picnic under the stars.’

Sophie: ‘That’s so romantic!’

Amelia smiled softly.

Amelia: ‘It was. But then I got another strange message warning me to stay away from him.’

Sophie: ‘That’s concerning. Are you sure you should be getting involved with him?’

Amelia: ‘I don’t know. There’s something about him, Soph. I feel like I can trust him, but then these warnings…’

Sophie: ‘Maybe you should confront him about it.’

Amelia: ‘I tried. He keeps things close to the chest.’

Sophie: ‘Well, be careful. I don’t want to see you get hurt.’

Amelia: ‘I will.’

They chatted a while longer before Sophie left.

Feeling restless, Amelia decided to take a walk.

As she strolled through the park near her apartment, her phone rang—Xander.

Amelia: ‘Hey.’

Xander: ‘I was thinking about you.’

Amelia: Smiling ‘Funny, I was just thinking about you.’

Xander: ‘Great minds. How are you?’

Amelia: ‘Good. Listen, I wanted to ask you something.’

Xander: ‘Go ahead.’

Amelia: ‘I’ve been getting these anonymous messages telling me to stay away from you. Do you have any idea who might be sending them?’

There was a pause.

Xander: ‘I was afraid this might happen.’

Amelia: ‘What do you mean?’

Xander: ‘There’s someone trying to undermine me. A rival. They’re using you to get to me.’

Amelia: ‘That’s… alarming.’

Xander: ‘I didn’t want to involve you in this.’

Amelia: ‘Maybe you should tell me what’s really going on.’

Xander: ‘I will. Meet me tonight?’

Amelia: ‘Alright. Where?’

Xander: ‘I’ll send a car.’

After they hung up, Amelia felt both anxious and resolute. She needed answers.

—

That evening, the car arrived promptly. She was taken to a private estate on the outskirts of the city.

Xander greeted her at the entrance.

Xander: ‘Thank you for coming.’

Amelia: ‘I need to know the truth, Xander.’

He nodded.

Xander: ‘I understand. Please, come inside.’

He led her to a cozy sitting room with a fireplace crackling warmly.

Amelia: ‘This place is beautiful.’

Xander: ‘It’s a family home.’

They sat across from each other.

Xander: ‘There’s no easy way to say this, but I owe you honesty.’

Amelia: ‘I’m listening.’

He took a deep breath.

Xander: ‘My family… we’re part of a lineage that is ancient and, to many, unimaginable.’

Amelia: ‘What does that mean?’

Xander: ‘We are Lycans.’

She blinked, processing the word.

Amelia: ‘As in… werewolves?’

He nodded.

Amelia: Incredulous ‘Is this a joke?’

Xander: ‘I wish it were. But it’s the truth.’

She stood up, pacing.

Amelia: ‘This is insane.’

Xander: ‘I know it’s hard to believe.’

Amelia: ‘You’re telling me you’re a… werewolf?’

Xander: ‘Yes.’

She laughed nervously.

Amelia: ‘Prove it.’

Xander: ‘Are you sure?’

Amelia: ‘I need to see something real.’

He stood up, his gaze steady.

Xander: ‘Very well.’

He stepped back, and before her eyes, his features began to change subtly—eyes glowing, canines elongating slightly.

She gasped, stumbling back.

Amelia: ‘Oh my god…’

He returned to his normal appearance.

Xander: ‘I would never hurt you.’

She sank into a chair, her mind reeling.

Amelia: ‘This can’t be real.’

Xander: ‘I wanted to tell you sooner, but I was afraid.’

Amelia: ‘Afraid of what?’

Xander: ‘That you’d look at me the way you are now.’

She met his eyes, a mix of fear and curiosity.

Amelia: ‘Why tell me now?’

Xander: ‘Because keeping it from you is putting you in danger. The messages you’ve been receiving are from those who wish to expose us.’

Amelia: ‘Us?’

Xander: ‘My kind. If our existence becomes public, it could lead to chaos.’

She took a deep breath.

Amelia: ‘This is a lot to take in.’

Xander: ‘I know. If you want to leave, I won’t stop you.’

She considered her options.

Amelia: ‘I don’t know what to think.’

Xander: ‘All I ask is that you keep this between us.’

She nodded slowly.

Amelia: ‘I won’t tell anyone.’

He looked relieved.

Xander: ‘Thank you.’

She stood up.

Amelia: ‘I think I need some time.’

Xander: ‘I understand.’

He escorted her back to the car.

Xander: ‘If you have any questions, please, reach out.’

She offered a faint smile.

Amelia: ‘I will.’

As the car drove her home, she stared out the window, her world irrevocably changed.

—

Back at her apartment, she curled up on the couch, clutching the wolf pendant.

Her phone buzzed with a text from Sophie.

Sophie (Text): ‘Thinking of you. Hope you’re okay.’

She typed back.

Amelia (Text): ‘Thanks. Just dealing with some things.’

She set the phone aside, her mind a tumult of emotions.

Despite the shock, a part of her still felt drawn to Xander. She whispered to herself.

Amelia: ‘What have I gotten myself into?’

Sleep eluded her that night as she grappled with the revelations.