---- Chapter 8 Life in Jack's territory was warm and peaceful. My skin gradually regained its healthy glow, and my body grew stronger with every day that passed. That afternoon, I was lounging in a garden chair, basking in the golden sunlight. Suddenly, I heard a soft rustle from behind the bushes. "John, keep your voice down! You'll give us away!" "] just want to see what kind of she-wolf could have stolen Jack's heart." I couldn't help but chuckle. "Are you two looking for me?" An elderly couple stepped out, gently nudging one another. Penny Graymoor playfully smacked John Steel on the shoulder. "This is all your fault!" she teased. They settled on either side of me, their eyes lighting up as they took me in. ---- "You're truly beautiful! No wonder Jack fell for you the moment he saw you. He's turned down so many she-wolves before-" Penny quickly cut in, "Don't mind him. Jack might seem like a flirt, but he's loyal through and through." 'We were always worried about him. He's almost 30 and still hasn't found a mate. We even thought about setting him up, but he just kept acting like he was out living the wild life. It was driving us up the wall!" "Tt wasn't until much later that he finally told us there had always been someone in his heart... He just never had the chance to-"" Suddenly, Jack hurried over, beads of sweat on his forehead. "Mom! Dad! Please don't disturb her while she's resting!" Penny and John exchanged a knowing smile. " Well, look at that! Jack's protective instincts are ---- already kicking in!" They gave me a playful wink before walking away. Jack looked a bit embarrassed. "Sorry about that. My assistant must've let it slip that you were out here. "They didn't say anything strange, did they?" I shook my head, watching the sunlight dance across his golden lashes. "Anna," he said quietly, "it's my birthday today. Will you celebrate it with me?" I nodded. Under the night sky aboard the yacht, Jack looked dashing in a perfectly tailored black suit, his striking features capturing my every glance. Just as I was lost in thought, I spotted two familiar figures on the deck nearby. Alan and Leah were here. ---- I couldn't help but frown. Just as I was about to turn away, I heard the sound of hurried footsteps behind me. "Anna!" Alan had somehow found his way onto the yacht. His eyes locked onto mine, filled with a storm of emotions I couldn't begin to decipher. Jack's voice sliced through the air like a knife. " Security! Get this intruder out of here now!" Alan took a step forward, reaching for my arm. " Do you have any idea how long I've been searching for you?" I pulled back, my voice sharp and unwavering. " We are no longer mates. I need you to respect that. " The color drained from his face in an instant. "you can't do this...