I let out a deep sigh and decide it's time to seriously think about what Zander said. My options are clear: I could back out now and return to my quiet, predictable life in this small town. One day, I'd probably settle down with a friendly, unassuming neighborhood Alpha, have a few pups, and live a content but ordinary life.
Or… I could take this wild chance with Zander.
Let's face it—he's intoxicating. He's gorgeous, magnetic, and from everything I've seen, ridiculously wealthy. But that also means he'll always have people orbiting him: Omegas, Alphas, anyone drawn to his power and allure. I'd have to deal with that constant attention, those lingering eyes, and possibly a whole heap of drama if his family disapproves of someone like me.
But then again, with Zander, I could start modeling again. I miss the rush of being in front of the camera, the thrill of creating something captivating. Zander offers a life that's anything but boring—a life filled with chaos and heat, one that could consume me in the best and worst ways.
The thought of returning to a peaceful existence feels hollow, like trying to force myself into a mold that doesn't quite fit. Sure, I'd survive, but there'd always be this ache, this gaping hole. And honestly? I don't know if I'll ever meet anyone else who can set my entire body on fire with a single glance the way Zander does.
I let out another sigh, long and resigned. I already know my answer.
Reaching for my phone, I realize I don't even have Zander's number. Typical. Instead, I open the social media app and log into my burner account. With a grin, I type out a quick message to "Mr. Big Bad Wolf."
"Come over." I send, feeling a slight thrill as I hit send.
A response comes almost instantly. "Now?"
I smirk, enjoying how eager he sounds. My fingers hover over the keyboard, and for a moment, I consider typing yes. But instead, I type: "Tomorrow."
The reply is nearly instantaneous. "What time?" Even through text, I can feel his disappointment, and it only makes me grin wider.
"Around 2 PM or so?" I send back, biting my lip in amusement.
"Got it." His response is short, but I can imagine the intensity in his eyes as he types it.
Before I can stop myself, I type again: "I still don't have your number, Mr. BigBadWolf57."
There's a moment of silence, and then my phone buzzes with his reply. "Stop texting me if you don't want me to come over and bend you over."
My eyes widen slightly, heat rushing to my face. How rude, I think, though I can't help but laugh. I didn't even do anything to get him all worked up.
I glance at the time—6:30 PM. I've eaten, and with no work tomorrow, the rest of the night is mine. The weight of the day, Zander's words, and our charged banter still linger heavily in my mind, making my pulse race.
I stand and lock the door, making sure the curtains are drawn tightly before heading to my bedroom. I close the door behind me, the soft click reverberating in the quiet apartment. My eyes flicker to the bed for a moment before I kneel down and reach underneath, pulling out a discreet black box.
My heart beats faster, a mix of anticipation and guilt swirling inside me. I really shouldn't be doing this, I think, but the frustration simmering under my skin is unbearable. Zander has me completely worked up, and I know there's only one way I'm going to get rid of this tension.
With a soft sigh, I open the box, revealing my silicone collection—my quiet companions for nights like this. My fingers hover over a few before settling on a large, dark blue one. I grab it, its weight familiar and comforting, and set it on the bed.
"Just to take the edge off," I murmur to myself, as if needing justification.
The air in the room feels heavy, and my cheeks flush with heat as I prepare to ease the ache that's been building all day.