An Invitation Laced with Poison

VANESSA

The tropical sun blazed down, scorching my bare shoulders as I watched Fabian cannonball into the private villa's infinity pool. Water splashed across the pristine deck, catching the light like scattered diamonds.

"Mom! Did you see that? Did you see how high I went?" His excited voice echoed across the secluded property.

I forced a smile. "Amazing, sweetie! Just be careful near the edge."

Everything about this place screamed luxury and exclusivity. The private villa sat perched at the edge of the resort property, partially hidden by lush vegetation and offering breathtaking ocean views. Under different circumstances, I might have appreciated the paradise-like setting.

But my wolf was on high alert.

"The pool is entirely yours for the afternoon," Vaughn said, appearing beside me with a tray of colorful drinks. "I thought the young prince might enjoy some privacy after dealing with all those stuffy pack politics."