Captivated By Notorious Alpha

Chapter 9

Fiore stood in front of the mirror in her room, adjusting the simple yet elegant dress she had chosen for dinner. The soft, flowing fabric felt comfortable against her skin, and she had to admit it suited her well. She had no intention of dressing up for Lance, but she also didn't want to look like she was being too sulky.

As she finished brushing her hair, there was a knock on the door. She opened it to find Lance leaning against the doorframe, looking every bit the charming rogue that he is. His eyes sparkled with mischief as he took in her appearance.

“You look stunning,” he said smoothly, offering her a playful wink. “Ready for our first official dinner as husband and wife?”

Fiore rolled her eyes, not in the mood for his games. “Let’s just get this over with.”

Lance chuckled and gestured for her to follow him. She complied, trailing behind him down the hallway to the dining area. The villa's main dining room was an open space with large windows that overlooked the ocean. The table was set with fine china and crystal glass, the centerpiece a beautiful arrangement of tropical flowers. Fiore couldn't help but appreciate the effort, even if she wasn't thrilled about the company.

Lance pulled out a chair for her, his actions surprisingly gallant. “Your seat, my lady.”

Fiore sat down, eyeing him warily. “Thank you,” she said.

He took his seat opposite her, a smile playing on his lips. “I hope you’re hungry. The chef here is renowned for his culinary skills.”

As if on cue, the first course was brought out—an exquisite seafood platter that smelled heavenly. Fiore picked up her fork, determined to focus on the food rather than Lance’s incessant teasing.

Lance watched her with amusement. “You know, you might actually enjoy yourself if you let your guard down a little.”

She gave him a cold look. “And why would I want to do that?”

He shrugged, leaning back in his chair. “Because life’s too short to be angry all the time. And despite everything, we’re in a beautiful place with amazing food. Might as well enjoy it.”

Fiore took a bite of the seafood, savoring the rich flavors. She hated to admit it, but the food was incredible. Still, she wasn’t going to let Lance off that easily. “I didn’t come here to enjoy myself. I came because I had no choice.”

Lance raised an eyebrow, his smile never faltering. “You always have a choice. It’s just a matter of perspective.”

She snorted. “Spare me the philosophy, Lance. What do you really want?”

He leaned forward, his gaze locking with hers. “I want you to relax, just for tonight. Let’s put aside our differences and try to make the best of this situation. Can you do that?”

Truth is, he had a point. It was indeed immature of her to put all the blame on Lance. He was as much of a victim between two tycoons as her. However, his father's hold over him reveals his standing as an Alpha. He is nothing but a puppet, a face to show to the pack, but never the leader despite his title. In fact, Fiore pities him.

She took a deep breath. "Very well. Let us do that."

Dinner ended, and Fiore was relieved to finally return to her room. The evening had been as pleasant as she could make it, but she was looking forward to some solitude. As she approached her door, she heard Lance's footsteps behind her. She sighed inwardly, bracing herself for more of his attention.

Fiore turned to face him, her irritation surfacing. “What now?”

Lance raised an eyebrow, an easy smile on his lips. “This is my room, too.”

Fiore's eyes widened in surprise. “Excuse me?”

Lance stepped closer, his demeanor unfazed. “Well, since this is the only building on the island, and we had to let the staff use the other rooms, this is the only one left. I only gave you a bit of free time to prepare moments ago. So, here I am.”

Fiore frowned, her suspicion growing. “You let the staff have the other rooms?”

Lance nodded, his expression playful. “That’s right. No room for me—just here.”

“You planned this, didn’t you?” Fiore could only massage her temple out of frustration. She had enough of Lance and all of his plans just to get them closer.

Lance feigned innocence. “Planned? Not exactly. It just turned out this way.”

Fiore took a deep breath, then pointed to the small couch in the corner of the room. “If you’re staying, you’ll be sleeping on that. I don’t want you in my bed.”

Lance raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "There, huh? You sure?”

Fiore gave him a steely look. “Yes. I’m sure. And don’t think this is up for negotiation.”

Lance’s smile faded slightly, but he nodded in acknowledgment. “Alright. The couch it is. I’ll make do.”

He moved to the small couch. As he sat down, Fiore took a shower, turned off the lights and slipped into bed. The room was quiet except for the faint sound of the ocean waves crashing outside.

An hour later, Fiore was startled by the sound of running water coming from the bathroom. She frowned in irritation, realizing Lance was taking a shower. She had expected him to settle down on the couch, not intrude further into her space.

Moments later, the water stopped, and the bathroom door creaked open. Fiore’s eyes widened in disbelief as Lance stepped out, dripping wet and entirely naked, a towel slung casually around his neck. He looked more like he was on a leisurely vacation than sharing a room with a lady.

“Can't sleep?” Lance asked, his tone casual, as if his nakedness was the most natural thing in the world.

Fiore's cheeks flushed with anger. “What are you doing? Put some clothes on!”

Lance chuckled, his gaze sweeping over her with a teasing glint. “Relax, Fiore. I forgot that my luggage isn't here yet, but I wanted a shower.”

“In my room? While I’m here?”

Lance shrugged, a playful smile on his lips. “You’re not the only one who needs to be comfortable. Besides, it’s my room too. I figured you’d be alright with it.”

“Not a chance,” She snapped, turning her back to him. “If you think you’re going to make yourself at home, you’re sorely mistaken.”

She heard Lance’s footsteps approach the couch, and then he settled down with an audible sigh. “Alright, alright. I'm not going to burst your personal bubble."

Fiore’s frustration was recognizable through her tone, but her sleep was more important, so she dialed it down a notch. “And next time, maybe try to be less... intrusive.”

Lance’s voice was muffled but carried a hint of amusement. “I’ll keep that in mind. Goodnight, Luna.”

Fiore lay in bed, her mind racing. The audacity of Lance was infuriating. During their first meeting, she never thought he would act like how he is now. She could only pray to the Moon Goddess.

"Oh, Goddess, I saw everything."