Fated To The Enemy

Midnight Skies

Lila admired the smooth finish of Avery’s shiny black Jeep as they pulled out of the driveway, the powerful engine roaring to life. It was sleek and bold, just like Avery herself.

Lila touched the upstyle Avery had crafted for her, the sophisticated arrangement of her hair making her feel both elegant and sexy.

Loose tendrils framed her face, drawing attention to her turquoise eyes, full lips, and high cheekbones.

The dress Avery had chosen for her was a black bodycon with a plunging neckline and thigh-high slit that showed off her slim but curvy figure and made her feel powerful, sexy and alluring all at once.

Avery, beside her in the driver’s seat, looked effortlessly glamorous in a short red dress that hugged her perfect curves. Her blonde waves shimmered in the low light, cascading down her back.

As they sped toward the city, Lila filled Avery in on everything that had happened with Marcus and Derek.

"So, wait," Avery said, eyes wide as she glanced at Lila. "You and Derek are mates? The Moon Goddess paired you two, and you're still going through with this marriage to Marcus?"

Lila sighed, leaning back in her seat. "Avery, it’s not that easy. Derek hates my father and he is our packs enemy."

Avery shook her head, her tone full of disbelief. "Lila, that’s insane. You’re his mate! I don’t care what happened with your dad. You’re supposed to be together."

"That’s not how reality works," Lila said, frustration creeping into her voice. "Even if the Moon Goddess chose us, Derek sees me as the daughter of his enemy."

Avery frowned, her lips pursed. "That’s ridiculous! You're his mate, Lila. You both can’t just let that go! I don’t care about pack politics or whatever vendetta Derek has against your dad. Mates are sacred. You’re supposed to be together, no matter what."

"I wish it were that simple," Lila said, her voice tinged with frustration. "But Derek is never going to forgive my father for what happened in the war. And I have responsibilities to the pack, to my brother. I can’t just cancel the wedding and throw everything away because of some bond, even if it feels… right."

Avery huffed, clearly unconvinced. "I refuse to believe that Derek feels nothing for you. He's your mate, Lila. The bond is real, and no matter how much he fights it, it’s still there. I just don’t understand how you can marry someone else when the Moon Goddess chose someone perfect for you."

Lila gave a small, sad smile. "I’m doing this for my family. For Jacob. He needs this alliance to protect the pack."

Avery fell silent for a moment, her usual spark dimming as she stared out the window. "I was really hoping to find my mate at my sister’s wedding," she said softly, almost to herself. "I thought maybe, just maybe, he’d be there. But nothing. It’s like… what if I never find him?"

Lila’s heart sank at the sadness in Avery’s voice. "You will," she said gently. "The Moon Goddess has someone out there for you. He just hasn’t shown up yet."

Avery gave her a half-hearted smile, but Lila could see the doubt in her eyes.

"This is why you need to be with Derek." Avery persisted. "It is not easy to find your fated mate anymore, so you two should cherish this blessing."

Lila decided not to tell Avery about Derek's attempts to message her. She would see it as romantic.

Instead she decided to remain quiet and watch the scenery change enamoured by the tall buildings and flashing lights. The mood in the car became less sombre and more excited for what lay ahead.

They arrived at Midnight Skies after the two-hour drive, the neon lights of the city buzzing around them. It was around 10.00pm and things were just starting to ramp up. As they approached the entrance, Lila was surprised to see a bouncer ushering them into the VIP line. "How did you get us on the VIP list?" Lila asked, raising an eyebrow.

Avery just laughed, throwing a wink over her shoulder. "I have my ways."

Inside, the club was everything Avery had promised. Panoramic views of the city skyline, modern music pulsating through the air, and a crowd that exuded sophistication. Lila was momentarily taken aback by how glamorous it all felt.

They made their way to the bar, where Avery promptly ordered double shots of tequila. "To get us warmed up," she said with a mischievous grin.

“Here’s to forgetting about all the drama for one night!” Avery declared, clinking her shot glass against Lila’s.

They downed the tequila, the warmth spreading through Lila’s chest instantly. "another round" Avery hollered at the bar tender, who promptly placed two more shot glasses in front of them, giggling as they toasted to the night ahead.

Just as they downed the tequila, two handsome men approached, each of them good looking in their own way.

The taller one, with piercing green eyes and a sharp jawline, gave them a charming smile. His dark hair was styled just right, and there was an undeniable magnetic quality to him that immediately caught Lila’s attention.

His friend, though equally good-looking, was slightly shorter and had sandy blonde hair with deep dimples that gave him a boyish charm. Still, it was clear the one with the green eyes had a bit more of an edge.

"Hey, ladies," the taller one said, his voice smooth. "I’m Alex, and this is my friend, Matt."

Avery was the first to respond, flashing them a playful smile. "I’m Avery, and this is Lila." She gave Lila a nudge, urging her to engage.

Lila smiled at Alex, who seemed particularly focused on her. "Nice to meet you both."

Matt grinned at Avery, his dimples deepening as he tilted his head toward the dance floor. "Mind if we steal you both for a dance?"

Lila hesitated for a moment, but Avery was already in full agreement, her mind link buzzing in Lila’s head.

"Come on, Lila! They’re humans, it’s perfect no pack drama! It is just some fun!"

Fine, Lila responded with a laugh, turning to Alex. "Sure, let’s dance."

Alex extended his hand, leading her to the crowded dance floor as the music pulsed through the room.

The atmosphere was electric, and the alcohol made everything feel a little more exciting, a little more carefree. Lila moved with Alex, their bodies close as they swayed to the rhythm of the music.

He was a good dancer, confident in the way he guided her across the floor, his green eyes never leaving hers.

As the song shifted into a sultry beat, Alex pulled her even closer, his breath warm against her ear as he whispered, "You’re the hottest girl here."

A playful smile tugged at Lila’s lips as she whispered back, "You have fine taste sir, and you’re not so bad yourself."

The energy between them crackled, and after a few more songs, Alex led her back to the bar, where they ordered another round of drinks.

Lila could feel the alcohol starting to take effect, her body buzzing with warmth and excitement as they shared a few more flirtatious glances.

After downing another drink, Alex turned to her, his voice low and enticing. "Why don’t you come with me? We’ve got something special to show you."

Intrigued and feeling adventurous, Lila glanced over at Avery, who was now chatting animatedly with Matt. Are you up for something more fun? Lila mind linked her.

Always, Avery replied, her eyes gleaming with excitement. Together, they followed the guys as Alex and Matt led them upstairs to a private room.

Inside, they found a lavish spread of gourmet food and expensive alcohol waiting for them. "Wow," Lila breathed, impressed by the selection.

The boys ordered a deluxe wine tasting for the girls and whiskey for themselves.

Lila eyed the drinks warily. Mind linking Avery "I’ve already had so much…"

Avery waved her off. "Stop being such a goody-goody and let your hair down. We’re here to celebrate!”

Avery then announced, “oh boys did I mention that it’s this gorgeous girl’s 18th birthday, so lets make this a night to remember”

At that, Alex promptly called for an expensive bottle of champagne and a dessert with a candle. The wait staff nodded and ran off to fulfil the special request.

"So how did you guys get this room? its certainly flashy" Probed Avery.

"My father is a part owner, so I have access to whatever I like," Alex drawled.

Hmm rich boys... Avery commented to Lila through their mind link.

Just then a beautiful cake arrived with 18 candles burning ontop as though it has been made especially for Lila. The wait staff started to sing Happy Birthday with Matt, Alex and Avery joining in.

"Make a wish, birthday girl!" Matt called out. As the candle flickered in front of her, Lila closed her eyes and silently wished for peace for her pack.

At that Matt popped the champagne in a flourish and

in a sudden rush of excitement, he sprayed the room with champagne.

The laughter and champagne bubbles filled the room as Lila found herself soaked, but she couldn’t stop giggling.

Matt filled all the glasses and Alex raised his champagne glass high, his eyes locked on hers.

"Alright, everyone," Alex said, his deep voice carrying over the laughter "before we move on, I’d like to make a toast." He paused, letting his words sink in as he turned fully to Lila, his piercing green eyes filled with admiration.

"To the birthday girl, Lila. The most gorgeous girl I’ve ever laid eyes on. Here’s to you!"

Matt and Avery erupted into cheers, and Avery playfully nudged Lila, who felt her cheeks warm under Alex’s bold praise. He clinked his glass against hers.

"To Lila!" Matt echoed, raising his glass, and Avery followed suit, laughing and sipping her champagne.

After indulging in the food and drinks, they returned to the dance floor, where the alcohol continued to fuel their fun. Lila and Avery danced together, spinning and laughing, while the boys excused themselves politely, promising to be back soon.

Lila watched with interest as they joined another group of people to talk business in the VIP lounge that overlooked the dance floor.

Suddenly, Avery stiffened mid-dance. Her nostrils flared as she inhaled deeply. "Lila," she said "I can smell something… it’s faint, but I know it’s him. My mate is nearby."

Excitement surged through Lila as she followed Avery, her friend moving with purpose as she tried to track the elusive scent. But just as they were weaving through the crowd, Lila froze. A familiar scent hit her senses.

No, she thought, panic rising in her chest.

She turned, and her eyes locked on Derek as he walked into the room like he owned the place, flanked by two of his warriors.

Their imposing figures, tattoos running down their necks, exuded danger. The entire room seemed to hush at his arrival, the staff visibly tense and nervous in his presence.

Lila’s heart pounded in her chest as Derek’s gaze scanned the room. She ducked and started to walk through the crowd, hoping he would not see her.

She had to get out of here! Her panic kicked into overdrive when she realized Avery had disappeared.