After the embarrassing incident earlier that afternoon, I did not encounter Cander’s two sisters or the two beautiful women who had participated in my pranks. I was with my aunt, browsing wedding dresses at one of the renowned boutiques in the city. Lathan and Harry were also occupied with choosing suits, while Cander appeared to be enjoying a conversation with the boutique's owner.

They seemed to be very close, though the boutique owner was unaware that Cander was a werewolf. If he knew Cander was a mythical creature, he would likely be terrified. I was drawn to one elegant dress that was both simple and classic, catching my eye immediately.

My aunt continued to explore, now examining various bridal accessories. I was somewhat surprised by the sudden wedding plans that Lathan and my aunt had made. Nonetheless, they appeared very compatible, having been lovers separated for a long time and now reunited.

I glanced at my aunt, who was being embraced by Lathan as they smiled at each other. Suddenly, my heart raced when a pair of strong hands took hold of my left hand. It was Cander, who smiled sweetly while kissing my forehead.

“Do you like the dress, sweetheart?” he asked, looking down at the garment.

“I do, but it’s too long. I’m short!” I replied honestly.

“Just buy it. We can shorten it a bit,” Cander suggested. While it was worth considering, I felt hesitant about altering such a beautiful dress.

“It might not look as pretty after it’s altered,” I said, touching the soft fabric.

“It will still be beautiful! After all, it’s for my future wife,” he teased.

I cast a brief glance at him.

“No, I was serious. I’m telling the truth,” he responded, hugging me once more.

“C...Cander, let me go. I’m shy,” I protested, feeling uncomfortable.

“Why are you shy? Lathan and your aunt are just fine with it. You’ll need to get used to it. After we’re married, I’ll do more than just this,” Cander’s words made my cheeks flush, as though smoke were coming out of my ears.

“You’re a pervert,” I sneered.

“Hey, Cander. That girl might suffocate if you hold her too tight,” a man’s voice interrupted, causing Cander to scowl in irritation.

“Shut up or I’ll tear your mouth off!” Cander’s voice turned cold, indicating his displeasure.

“I’m just giving a friendly warning. Also, I’d like to introduce myself to the young lady behind you,” the man, who acted with an air of elegance, pushed Cander aside. Though the push was significant, it had a minimal impact.

“You really meant to push me?” Cander said, shaking his head slowly.

“Of course. Just because you’re strong doesn’t mean I lack power. Don’t underestimate me,” the man retorted.

“Hello, sweet lady. My name is Bobby. I am Cander’s uncle. My nephew can be quite cruel and heartless. His behavior saddens me,” Bobby said dramatically, making me suppress a laugh.

“S-so, this uncle is Cander’s uncle?” I asked, still in disbelief.

“Yes, I bet you didn’t expect that. I look younger than Cander, right? He tends to get angry and bossy. You know, being an Alpha, he likes to be in charge,” Bobby whispered, and I couldn’t help but chuckle.

“Uncle, I heard everything!” Cander’s irritated voice cut in.

“Haha, I’m just kidding, nephew. Don’t be so serious,” Uncle Bobby’s demeanor changed instantly, and he embraced me.

“Uncle, take your hand off my wife,” Cander’s voice was now stern.

I felt the man who was hugging me shudder, then he quickly returned to his normal state.

“You’re always so emotional. It’s not good for your health,” Uncle Bobby said, withdrawing his hand from my back.

“Then I’ll attend to another bride,” he said, quickly changing the subject and walking away.

“Cander, why are you angry?” I asked, puzzled, observing his annoyed expression.

“I don’t like seeing any man touching you, even if it’s my own family!” His words sounded more like an absolute command than a mere statement.

“Cander, you can’t be like that. Uncle Bobby is your uncle, so he will also be my uncle,” I replied, mustering the courage to stroke his right cheek.

“Remember, I don’t like other men touching you,” Cander said, taking my hand and kissing my forehead once more.

“Okay,” I replied softly.

“Darling, we’ll be married in about two days,” Cander said suddenly, looking into my eyes.

“Isn’t it too soon?” I asked nervously, afraid of angering him.

“You don’t like it?” Cander’s voice grew colder, reigniting my fear.

I closed my eyes, trying to calm my racing heart and overcome my fear. “It’s not that, honey. I’m just worried about disrupting your work. You’ve been very busy lately,” I said, noticing Cander’s face light up as he looked at me.

“Honey, you’re awake. What did you say earlier?” he asked eagerly.

“I said sa…” I realized what I had just said.

“Sa… sa? What, dear? Let’s continue!” Cander urged, asking me to repeat myself.

“B-b-baby!” I replied nervously.

“Anyway, we’re getting married in two days, no more or less. No excuses,” Cander ordered.

I smiled at his stubbornness. “Yes, we’re getting married,” I agreed.

“I’ll handle all the arrangements,” he said, raising and lowering his eyebrows.

“Hey, darling. Aunt and Lathan will be going home with Harry. If you want to leave early, that’s fine. Just take it slow on the motorbike and don’t drive fast,” my aunt warned.

“Yes, Aunt. Let’s go!” Cander took my hand and led me out of the boutique.

Bobby shook his head at Cander’s exaggerated response to a man looking at me. Cander didn’t hesitate to confront anyone who dared to look at me, even though merely looking was a common occurrence.

“Cander, where are we going?” I asked.

“Shall we eat first?” he suggested.

I smiled. “Okay,” and I climbed onto the motorbike, with Cander driving slowly.

---

Later that night.

Cander’s POV.

I stood by the window in my room, enjoying the serene night. My guards kept watch as I smiled, remembering the first time Vina and I met. However, one thing still troubled me.

Past events continued to disturb my sleep. I worried about what might happen to Vina or if William’s threat would come true. Each night, I checked the palace’s security and often woke up to watch Vina as she slept peacefully.

**Flashback**

When I was younger and not yet an Alpha, I was exploring the forest with my bodyguards and beta. My wolf instincts guided me as I ran joyfully, ignoring the calls of my guards.

I ran with all my might, leaping over ravines and through dense trees. Eventually, I heard a little girl crying, but there was no scent of human blood—only that of a vampire. Black tried to warn me that it might be a trap, but in the desolate forest, who else could be around? I followed the sound, the forest growing darker as the cries faded.

I found a little girl, her knee bleeding and her pain evident. She noticed my presence, and her crying intensified. I shifted to my human form, and her fear turned to calm as she smiled and wiped away her tears. I approached her gently.

**Return**

A small hand hugged me from behind. Vina’s soft voice and breath were comforting, dispelling my negative thoughts and replacing them with tranquility.

“What are you thinking?” she asked.

“No… I’m just scared!” I replied, stroking her hands around my waist.

“Afraid of what?” she inquired, intrigued.

“Afraid that someone might hurt you,” I admitted, looking into her eyes with intensity.

“Don’t be afraid. You’ll always be there for me, right?” she asked, trying to reassure me.

“Of course, I’ll always be there for you,” I replied with resolve.