Chapter 3

I took a deep breath, waiting for Lucian's answer.

But he just chuckled. "Silly girl, it really is you. That's not a mole on her neck; it's just a smudge of paint."

I was speechless for a moment.

He continued, "We grew up together. I've always treated you better than any other girl."

His words made my heart soften slightly.

He really had been good to me once.

During the pack's warrior training, he always personally taught me combat techniques.

When I was sick, he would personally bring the medicine to my lips.

And because I hated the bitter taste, he always had a candy ready for me afterward.

Even in my first life, the wedding he gave me was legendary.

The entire hall was a sea of ten thousand lilies, simply because my scent was lily.

Such a kind person... I still don’t understand when he had changed.

The sudden ache in my throat pulled me back to reality.

I rubbed my nose, my voice muffled. "Lucian, if you truly wanted to marry me, why didn't you write my name on the engagement agreement?"

Lucian paused slightly, then continued. "Aria, everyone in the pack knows you and Selene have been fighting over me for years. I didn't write your name to spare her feelings; she's your sister, after all. I never thought you'd misunderstand me because of it and refuse out of spite."

The truth was, both Lucian and I knew Selene didn't really care for Lucian. What she loved was the thrill of competing with me. When we were little, it was about toys, clothes, and our parents' affection. As we grew up, she started going after anyone I showed interest in.

My moment of distraction made Lucian think I was wavering.

He didn't miss a beat. "So, Aria, I've made up my mind. It's always been you I wanted to marry. We'll get officially engaged in three days. Once we're married, I'll make you your favorite cinnamon apple pie every day. How does that sound?"

I looked at his sincere expression, fighting back tears, and choked out, "Okay, I'll give you one more chance. But let's skip the engagement ceremony. Selene would be heartbroken if she knew. Just come and marry me directly in three days."

Lucian let out a long sigh of relief, his face showing the expression of someone who had lost something precious and then found it again.

Back home, Selene and Mom, Evelyn, were stunned when they heard the full story.

Selene, uncharacteristically, didn't argue with me. Instead, she slapped me.

"Aria, snap out of it! You're still going to marry a man like that? Haven't you suffered enough in your first life?!"

For the first time, I didn't get angry with Selene. Instead, I calmly ran my hand over the wedding dress. "Marrying him is a must. But the bride won't be me..."