Kill me. Kill me right now, goddess Maya! Sabrina screamed inside her head. That's it! I'm going to have to go and live in a cave.

Sabrina wanted to jump out of the car and die under the truck racing next to them. Painful and fast was the type of death she wanted, because right now, in the car next to Gabriel, she was choking on her own humiliation.

What incredible dumb-luck she had, that she asked Gabriel to zip up her dress. And not only that, she was on the floor looking for her shoe with her butt in the air.

If there was any moment where she wanted to smack her head on the wall and bleed, it was now... and that other time, but no one spoke of that other time.

Instead of being cool and posh, Sabrina made a complete fool of herself in front of the one person that she needed to leave a good impression on.

"You're quiet," observed Gabriel.

Sabrina knew that her cheeks were red from embarrassment. But she tried as hard as she could to give Gabriel the impression that she wasn't. "I was just-" she motioned towards her head- "in here."

Gabriel glanced towards her with his hand resting on top of the steering-wheel. "Did something happen?" he asked.

She shook her head. "No... well," she fumbled and wondered if she should bring it up, but who cared at this point. "I'm sorry about earlier. I didn't know you were in my room."

Gabriel's lips lifted into a small grin, like he was amused again by what happened earlier. "Don't worry about it," he said. "Besides, I enjoyed the show."

Sabrina's mouth dropped open. "That wasn't my intention," she mumbled.

"I know," he bemused. "Although, I couldn't help but tease you a little."

Sabrina studied his undying handsome side profile. "Even when I was on the floor looking for my shoe?"

He smirked. "Even then."

She shook her head. "I'm sure that wasn't a pretty sight," she added.

Gabriel chuckled. "I don't think there's anything you can do that's unsightly," he said. "You're way too beautiful."

Sabrina's heart skipped a beat.

Sabrina had been declared beautiful by the fashion industry and millions of fans. But there was an entirely different sensation hearing that she was 'beautiful' from Gabriel. There was something about this man that made her head spin in circles. At times like this, he was well-natured man who loved to eat with his family and he trained with his pack. But then there was a side to him, that was ruthless and powerful. A side that was feared by others, but it was also admired by his friends and enemies alike.

Last night when he had visited her home, she was caught off guard by his unexpected visit because she never expected him to be the type do anything on impulse. But there he was, on her front doorstep, ready to lay everything out that was in his heart. Sabrina never would have thought in a million years, that a man like Gabriel Centauri would have opened up to her. She was swept into a glimpse of his past, and all she realized was that Gabriel walked through a harsh and dangerous life full of struggle. Nothing broke him. Instead, he used that pain and built himself to become an alpha-male worthy of the Centauri throne.

Gabriel had shared everything from his childhood to her. His father and the darker parts of his job. He also shared the weakness of the Centauri pack when Robert was alpha, which probably wasn't easy for him to do.

Sabrina wasn't surprised when he told her that his work dealt with a darker side that the public knew nothing about. In fact, she suspected that it would have been strange if he wasn't in any sketchy business. However, despite those factors, he was an honourable man in her eyes. Gabriel took care of his family and made sure to protect his siblings, even if it was from their own father.

Not everyone has the guts to do that. But Gabriel beat all the odds and he conquered a throne all for himself. Although, it appeared that there wasn't any throne before Gabriel. The Centauri pack respected Gabriel to the point that they handed him the mantle. They all chose Gabriel as their guardian to protect them. Now, that was power.

As they drove down the various streets, Sabrina wondered why he decided to come to her last night. She was glad because that meant Gabriel took their bond seriously, which was a relief to her. After he had left, she sat on the couch not confused or lost by what he told her, but more focused on what to do next.

She barely slept because all she thought about and felt was him. Gabriel left her last night with his strong, luscious scent all over her house. He had come to her looking devilish in black, that never looked better on anyone else. His broad shoulders stretched the denim jacket- that she didn't even need to say how sinful it looked on Gabriel.

She was glad that he didn't ask how his jacket reached her bedroom, because it was the only thing keeping her from losing her mind. His dark scent was all over the jacket, so she couldn't help herself. It comforted her and her wolf. She was embarrassed to admit that she wore the denim jacket, which flooded her from the sheer size, but she found the charm of that too.

Sabrina had never experienced the fluttering sensation in her gut to point where her heart would burst. But last night, that was all she was feeling with Gabriel even after he was long gone. Sabrina had no clue how to handle a mate, although she wouldn't call this a 'mating' still, since none of them marked the other yet. This was uncharted territory for Sabrina and her wolf. Mating with a man was completely new to her and a first for her wolf. And it wasn't just any wolf chosen for her by goddess Maya; it was Gabriel. The only man, that tied her up in knots simply because she stole a glimpse of his molten gold eyes.

For the rest of the ride, she promised not to embarrass herself anymore because she was sure that she reached her quota for the day. But who was she kidding with that promise.

They reached the same tall metal gates from yesterday. This time though Sabrina saw the vastness of the daunting metal fences that surrounded the entire property. Two tall turrets were positioned on each side of the entrance, with cameras at every angle and some were definitely hidden in the trees.

"Security's really tight around here," she said.

"It has to be if I want to keep my pack safe," Gabriel told her.

Sabrina motioned towards the four visible cameras, that were just on her side alone. "But those many cameras," she said. "It's seems a bit much, especially since this place is very well hidden."

"Try telling my security team that," he said with amusement in his voice. "The extra cameras and face scanners were all River, Azura and Hunter's idea."

Sabrina recalled Gabriel's dangerous security team and understood what Gabriel was referring to. "You have a capable team by your side," she said as the gates opened and Gabriel drove through them. Through the side-mirror, she saw them close immediately too.

"I sure do," he said. "Just like you have Helen."

"Helen?" she said.

Gabriel nodded. "I talked to her before I went to your bedroom. I could see her loyalty for you," he said.

"Just from one discussion?"

"I didn't even need to talk to her," said Gabriel. "She may not be a wolf, but it's clear that she'll do anything to protect you."

Sabrina smiled warmly. "She sure would."

After the long path, they entered the massive area where other vehicles were orderly parked. Gabriel parked his car near an elegant castle that must be the Centauri Institute. Sabrina jumped out of the car with excitement humming through her body. She hadn't even realized when she walked up to the bustling, beautiful building. Even through the closed doors, Sabrina could hear muffled voices and movement.

"When was this school founded?" she asked Gabriel, who was lagging behind her.

"Five years ago," he answered.

She arrived on top of the concrete stairs before the double doors. "That's pretty recent," she said. "I thought it'd be longer than that."

"The idea behind the school was mostly Klaus," said Gabriel. "After he graduated college, this project was able to begin under his supervision."

Sabrina smile broadened. "So, Klaus was the brains," she remarked. "You just gave the money."

"Er-" Gabriel was stumped.

Sabrina laughed at him. "Did I just leave the great alpha speechless?" she remarked with mischief winking in her gaze.

Gabriel tilted his head. "You think I'm great?" he retorted wickedly.

"Er-" she froze this time.

Gabriel moved around her, his arm brushed hers sending a jolt through her body. He politely held the massive steel door open for her. "After you," he smiled.

Sabrina swallowed the blush that crept up her cheeks and he followed her inside. They left the hot and humid heat behind them when they walked into the building.

Sabrina stood facing a long white hallway, each side had tall blue lockers. High doors cut between each hall dividing the area. "What can be more nostalgic than walking around in school hallways?" she chuckled looking around the school.

Gabriel smiled too. "I know what you mean," he said. "I think classes are still on-" Gabriel looked down at his watch- "Klaus and Hailey were supposed to join us."

"I don't want impose on their work," Sabrina said. "I can just look around myself."

"They don't think like that," he interrupted her. "Besides, those two were the most excited to show you the entire school. So, I would humour them if I were you."

A soft ringing interrupted them. Gabriel pulled out his cellphone and answered his call.

Sabrina noted the change in his demeanour instantly. The ease had left and it was replaced with a blazing intensity. Typically, when one answered a call, they would turn away or answer it discreetly. But not Gabriel, he faced her and kept his strict gaze on her the whole time.

Sabrina was the one who looked away. She pretended to study the posters on a bulletin wall, that was advertising sport events and there was a carnival coming up.

"Klaus is in the gym," Gabriel spoke behind her.

"Gym," her voice detected thrill. Sabrina turned his way. "Let's go."

The school was for kids, but the ceilings were high that even her model height felt short. Gabriel led her down a couple of hallways where she was able to see tons of classes full of students. They were seated at their desks and the teacher at the front near the board.

Sabrina's lips lifted warmly. Her heart leaped with joy upon seeing all the young kids in a warm and safe place. They learned new things every day from people who truly cared for their well-being. Sabrina had wished the same for someone to care of her at their age.

"What's wrong?" asked Gabriel.

Sabrina looked away from the glass window, that showcased the classroom. "Huh?" she heard his deep voice but didn't put the words together.

Gabriel's frown deepened. "What happened?" he repeated. "You looked sad all of a sudden."

Sabrina was taken aback that he noticed the slightest change in her so fast, but so did she when it came to him. Maybe they weren't so different after all. "I never had what these kids have," she pointed towards the class. "No one stopped me when I dropped out because no one cared about me. But at this school, it feels like a family and I always wished I had that too."

Gabriel's eyes hadn't shown her pity or remorse, instead he stared at her with immense strength that it reminded her of her own. There was never a moment where Gabriel made her feel weak for sharing her feelings. He didn't say anything and she was glad because she didn't want some sappy line at the moment. Gabriel understood that more than anyone. He simply let his actions speak for him, which was always the case. He put his arm around her waist, that simple act was like an indestructible pillar for her. Sabrina leaned into him and they walked down the hall together. His warmth was hotter than fire and she was melting like ice.

Sabrina could hear the distinct sound of shoes squeaking on a floor, mixed in were loud and cheerful voices. It was clear that they were near the gymnasium. They turned the last corner to wide double doors, that had bright light filling the entire space.

The ceilings were high up to the sky and the windows that circled the gym supplied ample light. The florescent lights beamed down on the glossy beige floor. Gabriel sauntered inside and she followed. Her eager eyes that were excited to explore had spotted a group of boys playing a rowdy game of basketball. It was clear that all the boys in the gym were senior students from their tall heights and healthy physique.

"Sabrina," a honey-glazed voice called out for her attention.

She turned her head towards the voice, that could only belong to Gabriel's youngest brother. "Good morning, Klaus," she smiled.

Klaus smiled back. "It's nice that you could make it today," he said. "Hailey's on her way as well."

"Is she feeling okay?" she asked remembering that the woman was newly pregnant. "Shouldn't she be resting."

"Yeah, try telling her that," Klaus chuckled. "Hunter already attempted and failed to keep her home."

Sabrina laughed with Klaus. "She's like me in that matter. I can't stay home for too long either," she shared. "And I would never give up my work for anything-"

"That's what I've been saying-" a voice interrupted.

Sabrina turned and found Hailey. The young woman looked rather radiant in casual blue jeans and a lace-detailed pink blouse. Her red hair loosely hanging behind her.

"Where's Hunter?" Gabriel asked Hailey.

"He's with Azura and the rest of the squad," she told him. "It's so nice to see you again, Sabrina." Hailey's silvery-blue gaze smiled up at Sabrina.

"Hey, how are you feeling?" Sabrina asked.

"Better than ever," said Hailey.

Some students that were on the benches rushed over to greet Gabriel as soon as they realized he had arrived. It was clear as day that he was their idol. They were star struck just by looking at him alone. The students were all comfortable and kind to their alpha. Gabriel wasn't rude nor was he strict with any of them- he even knew all of their names by heart. This man couldn't get any more perfect... right?

"You go-"

"No, you go-"

"You're both being so lame-"

"Then why don't you go, jackass!"

Sabrina, Klaus and Hailey all turned to find the group of boys that were playing basketball a few moments ago gathered behind Sabrina.

Sabrina's lips crept into a smile when she realized that all the boys were blushing like spring flowers, so vibrant and endearing. "Hi," she said surprising them. All of their different coloured eyes and cute faces gaped at her in awe.

Hailey snickered. "It seems Gabriel's not the only one that can leave them amazed," she remarked.

"Boys, that's enough," Klaus urged the class to stop gaping at Sabrina.

"You're the Sabrina Sinclair, right?" One of the taller boys asked boldly.

Sabrina smiled that her dimples showed, which answered their question. "I sure am," she said. "It's nice to meet all of you."

The boys' uproar grew louder. Their voices boomed in the gym as they hollered to more of their friends. They were eager to get her autograph and probably a photo too. But then, a sudden dark aura submerged the boys to freeze in their spot. It was Gabriel looking rather ominous. Their alpha loomed beside all the boys, which startled the students to shut their loud mouths.

"Don't you boys have a game to play," gritted out Gabriel. Sabrina spotted Hailey and Klaus snickering behind Gabriel.

"Not until we introduce ourselves," said the tallest with sharp but kind hazel eyes. "I'm Leo and this is Dante and that's Levi and his brother Jake."

The boy next to Leo who was Dante had silver hair, his eyes blazing amber and he seemed more intense than the two brothers, Levi and Jake. They had dark red hair and cool grey eyes, the two looked almost identical. Sabrina guessed that the two were fraternal twins, expect Levi had a longer hair, which was pulled back in a bun.

Sabrina found Leo, the light brunette-haired student quite charming. "It's very nice to meet all of you," she matched their excitement in her own voice. "I would love to talk to all of you. But I need to see the rest of the school first."

The students looked at each other's faces.

"We have a great school," said Dante.

"And the cafeteria's just on the way out," said another student who had bright blond hair and big blue eyes.

"That's John and his mind is always on food," remarked Leo.

Klaus stepped in when more of them gathered. "Okay, all of you need to get changed and head to your next class," he instructed. All the students' groaned loudly, but they complied to their teacher's direct order without any complaint. Sabrina knew that none of them had the heart to cause Klaus any trouble.

"Should we go?" asked Gabriel beside Sabrina.

She noticed that she was smiling with all her teeth, when she saw the students behaving nothing more than just simple high school boys. "They're delightful," she mumbled.

"More like a handful," remarked Hailey. "When those boys get together, they cause quite the ruckus for poor Klaus."

"And their wolves are even more psychotic," added Gabriel.

Hailey laughed. "Their wolves are more like puppies than predators," she said. "Not a day goes by when those boys don't fight it out-"

"Fight?" astonished Sabrina with an alarmed expression. She didn't take these kids to be the ones to fight. In fact, they looked like they all protected and cared for one another.

"You'll see what I'm talking about," said Hailey. "This pack holds quite the show."

Sabrina looked at Gabriel confused. Except he was grinning at his sister-in-law, like he knew exactly what Hailey spoke of so proudly.

The school bell rang and the hallways filled with students who orderly headed to their next class. They all noticed Gabriel standing with Sabrina, so they made sure to greet them both before they left.

Sabrina was escorted through the entire school. She simply adored the great hall, that had long study tables and arched windows for plenty of light when kids studied or relaxed. There was a library and computer-lab, which was included next to the cafeteria. Following the swimming pool was a cozy courtyard that was a dream to hang out for everyone. It was definitely where everyone gathered when classes were over.

Sabrina was blown away by the Institute. Klaus and Hailey were informed about anything and everything. They answered all of Sabrina's questions without trouble. Many of the other teachers at the Institute joined them too. They shared their collective ideas to expand the school, so they could help more kids. Sabrina approved of that idea with all her heart.

Gabriel managed to bring these extraordinary wolves together to build such a wonderful place. Sabrina had no idea that so many wolves were working so hard to improve the lives of their kin. None of this was used to be called great or honourable. It was simply because Gabriel and his family were genuinely good people, who thought of helping others rather than destroying them.

They returned to the front entrance of the school at the end of the tour. Gabriel was called away by Hunter who needed his alpha's attention. Sabrina was kind of sad that she was leaving so soon. She had a lot of fun today with Gabriel and his pack.

"Oh right, Sabrina, we're holding a carnival here tomorrow," said Klaus. "Would you like to join us?"

"A carnival," said Sabrina.

Hailey clapped her hands together. "It'll be so much fun if you do."

"But this is for your pack, I don't want to impose," mumbled Sabrina.

Klaus and Hailey shared a smile. "We'd love to have you," said Klaus.

Sabrina's heart was giddy. She found no need to deny the invitation, since more than anything, she wanted to join them again. "I would love to then," she said.

"The carnival starts at four o'clock sharp and make sure to come with a large appetite because we all cook a mean barbecue," said Hailey.

"Gabriel can pick you up again," suggested Klaus.

"Oh, there's no need to bother him. I'll just drive here," Sabrina said. "Besides, I think Gabriel has more important things to do than pick me up from my house."

Hailey shook her head. "There is nothing more important to him than you," she said.

Sabrina's eyes widened. "Hold on, do all of you know about the-" she stiffened in her shoes.

Hailey and Klaus shared a look. "We knew about the bond right after the gala," stated Klaus.

Sabrina looked between Hailey's warm silver eyes and Klaus's green gaze. "I don't want you guys to think that I'm taking an interest in the school because of Gabriel," she said.

"We knew that already too," said Klaus.

Hailey laid her hand on Sabrina's arm. "We love that you came by," she said. "And I know for sure, that all of the students won't be able to sleep for three days knowing that they met you in person."

Sabrina chuckled with Hailey and Klaus. "I also wanted to give this to you-" Sabrina reached within her purse and pulled out a slip of paper. That had been prepared earlier this morning when Helen arrived to her house. "I want to do anything in my power to help all those young wolves. And now, that I've seen this Institute for myself, I can see all of your hard work poured into it."

Klaus grabbed the paper knowing exactly what the small slip of paper was before grabbing it. "This is a cheque-" his voice fell.

Hailey leaned over and gaped at the number. "Shit! Five million-" she gaped at Sabrina.

"I was already going to give it. But then you told me that you guys want to expand the school," said Sabrina. "I would love to be a part of that, and if money is how I can help, then that's what I'll provide."

Klaus frowned. "Are you sure?" he asked carefully. "This is a very big amount, Sabrina."

She shook her head. "It's nothing compared to how much you all do to help those kids," she said.

"Why'd you give this to me instead of Gabriel?" asked Klaus.

"Because it's clear to me that Gabriel trusts you with the school," she said. "And I know now that I can too, with my money that is."

Klaus green eyes brightened like his smile. "This is beyond what I imagined. Thank you," he said.

"I'll see you guys tomorrow," said Sabrina.

Sabrina had only pushed open the door when she bumped into a hard surface. "Oh, sorry-" she looked up into golden eyes, that had dark lashes circling them. "Gabriel." His arm circled around her waist, which kept her from moving back. Her legs brushed his and she was sure that her cheeks flushed a bright red.

"Did I take too long?" asked Gabriel softly for her ears only.

She shook her head. "I just finished with Klaus and Hailey."

Gabriel's gold eyes were brighter than the sunset directly behind him. "I'll drop you home," he said. He moved away from her and instantly the fire in her body diminished. She followed him down the concrete stairs towards his car.

Sabrina didn't understand why any car ride with Gabriel was so quick. Time slipped past through her fingers like it was as thin as water. She held on but she never quite caught it. Sabrina got out of the car to the front of her house. Gabriel always escorted her from his car to her front door. He didn't need to, he could have just left, but he never did.

"Do you have work after this?" she asked him.

Gabriel jaw was tightly locked as he watched her with his intense eyes. "Yes. I need to drop by my company before I go home," he told her. "Why? Did you need me for something?"

Sabrina bit her tongue from letting the words she wanted to say out. "No," she managed to stay composed and not outright ask Gabriel to a date for lunch. "Thank you for showing me the Institute today-" Sabrina leaned forward on her toes. She reached up and kissed Gabriel's cheek- "It was more extraordinary than I ever imagined."

Gabriel was caught off guard by the chaste kiss. "It was my pleasure," his voice grew rough.

Sabrina wiped the bit of lip-gloss left on his cheek. "I'll see you tomorrow at the carnival," she smiled warmly.

She moved back but he closed the space. But Sabrina didn't let him tease her. She unlocked her front door and protected herself. "Have a great day," she jested. Gabriel raised a brow at her mocking tone. "But not such a great day since I'm not with you anymore, right?" she grinned waiting for his response.

"I'll try my best," he retorted.

Sabrina watched him turn on his heel and saunter off her front porch. She shook her head before she closed the door behind her after he was long gone. Excited and ready for tomorrow, Sabrina went to a photoshoot with Helen. She was eager to meet Gabriel again and spend the day at a carnival with the entire Centauri wolf pack.