Sylvester 'Sylver' Stanton vs. Enzo Jilani

Pix: The two lovebirds

Video: The Best by Tina Turner

Dedicated to: javeen9411

Cheers!

***

"Enzo..." The name was whispered in a hushed tone... almost to the point of being inaudible. Enzo didn't turn around.

For Sylver, the mouthwatering aroma that filled the room barely registered. He didn't care what Enzo was cooking. Yes, he admired how his impossibly sexy mate casually commanded the kitchen like it was the most natural thing in the world, but in that instant, all Sylver needed was Enzo's arms around him.

"Are you planning to stare all night?" Enzo murmured, his voice husky as he turned off the flame beneath the pan. Then, he turned to face Sylver. The teasing in his eyes vanished the moment he saw his mate's face. "What is wrong?" he breathed, the concern in his voice unmistakable. He was standing before Sylver in a heartbeat.

"What?" Sylver whispered, frowning in confusion as he took in Enzo's distressed expression. He couldn't understand the sudden shift. His own mind was still reeling from the flood of emotions coursing through him.

Enzo's eyes roved over his mate, searching for answers, his usual calm replaced with urgency. "You're..." Enzo began to speak, but the words caught in his throat as realization hit him... Sylver had no idea his face was wet with tears. Enzo wondered what was going on. "Come here, baby," he murmured, his voice softening as he gently pulled Sylver into his arms.

Enzo hugged Sylver tightly, rubbing his back in slow, soothing circles. There was no need for words-none could capture the depth of how much they had missed each other. In that moment, words would have only felt hollow. Instead, they held on, clinging to the quiet strength only the other could offer. In no time, their mouths blindly sought each other's until they finally met in a kiss that was as tender as it was passionate. Enzo's intent was to connect with Sylver on a profound emotional level, hoping to distract him from his troubles and envelop him in a moment of blissful escape.

With a heated moan, Sylver took control, kissing Enzo with the fervor of a man starved, each movement infused with raw, desperate longing. The kiss felt like fire... intense, consuming, a spark that ignited every untamed hunger and left the vampire breathless. Enzo's knees weakened under the onslaught as if the ground itself was shifting beneath him. He wondered how he'd endured the past weeks without Sylver's kisses, his taste. The sensation of Sylver's lips on his, the heat between them, the way their bodies moved together... it was everything Enzo had missed. He surrendered to the moment, completely at Sylver's mercy.

Neither of them wanted the kiss to end, but it had to end at some point. Slowly, they pulled back, their foreheads resting against each other, breathing in the shared air between them. The moment lingered, thick with emotion, as if time had slowed just for them.

"What are you doing back?" Sylver finally broke the silence, his voice rough with unspoken emotions.

"Want me to go back?" Enzo murmured teasingly, tilting his head back to meet Sylver's gaze.

Sylver didn't answer with words. He simply shook his head, pulling Enzo into another embrace, tighter this time, as if the very idea of letting go was impossible.

"I've missed you so much," Sylver whispered. "I didn't see your car out front." His voice carried a hint of curiosity.

"I parked out back," Enzo replied, pressing a kiss against Sylver's lips. "How was work?" His tone was laced with a quiet, genuine concern.

"A baby died," Sylver said, his voice tinged with quiet anguish.

Enzo's grip on Sylver tightened ever so slightly, a silent gesture of comfort. "I'm so sorry," he murmured, his words heavy with empathy.

"I got there too late," Sylver admitted, his voice breaking under the strain. "I couldn't save it."

Enzo's gaze softened, his grip steady and grounding. "Sometimes... sometimes the outcome isn't in our hands, no matter how much we wish it were. What matters is your efforts and how much you care," he said, his voice low but firm, carrying the weight of reassurance. "I'm here for you." He added softly.

"Thank you," Sylver said, the tension easing as he held onto the one person who made everything feel right again.

"Hungry?"

"No, but you looked sexy as hell behind that stove," Sylver murmured, his tone carrying a faint hint of playfulness.

"Oh, you think that's sexy? Wait until you see what I can do inside a kitchen besides cooking," Enzo murmured with a cocky grin, his tone laced with mischief, clearly aiming to coax a laugh out of Sylver.

"And the modesty is just a bonus," Sylver chuckled.

Enzo laughed. "Do you have to work tomorrow?"

"No."

"Good." Enzo leaned in, planting a quick kiss on Sylver's lips before stepping back. "I need to make a quick call. Put what I prepped in the fridge," he instructed.

"Did I say I was done holding you?" Sylver growled, then chuckled when Enzo swatted him on the butt in response. His eyes followed the vampire in admiration as he moved away, lingering for a moment before shifting toward the stove. "Let's see what you've whipped up..."

It was an omelette-golden and fluffy, filled with cheese, veggies, and bits of pancetta. Sylver nodded appreciatively, reaching for a fork. With a happy hum, he dug in, impressed by the simple but delicious meal before him.

By the time Enzo reentered the kitchen, the omelette was almost finished. "You've got to be kidding me," Enzo chuckled, eyeing the empty pan. "I thought you said you weren't hungry."

Sylver grinned, licking his lips. "Couldn't resist it. If there ever was a sensational omelette, this is it. Thank you."

"Anytime," Enzo murmured, watching as Sylver washed the pan and fork.

"Fancy a trip?" Enzo asked casually.

Sylver turned, eyebrows raised in curiosity. "Where?"

"What do you care?" Enzo shrugged, a sly smile creeping onto his face. "You'll love it."

"When?" Sylver's intrigue grew.

"Now," Enzo said, stepping close and wrapping his arms around Sylver's waist.

"What..."

"Have a problem with that?" Enzo's voice carried a barely veiled challenge.

Sylver hesitated for a second, then shook his head. "No."

"Good." Enzo's tone softened just slightly. "Now, turn off the lights," Enzo instructed.

"My phone, Enzo..."

"Leave it," Enzo murmured, his voice soft but firm. "Lights." He leaned in to bury his face against Sylver's neck, dropping tiny kisses on the skin.

Sylver shivered as excitement slithered through him. "Enzo..." he moaned, his eyes fluttering shut in pleasure even as all the lights indoors went out.

They were standing in the dark kitchen, with Enzo's arms wrapped loosely around Sylver, his lips sending delicious shivers down his spine. Sylver's thoughts raced, wondering what might happen if there was an emergency or if his parents tried to reach him, given that Enzo had instructed him to leave his phone behind. Then, out of nowhere, Enzo said something that left him utterly stunned.

"You have my permission to read my mind."

"What?" Sylver blinked, convinced he'd heard wrong. He tilted Enzo's head back to look in his eyes.

"I want you in my head," Enzo repeated. "Take us to the location I'm thinking of, right now."

"Are you sure about this?" Sylver breathed, barely able to believe that Enzo, of all people, would allow such an intrusion.

"Wouldn't have asked if I wasn't sure, would I?" Enzo shot back, one brow arched in challenge.

Sylver hesitated for a heartbeat before delving into his mate's thoughts. "The hangar," he said, the mental image flashing clearly in his mind. "You want me to take us to the hangar."

"Yep. Take us there." The words were barely out of Enzo's mouth when they materialized at the hangar, surrounded by eight sleek helicopters lined up like soldiers.

"Thanks. Now get the fuck out of my head," Enzo rasped, stepping away from Sylver with a half-smirk.

***

The vast hangar echoed with the low hum of machinery as Enzo led Sylver to the rows of sleek helicopters lined up. Their polished surfaces gleamed under the harsh overhead lights.

"Still not going to tell me where we're going?" Sylver chuckled, his gaze darting from one chopper to the next.

"What's the fun in that?" Enzo quipped, a playful smirk tugging at his lips.

Before Sylver could respond, a man in a neat uniform approached them, his steps brisk and purposeful. "Mr. Jilani," he greeted Enzo with a respectful nod, his eyes briefly flicking to Sylver in polite acknowledgment.

"Tom, is she ready to fly?" Enzo asked, nodding towards a particularly luxurious chopper that seemed to outshine the rest with its lustrous black finish and tinted windows.

"Fully prepped and ready to go, sir," Tom replied promptly, checking his tablet before looking up again. "Weather's clear, and all systems are green. Right this way, gentlemen." He moved toward the chopper.

"Come on," Enzo said, guiding Sylver toward the helicopter, the sound of their footsteps muffled by the plush carpet that lined the path.

Tom held the door open as they climbed aboard, then swiftly ensured they were comfortably seated and their belts secured. "Enjoy your flight," Tom said, giving them a final nod before closing the door gently but firmly. Then, he signaled to the driver of the tug vehicle that was to move the helicopter outside to a designated area to move.

As the rotors began to whirl into life, Sylver turned to Enzo, his pilot for the trip, a mix of excitement and amusement in his eyes. "Why do I still get surprised at the things you do?" He shook his head.

Enzo just smiled, his eyes fixed forward as the chopper lifted smoothly into the sky. "Here we go..."

And then in his usual heart-fluttering style, Enzo whisked Sylver away to a private island for the weekend.

***

Around the time Enzo and Sylver took off, Aurora Jilani had an unexpected visitor-her son's friend, who had never visited her before. She initially found it odd, but he appeared so concerned for Enzo's well-being that she set aside the strangeness of the visit and gave him her unwavering attention.

"He only stopped by briefly and then left," Aurora Jilani explained to Alfredo, who seemed unusually tense.

"Strange," Alfredo murmured, a frown creasing his forehead. "I went to his place, but they said he hadn't been there at all. Are you absolutely sure he didn't mention where he was headed?"

"Positive," Aurora replied. "But knowing Enzo, he'll show up sooner than later."

Alfredo let out a frustrated sigh. "I'm worried, ma'am. With everything that's been happening, we all need to be careful. And Enzo is right at the center of it all, which makes him a target. We need to be sure he's safe."

A flicker of concern crossed Aurora's eyes at Alfredo's words. She finally understood why he seemed so tense.

"You're right," she said, her voice edged with worry. "My brother-in-law is in the States at the moment. Let me reach out to him and see if Enzo's at his place or if he knows where he might be."

But when Aurora called Piero Jilani, he stated that he hadn't seen or heard from his nephew, which left Aurora even more unsettled.

"Who else comes to mind?" Alfredo pressed, frustration evident in his voice. "I've reached out to most of our friends, but no one seems to know where he is."

"Sylver," Aurora breathed, a spark of realization in her eyes. "He's probably with Sylver. In fact, I'm almost certain that's where he went."

"Sylver?" Alfredo frowned, his confusion obvious. "Who is that?"

"Just someone he knows," Aurora replied, her tone guarded, clearly reluctant to divulge more.

"We're not in normal times, ma'am," Alfredo said, his voice tightening with impatience. "Don't you think it's strange that his phone is off? Whoever this Sylver is, can you trust her?"

"It's a him," Aurora corrected.

"Even worse," Alfredo shot back. "Why has no one heard from Enzo since he left to meet this Sylver? And who is this vampire I've never even heard of?"

"Relax, Alfredo," Aurora muttered, grabbing her phone and starting to type. "I'll message my daughter and see if she can reach out to Sylver. I don't have his number."

Alfredo gave a terse nod and resumed pacing, his agitation palpable. He had a promise to keep, and if he failed, he'd be facing Raffaele Bianchi's wrath. The thought of being on the receiving end of that dark magic sent a shiver down his spine-definitely not a fate he was willing to risk.

Aurora messaged her daughter...

Aurora: Hello, darling. Heard from your brother?

Gaia: Which of them?

Aurora: Enzo.

Gaia: He's with Sylver, but I'm not sure where.

Aurora: Thank you.

Turning to Alfredo, Aurora said, "He's with Sylver."

Alfredo's expression didn't soften. "Has this Sylver actually confirmed that?"

"He told his sister he was going to see Sylver," Aurora replied firmly. "If he's with him, then he's safe."

Alfredo's concern didn't waver. "Humor me, ma'am," he said, his voice strained. "Enzo is my friend, and I need to be absolutely sure he's okay. Can we get confirmation from Sylver himself?"

With a sigh, Aurora resumed typing on her phone, determined to get the answers they needed.

Aurora: Honey, can you speak to Sylver and confirm if your brother is with him?

Gaia: Why are you worried, Mother?

Aurora: Well, with all that's going on... I just want to be sure he's safe.

Gaia: You worry too much, lol. Enzo mentioned he'd be unreachable, so I wouldn't be surprised if Sylver's phone is off too. Let me give it a try. Oh, it's ringing, but he's not picking up. Still, I'm sure they're together. So, Enzo is okay.

Aurora: Thank you, baby.

"Enzo is okay," Aurora informed her visitor, a hint of relief in her voice. "Now, will you please stop pacing and sit down before you give me a headache?" She chuckled, gesturing for Alfredo to take a seat.

The younger vampire reluctantly complied, though his expression remained tense. He needed to find out who this Sylver was if he was to proceed with the plan. The group was relying on him.

"I'm glad Sylver confirmed that Enzo is with him," Alfredo muttered, reaching for the drink that Aurora had offered.

"Oh, but he didn't," Aurora corrected with a light laugh. "He didn't pick up when my daughter called. But Enzo did say he'd be with him-"

"Do you have any idea what's really happening, Aurora?" Alfredo interrupted, his voice edged with frustration. "It's a bloodbath out there. How much has your son and the lord command told you?"

Aurora's expression grew serious. "I'm aware of what's going on," she admitted, "but not the gory details."

"It's kill or be killed out there," Alfredo continued, his tone grim. "No one is safe. I don't know this Sylver, so I can't trust him. There are factions forming, and friends are turning against each other. This Sylver-"

"-is a werewolf," Aurora interrupted sharply, cutting him off. Her tone was firm, as though trying to end the discussion. "Sylver is a werewolf. They're not involved in our war, so Enzo is not in any danger being with him. And that's all I'll say on the matter." She already felt she had revealed too much.

"A werewolf?" Alfredo repeated, his voice barely above a whisper. So he hadn't been wrong, he thought. Enzo was indeed in bed with the werewolves. At least now he had a name to go on.

"Can we let this rest?" Aurora's smile was thin and strained. "How is your mother doing?" she asked, deftly changing the subject.

"Err... she's doing great," he answered, though his mind was elsewhere, racing with how to proceed.

Alfredo's top priority at that moment was to report his findings to the team without delay. The information was vital, and if they were going to proceed with their plans to take out the werewolves, every detail mattered. The revelation about Sylver's identity could be the key to gaining the upper hand, as it confirmed that werewolves were clearly in play.

***

The helicopter soared through the night sky, its rotors slicing through the cool air as the city lights below gradually faded into darkness. Soon, the world seemed to shrink away, leaving only the moonlit ocean stretching endlessly beneath them, shimmering like liquid silver.

Enzo didn't just whisk Sylver away-he swept him into a world of pure, unrestrained luxury. The interior of the chopper was a haven of luxury, which Sylver couldn't help but be impressed with. The moment they left the city behind, it felt as though they had crossed a threshold into an entirely different universe. The air itself seemed charged with the promise of something extraordinary, a thrilling anticipation that grew with every passing moment as they soared gracefully above the boundless expanse of ocean blue.

"You could have brought us yourself, so why did you ask me to?" Sylver asked, bobbing his head to Tina Turner's The Best.

"I only move fast," Enzo explained. "All you had to do was blink us here, which is instant. I guess I didn't want to give you whiplash."

Sylver chuckled, the sound warm and rich, as he replayed Enzo's out-of-the-blue request in his mind. It had come out of nowhere, catching him completely off guard-a curveball in the middle of an otherwise ordinary moment. And yet, despite its unexpectedness, there was something undeniably endearing about the way Enzo had delivered it. It lingered in Sylver's thoughts, leaving him both amused and oddly captivated.

They had been flying for about forty minutes, sipping champagne and nibbling on hors d'oeuvres as the darkened world unfolded beneath them. Inside the cockpit, the steady hum of the engine and the rhythmic thrum of the blades created a sense of calm. The journey was smooth and quiet, the only interruptions being the occasional clink of their glasses and the silent, lingering glances they exchanged. The excitement between them was palpable, an unspoken promise crackling in the air.

"Are you okay?" Enzo asked softly, his fingers gently intertwining with Sylver's.

"I am," Sylver replied, his voice barely audible over the steady beat of the helicopter's rotors.

"We'll be landing soon," Enzo informed him, just as the chopper began to dip lower.

As they descended further, the silhouette of a secluded island began to take shape on the horizon, its shores gently kissed by the waves. The island's lights sparkled like tiny jewels, casting an inviting glow over the lush landscape, promising a hidden paradise awaiting their arrival.

"Dayum," Sylver breathed, his gaze fixed on the approaching oasis.

"You haven't seen anything yet," Enzo chuckled.

When they eventually landed, Sylver understood exactly what Enzo had meant. The moment they stepped out of the chopper, he was greeted by the fresh scent of saltwater carried on the gentle breeze and the soft murmur of waves lapping rhythmically against the shore. It was intoxicating. The island looked like a slice of paradise-perfect, untouched, and serene, as though it existed solely for them. No distractions. Just the two of them, hidden away from the world.

"I love it," Sylver murmured, his gaze sweeping over the idyllic landscape.

Enzo smiled as he wrapped an arm around Sylver's waist, pulling him close. "Good, because this weekend is for us. No interruptions. Just me, you, and an entire island," he said, leaning in to press a soft kiss to Sylver's lips before guiding him toward the well-lit path nestled between swaying palm trees. It led to a breathtaking villa, its windows aglow with a warm, welcoming light.

"That's what I'm talking about..." Sylver breathed, taking in the magnificence surrounding them.

"Welcome to paradise," Enzo said, reaching for Sylver's hand.

"It's beautiful," Sylver whispered.

"Yes, very," Enzo replied, though his gaze never left Sylver. The softness in his voice and the way his eyes lingered made it clear-he wasn't talking about the island. His admiration was solely for Sylver, the real beauty in his world.

"Yours?"

"Yep."

Sylver's eyes widened as he took in the secluded villa before them. The architecture was a masterpiece of elegance, with sweeping lines and expansive windows that offered glimpses of the opulent interior. Soft, golden light spilled onto the veranda, where a pristine pool shimmered under the moonlight, framed by a lush tapestry of tropical plants swaying gently in the evening breeze. It was more than a villa-it was a dream made real, surpassing even his most vivid imaginings. It was utterly perfect.

"Are we here alone?" Sylver asked, his gaze drifting to the scattered chalets nestled further from the villa, their silhouettes softened by the night.

"Yep. Everyone's already gone," came the reply as they stepped through the grand doorway, the air inside carrying an inviting warmth.

Inside, the villa was a sensory delight, adorned with fresh flowers and filled with Sylver's favorite things-books lined the shelves, his favorite scents filled the air, and even the wines he loved were set out, ready to enjoy. It was as if the place had been curated just for him.

"Just how long have you been planning this?" Sylver asked, running his fingers over the spines of the books, a mix of curiosity and surprise in his voice.

"From the day I left for Italy," Enzo answered, popping open a bottle of wine and filling two glasses with a practiced hand. "The plan was to spend about two weeks here, though, not just a weekend." He handed Sylver a glass, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "You can forget about those books because you won't be getting any time to read them."

Sylver raised an eyebrow. "Oh, is that right?" he rasped huskily. "Well, I suppose I'll just have to find something-or someone-more entertaining to keep me occupied, then," he smirked.

Enzo clinked his glass against Sylver's, a slow smile spreading across his lips as he took a sip. "To us."

"To us," Sylver echoed, bringing the glass to his lips, his gaze never leaving Enzo's.

Neither could suppress the sly smiles tugging at the corners of their lips. The weekend ahead promised to be deliciously mischievous. And they were more than ready, already buzzing with anticipation.

***

"Wake up," Enzo murmured softly, his voice a tender caress as he scattered gentle kisses across Sylver's face. Each brush of his lips was unhurried, deliberate, as if savoring the closeness, coaxing Sylver from the edges of sleep with an intimacy that spoke louder than words.

"We came to bed just about thirty minutes ago, Enz. Come on," Sylver groaned, his voice muffled as he buried his face deeper into the pillow.

"An hour," Enzo corrected smoothly, leaning closer with an amused smirk.

"Are you shitting me? Did you even sleep?" Sylver squinted one eye open.

"Nope," Enzo admitted with a casual shrug. "Your coffee is ready."

Sylver's senses stirred. "I don't smell just coffee," he murmured, the tantalizing aroma tickling his nose and coaxing his eyes open.

"I like how your nose works," Enzo chuckled, getting off the bed. "Sit up."

Reluctantly, Sylver sat up and leaned back against the headboard, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. "What time is it?" he asked through a yawn, his voice still heavy with sleep.

"Eleven thirty-five a.m.," Enzo replied, his tone light as he approached the bed. "You've gotta eat." With care, he placed a wide breakfast tray across Sylver's lap. The tray was laden with an array of breakfast delights, all arranged with almost artistic precision.

"We came to bed at ten, Enzo," Sylver groaned. But despite himself, he couldn't stop the smile that tugged at the corners of his lips as he took in the feast before him. The combination of Enzo's effort and the aroma of the food was impossible to resist.

"Yeah, and here we are," Enzo teased, perching on the edge of the bed with a satisfied grin. "Who needs sleep when I can pamper you instead?"

Enzo had whipped up a great selection of goodies. There were scrambled eggs, a stack of blueberry pancakes with syrup and butter, toast, crispy bacon, and sausage. The bowl of strawberries, grapes, and sliced mangoes brought a smile to Sylver's face. Enzo knew how much he loved those.

Also on the tray was a tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, a small bottle of sparkling water, and tiny packets of jam, butter, and cream cheese. The small vase with a fresh flower added a touch of elegance.

"Wow," Sylver breathed, for the umpteenth time, lost for words. He reached for the cup of coffee on the bedside table and drank it slowly, his gaze, which conveyed his gratitude, never leaving Enzo's. "Good morning," he greeted when he eventually set the empty coffee cup down.

Enzo moved closer to Sylver's side and pressed a kiss to his lips. "Good morning," he responded. Then he kissed Sylver again for good measure before moving to lie by his side.

"Just an hour and thirty minutes?" Sylver murmured as he grabbed the cutlery and dug in. "Couldn't you have allowed me to sleep till noon at least?" They had been up swimming under the stars and talking since they landed on the island. They'd only gone to bed around ten that morning.

"I missed you. Sue me."

Sylver laughed, feeding Enzo a grape. "You're something else. What are we going to do today?"

"Will I sound weird if I say I just want to look at you?" Enzo murmured huskily, his gaze running over Sylver's naked body.

"Yes," Sylver murmured through a mouthful of food.

"Alright then," Enzo said smoothly, watching him with quiet amusement. "I suggest we explore the island once you've finished eating. After that, I'll tell you everything you need to know about the war-just as I promised last night."

"Thank you." Sylver let out a sigh of relief. Whatever was going on, he needed to know, as it was keeping his mate away from him. "The Italiano Vamps," he murmured teasingly, sliding a strawberry between his lips and leaning toward Enzo.

Enzo's lips parted, closing around the strawberry poised between Sylver's, their lips brushing in a fleeting, electric touch. As he bit down, a spark danced between them, eliciting a moan from both men. Before pulling away, Enzo dragged his tongue teasingly across Sylver's lips, a fleeting caress that left behind a warmth far sweeter than the fruit itself. Before Enzo could completely retreat, Sylver leaned in, his nose grazing Enzo's in an intimate nuzzle before capturing his lips in a soft, lingering kiss-one that tasted of strawberries and something far more intoxicating.

"Tonight, we will have a beachside movie night under the stars," Enzo murmured against Sylver's lips when the kiss ended, his gaze smoldering with desire. "Complete with an outdoor screen. You'll have to wait to see what will show, though," he added huskily with a teasing smirk.

Sylver drew in a slow, unsteady breath, trying to steady the need raging within him. He was completely seduced by the smoldering intensity in his mate's eyes, the provocative lilt of his voice, the searing heat radiating from his body, and the mouthwatering scent of his skin. Enzo was his drug, and Sylver had no desire to kick the habit.

"Sweet," Sylver rasped, his voice rough with longing as he swallowed hard. His gaze flickered over Enzo, dark with hunger. "Still set on introducing me to your father first before we..." He let the words trail off, the unspoken words lingering between them like a spark waiting to ignite.

"Yes, Sylver," Enzo responded firmly. "We both know we can't fuck without you marking me. My decision stays."

His father had risked everything he believed in by suggesting he come to see Sylver-a gesture of good faith that carried more weight than words could express. The last thing Enzo intended to do was spit on that nice gesture by acting recklessly and dishonoring the man who had put his pride on the line.

"And if I promised not to mark you?" Sylver breathed, his cock throbbing at the mere thought of being inside Enzo.

"Yeah, no. Not gonna take chances. Besides I'm told having that bite during the first fuck gives the ultimate pleasure. Why would I rob myself of that?" Enzo's expression was laced with amused incredulity. "We need to do this right, Mister. First, we talk to my father; you ask for his blessing..." he leaned in, voice dropping to a sultry whisper... "then we fuck. In that order."

"So bossy," Sylver sighed.

"Besides, we're still in courtship, remember?" Enzo teased, arching a brow.

"How could I forget?" Sylver groaned, running a hand through his hair.

After breakfast, they shared a shower, their touches lingering a little longer than necessary before finally stepping out into the warmth of the day. As Enzo had suggested, they spent the morning exploring the island, drinking in its untamed beauty-the lush greenery, the rhythmic crash of waves against the shore, and the salty breeze that tangled in their hair.

By the time they returned to the villa, the sun was high overhead. Enzo disappeared into the kitchen to prepare lunch while Sylver, craving the cool embrace of water, headed for a swim. The rhythmic splash of his strokes filled the air, but Enzo hardly noticed as he moved through the kitchen with practiced ease. When he heard the sound of Sylver entering the house after a short while, his surprised gaze turned on him. But the sight of his strikingly hot mate made him lose his train of thought.

Sylver's towel was wrapped low on his hips, sitting loose as if daring fate to steal it away. The lower placement showcased his toned abs and the sharp cut of his V-line, his cocky smirk making it clear he knew exactly how good he looked. He strutted toward Enzo with effortless confidence, every step a deliberate display of dominance and teasing arrogance. Enzo didn't think he'd seen anything so blatantly sexual or boldly masculine. And Sylver was watching him with a heavy-lidded gaze like he wanted to eat him alive. The air around him crackled with an almost tangible allure, daring Enzo to look away. Enzo exhaled sharply, shaking his head in a futile attempt to stay focused, but the pull was undeniable-magnetic and utterly distracting.

"Done already?" Enzo rasped, his voice rough with desire as he forced himself to focus on what he was doing.

"It's no fun swimming without you," Sylver replied, stepping behind Enzo and wrapping his arms around his waist in a warm hug. His chin rested on Enzo's shoulder, peering at what was cooking. "Smells good," he breathed, pressing gentle kisses along Enzo's cheek and neck before finally moving to his ear.

"Syl, come on," Enzo moaned, his eyes fluttering shut at the feel of Sylver's tongue tracing the shell of his ear. "Please..."

"Please what?" Sylver asked huskily, sucking on Enzo's lobe. "You served breakfast in your birthday su..."

"I had on a fucking apron," Enzo interrupted, tilting his head to give Sylver better access to his neck.

"As I was saying and got rudely interrupted... you were naked," Sylver husked, scattering wet kisses along Enzo's neck.

"Oh, god," Enzo moaned with a shiver, losing all concentration. He turned off the fire to ensure the food didn't burn. Then he turned around within Sylver's arms.

"And you sat there calmly and reminded me that we were courting," Sylver breathed, his gaze locked on Enzo's. "Do you have any idea how hard I was?"

"I'm sorry..." Enzo muttered insincerely, his hungry gaze dropping to Sylver's mouth.

"No, you're not," Sylver husked, pressing a kiss to Enzo's lips. "All I do is think about these lips. Kissing them..." He interspaced each word with a kiss. "... biting them. I think about them kissing down my chest till you're on your knees... my cock in your mouth, so deep." Another kiss.

"Syl..." Enzo moaned shakily, his body quivering with unrestrained desire as blinding lust flooded his senses.

"Your eyes glisten as you look up at me, your gaze a perfect mix of surrender and need. Then, just as I reach the edge of release, I lift you up, spread your legs open..." Another kiss-deep, lingering, and full of unspoken promise. "Then I bury myself so deep that you don't know where I begin and where you end. Then I will fuck you till the only name you can remember is mine."

"Fuck." Unable to resist any longer, Enzo completely surrendered to the wildfire of desire consuming him.

With a shaky gasp as he dropped to his knees before Sylver with inhuman speed, his movements fluid yet laced with raw desperation. Then, His fingers found the towel wrapped around Sylver's waist, yanking it away in one swift motion, his breath hitching as he took in the sight before him.

The first touch of wet, slick tongue to hot, hard flesh was like the transference of electricity. Sylver couldn't suppress his cry of shock and pleasure. When Enzo swallowed half of his pulsing length, he jerked violently.

"Oh, shit!" Sylver gasped, his head falling back in pure, unrestrained ecstasy. His fingers tangled into Enzo's hair with a fierce grip as a shuddering breath escaped him, his body surrendering to the intoxicating pleasure. He started to pump his hips, moving slowly, trying to keep himself from barreling out of control. He didn't want to pop off too quickly. "Your mouth," he breathed as a hot burst of pre-cum spilled into Enzo's mouth. "So good."

Enzo looked like he was on a mission. He wrapped a hand around the other half of the throbbing length, loving the feel of thick veins throbbing beneath the smooth skin. His other hand cupped Sylver's heavy balls, fondling and rolling them. Then hollowing his cheeks, he drew rhythmically on that big cock, the vibrations from his throaty moans rippling through Sylver's entire body.

"Ah... god." Sylver's voice was a guttural rasp, thick with pleasure. His breath came in ragged bursts as he fought for control. "Not gonna last," he moaned, his body trembling, overwhelmed by the intoxicating sensation unraveling him piece by piece.

At Sylver's words, Enzo pulled off until only the plush head remained in his mouth. Then he began sucking gently, fluttering his tongue across the underside and tracing the heavy veins. He wanted to make it last, drive his naughty mate crazy. He was rewarded with more precum spilling out. The sounds falling out of Sylver were filled with the sweetest agony, which only spurred Enzo on. He was so turned on by Sylver's pleasure he squirmed, feeling his own precum spilling into his shorts.

Sylver's cries grew more broken as he neared release, each one a plea laced with raw need. His stance widened, his thrusts growing rougher, a clear indication that he was about to climax. Enzo gripped his straining thighs in both hands as he increased the tempo, as greedy for Sylver's orgasm as Sylver himself was.

"Allow me..." Sylver whispered shakily, pushing his fingers into Enzo's hair to hold him still. Then he took over, thrusting fast and deep, mindless with the need to climax. He growled Enzo's name, his hips pumping frantically into that sweet mouth, taking what he needed. "Shit, I'm coming," he gasped, his eyes rolling into his head in rapturous bliss as he erupted.

The first spurt of cum was so thick, Enzo struggled to swallow. Sylver thrust against the back of Enzo's throat with abandon, spilling copious amounts of cum. Although drunk on pleasure, Sylver managed to keep his blissed-out gaze locked on his gorgeous mate, unable to look away. He was captivated by the fierce masculine triumph that flared in Enzo's eyes. In that moment Enzo owned him, and they both knew it.

For Enzo, the thrill he felt within for blowing Sylver's mind was so intense that he didn't mind the tight hold in his hair or the deep throating he was being subjected to. He wished he could stop time and keep his mate in the thrall of ecstasy because he looked absolutely stunning, lost in bliss. His eyes watered, his lungs burned, and his entire body shuddered at the intensity of it all, but he never stopped swallowing or broke eye contact with Sylver. Not even when Sylver stopped coming and released his head. He stayed on his knees and licked him clean, marveling at how his mate didn't fully soften even after such an explosive orgasm.

Sylver watched from under heavy eyelids as Enzo's tongue came out to lick the cum that had spilled out of the corner of his mouth and let out the most erotic sound Enzo thought he'd ever heard.

"You're so hot," Sylver breathed as he pulled Enzo up.

The vampire staggered back, his legs too wobbly to bear his weight. He reached back for the edge of the kitchen counter, his hands curling around it with white-knuckled force. His shorts had tented obscenely in front, revealing a wet patch. He was visibly shaking. Sylver closed the distance between them and dropped his hands on the hips of the flustered vampire. In a blink, Enzo's clothes were gone.

"Syl..."

"I just want to make you come," he breathed. "What do you want?"

Enzo was teetering on the edge of explosion, knowing it wouldn't take much to send him over. He could feel his balls pulling up, getting ready to shoot after all that buildup from sucking Sylver off. He knew exactly what he needed. Enzo silently drew Sylver's head closer and captured his lips in a kiss that sent shivers through them both. He started by tenderly sucking on Sylver's lower lip, then moved to his tongue, drawing it into his mouth with a sensuality that elicited irrepressible moans from Sylver. The kiss was deep, wet, and intensely erotic-just as Enzo wanted. That sweet pressure of Sylver's lips was all he needed to tip him over the edge.

At the first jolt of his orgasm, Enzo groaned into the kiss, his thick, hot essence landing on Sylver's body. His body quaked violently, muscles tightening desperately as he shot his load. Neither stopped kissing the other as intense contractions continued to rock Enzo's body, the climax stealing the strength from his muscles. Sylver wrapped an arm around him to steady him when his legs buckled.

"Holy hell, you'll be the death of me, Sylver," Enzo gasped as he tore his mouth away from Sylver's, breathing harshly.

In response, Sylver picked him up and deposited him on the counter. Then he went on a knee before Enzo and closed his mouth around the head of the very wet cock and sucked.

"Oh, god," Enzo cried out breathlessly at the feel of that warm suction on his cock, the expression on his face conveying the rawness of his pleasure. Fuck! The kid had a mouth on him.

Sylver's mouth was hot and fierce, the suction sweet and sharp. The sounds that fell out of Enzo were the most gratifying Sylver had ever heard. He brought his mate to another intense orgasm, milking him until Enzo had nothing more to give. Sylver then licked him clean before getting back to his feet. He didn't miss the flicker of vulnerability that shimmered within the vampire's blissed-out gaze. Without a word, Sylver pulled him close, wrapping him in a firm yet gentle embrace.

Aftershocks continued to rock Enzo's body. The ease with which Sylver could bring him to his knees and leave him in a delirious mess always scared him. Enzo had lived long and experienced much intimacy, yet none compared to the intoxicating pleasure Sylver invariably delivered. Losing himself so completely and uncontrollably to his young mate left him feeling a bit vulnerable-a sensation he was unaccustomed to. Through the roaring of blood in his ears, he heard Sylver ask hoarsely;

"Are you okay?" His lips gently pressed against Enzo's temple.

Enzo nodded. "I am," he rasped, gently pushing Sylver away. "I need to finish making lunch."

Sylver stepped back, allowing Enzo to slide off the counter, but as the vampire began to move away, Sylver caught his wrist and pulled him back, capturing his lips in a searing kiss.

"I can't get enough of these lips," he murmured against Enzo's luscious lips, then gently drew his lower lip into his mouth, sucking it with languid passion. When he finally released Enzo, the vampire appeared distinctly flustered. "Has anyone ever told you that you have the sweetest mouth?" Sylver asked, his voice low and husky.

"You really don't want me to answer that," Enzo replied with a low chuckle as he turned back to reignite the flame beneath the pan. "Do you mind?" he asked, arching a brow as he gestured to his naked body. His mate had stripped him effortlessly with a mere thought-just as easily, he could clothe him.

"I do mind, actually," Sylver murmured, his eyes twinkling mischievously. He picked up an apron and stepped forward to tie it around Enzo. "There... perfect." Then, he wrapped the towel around his hips and leaned against the island to watch Enzo cook. There was something endearing about watching his mate diligently prepare a meal, especially knowing it was all for him.

Sylver felt lucky.

***

Meanwhile, somewhere in Italy, Raffaele Bianchi sat at the head of a grand mahogany table, his fingers steepled as he listened intently to what one of his men was saying. Around him, voices murmured in low, serious tones, the weight of the meeting pressing down like an unspoken pact. Every decision made in that room would ripple far beyond those walls. Raffaele nodded when the man was done talking.

"Keep a close eye on the house," he commanded, his voice low and authoritative as his gaze flickered over the five vampires on his screen.

They were no ordinary group-each one a deadly force in his own right. The five-member gang of brothers was from the most feared vampire coven in the United States. Their reputations preceded them, ruthless and efficient in every mission they undertook.

Raffaele leaned forward, eyes narrowing as he continued. "The warlock will give you some pearls. Use them when you get close to the house. The blue pearl will conceal your presence," he instructed, his tone carrying the weight of experience. "And the red one will weaken him." The pearls weren't just any objects; they were ancient, enchanted artifacts, powerful enough to cloak them from any supernatural detection and weaken their opponent.

"Roger that, Mr. Bianchi," the fierce-looking one responded, his expression as hard as stone. "Do you want him dead or alive?"

"Alive. Until the warlock's work is done," Raffaele responded, his voice cold and resolute.

"Will the warlock be going with us?"

"He will join you," Raffaele said, rising from his chair to pace the room, tension radiating from him. "The warlock will search his mind thoroughly for information. That will only weaken him even more. You are to eliminate him after that... interrogation."

"With all due respect, Signore Bianchi, Enzo's death wasn't part of the plan," Alfredo gasped. He was also on the call.

"It became part of the plan when he killed my men," Raffaele bellowed, his voice shaking the room with fury.

"But he didn't just kill them in cold blood," Alfredo protested. "Those were battles, and I believe he also lost some of his men."

"I don't give a fuck," Raffaele growled, his eyes flashing angrily. "Enzo Jilani needs to be taught a lesson. And his father too. The fact that Leonardo is my superior doesn't mean he can sit there and decide my fate."

"Taking Enzo out will be killing two birds with one stone," Sofia said, her lips curling into a dangerous smirk. "Teach Leonardo a lesson and eliminate the one person who is giving us hell."

"Exactly." Raffaele stopped pacing, his expression a mask of calculated intent as he turned back to the screen. "Once the Primarch believes we have Enzo, they'll be forced to kill that foolish directive. And Jilani-" he allowed a cold smirk to curl his lips-"will have no choice but to ensure the territory is relinquished to save his son." His voice dipped, laced with finality. "What he won't realize is that he will never see his son again." His gaze landed on Alfredo then. "Are you going to be a problem?" The question was sharp, cutting through the tension in the room like a blade.

Alfredo swallowed hard, his throat bobbing. "No... no," he stammered, shaking his head quickly.

"Good. I decide what's best for the cause!" Raffaele breathed. "Enzo is a thorn in our side, and he's gotta go. All we need from him is information." His voice was low and dangerous. "We need to know every detail about this deal with the werewolves, starting with this Sylver person."

"Manuel is on it," Sofia replied calmly, though a dangerous glint flashed in her eyes. "Very soon, we will know all about Sylver the werewolf. I just wish I could be there to see the look on Enzo's face when he sees you five." She grinned at the five killers on the screen. The brothers were famous in the vampire world for all the wrong reasons. "What if he shows up with the wolf?" she asked Raffaele.

"Kill the dog," Raffaele growled, his tone cold and final.

The vampires on the screen nodded, prepared to execute the plan flawlessly. "Understood. The wolf won't be a problem. We will be in touch." They went off the screen, leaving Alfredo.

"I... I'll get in touch with Manuel to assist with the search for Sylver," he croaked, his voice hoarse with lingering tension.

"Do that," Raffaele said curtly, barely sparing him a glance as he waved a dismissive hand. As Alfredo exited the video call, Raffaele went back to his seat. His gaze narrowed in thought. "You think this Alfredo is going to be a problem?" he murmured.

"He might be," Sofia replied, her tone calm but edged with suspicion. "They're friends, after all. Maybe it's time I fly out and have a... chat with him."

Raffaele shook his head. "No, I need you here. Once Enzo is dealt with, we will-" He paused mid-sentence as the screen flickered back to life, revealing the face of the young vampire, Manuel.

"Talk to me," Raffaele urged.

"Sylver is a werewolf," Manuel said flatly.

"We already knew that," Raffaele and Sofia replied in unison.

"But there's more," Manuel continued. "He's from the most powerful pack."

Raffaele snorted. "Powerful..." he sneered. "What's his deal with Enzo?"

"I'm still working on that," Manuel replied. "It's incredibly difficult to get information on werewolves if you're not one of them. But from what I've gathered so far, Enzo has been spotted associating with werewolves here in the States. Word is, they're all part of the same pack that this Sylver belongs to. And this particular pack is the seat of the Alpha of all Alphas-protected by airtight magic that keeps outsiders in the dark. It's not clear yet what his exact connection to this pack is, but we're..."

"Get some warlocks to help then," Raffaele snapped.

"The plan is to pay some rogues to help us gather intel," Manual revealed. "Since they're werewolves too, they might have an easier time getting inside and uncovering something useful."

Raffaele's expression darkened. "He's building an army of rabid dogs," he muttered, the conviction settling in. "It's only a matter of time before we uncover the full extent of his plan. Keep digging, Manuel."

With that, Raffaele ended the call and relaxed in his seat, his fingers drumming rhythmically on the desk as his mind raced. Enzo was clearly in bed with the dogs. A powerful pack, they claimed. A faint, humorless smile curled his lips as he stared into the dim light of the room.

"A powerful pack, huh?" he scoffed to himself, his voice low and laced with disdain. "We'll see about that."

Whatever advantage Enzo thought he had gained, Raffaele was determined to tear it apart-piece by piece.

***

That evening, on Enzo's private island, he nestled into the comfort of plush cushions and blankets with his mate, sipping champagne under the open sky, as they watched classic films on a grand outdoor screen. First, they enjoyed 'The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly,' Sylver's favorite, thanks to his uncle Stan, followed by 'The Thief of Bagdad,' Enzo's personal choice. The night was filled with laughter and easy conversation, a perfect mix of indulgence and nostalgia as they shared gourmet snacks and immersed themselves in the movies.

When the final credits rolled after the second movie and the screen faded to black, they remained there in the quiet of the night, side by side, staring up at the stars, wrapped in the tranquility of the moment. Peace and contentment settled over them, no words necessary-just the simple joy of being together.

"What's on your mind?" Enzo asked quietly, breaking the silence.

"You won't believe me if I told you," Sylver chuckled. "I mean, even I think it's weird."

"Try me."

Sylver reached over to entwine his fingers with Enzo's. "I'm just thinking about how happy you make me."

"Seriously?" Enzo turned his head to look at his mate.

"See? I told you you wouldn't believe me," Sylver said with a soft chuckle, shaking his head. His gaze held Enzo's, steady and sincere. "But it's the truth, Enz. You... you make me smile. Don't get me wrong-I've always been happy with my life. But since you came into it, something's changed. I find myself smiling all the time... without even realizing it. Like my world's a little brighter just because you're in it."

"I'm glad." Enzo grinned.

"Don't be," Sylver snorted. "It's becoming a problem because people think a man smiling on his own is strange," he groaned, making Enzo laugh. "And you make me blush," Sylver added, sounding surprised. "I hardly blush but I've lost count of the number of times you've made me."

"I think I deserve a medal then," Enzo chuckled. "On a more serious note, I'm glad I make you happy. You make me happy too, by the way. It's usually almost impossible to make an impression on someone like you."

"Someone like me?" Sylver frowned in confusion.

"Yeah." Enzo nodded. "You know... powerful, doesn't need anything, seen it all..."

"But I haven't seen it all, Enzo. I'm only eighteen." Sylver shifted onto his side to face Enzo, his eyes reflecting both amusement and sincerity. "Hell, you were the first vampire I ever saw." He paused, gathering his thoughts before continuing. "You're going to find this hard to believe, but my parents treat me like any regular kid-curfews, grounding, the whole shebang. Do you know how many times I've begged them to let me go somewhere, even visit another country, and they've said no?"

"Really?" Enzo raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised.

"Swear." Sylver nodded. "Then you come into my life. And suddenly, everything changes. I'm experiencing things I never thought possible, having the craziest fun, and for the first time, I feel like I can do anything under the sun."

Enzo smiled softly. "But you've always known you can do anything under the sun."

"That's not the point. Pay attention," Sylver growled playfully, rolling over to straddle Enzo. His tone was teasing, but his gaze was intense, filled with emotion. "All I'm trying to say is, you make me feel like a... king."

"Well, you are my king," Enzo whispered, his voice barely audible, but the weight of his words hung in the air between them. His hand reached up, gently caressing Sylver's cheek, the gesture tender and full of unspoken meaning.

In that moment, the connection between them, the quiet understanding and affection, said more than words ever could. They had both found something they didn't even know they were looking for.

Sylver closed the distance between their lips, capturing Enzo in a kiss so soft it was as if the world held its breath for them. "I want to kiss you all over," he whispered, his words a gentle murmur against Enzo's lips.

Their clothes vanished, leaving them bare, skin against skin, nothing separating them. Enzo felt Sylver's lips fluttering down his cheek and let out a soft moan, his voice laced with both reluctance and desire.

"I don't think this is smart, Syl," he breathed, even as he instinctively tilted his head to the side, exposing his neck and silently inviting Sylver to continue.

"Good thing I'm not known for my intelligence," Sylver murmured before pressing a slow, teasing kiss to the spot he knew would drive his mate insane. "I just want to kiss you all over... nothing more," he whispered, his lips brushed against Enzo's skin, soft and lingering, trailing a path of delicate kisses that sent shivers through the vampire.

Each touch was unhurried, filled with reverence, as if he were savoring every inch of Enzo. Time seemed to slow down, the world beyond them fading into irrelevance, leaving only the two of them in this moment, lost in each other. Every kiss was a sweet exploration-a devotion, care, and an unspoken promise that lingered in every gentle touch.

In that moment, the vampire felt like the center of Sylver's universe, completely enveloped in the care and attention he had never thought he could crave. He never wanted those lips to stop, never wanted the warmth and softness of the moment to end-it was too perfect, too profound, and Enzo allowed himself to simply feel it without resistance.

***

Dawn on Sunday broke in muted hues over the island, casting long shadows across the restless waves. The salty breeze carried a deceptive calm, a contrast to the growing unease in the air. It was Enzo and Sylver's final day here-a fleeting moment of peace before the storm.

Miles away, at Enzo's home, a different kind of silence took hold.

Inside the grand house, Arnold, the butler stirred as he always did, his body attuned to the rhythm of his daily schedule. With a sigh, he swung his legs over the side of the bed, feet touching the cool floor. But the moment he took his first step, a sudden stiffness gripped him. His breath hitched. His vision swam. And his body betrayed him.

A sharp pulse of something unnatural spread through his limbs like invisible threads tightening around his muscles. His eyes glazed over, his thoughts scattering like windblown ash. Then-without warning-he crumpled backward onto the bed, his breathing steady, peaceful... completely unconscious.

Throughout the house, others stirred in their sleep, only to sigh deeply and drift even further into unconsciousness. Cooks, maids, security-one by one, they sank into an impenetrable slumber, their minds wrapped in an unseen force. The estate, once a hub of morning preparations, now lay eerily still.

Outside, five figures stood just beyond the line of sight, cloaked in the shadows of the early morning mist. Each one exuded a quiet menace, their presence a silent threat to the unsuspecting house.

One of them, a tall man with a voice like rustling gravel, gave a curt nod. "They're out. Every last one of them. Won't wake until we're done."

Another let out a low, approving chuckle, rolling a small pearl between his fingers. "The magic in these is potent. Worth every damn hype." He pocketed the pearl, eyes scanning the horizon.

They moved then, crouching low, positioning themselves in vantage points. Perfectly hidden, perfectly patient.

They would wait.

Wait for their target to walk straight into their trap.

***

Sylver shifted in his sleep, turning away from Enzo in the process. Before he could pull too far, Enzo's arm wrapped around him, effortlessly drawing him back against his chest. A soft chuckle escaped Enzo's lips as Sylver curled into him, tucking himself like he always did. The warmth between them was undeniable, a quiet intimacy that needed no words.

Enzo rested his chin gently on top of Sylver's head and held him close, the quiet sounds of their breathing filling the room. He could feel Sylver's soft, rhythmic heartbeat against him, and it brought a sense of calm he rarely felt anywhere else. Gently, Enzo ran his fingers through Sylver's tousled hair, brushing a few stray strands away from his face with a tender touch.

Sylver stirred slightly, half asleep. He murmured something unintelligible, nestling even deeper into Enzo's embrace. Enzo smiled as he pressed a soft kiss to the top of Sylver's head.

"You're always so clingy when you're half-asleep," Enzo teased in a quiet voice, his fingers tracing gentle patterns along Sylver's arm.

Sylver's lips curled into a sleepy smile, his eyes still closed. "Mmm, don't blame me. You feel amazing," he mumbled, his voice filled with contentment.

Enzo chuckled softly, pulling Sylver even closer, their bodies fitting perfectly against each other. "The feeling is mutual. Ready to leave?" he asked, his voice teasing.

Sylver groaned, lacing his fingers with Enzo's. "No," he mumbled, his voice muffled against Enzo's chest. "I don't want to leave."

Enzo brushed his thumb gently over the back of Sylver's hand. "Love having me all to yourself, huh?"

"You know I do," Sylver replied with a soft sigh, but then his head shot back suddenly, his expression shifting from contentment to surprise. "You've showered," he observed, taking in Enzo's hair which was still damp from a shower.

"I have," Enzo admitted.

"In that much of a hurry to leave?"

Enzo shook his head, pressing a lingering kiss to Sylver's forehead before trailing his lips downward, finally capturing Sylver's in a slow, teasing kiss.

"With you sleeping your life away, I had nothing to do, so I decided to take a shower, that's all," he murmured against his lips. "Figured I'd be productive while you perfected the art of hibernation."

Sylver scoffed, eyes still heavy with sleep. "You call showering productive?"

"No," Enzo admitted, his expression one of amusement. "But lying here, watching you sleep? Definitely is."

A slow smile tugged at the corners of Sylver's mouth. "Creepy."

Enzo chuckled, the sound low and full of affection. "Maybe a little," he conceded, brushing a strand of hair from Sylver's face. "But you're cute when you're all curled up like that. I couldn't help myself."

Sylver leaned in for another kiss, their lips meeting in a tender, unhurried moment. "I'll miss this," he whispered against Enzo's lips.

"Me more," Enzo whispered back, rubbing Sylver on the back. He felt it when Sylver suddenly tensed up. "Hey, what is it?"

"I... I don't know," Sylver whispered, a troubled frown creasing his forehead. A strange, unsettling feeling gnawed at him, a pulse of dread he couldn't shake. But then it struck him-Enzo! His gaze snapped up, locking onto Enzo's with sudden intensity. "I'm worried about you," he admitted, his voice low and edged with vulnerability. "This conflict... I'm scared you'll get hurt."

"I'll be careful," Enzo replied, keeping his tone light.

"That doesn't ease my mind," Sylver pressed, his voice more intense. "What scares me is that once your kind mark someone as a target, that person is as good as dead because you'll never stop until they're eliminated. Bloody predators. And let's face it, you're not in the good graces of that Bianchi squad. And that's unsettling."

Enzo raised an eyebrow. "Predators? And you're one to talk? You hunt people down in broad daylight."

"At least they see us coming," Sylver snapped. "We're more human than you," he added sharply. "A wolf wouldn't harm a baby. But a vampire? They'd revel in draining one."

Enzo snorted. "It's a delicacy, yes, but we don't go around draining babies. Who has been filling your head with all this crap?"

"I've been reading up on vampires ever since I found out I was mated to one." Sylver shrugged. "Don't get me wrong, I'm not judging."

"Could've fooled me."

"Hey, I know that's your nature," Sylver murmured. "I get it. But I'm worried about you."

"I'll be fine," Enzo replied simply, brushing his thumb over Sylver's furrowed brow. "You're too young for wrinkles. Stop frowning."

Enzo could feel the simmering tension rolling off Sylver in waves-anger, restlessness, an unspoken storm brewing just beneath the surface. He didn't know why, but it was there, crackling in the air between them like an impending strike of lightning.

His brows knit together as he studied Sylver's rigid stance, the tightness in his jaw, the way his fingers twitched as if itching to act on something-fight, flee, or maybe both.

"Syl... what's wrong?" Enzo asked carefully, his voice low, steady.

But Sylver didn't answer right away. His silence stretched between them, heavy and charged, louder than any words he could have spoken. Then, just when the tension became unbearable, Sylver exhaled slowly and dropped the bomb.

"I need to mark you."

Enzo froze. To say he was surprised would have been an understatement. "We've already talked about this, Syl," he muttered, his voice low. "We need to respect-"

"Fuck respect!" Sylver growled low in his throat as he sat up, his frustration spilling over. "This is about your life. That matters more than pleasing your father. I need to mark you before you go back into that madness."

Enzo's expression darkened at Sylver's words. "Watch your mouth. That's my father you're talking about," he breathed.

"I'm just looking out for my mate." Sylver shrugged. "Waiting to do what's necessary because of some outdated notion of respect is absurd if you ask me."

Enzo's annoyance flared, but he kept his temper in check. "I can't let you mark me, Syl."

"I'm not asking," Sylver growled, his voice firm and unyielding as that weird sense of unease grew. "I'm telling you. I'm going to mark you. You can tell your father I forced you or that I did it while you slept-whatever floats your boat. I don't give a damn what excuse you give him. Just know this: I will mark you."

And my consent?" Enzo's voice was sharp, edged with annoyed shock. "That doesn't matter?"

"It does," Sylver admitted, his tone firm. "But considering the danger you're in, I'm saying-fuck consent."

"First, it's 'fuck respect,' and now 'fuck consent'? Are you even listening to yourself?" Enzo's eyes flashed with anger.

The vampire could hardly believe how brazen Sylver was being. Not only had Sylver disrespected his father, but now he was disregarding him too-implying that his consent, his voice in the matter, didn't even count? For the first time since laying eyes on his mate, fury surged through Enzo so strongly he wanted to grab him and shake him until his teeth rattled.

"I'm just trying to do what feels right," Sylver snapped, his gaze unwavering.

"And who the hell do you think you are?" Enzo bellowed, sitting up.

"I'm your fucking mate!" Sylver roared.

Enzo's eyes narrowed, a flash of shock flickering across his face before a slow, simmering anger took its place. Sylver's roar echoed in the air between them, charging the atmosphere with an undeniable tension. Enzo's jaw clenched, his gaze sharp as steel as he stared at Sylver, his own voice a low, dangerous growl.

"And you think that entitles you to disrespect me?" he shot back, his words cutting through the silence like a blade. "Being my mate doesn't give you a free pass to ignore boundaries, Sylver. Why, though?" Enzo asked, genuinely curious. "Why are you so desperate to mark me?"

"It's the surest way for me to feel it when you're in danger," Sylver answered, a fierce protectiveness in his voice.

"So, what-all this is just so you can be my knight in shining armor?" Enzo let out a laugh, a sharp, cutting sound that would've made even a giant feel small. His gaze bore into Sylver's, mocking and unyielding as if daring him to answer. "Do you even know how many times I've faced danger in my lifetime?"

Sylver's chest tightened painfully at the sound of Enzo's mocking laughter. It felt like a twist of a knife in his chest. "You weren't my mate back then. You are now," he said, the slight tremor in his words betraying the strength he was trying to project. "And I take care of my own."

Enzo chuckled, a mix of amusement and irritation flashing across his face. "I'm sorry, but you sound so childish right now, it's almost laughable. You werewolves really don't care about rules, do you? My species, the ones you so casually call predators, respect our elders. We don't go around saying shit like 'fuck respect.'" He mimicked Sylver's words with air quotes.

Sylver's heart thundered with a volatile mix of hurt and fury, each beat drumming against his ribs like a war cry. The word 'childish' cut deeper than it should have, igniting a fire in his chest that burned hotter with every passing second. It wasn't just an insult-it was a dismissal, a belittling jab that struck at something raw within him. How could Enzo be so infuriatingly arrogant? His wolf stirred, urging him to lash out, to make Enzo see that he wasn't some reckless pup to be mocked. But deep down, Sylver knew that losing control would only prove Enzo right-and that was the last thing he wanted.

A low growl rumbled in Sylver's chest. "If you'd just pull your head out of your own arse for a second and listen to what I'm-"

"Listen to what exactly?" Enzo interrupted, his voice sharp. "You disrespecting my father? How would you feel if I talked about Ryan or Jeremy in that manner? Just because I feel I'm the only thing standing between you and some imagined danger? Delusional much!"

"I never meant to disrespect your father!" Sylver spoke through gritted teeth, his voice trembling with the sheer intensity of his frustration. "If it came across as such, I'm sorry." Despite his anger, his voice tinged with a vulnerability he couldn't quite hide. "And I'm not imagining danger. You are in danger. The fact that you've lived longer doesn't make me some stupid, sniveling kid and my concerns irrelevant." Sylver's chest heaved as his emotions surged.

"You dismissing the importance of consent is a hard limit for me," Enzo breathed, his piercing gaze locked onto Sylver. "Why do we condemn rapists? The reason lies in the absence of con-fucking-sent. And you-" his voice dropped to a whisper, sharp as a blade, "you dare dismiss consent as if it means nothing?" His gaze was filled with disappointment and something far colder-condemnation.

Sylver gasped, the air leaving his lungs as if he had been struck. That hurt. More than he ever could have imagined. Never in his life had he thought he'd be likened to a rapist. Never. Enzo's words were brutal and merciless, cutting deeper than any blade. Sylver's fists clenched, nails digging into his palms until the sharp sting barely registered over the storm raging inside him. His breath came out in harsh bursts, his body taut, his pulse thundering as his vision blurred, edged with a dangerous red haze. No! He squeezed his eyes shut for a brief second, willing that red-eyed, malevolent monster back, shoving it into the darkest corners of his mind.

Not here. Not now. Not with him.

When he finally opened his eyes, they flashed amber-feral, his wolf prowling just beneath the surface, demanding release. A low growl rumbled in his chest.

"Temper, temper," Enzo murmured, unfazed, his smirk returning. "Beasty trying to come out?" he taunted. "Gonna show me who's boss?"

"Stop," Sylver whispered. It was both a plea and a warning. His eyes fixed on his fingers, which trembled visibly.

"I'm not doing anything. Just asking-" Enzo's words trailed off as Sylver suddenly leapt off the bed.

In an instant, the air grew thick with tension as the room seemed to shrink around them. Where Sylver had stood only moments before was now a massive silver wolf, fur bristling and teeth bared, his powerful frame radiating raw fury. His piercing gaze locked onto Enzo, eyes blazing with an intensity that dared the vampire to move... to challenge him. A low, menacing growl rumbled from its chest, vibrating through the room.

Enzo went still, his eyes locked on his mate's wolf, its presence captivating him completely. He felt his anger drain away in an instant, replaced by an overwhelming sense of awe. He was transfixed by the primal beauty before him. The last time he'd seen Sylver in wolf form, he had been a pup-small, playful, and full of energy. But now, the creature before him was fully grown, majestic, brimming with raw power... And damn furious!

Enzo's mind raced. Was Sylver going to attack him? The wolf certainly looked ready to lunge. Had he pushed his mate too far? For a split second, Enzo waited, bracing himself for what might come. But then, with a deafening growl, Sylver disappeared as swiftly as he'd shifted.

"Shit," Enzo muttered under his breath, springing off the bed and sprinting out of the villa as the cold grip of dread surged through him.

In the distance, he heard the wolf's howls-long, drawn-out cries filled with pain. Enzo's eyes widened in shock. He'd thought Sylver was angry due to the fact that he'd refused to be marked and had called him out on his disrespect toward his father. But those howls... they were not from rage. They were from deep, aching hurt.

Realization hit Enzo like a punch to the gut. He'd been so blinded by his own anger that he hadn't noticed the way his words were cutting into Sylver, leaving wounds far deeper than he intended. It wasn't just about defiance or disagreement; he'd hurt the one person he never meant to.

"No, no, that wasn't my intention," Enzo groaned, his voice thick with regret as he raced after his mate, his inhuman speed blurring the world around him. His heart was breaking at the thought of causing Sylver such pain. "Fuck! What was I thinking!"

***

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