Time was ticking by and the guests were waiting for their host to begin. But it seemed that Wayne Salvatore was a bit distracted and no one particularly knew why.

"Dad, what are you waiting for?" asked Severin.

"My friend," Wayne Salvatore told his first-born son.

Severin raised a brow. "All of your friends have already arrived. In fact, it's been more than a few hours since then," he said.

His father's eager eyes stayed glued to the entrance of the ballroom. "You haven't met this friend of mine," he told him.

Severin was baffled that his father ignored all the prominent figures in the room and waited for someone else in specific. When in fact, his father never waited for anyone, that much Severin knew for sure. Everyone in the room was curious as to why Wayne Salvatore patiently waited for one guest. Severin never saw his father excited like this before, it was strange and it made Severin oddly curious.

"There she is," his father beamed a smile as his hand shot in the air.

Severin looked straight towards the door when a figure appeared.

A woman dressed in gold enchanted the entire ballroom. Everyone stared and everyone felt her presence. The warm light of the chandeliers mesmerized the beauty of her regal face made of a tough jaw, soft cheekbones, plump lips painted a bold red. She moved with control over her entire body, her long legs were exposed from the slit on the golden dress. The focus in her eyes was unmatched by anyone he'd ever seen.

However, what was especially peculiar was that Severin sensed her wolf from across the room, it was a powerful sensation that seeped into his body. The wolf chained him to look at her; feel her and to know that she wasn't to be trifled with at any given moment.

The woman cut through the distance, climbed the few stairs and stood directly in front of his father. No one attempted to stop her, neither did the security nor his dad for that matter. Severin stared at this woman with fascination. She was radiant and he'd never seen anyone like her before. Severin couldn't shake off the feeling from earlier.

Severin's father smiled like he rarely had since their mom had passed away. "Glad you could make it," he said.

Her crimson red lips lifted into a smirk, exposing her straight white teeth. "I'd only do this for you," her voice was low and sexy as hell. "Happy birthday, Wayne." They hugged and shared an amused laugh.

Severin needed to know right now how his father knew this woman and how come Severin only met her now.

Severin's younger brother appeared beside him. "Who is that?" Tom asked.

"No idea," Severin answered his brother.

Tom looked at the scene just as attentively as Severin. "She looks like she could kill all of us and not even break a sweat," he muttered secretly.

Severin looked back to the woman chatting away with their father. He couldn't find himself looking away from those striking cobalt blue eyes, that were as deep as the midnight sky. There was strength as sturdy as mountains in them, but he saw a rawness that smoothed down the icy-cold and turned it into warmth. Severin saw that she had eyes which spoke a thousand words, so nothing needed to be said if she just exchanged a look with you. However, through all that, Severin didn't overlook the danger in her eyes, she was hiding something behind this brilliant glow of her smile.

"Come, let me introduce you to my kids." His father came to where Severin and Tom stood intrigued. It seemed that this woman had the entire Salvatore family in her grasp already. "My sons, Severin and Thomas."

Tom stuck his hand out first. "Hi, it's nice to meet you," he said.

The woman smiled politely. "Good evening," her voice sent a chill down Severin's body. Her cobalt blue eyes shifted from Tom and found Severin staring at her.

"Severin," his father called out.

Severin was at a loss for words, but he composed himself. "It's nice to meet you," he said courteously.

This woman looked at him like she saw everything inside of him. There was no hiding the truth from her and that charmed Severin just as much as it unnerved him. "It's nice to finally meet you too," she said. "I heard a lot about you from your father."

"I would love to say the same, but my dad has been keeping you a secret from us," remarked Severin.

Zero's face fell stern. "That's my fault," she admitted. "I didn't want to bring any danger to you by letting you know who I was."

The sons raised a brow in confusion.

"Oh, that's nonsense," rebuked Wayne. "I finally tricked you to come this time around. Before you'd just meet me and then leave without seeing my kids."

"We've talked over this, Wayne," she said looking at him. "I'm still adamant about introducing me to your family now too."

His father shrugged and seemed impressed of himself that he pulled off this little gambit. "Kids, this is my very good friend and partner in crime, Zero," his father finally told Severin this stranger's name.

"Zero," both Severin and Tom spoke in awe.

"Is that your real name?" Tom asked, but Severin was damn-well curious too.

The woman exchanged a look with their father. "It's the only name that the world knows me by," she told them. "Also, Tom," she stared at him. "I heard of the Devroe case that put the smuggling gang behind bars last year."

Tom gaped. "You know about that?" he asked.

"Of course," she said. "When Wayne told me that you were the working with the DA on that case, I read up on the file. I was very impressed by your work and efforts to keeps to streets clean."

"Er- thank you," Tom stuttered, which was strange because Severin knew that his brother never got nervous, let alone falter in front of others. "But- uh- why would you read up on my work?" he asked then.

"I keep an eye out for promising talent," she answered. "Honestly, if you were stationed in New York, I would've worked with you."

Tom looked at Severin with sheer panic. "You need a prosecutor?" he asked.

She chuckled and shook her head like only she knew the joke inside her head. "Sometimes a lawyer too," she told him. "I get in a lot of trouble with my line of work. So, yeah, having you as a lawyer would be fun." Tom smiled at her.

"Alright, now that we're all here," said their father. "Why don't we begin the party."

Wayne Salvatore greeted the guests and told them to enjoy themselves for his fifty-seventh birthday bash. Severin would have listened to his father's speech if he wasn't so distracted by Zero. She stood beside his father with her shoulders held back and her posture was sturdy, her face held in an eased back expression, like she was in no hurry or panic. She didn't appear nervous at all standing with his father, which Severin wondered then if she had ever been anxious or scared. Although from where he stood, she didn't seem the type to get scared of the dark or what lied inside it.

"You're staring, brother," mumbled Tom.

Severin's acute gaze still didn't move. "You don't find it weird that dad never introduced us to her?" he asked quietly.

"Not really," his brother answered. "Besides, didn't you hear them. It was dangerous to know about her. Dad was just keeping us safe."

"I don't buy it," retorted Severin.

"What are you going to do about it?" jested Tom.

"I want to know more about her," he told him truthfully.

Tom grew quiet, his frown appeared between his black brows which told Severin he had realized something. "Hold on, I knew that name was familiar," he said, as his dark indigo eyes widened. "Oh god-" he put his hand over his mouth.

"What are you mumbling about?" asked Severin eagerly.

"Zero, the executioner," Tom announced with amazement beaming off his face. "This has to be some trick. No, this is impossible. Dad can't have known who she is."

Severin looked at his brother sternly. "Explain. Right now," he demanded.

Tom's mouth dropped open. "This is bizarre, that woman can't be the rogue alpha," he said. "My friends were just talking about her the other day."

Severin was getting more and more intrigued. "Who is she?" he muttered.

"Zero fights crime against wolves," said Tom. "She's like royalty, Severin."

"Fights crime, like what?" Severin asked as they watched Zero walk with their father.

"The only one I know about is the cage fights and that's because it was on the news," said Tom. "But she's done a lot more."

"Cage fights... as in trafficking of wolves and selling them off?" Severin asked.

"Yeah," answered Tom. "It's been going on for years. But Zero wiped out nearly hundreds of organizations singlehandedly."

Severin looked at Tom baffled.

Tom laughed in disbelief. "Damn, I can't believe she's live and in-flesh in front of me. She's such an idol to my friends at work that she never felt real to me. She's a legend, you know?"

Severin crossed his arms. "A legend," he mumbled. His eyes followed her as she moved around the room with his father. Strangely, he could sense her every move. Her presence was suffocating as it was impressive.

Suddenly, from across the room, her eyes lifted and they landed directly on Severin. The hard look in her sapphire eyes had lit a tremendous flame inside him. He felt her gaze all the way into his bones. A normal man would be frightened by the intensity she possessed, but not Severin. He stared back into those eyes with the same resilience.

Severin knew that staring back at her would mean that he challenged her, and she may not like that, maybe she would even kill him for doing so. But Severin couldn't help himself, and he didn't want to stop now either.

The party had begun and the cake was cut too, champagne bottles were popped open and fireworks went off as well. The dance floor opened and many couples joined to dance to the melodious orchestra, that sweetened the night with their enthralling tune. Guests met with tonight's host and they all congratulated him, which finally allowed Severin a moment alone with Zero.

Severin appeared in front of her. "A dance," he held his hand out to her.

Severin watching her with curiosity of what her response would be. Surprisingly though, her slim hand slipped into his. He guided her to the floor and they took their position very easily. His hand rested on her narrow back and he held her gently as her hand rested on his shoulder. Her relaxed demeanour and smile had turned alert and she seemed absorbed. Severin was glad that she focused on him. As the soft music began- so did they.

As he led her around the floor, he found that she was simply letting him guide her through the waltz. He would have thought that she'd fight to lead, but she hadn't.

"I'm surprised that you agreed to dance with me," said Severin, his voice was only for her ears.

"I felt obliged since you're Wayne's son," she whispered. Not being able to help himself, Severin's lips curled up. "You find my reason amusing?" she asked.

"Yes," he responded.

"Care to explain?" she requested.

"I thought I intrigued you," he said bluntly.

When he spun her around and gracefully pulled her back into his arms, she told him rigidly; "Not in the slightest."

He whispered huskily next to her ear, "Well, I find you very intriguing." Finally, her intense eyes met his dark gaze, stirring him deeply.

Suddenly, she let go of his hands and he realized that the dance was over. As she tried to move around him, but he moved the same way blocking her. Throwing him a piercing glare- he smiled mischievously. But he eventually moved letting her go. Knowing that this weekend would be even more interesting than Severin thought...

After dinner was served and midnight promptly arrived, the guests were escorted out the estate to their hotel.

Severin and Tom had stayed in the main foyer with their father and Zero after all the guests left. Finally, once the house was empty, Severin pulled off his suit's jacket and his bow-tie. Both brothers went straight to the large kitchen to eat leftover cake.

Their father appeared later on. "You two, why are you eating cake again?" he said.

"Because it tastes better after everyone leaves," remarked Tom.

Severin ate the cake as he eyed Zero who stood off to the side. Severin guessed that she was staying at the house and not the hotel.

"Zero will be staying with us in the house," their father told them and Severin was proven correct. "I'm going to escort her, so you two make sure to sleep early, because tomorrow we're having breakfast in the garden with our guests."

"Ugh, how early are we talking about?" muttered Tom.

Wayne gave his son a pensive look. "Just make sure you don't wake up at noon," he remarked. Their father turned and looked at Zero. "Right this way," he said. They left Severin and Tom in the kitchen.

"I guess I should get a head-start if I have to wake up early," said Tom, as he yawned.

"Yeah, goodnight," said Severin.

"Goodnight," he replied.

Tom left to his room, and after a while, so did Severin. Even though sleep was nowhere near on his mind right now. He had no desire to fall asleep when all his attention was focused on that woman Zero. Severin was almost desperate to search her up online, but he calmed himself because this wasn't courteous behaviour to anyone, especially himself.

-Zero's POV-

Zero changed out of the dress, took a shower and put on slacks with a loose shirt. In the massive, extravagant bedroom that had its own chandelier, she felt out of place and she knew that she wouldn't be able to sleep here. Not that the room wasn't the best, it was and that was the problem. The mattress was too soft and the duvet too lavish, there were fluffed pillows and velvet, satin fabrics, which were too much for her. She travelled a lot in her time and had to sleep in a lot of areas that weren't fit to her preference. The only place she got any sleep was in her own room back home. She tossed the towel from around her neck onto the high-back chair and left the room making her way to her friend.

Zero knocked on the door to Wayne's study. "Come in," he said from inside.

She opened the door. "Join me for a drink," she prompted.

"What do you think I was waiting for here," he remarked and told her to join him in his comfortable study.

She took a seat on the comfy, leather chair and he handed her a glass of his favourite 1964 Bowmore whiskey, that he rarely shared with anyone. They clinked their glasses together and took a moment to enjoy their drink.

Wayne was still in his suit, looking strikingly handsome despite being in his fifties. The alpha-male title that Wayne had was evident from his strapping built and wide shoulders. He looked deadly, dangerous and he wasn't any mere wolf or man to be trifled with. His dark black hair had grown longer than when she first met him and there were a lot more streaks of silver near the temples of his head. He raked his hair stylishly back for the party, but now, some of the strands had fallen onto his forehead. Wayne's kids had their father's eyes, which was the deepest, darkest shade of indigo. Wayne's gaze burned brightly in the light of the tremendous flames lit beside them in the stone hearth.

"Did you enjoy yourself tonight?" asked Wayne as he joined her on the chair.

"I enjoyed it as much as I could," she told him. "You know it was only for you that I even came."

Wayne beamed. "You're such a sweetheart," he said. "I still don't understand how a man hasn't snatched you up and made you his mate."

Zero chuckled. "Probably because they all run away with their tails between their legs," she jested, which wasn't exactly a lie.

"Maybe if you didn't show that gun you always have on you then they would be more adamant on staying," remarked Wayne.

Zero enjoyed the rich taste of whiskey. "I don't need anyone that gets scared of me," she told him.

 Wayne's smile turned sad. "Trust me when I say, that a mate is never scared of the bond," he told her. "When you find someone who will love you no matter what, then you won't be able to let them go."

"Since when did you become so philosophical?" teased Zero.

"Kids do that to you," he said, but his eyes told her that he was remembering his wife. "You'll know when you have your own."

"I want to have kids... a family," she shared honestly.

"You already have the biggest family," said Wayne. "And you are the mother of all the kids you save every day." Zero smiled at him. "I honestly don't know how you do it," remarked Wayne. "I can barely handle two kids."

Zero chuckled. "Your sons have grown up a lot these past few years."

"They're doing the best they can," said Wayne. "That's the most a parent can ask for."

"You raised them well," said Zero.

"I like to think so too, but it was my mate that made them who they are," he remarked. "And no thanks to you, that I was even able to stay with them."

"Wayne, there's no need to thank me every time," she said.

He shook his head. "If you hadn't pulled me out of that car, my kids would be orphans right now," he said. "Since that day I've owed you my life and I mean it."

"You're not going to start crying on me, are you?" she jested.

He laughed. "Oh dear," he poured himself more whiskey.

"Enough about that, how are you holding up?" she asked. Wayne's mate had passed away a couple of years ago, but she knew that Wayne still held onto his mate's memory.

Wayne's eyes saddened. "Losing a mate isn't easy, but I have my kids and they keep me going," he said. "What about you? You crawl in the darkest of places and face the vilest of people. I worry about you a lot."

Zero smirked. "I don't scare easy."

He grinned too. "That's true," he said. "You literally walked into a burning car and pulled me out. Even nature doesn't intervene in the infamous executioner's business."

"I don't even know how I got that name," shared Zero.

"Well, I like it. It's very fitting," believed Wayne.

Zero shrugged her shoulder. "I guess when you meet so many people every day, they just do what they want with their memory of you," she said. "I like to think that I don't just execute people."

Wayne looked at her bemused. "What makes you think people named you that because you kill?" he asked. Zero gave him a blank look. "You're the executioner of evil, Zero." Wayne smiled warmly. "You defeat all sorts of darkness in this world, that's why the public chose the title of executioner for you."

"I don't need praise or recognition," she said. "That's not the reason why I do this."

"I know, dear. But people will do what they can to honour you and nothing you say will stop that," said Wayne. "I heard about what you've been doing with the cage fighting pits. Many leaders and alphas are cleaning up their mess, so you don't appear at their doorstep next."

"That's good," she said. "Honestly, that's the best news I got all day."

"It's been a long night for you, hasn't it?" said Wayne.

"Too long," Zero sighed as she remembered the pit she had visited yesterday. "But coming here, meeting you was refreshing."

"Tomorrow we're having breakfast out in the garden," Wayne told her.

"I doubt I'll dine with your guests, but I will eat with you," said Zero.

"Of course, I wasn't going to let you sit anywhere else," said Wayne. "And I do know how much you like riding on my estate, so I also prepared a special treat for you tomorrow."

Zero's eyes lit up like the fire, she smiled with all her teeth. "You're the best," she said.

"I know," he boasted.

"You know, your oldest son is just like you," Zero stated.

"Oh, he's nothing like me," grinned Wayne over the rim of the fine crystal cup. "That boy of mine is much more dangerous than he lets on. Don't be fooled by his charming nature."

Severin Salvatore was eerily similar to his father, except that Wayne's son had golden hair, that was artfully raked back away from his striking face. He stood next to his father and still out-sized him in build and stature. He was handsome, definitely a charmer with that rakish smile of his, that made many hearts fluttered after for sure.

The whole time, from the moment she had arrived, his indigo gaze tracked her every move. She hadn't looked his way purposely, but she felt it on her at every turn or motion. His wolf was quiet all night too, it was like his wolf's spirit was watchful of his surroundings, especially her. Zero sensed right away that Wayne's son was different from just the way he looked at her. But what was it about his eyes, that made her stomach churn and her heart give up? she thought to herself.

Thomas on the other hand had darker hair, like his father, but he was leaner and more sophisticated in his demeanour. Zero could tell that Tom watched more than spoke and he measured every word before he shared any of his thoughts. The two brothers were nothing alike, but jarringly parallel in the way they held themselves with that regal dignity.

"He's quite cheeky," she mumbled making Wayne laugh. "I was surprised when Severin asked me for a dance."

"Really," said Wayne. "I wasn't."

Zero raised a brow. "He's bold just like his father," she mumbled as she took a sip.

Wayne chuckled. "He can recognize a remarkable woman when he sees one," he stated proudly. "I think I've done my job as a parent."

"Well, as a parent, you should warn him of me," she told him. "Otherwise, teaching him a lesson won't be hard."

Wayne snickered and nodded in agreement. "I'll make sure to do that tomorrow," he said.

Zero chugged the last bit of whiskey and put the glass out in front of her. "So... when are you going to tell me what I'm truly doing here?" she asked brusquely.

Wayne's smile dropped, and that hardness around his eyes emerged making him appear as mature as his age said. "Nothing gets past you, does it?" he retorted.

Zero leaned back, crossing her legs and lacing her hands together. "What's the problem, Wayne?"

Wayne frowned and before he spoke he drew in a deep breath. "Severin will be handling our company in New York and I don't want him to be there alone," he told her. "I know it's a lot and you're busy but-" Wayne hesitated to continue.

But Zero knew why he had. "I'm pretty sure your security team can handle protecting your son, Wayne."

"They're not you," alleged Wayne. "I need to be fully assured that my son is safe and he comes back home-" his indigo eyes were despondent.

Zero stared not into the eyes of her friend, but she saw the concern of a father. "How long will Severin be in New York?" she asked.

"Just for a few months," assured Wayne. "If you could just watch out for him. Be by his side while he's there."

Zero's fingers danced over her knuckles and she plotted in her mind. A trail formed in front of her eyes as a plan formulated before she even uttered a sound. This month was busy for her because she needed to annihilate some specific targets that were on her list for a long while now. More than that, she still had her focus split between meeting the other alphas and running the city. Babysitting wasn't really her thing. But... turning away someone who asked for her help was something she'd never do.

"I will do this for you, Wayne," said Zero. "You're my friend and I will make sure that your son is safe during his trip."

Wayne's smile warmed. "Thank you," he laid his hand on her arm. "You lay my heart to rest."

Zero patted his hand too. "Although, does your son know that I will be accompanying him?" she asked.

"No," answered Wayne, "but I will let Severin know tomorrow."

"Alright," Zero got to her feet. "I should head to bed now."

Wayne stood as well. "Thank you for listening to an old man's request," he said.

"You, old?" scoffed Zero. "Please, you'll be kicking around even after I'm gone." Wayne laughed with her. "It's no problem, Wayne. Goodnight," she said before she left for the guest bedroom.

Severin practically jumped out of bed, freshened up and ran outside the house where he knew the entire party had joined to have breakfast. The sky was bright blue, no cloud in sight and the sun gleamed brightly over the estate. But instead of looking at the wonderful weather and guests, his eyes searched for the woman who made him lose hours of sleep last night. But strangely, he couldn't find her.

"Where is she?" he asked his father and Tom.

His father looked up from his tea cup. "She's coming, son," he said. "Don't be so impatient."

Severin rolled his eyes. "Did she already have breakfast already?" he asked.

"She's probably coming down right now," guessed Tom.

"Nope, she's right over there," said their father.

On an Arabian black stallion horse, Zero sat with strong posture, her legs straddled the horse as she held the reins with both hands. Thunder, the horse she rode, seemed to be at full spirit as it had been a while since he went on a run. Severin could sense the authority she had over the horse. Her bright blue eyes penetrated through him, yet she was focused on the path ahead of her and not him.

"Son, close your mouth," bemused Wayne and both his sons listened.

"She's riding Thunder," Tom astounded. "Only Severin rides that monster."

"Nope, that horse loves Zero too, said Wayne. "She rides Thunder every time she visits."

"Every time!" Tom astounded. "How many times has she been here?"

"Er- well," Wayne fumbled as he counted through his memories. "Six or seven."

"How come we never knew about this?" Severin looked at his father sternly. "Why'd you hide this from us?"

"You mean, why'd I hide her?" Wayne corrected and it was true that he knew his sons the best. "She didn't want to be found."

Severin and Tom watched, just like the hundreds of other guests were. Zero across the green fields, was like a beautiful painting. The sky was blue as the sea behind her, the vast forest was her frame and that animal she rode was her throne. Zero's black hair swept back in the wind and her fast breath fogged in front of her. Thunder ran with every ounce of his vigour, because he knew that the rider he had was strong enough to endure his resilience and speed.

"How do you know someone like her, dad?" Severin asked as he peeled his eyes away from the rogue alpha and looked at his father.

Their father stiffened in his chair. "Zero saved my life," he revealed.

Tom and Severin both fell pale. They couldn't believe what their father had just said. But they didn't panic, they weren't the type to throw a fit and demand for answers. They gave their father their full attention to explain what he just revealed.

"When was this?" Tom's voice was like when he spoke in court; a stern posture and firm tone always got what he seeked.

"Two years ago, when I went to-"

"Berkshire," interrupted Severin. "I knew it was strange when you stayed a week longer there, even though there was no need."

Wayne nodded, with his eyes in the direction of the flowers on the table. But it didn't seem as if he was actually looking at them. He appeared lost in his memories, and his gaze was far away.

"I was driving back when a truck collided with my car," he told them. "My car rolled off the road onto the side where no one could possible see me. So, I knew that there wouldn't be a rescue if I didn't call or get myself out."

Severin's skin crawled like ice pricked every inch of him. He couldn't bear the pain in his father's voice or eyes. Severin thought that those days were over, but it seemed that he guessed wrong.

"I couldn't find the phone and my leg was jammed between the steering wheel and the seat," said Wayne. "I was stuck and the car was leaking gas, ready to catch fire."

Tom drew out a shaky breath and looked away. "What about the truck that hit you?" he asked just what Severin needed to know too.

"He left," Wayne told his kids. "I was alone in the car and on the street before the car caught fire."

The three of them grew quiet long enough to hear the breeze blowing across the garden.

"But then-" Wayne smiled, a smile so warm that Severin remembered his mom- "from across the road, she came straight to me." Wayne looked to the field where Zero rode Thunder. "The car was on fire and I was stuck with no hope of getting out. I had a few moments to live, maybe less. But that didn't matter to her, she came to the ticking-time bomb of a car and reached me."

"How did she get you out?" asked Tom.

"She broke the damn door off, cut the belt and pulled me out singlehandedly," Wayne laughed at the memory because it sounded as if he told a folktale and not the truth. "Zero pulled me away and my car exploded a second later."

Tom and Severin both looked at Zero. "Wasn't she scared?" Tom asked.

Wayne shook his head. "Death to her is like the dust under our feet," he told them. "Nothing, and I mean nothing, can stop Zero when she sets her mind to something. Not the fire or the car which was about to explode."

"Why did she save you?" questioned Severin. "Did she know who you were?"

"I don't think so," said his father. "You're probably thinking who does that for a stranger, right?" He looked at his sons. "Who walks into fire willingly to save someone they have no relation to or any need to save? I've been wondering the same thing this whole time." Wayne looked out towards Zero on the field. "I only got one answer to that and the answer was; that's just Zero," he said to them. "Only Zero would crawl into the deepest and darkest pits of Hell to save a life. Only Zero can stop death itself from getting in her way. I learned of her strength the day she saved me. One day, you two will also see it. That much I can promise you."

"How dangerous is she really?" Severin asked softly.

"I hope you remember this for your own good, Severin," said Wayne. "She is a goddess to the people she saves and the devil to her enemies. New York is her territory and no one can say otherwise... unless they are ready to lose their head, limbs and heart-" Wayne added that with a chuckle.

"I can't believe you never told us," said Tom. "You got hurt and we weren't there to help."

"Zero was with me until I had recovered," he told them. "She kept me company. Besides, I was too busy trying to get to know her, that I forgot to call. I realized much later and it was only because she asked if I had family or not."

"She stayed with you," mumbled Severin.

Wayne smiled fondly. "Through the whole thing," he said. "She thought I was some simple old man, which was quite refreshing to be honest."

"What about the truck driver?" said Tom, angrily. "What happened to him?"

"Don't ask," Wayne said. "It's too gruesome to say."

Okay, now his sons were even more intrigued.

"Dad, you can't dangle that in front of us and not say anything," said Severin.

Wayne sighed. "Before Zero rescued me, she had actually captured the driver," he told them. "It seemed that the truck that hit me was smuggling weapons out of the country and Zero was following it."

"So, the driver was her target from the start," alleged Severin.

"Yes, he was," confirmed Wayne.

"What did she do then?" asked Tom.

Wayne shook his head. "One day, she hadn't come to the hospital," he said. "But when I turned on the news that day, I knew why she wasn't with me." Wayne drank his tea and calmed himself, but his kids grew more angst. "The driver that hit me was found on the roof of the weapons' warehouse where he was making the shipments to the dealers. His body was hung from chains and presented like a warning."

Severin and Tom gaped at their father. "She killed everyone at that dealership?" asked Tom.

"Killed and left their bodies for the world to find," said Wayne. "It was a cold message, but oddly satisfying. That morning, news had spread far around the world that Zero was targeting weapon dealers. Many stopped their work and closed shop, but the few that hadn't, met the same fate as the ones in that dealership."

Severin stepped away, leaning his hands on the marble railing. He stared out at this mysterious woman who showed up here to enjoy a party but ended up consuming his every thought.

"Zero..." he whispered her name, which the light breeze carried away. "Who are you?" His eyes tracked her every move. He was engrossed from the way she commanded that monstrous horse.

Thunder was a wild creature who was never trained to bare a rider and nor was there anyone willing to try, because that just led to severe injuries or worse. Severin was allowed a little bit of leeway with Thunder because Severin helped rehabilitate the horse after he was injured. But Severin always believed that Thunder just accepted Severin so he could run from time to time. Severin worked for the trust and finally had gotten the chance to ride Thunder, but it was only a few times a year at most.

However, when his dad just said that Zero came to the house a couple times and each time she rode Thunder. How did she manage to win the beast's trust in one try? questioned Severin. What did she do that Thunder looked like a galloping puppy on the field? Severin gave up from answering that because it was clear from the way she gallantly sat on Thunder. The horse answered to authority and dominance that he considered worthy. And who was worthier than Zero to ride the beast.

"Severin, where are you going?" asked his father.

Severin didn't even realize that he was walking down the steps, but soon after, he broke out into a light jog towards the farm stables. He met the short worker, Sean who was cleaning the stables at the front.

"Good morning, sir," Sean greeted him.

"Sean-" Severin grabbed his personal saddle off the cabinet- "I need Snow."

"He's right out back," Sean answered with a surprised expression. "I'll have him ready for you-"

"No, it's alright-" Severin hurried out back himself to get his friend who was the only one that could dare to match Thunder's speed.

Severin secured the pearlescent saddle on Snow who stood over 6 foot and was a Camarillo breed. The saddle suited Snow's pure white coat, that's why Severin picked it.

"Snow, I need you to run with all your might today," Severin whispered as he buckled the straps on the side. "We need to race with Thunder-" Snow heard the name and stomped his hooves in excitement- "I know, son. But Thunder's not the only one we have to worry about. He has a rider today unlike any other we faced before."

Snow shook his head, his long white hair swayed. He let Severin know that he was more than ready to play.

"Good boy," praised Severin.

"Sir, I have your gear," Sean said as he hurried to him.

Severin ditched his shoes and pulled on his boots. He put on a warmer jacket and grabbed the leather gloves last. Severin looked out to the massive track and saw Zero still riding Thunder.

With a smile on his face, an exhilarating rush grew inside his chest. Severin hooked his foot onto the saddle and pushed himself off the ground. He swung his leg over and settled on top of Snow, positioning himself securely.

"Sir, will you be riding with Zero?" asked Sean.

Severin swerved Snow to turn towards the open track when he heard Sean ask that question. "You know Zero too?" he asked him.

"Of course," added Sean. "She introduced herself when we met the first time."

"She introduced herself," astounded Severin, and here he thought that she would be too proud to talk to anyone.

"She came with Mr. Salvatore and she talked to all the stable workers," answered Sean. "I was quite surprised. But why are you stunned?"

"No reason," answered Severin. "I'll bring Snow back in an hour or two, Sean."

"No problem, sir. Have fun out there with Thunder," Sean snickered as he left back to the farm.

Severin kicked off with speed right away and Snow was happy to oblige, because he was just as enthusiastic to reach his friend on the field.

From the corner of his eye, Severin caught his father and brother watching him. They definitely looked entertained by his sudden outburst of interest, but Severin didn't care if he was embarrassing himself. He needed to get close to Zero because for some reason there nothing was more important than that.

Severin paid less attention of how much control he had as he directed Snow, but that never mattered because no one kept Severin safer than Snow. That's why Severin was able to focus less on the speed and more on where Zero was headed.

Zero looked back and her blue gaze widened when she saw him racing straight to her. Thunder saw right away too and he pushed off the ground, his front legs reared back in the air as Zero was on his back.

A non-experienced rider would be in a lot of pain and most likely fall off from the sheer force of when a horse stands like that. And Zero wasn't on some random horse, she was on Thunder whose grit surpassed that of any ordinary horse. But like Severin expected, she held the reins and her posture remained composed by the glorious stance Thunder took.

Thunder saw the challenge Snow ran towards him with and so did Zero. They both braced and all Zero did was accept the challenge. Thunder took off in a swift command from Zero, and her brilliant smile told Severin that she was more than happy to race.

Both the horses leaped over the fence of the track and onto the open field road. Severin always raced off the track, so he knew that they would be safe out here.

Through the forest, Severin lifted off the saddle just a bit to get more speed. He needed it to catch up to Zero. She hadn't looked back once to see if he was there. He guessed that she already knew that Severin wasn't far behind from the reverberating sound of Snow's hooves, which dug into the dirt and grass.

The thick trees rushed by them as they raced through and around every obstacle. Severin almost hit a branch or two when he was too busy watching Zero and her expression.

But now, after Zero passed him at least four times, he didn't hold back any longer. As much as Zero rode Thunder like a pro, nothing beat the bond Severin had built with Snow over the years. And that was proven at the final push rounding the edge of the forest of his father's property, Severin kicked off and Snow eagerly joined hip-to-hip with Thunder. Both magnificent horses started to run in unison and Severin was right beside Zero now.

Severin would've raced a little longer, but if they continued on this path they would return to the manor. And as petty as Severin sounded, he wanted to keep Zero to himself just a little while longer.

With a sharp whistle from Severin, the horses knew the command and slowed in their tracks.

Snow stopped first and as always Thunder turned and faced him head on. They were friends, but they behaved more like rivals on the field.

Zero patted Thunder's neck, her fingers running through his long black mane. Severin adored the stunning smile on her face. A wild energy radiated around her and she was overflowing with excitement, just like he was.

"It's been a while since I had that much fun," she beamed at him with that striking smile and those vigorous blue eyes. "Thank you."

Severin's heart skipped; it literally leaped out of his chest and onto the floor. What was happening to him and why was it her that was causing this? he wondered, and as curious as his nature was, he needed to solve this as soon as possible.

"You ride Thunder really well," he praised. "He doesn't like to be taken for runs by anyone."

Zero's eyes widened. "Really," she astounded. "Thunder never gave me any trouble like that."

Severin laughed. "You're the first to ever say that," he told her when he noticed what she was wearing.

Zero didn't have any riding gear, not even a helmet. She sat on Thunder with khaki trousers and a loose fitted shirt. Her hands were without gloves and she wore simple shoes.

"You'll get blisters with those shoes and no gloves," he said.

Zero looked down at her own appearance. "Oh, I don't really have any gear," she told him.

Severin looked at her, with a bemused expression he knew that. But he couldn't help it, this woman was surreal.

"Come on," he said as he nudged Snow to start treading down towards the town nearby.

Zero straightened her posture. "Should you really be ditching your father's party?" she asked him.

"What do you mean?" He gave her an innocent look. "I'm being a good son and catering to his most honoured guest."

Zero laughed at him. She murmured something that he didn't catch, and then, she followed him with Thunder.

They rode out for about thirty minutes before they reached the outskirts of the town Slough. Severin knew his way around here pretty well since he bought most of his gear from here. He didn't waste time going to a shop far from home, since he personally picked his own gear and managed the repairs too. Well, now he was especially grateful that he made that decision because he was able to assist Zero.

"The shop I go to is just across the bridge," Severin pointed and Zero spotted the short brick building, that had a red and golden sign.

Zero followed him and they stopped in front of Archie & Wilson's Saddlery. Severin was familiar with the mates that owned this shop. Archie and Wilson's entire family ran this establishment, that's why Severin trusted them. They handled their business with confidence and Severin knew they would provide the best service, which up until now, they haven't proved him wrong.

Severin got off the horse and so did Zero, when suddenly, three kids rushed out of the shop. Severin recognized the unruly red hair and those freckles that matched those amber eyes. They were Archie's nephews.

"Woah, they're for real!" said the youngest who was named after his uncle, so Archie Jr, they all called him.

"Hey, is your uncle in today?" Severin asked them.

"He sure is," answered the eldest who was Bailey. "Uncle Archie never leaves shop, even on Saturdays."

Severin smiled at them. "Can you three keep an eye on Snow and Thunder for me?" he asked.

"We sure can," smiled the shy kid who was hiding behind his older brother.

"Thanks, Boyd," said Severin. He looked back at Zero who was smiling at the kids and was charmed by all three of them. "This way," he called out to get her attention.

However, Zero first looked down the entire street, her eyes like a hawk caught every movement and then when she was satisfied, she had entered. Severin closed the door and the chime of the bell over the door rang.

"Severin," a tall, brawn of a man marched out. "Oh, I see you brought company," Archie's thick voice boomed in the small shop.

"It's good to see you, Archie," greeted Severin. "This is-" he didn't know how to introduce Zero, so he said what came to mind- "my friend, Zero."

Archie paused in his tracks, his burly boots seemed to put a dent in the dark red rug. His eyes widened and he looked at Zero in utter shock. "My husband isn't going to believe me," he muttered. "Out of all the days that everyone decided to go home early, they chose today."

Zero stepped forward towards Archie. "It's nice to meet you," she held her hand out to him.

Archie wiped his hand on his rugged jeans. "It's an honour, ma'am," he shook her hand.

Severin bit back his laughter because he'd never seen Archie behave this way. The timid one was his mate Wilson, Archie was the badass who was just as tenacious as Thunder.

"What can I do for you?" Archie asked, trying to sound polite. Severin could see on the poor guy's face that he wished his mate was here to help him. Archie was never good at being mellow.

"We need some gear fitted for Zero, Archie," said Severin.

"You ride?" Archie beamed at her because that was the one thing he understood and it connected him to his customers. Zero nodded. "Well, come on to the back here. Do you know what gear you want in particular?" he asked, as they followed through the far door to the right behind the antique cashier counter.

"Not really, I never picked any before," she answered him.

Archie waved a hand. "Severin has a great eye with this, just as good as me," he said. "So, we can help you out, don't worry."

Zero smiled and Severin could tell it was genuine from the way her eyes gleamed.

They moved to the showroom out back, where the shop kept new arrivals and custom-made gear, that was tailored upon requests. Archie pulled forward rack upon rack with breeches, jackets. He opened the large cabinet that held all styles of paddock boots.

"I will be back with the gloves," said Archie as he left through a pair of burgundy drapes.

Zero went over to the racks that showed the jackets made from leather and there were cashmere or velvet options too. Severin preferred cashmere the best, since it kept him warm. But for Zero, he had an image already for her. Warmth was key, but the style mattered more for her.

In the quiet space, Severin came beside her and the fiery fragrance of her pheromones were mixed with that sweet pine from the forest.

"May I?" he whispered.

"Sure," she said and gave him space.

Severin adored the white which was what he wore right now and almost wished to match her with him. However, on Zero, the colour that made her shine was the one that could never be marred by another.

"Black," he said to her. "The shade that adds depth to every other colour out there." Severin pulled out the black leather jacket, that would reach just above her hips. The leather was sleek and the stitching was golden, adding that richness to the piece.

Zero grabbed the jacket, her hands caressed the soft leather as she breathed it in. "What's next?" she asked him, and now he felt the pressure to make sure she liked everything he chose.

But if there was anything he was certain about was shopping, food and real estate.

Severin went to the breeches rack and he pulled out a pair of champagne gold breeches. They had a light sheen that looked as if they were glossed. The colour was impeccable and Severin knew they were comfortable since he had a pair himself.

Archie returned with a tray of gloves, that he thought were best for Zero. They were a perfect fit too.

"Can these be used for other activities?" Zero asked as she tried on the black leather gloves, that were cashmere on the inside, creating a warm insulation.

Archie and Severin shared a perplexed look before looking at Zero who flexed her hands in the gloves she had on.

"Of course, they can be used for other activities," Archie told her.

Zero nodded. God only knew what she was thinking about, thought Severin.

"Let's take a look at the boots," Severin said as he showed her the next collection.

He picked out the knee-high leather boots, that were matted black and perfect to her size. Severin picked out a pair for himself when he saw the latest white boots. He couldn't resist, it called out to him, like Archie always teased him about.

The bags were overflowing and Severin was going to get it sent to the house, since he didn't bring the car.

"Is it alright if I put the gear on?" Zero asked Archie.

"Of course, right back here is a changing room," Archie took her and she vanished behind a door with all her new things.

Archie came back and shot a scowl at Severin. "How could you bring someone like her here and not give me a heads up," he accused. "I'm not in my best jeans."

"Trust me, I felt the same when my dad introduced her to me," he told him.

"I didn't even think she was real," Archie raked his red hair back. "Wilson isn't gonna believe me."

"You should ask for a picture," jested Severin.

"And get my head shot off," Archie retorted as he rubbed his neck.

Severin looked off towards the corner display when his eye caught a golden gleam. He went over to the brooch collection and saw many pins hanging on a long dark red cushion. He saw the horse head first, that was purely gold and looked like Thunder. The pin even had a red ruby embedded into the golden horse head's eye.

"Can I see that, Archie?" said Severin.

Archie came over and unlocked the case, pulling out the pin with the ruby. "It's the last one," he added.

Severin held the heavy weight in his palm, when suddenly, Zero appeared dressed in the proper riding gear. The leather clung to her lean body and she pulled the collar of her shirt over the lapels of the jacket, showing a bit of her cleavage. She tucked in the shirt now and a belt was looped into the khaki pants, which were tucked into the heavy boots.

"How is it?" she asked.

"Like it was made for you," Severin blurted it out before he could stop himself.

Archie looked ready to laugh at him, but he turned away and bent over the brooch display.

Severin groaned. "We're ready to pay, Archie," he said dejectedly. He looked at Zero. "Can you check on the horses for me?"

"Oh, sure. But I need pay for this," she replied.

"It's a gift from me," he said. "Don't worry about it."

Zero didn't say anything further. "Thanks for all the help, Archie. It was wonderful meeting you," she said after a moment.

Archie smiled with all his teeth. "Please come again if you need more gear, ma'am," he said.

"Please, call me Zero," she said before she left the room dressed flawlessly.

Severin stood staring at the direction where Zero walked away in. He knew that she was gone, but he couldn't remove his eyes.

"Alright, I'll pack your items and have them delivered to your house," said Archie. "Severin..." he called out. "Severin, hello!" A hand waved in front of Severin's face when he finally came to it.

"Huh, yeah, thanks," he said.

Archie leaned over the counter, a grin on his lips. "Are you going to give her the brooch too?" he asked.

Severin looked down at his hand to the brooch. "Should I?" he questioned in return. "Is it much?"

"You bought the lady an entire wardrobe and now you're asking if it's much," retorted Archie. "I'll add the brooch to your bill-" he chuckled as he finished packaging all of the new stuff.

Severin waved off and ended up outside where Thunder and Snow waited. Thunder looked rather agitated by being outside in the town around people. Snow was totally in his element as everyone adored him and praised his beauty. What a show-off, thought Severin. But where was the other beauty?

Hearing a few muffled voices, Severin spotted Zero returning with Archie's nephews by her side. All four of them held ice-cream cones of different flavours. Zero stood in the middle, with a cone in her hand and the white cream suggested it was vanilla flavour topped with strawberries. The kids got the funky flavours with wild blue and purple colours, that made their tongues purple.

"You got them ice-cream?" Severin asked when Zero was close enough to hear him.

"I thought I'd treat them for taking care of the horses," she told him.

Severin bit back his smile.

"Thanks for the ice-cream, lady," said Bailey.

Zero looked at the boy. "You're welcome," she ruffled his red hair.

The three kids ran inside with their cones and they definitely went to tell Archie everything that just happened.

"I'm craving ice-cream now too," Severin mumbled.

Zero ate with gusto. "Get some, I'll wait for you," she said as she stood beside the horses.

Severin realized that the pin was in his pocket as he stared at Zero eating her dessert. He never hesitated before giving someone a gift, but right now, his heart was pounding and he felt the floor vanishing from beneath him. Severin even felt a glare at the back of his head from Thunder who was impatient and ready to go home.

"Aren't you gonna go?" Zero asked him.

"Yeah, but before I do," he pulled his hand out his pocket and presented the brooch. "I got you something."

Zero frowned. "You already bought me the clothes," she said. "I don't need anything else."

"That was different," he said. Severin lifted his hand and focused on the lapel of her new jacket. "This was your first time coming to Archie's shop and riding with me. So, I thought we should buy a token to mark this day."

Zero watched as he put the pin on her. "It's a horse head," she muttered over her ice-cream. "It looks like Thunder."

Severin secured the pin from the back and fixed the lapel back in its position. "There, all done." He was impressed by the golden pin that shined against the black leather.

"Thanks," she said. "I never got a gift like this before."

Severin looked at her dumbfounded. "No one bought you a gift," he couldn't hold back the shock on his face.

Zero looked at her ice-cream. "Not really," she muttered and sat on the metal railing where the horses were tied up. "Hurry and go get some ice-cream. I'm almost finished mine."

Severin took a few moments to move because he couldn't believe that he heard. No one gifted anything to Zero before, even though she did so much for everyone. Severin's gut twisted and he didn't even realize how he reached the ice-cream parlour without bumping into anyone.

Severin pushed those thoughts down and ordered himself the butterscotch flavour, but just one scoop.

He returned to the spot where he left Zero with the horses, but he didn't see her. Instantly, his heart dropped and he reached for his cell phone, but he forgot that he didn't have her number. He went over to Thunder and Snow, who were agitated and definitely freaked out over something. Severin looked around and saw nothing.

"Zero," he called out, but she was gone. "Zero-" he called out again, when he heard muffled voices. Severin rushed right in the alley of Archie's shop.

"My friend just bought me that," said a voice and Severin knew it was Zero's.

Severin hurried to her but froze when he saw four men standing in the alley facing Zero. Severin knew that small muggings like this happened all the time. But most left after taking wallets, except it seemed that this time the men were interested in something else. Severin searched Zero for the brooch, then his suspicions were proven correct when he saw that the brooch had been taken. It was thrown off, probably in a scuffle and it was lying in a puddle with her ice-cream cone too.

"Are you okay?" Severin asked Zero, as he stepped in between her and the thugs.

Zero stared only at the brooch, her expression remained rigid.

"I'll just buy you a new one," said Severin, trying to calm her because out of the four men they faced, Zero was scariest. And from the stern posture, Severin could tell that this was bad. "Let it go, come on, Zero," he said, trying to get her out of here.

"What'd you call her?" A man spoke up, the one that stood in front of them.

Severin stiffened as the four men inched back. "Zero," he said the name out loud more clearly.

"Oh shit! Where's the brooch!" The thugs panicked and picked up the brooch from the ground. One of them wiped it down and cleaned off the water. Another quickly grabbed it from his buddy and shoved it in Severin's hand.

"We're sorry-" all of them said and ran off in the opposite direction.

Severin was stumped at what just happened, because it was impossible to be mugged and then given back what was taken. Status and titles didn't matter in front of the thugs when they wanted to take from you.

"Well, that was strange," said Severin. He turned and looked at her blank expression. "Are you alright?"

"I've been mugged before, so you don't need to protect me," said Zero.

"I wasn't. In fact, I was protecting them from you," he said. "I was sure you'd kill them the moment they touched you."

She frowned. "I don't kill everyone that bothers me," she mumbled.

Severin smiled at her because he couldn't help it. "Here," he said as he lifted his hand. "Don't lose it this time."

Zero sulked as he put the pin back where it belonged. "Whatever, let's head back," she said.

"Aren't you hungry?" asked Severin. "We can have a bite to eat before returning."

"Thanks, but I promised Wayne that I'd eat with him," she said.

Severin gave her his ice-cream since she dropped hers and seemed pretty upset about it. They returned to the horses and rode back to the estate after.

"I'll take Thunder back to his stable," said Severin. "You can head inside to meet my dad."

Zero jumped off Thunder and handed Severin the reins. "Thanks for today and for the gifts," she told him.

Severin shot her smirk. "I can show you a good time whenever you want," he baited.

Zero chuckled and walked away without any answer, which confused Severin even more. He thought she'd give him a quick and clever retort, but she hadn't. She just laughed, what did that mean? Damn, Severin was more confused than ever before.

Severin watched as Zero walked all the way back to the estate and straight to his father's table. "What are we going to do, guys?" he asked Snow and Thunder.

Severin was almost scared from what his heart discovered. No, it wasn't possible. A mate was impossible. Severin couldn't have what his dad and mom had. A bond as sacred as his parents had only caused pain when it was lost. Severin promised that he'd never put himself through what his father suffered.

Thunder stomped his hooves irritably at Severin.

"Right, right, I'm sorry," said Severin to the persistent horse. He ignored his thoughts and raced to the stables to get these horses back to shelter to rest.

Severin finally decided that he needed to talk to his father about this before he left for New York. Mate or not, Severin needed to know more about Zero and her side of the world.