Chapter 168
But even as I spoke the words, I was acutely aware of Derek’s scent still lingering on my skin. After our kiss in his other yesterday, I’d tried everything to remove the trace of him, but werewolf senses were too keen. Bradley could smell his brother on me, and it was clearly driving him into a jealous frenzy.
My wolf growled protectively inside me, urging me to put more distance between myself and Bradley. The instinct was so strong it was almost painful to ignore.
I finally summoned the courage to stand up, drawing the attention of everyone in the class.
“Sir,” I called out to Professor Wilson, “Bradley is disturbing me and making it impossible for me to concentrate.”
The professor looked up from his notes, his expression hardening as he took in my flushed face. “Sit down, Miss Blackwood,” he said, lifting a hand dismissively. “I don’t have time for your complaints right now.”
I stood in shocked silence for a moment, unable to comprehend what had just happened. Professors at Silvermoon Academy were known for their fairness and professionalism. Why would he dismiss my concern so easily?
Slowly, I sank back into my seat, humiliation burning through me.
“How is this possible?” I muttered to myself.
Bradley leaned close enough that I could feel his breath on my ear. “I bribed him.”
I pushed him away sharply. “W–what?”
His smile widened, showing just a hint of canine. “What? Never heard of buying off a judge in a case? Just like that, I bought off the professor in your case.”
I stared at him in disbelief. “You can’t just—”
“Don’t look so shocked,” he interrupted. “It’s just for the classroom. I didn’t make any deals for high grades or anything. So you can go report to the dean if you want–it’s not illegal.”
I turned away, trying to process this information. Of course Bradley would resort to bribery. Like his brother, he was used to getting whatever he wanted. The thought of Derek sent a fresh wave of conflicting emotions through me–anger at his proposition, shame at my agreement, and a traitorous longing I couldn’t quite suppress.
These Stone brothers are going to be the death of me, I thought bitterly.
“The professor told me he’s going to assign us so much work that we’ll need to spend nearly four hours together,” Bradley continued, his voice laced with malicious glee. “I’m thinking of telling him to increase the hourly rate…”
“Shut up!” I snapped, louder than I intended.
Several students turned to look at us, and I sank lower in my seat, wishing I could disappear. Bradley’s satisfaction at my discomfort was palpable.
When I glanced at him again, I was startled by the intensity in his eyes–something wild and almost unhinged.
“Are you insane?” I asked. “You looked crazy just now.”
1/2
Chapter 168
Bradley’s gaze traveled slowly down my body, lingering on the hem of my skirt. Why are you wearing such a real a today? Is it to impress me?”
A laugh escaped me before I could stop it–a sharp, bitter sound. “No, It’s to impress your brother.
The smile vanished from Bradley’s face instantly. “Erin,” he said, my name sounding like a warning on his lips.
I felt a surge of satisfaction at having hit a nerve. If he was going to torment me, I would give as good as I got. After months of being manipulated by both Stone brothers, something in me had finally snapped. I was done being pushed
around.
“Wasn’t it you who bribed the professor for me?” I asked, not bothering to lower my voice now. “So let’s talk. What’s there to be ashamed of?”
Bradley studied me with narrowed eyes. “You’ve become quite bold. You weren’t like this when you were with me.
“Yes, you’re right,” I agreed, meeting his gaze steadily. “It’s all because of your brother. He’s playing hard to get with me. So I thought, why not seduce him? After all, he is my Soul Bond.”
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Bonded to My Ex's Alpha Brother (by CalebWhite)