Page 19 of The Life of Anna-Tenth Anniversary Edition: Act 2

Jenna leaned forward and studied him for a moment. “Well, he’s definitely not flirting like he used to.”

“I told you.”

The evening truly felt like a celebration; the first real birthday celebration in many, many years. Being surrounded by friends was a breath of fresh air, filling her heart with an indescribable sense of happiness. It was the beginning of a new life again. One filled with hope and happiness. And love. She leaned over and kissed Kurt on the cheek.

He raised his eyebrows. “What was that for?”

She gave a small shrug and smiled. “I’m just happy.”

He beamed at her. “I am glad. I will always do my best to make you happy.”

Once everyone had completed their meals, and Anna had endured the embarrassment of the restaurant staff singing “Happy Birthday” to her, she bid farewell to her friends. Then she, Kurt, and Wilhelm climbed into the waiting limousine, ready to make their way to the airport.

Anna leaned against Kurt and watched the lights of the city fly past the windows. Wilhelm seemed tense.

“What is wrong, Vati?” Kurt asked.

“Just... concerned. Devin knows everything that goes on in the city. I will be much more at ease once we are in the air.”

It was late and Anna was drifting to sleep when she heard Wilhelm curse and Kurt sat up straight.

Wilhelm’s agitation sent a wave of apprehension coursing through her. She blinked and straightened. “What’s wrong?”

She looked out the window in the direction Wilhelm and Kurt were both staring. There, parked by the Kunzberg family jet, sat a horrifyingly familiar black car. Leaning against the trunk, with his arms crossed, was Devin.

Anna gasped. “Wilhelm . . .”

Wilhelm took a deep breath and set his jaw. He pat her hand. “The jet is ready to go. We will board and fly away, just as we planned.”

The driver opened their door and Wilhelm got out first, followed by Kurt and Anna. Kurt held Anna’s hand tightly and walked between her and Devin.

The rain-soaked tarmac shimmered under the eerie glow of the orange overhead lights, and the night seemed to grow even darker as they approached Devin. His face appeared even more menacing, his beard casting sharp shadows that enhanced the intimidating edge of his countenance. He was dressed in black from head to toe.

“What do you think you’re doing, Wilhelm?” Devin’s voice, though not raised, seemed to reverberate against the walls of the airplane hangars.

“Going home. I believe I have a right to do so without asking your permission.” Wilhelm stopped a few feet from Devin, his towering presence commanding respect and evoking the essence of an Elder. Anna would have sworn he was glowing like an Immortal, but it was faint, like something that catches your attention out of the corner of your eye. Physically, Wilhelm outmatched Devin, standing several inches taller and broader in build.

Devin smiled, but it wasn’t a nice smile. “Of course. You are always welcome to leave my country. However, I do take issue with you taking my slave.”

“I have a right for her to visit me. She is as much mine as she is yours.”

“Ah, but you’re taking her without asking me. Or even checking out of your hotel. It makes me wonder what you are really trying to do.” Devin turned and looked at Kurt and Anna. He arched his brow at their intertwined fingers. “Perhaps you have plans for her and your son?”

Wilhelm lifted his chin.

“I’m surprised you didn’t get her a big fancy ring like your brother did, Kurt. Don’t you have access to the same bank accounts?”

Kurt growled and took a step forward, but Wilhelm held up his hand. “They are in love, Devin. I see no problem with their dating.”

“Dating? Or engagement? You think to marry her off to your younger son so he can protect her from me?” Devin snorted. “It won’t work. Kurt isn’t her soulmate. He can’t protect her like Alex can.”

“Then why do you care if they marry?”

Devin’s jaw clenched. “Because you’re taking my property,” he snarled.

“She is not property. She is a woman.”

“She’s a slave. My slave. I have a very particular purpose for her, and I won’t let you take her from me.”

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