Contracted to the Alpha I Left Behind: Alpha Lucian Blackwood's Omega Dea

"Money?" Lucian's mouth curved—almost amused. His hand slid along my cheek and paused at my chin, lifting my face with subtle pressure, like he was reminding me exactly who had the right to decide what I did next. 
"Then why didn't you come to me?" he asked, voice low enough to trap my breath. 
"The part of you that said money didn't matter—where did it go?" 
My jaw burned under his grip. I tried to smile—tried to play Evelyn the contract promised—but his scent tightened around me, cedar-cold and undeniable, turning my lies into a second heartbeat. Serena's cheerful voice cut in too late. 
"Oh, you two are so affectionate…" Lucian didn't even look at her. He released me just enough to make the space between us hurt—then his hand went to my waist, warm and controlled, like a claim with no warning. 
"Come," he said, eyes dark, unreadable. "See the family. Complete what she expects—her marking and her vows. For my mate." And I realized the truth too fast: I didn't walk into his territory to be paid. 
I walked into a life that wouldn't let me disappear again. Evelyn only agrees to be Lucian Blackwood's temporary partner because Serena promised her a contract, a performance, and a way out. 
But the moment the ceremony ends, Lucian's cold scrutiny turns into something far more dangerous—because he doesn't treat her like a stranger. He treats her like what he already owns. 
And the bond they seal in public will force Evelyn to confront the past she tried to cut off two years ago… —including the question she can't escape: if Lucian wants her back, what will he do when she finally fights back?