My Vampire Beloved Husband
Chapter 99: Scold You

Chapter 99: Scold You

The ride continued, and Naomi struggled to contain the excitement bubbling inside her. She bit her lower lip in a futile attempt to suppress the smile threatening to break free. No matter how hard she tried to keep a serious expression, the corners of her lips betrayed her, curling upward against her will.

Sitting beside her, Zylan noticed her glowing enthusiasm. He turned his sharp gaze toward her, the faintest smirk tugging at his lips. His deep, teasing voice broke the silence. "So, tell me, Eaglet, what’s got you this excited?"

Naomi’s heart skipped at the nickname he often used for her. She turned to him, startled, unsure how to explain the emotions swirling inside her. The anticipation of finally getting a pet—a lifelong dream she’d never dared to voice until now—was almost too much. Still, she struggled to form coherent words.

"I... I have no idea what you’re talking about, Mr Zylan," she said, flustered, her voice betraying her nervous excitement.

Zylan’s smirk deepened, his sharp features radiating amusement. Leaning in slowly, he placed a hand on the seat behind her, his presence overwhelming as he murmured in her ear, "I wonder why this pet excites you more than I do."

Naomi froze her entire body stiffening. Did...did he just say that? Her cheeks flushed a deep crimson as her wide eyes darted to the chauffeur, who remained utterly composed, his gaze fixed on the road ahead. The man’s neutral expression gave no indication that he’d heard anything, but Naomi still felt her embarrassment burn hotter.

Turning back to Zylan, she found his face completely serious, his dark eyes focused solely on her. Her heart raced under his intense gaze. "It’s not that..." she began, stumbling over her words. "I just... I’ve never had a pet before. I didn’t think I’d ever get one."

Her voice softened at the end, and a small smile crept onto her lips as her thoughts wandered. She began imagining what it would be like to have a pet—perhaps a dog or a cat, maybe even something exotic. She considered names for her future companion, but another thought struck her. Perhaps she’d wait until she saw the pet before naming it. That seemed like the best choice.

Zylan watched her closely, his piercing eyes never leaving her face. He noticed how her expression softened, her mind clearly drifting into her own little world. A faint smile played on his lips as he leaned closer, brushing her cheek with his lips in a featherlight kiss.

Naomi jolted in surprise, her eyes snapping back to him. The warmth of his touch lingered on her skin, leaving her flustered. Before she could react, he kissed her cheek again, this time pressing slightly firmer.

Her eyes widened in disbelief. Was he doing this on purpose? Was he teasing her? Before she could decide, he kissed her cheek once more, lingering a little longer this time.

"W-what are you doing?" she stammered, pulling back slightly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Zylan chuckled, a deep, rich sound that sent shivers down her spine. "I think I need to scold you," he teased, his tone playful yet commanding. "Imagine—my wife getting more excited over a pet than me."

Naomi’s jaw dropped as her cheeks flushed even deeper. "No, no, no!" she blurted out, shaking her head vehemently. "That’s not what—"

He cut her off, leaning back with a smirk. "No excuses. You’ll be scolded tonight."

Her breath hitched, and her eyes darted away. The way he said it left her unsure whether he was serious or just playing with her. Turning to the window, she noticed the sun dipping lower in the sky, its golden rays giving way to the encroaching darkness. Her reflection stared back at her, wide-eyed and flustered.

Gathering her composure, she turned back to Zylan, who was watching her intently. "Of course not," she said quickly. "Why would a pet excite me more than you, my husband?"

He tilted his head slightly, as if considering her words. "You tell me," he replied, his smirk unwavering.

Naomi fidgeted nervously under his gaze, desperate to clarify. "I promise, nothing could ever take your place! That’s not even possible. How would that even work?"

Her rushed explanation only seemed to amuse him further. He chuckled again, the sound deep and smooth, filling the space between them. Naomi sighed, her shoulders slumping as she glanced at him, his smirk now a full grin.

She narrowed her eyes at him, clearly annoyed. "Are you joking about this?"

Zylan’s grin widened. "No, Eaglet, you need some scolding," he said, his tone both playful and firm.

Naomi froze, unsure whether to laugh or panic. Her excitement over the pet was undeniable, and no matter how much she tried to suppress it, the anticipation bubbled uncontrollably inside her. She glanced at Zylan again, her mind racing. Was this really the first time he’d ever said he was going to scold her?

No, he had said that to her before

Her thoughts spiraled. But... but I’m not a child to be scolded, she reasoned internally, though his words continued to echo in her mind.

Before she could dwell on it further, the car rolled to a smooth stop. Zylan opened the door and stepped out gracefully, extending his hand toward her. Naomi hesitated for a moment before placing her smaller hand in his. His grip was firm yet gentle as he helped her out of the car.

Her gaze lifted, and she gasped softly. The pet store before them was massive and modern, its glass walls reflecting the soft glow of the evening sky. Through the transparent exterior, she could see multiple floors, each dedicated to different kinds of pets.

Zylan held her hand firmly as they approached the entrance, the staff inside bowing respectfully as the couple entered. Naomi tried to keep her composure, but her curiosity was growing by the second.

They stepped into a sleek glass elevator, which began its ascent. Naomi’s eyes darted around, taking in the sights on the first floor. Dogs of all breeds wagged their tails eagerly, some barking playfully as they caught sight of the new arrivals. Naomi’s heart softened at the sight, but she quickly reminded herself to stay composed.

Glancing at Zylan, she noticed his calm demeanor. He was still in "scolding" mode, and she didn’t want to push her luck.

As the elevator moved to the second floor, she saw rows of cats lounging in their enclosures. Some stretched lazily, while others batted at toys. Naomi tilted her head curiously. So, they weren’t getting a dog or a cat?

Her curiosity only grew as they passed floors featuring exotic pets, birds, reptiles, and more. The sheer variety of animals left her wondering. What kind of pet is he planning to get me?

Finally, the elevator stopped with a soft chime. Naomi’s heart raced as the doors slid open. Expecting to see rows of cages or enclosures, she was instead greeted by the sight of a luxurious living room. Plush sofas were arranged neatly, the atmosphere calm and intimate.

Zylan led her to the seating area, his grip on her hand still secure. He sank into one of the sofas, crossing his long legs casually, while Naomi perched on the edge of hers, too anxious to relax. Her mind raced with questions. Was this still part of her "scolding," or was he genuinely planning to give her a pet?

"Relax, Eaglet," Zylan said, his deep voice smooth and steady.

Naomi glanced at him, her nerves still frayed. How can I relax when I don’t even know what’s happening?

She fidgeted slightly in her seat, her hands clenching the fabric of her dress as she stole another glance at Zylan. His composure was unsettling. He sat there, regal and relaxed, his long legs crossed and his intense gaze fixed straight ahead, giving nothing away.

Her thoughts churned. What kind of pet could it be?

Just as she opened her mouth to speak, desperate to ask him what was going on, the door swung open. The sound made her jump slightly, her heart racing as she turned her gaze toward the entrance.

A man stepped in, his posture confident yet respectful. He was dressed in a sharp suit, his appearance professional and polished. Bowing slightly, he addressed Zylan first. "Welcome. It’s a pleasure to have you in our company," he said, his tone courteous and formal.

Zylan gave a subtle nod in acknowledgment, his expression remaining cool and unreadable. Naomi watched the interaction closely, trying to piece together what was happening.

The man then turned to Naomi, offering her a warm, polite bow. "Welcome to our company, Mrs. Naomi," he said, his voice kind yet measured.

Naomi managed a small smile in return, though her nerves refused to settle. She nodded slightly, murmuring a quiet "Thank you."

The man straightened and turned his attention back to Zylan, his demeanor returning to formal business-like efficiency. "The pet is ready," he announced.

Naomi’s heart leaped at his words, her eyes widening slightly. The anticipation surged within her, and she had to clasp her hands tightly together to keep from fidgeting. A flood of excitement threatened to overwhelm her as she waited for what was to come.

The man clapped his hands twice, the sharp sound echoing in the room. Naomi sat up straighter, her breath hitching as she turned toward the door, her gaze fixed on it with eager anticipation.

The door creaked open again, and Naomi’s entire body tensed with excitement. Her hands gripped the edge of her seat as she leaned forward, her eyes widening further with every second.

And then, she saw it.

Her lips parted in shock, her breath catching in her throat.

Before her was an actual eaglet.