Chapter 20

Everly’s POV

I worked tirelessly alongside Alex in the ensuing months, lending my healing gifts wherever needed as order was restored. My control grew steadily under the King's patient tutelage and I gained the packs' grudging respect. Still, old scars ran deep and doubts lingered in quiet moments.

I wandered the royal gardens one moonlit night, breathing in the heady scents of late blooms when Alex's familiar presence stole up behind me. "You've done so much good, my darling. Yet I fear you do not see your worth," he murmured, circling strong arms around my waist.

My body froze, memories of past betrayals rising unbidden before logic reminded my heart that Alex had proven himself in countless ways. "I am trying," I gathered courage and replied in a fainted voice, relaxing into his reassuring embrace though walls remained. Alex's responding chuckle rumbled through my bones, easing lingering tension. "Then try this - open your heart to me fully as your intended mate. The