Mag-log inWe reached my chambers, and the guards took position outside.Kieran followed me inside, locking the door behind us.Then he turned to face me, and the look in his eyes made my breath catch.“That was reckless,” he said quietly. “Sitting alone in the garden where anyone could see you. Could target you.”“I didn’t know—”“You should know.” He moved closer, his presence overwhelming. “But you never think, do you? Just do whatever you want, consequences be damned.”Anger flared hot in my chest. “Excuse me?”“You heard me.” He stopped right in front of me, too close, invading my space. “You’re careless. Entitled. You think being a princess means the world will protect you.”“I don’t think that at all—”“Then why were you alone in the garden?” His eyes blazed. “Why did you dismiss your guards? Why do you constantly make my job harder?”“Your job?” I laughed bitterly. “Is that all I am to you? A job? An inconvenience?”“Yes.” The word was harsh. “A spoiled princess who doesn’t understand th
ElenaThe next day, I tried to avoid Kieran.I took breakfast in my chambers. Went to the library with my ladies-in-waiting instead of training. Spent the afternoon with my mother, going over plans for the birthday celebration.But I could feel him.Could feel his presence shadowing me through the palace, always just out of sight but never far away.It was maddening.“You’re distracted,” my mother said as we reviewed the seating arrangements. “Is everything alright?”“Fine.” I forced my attention back to the papers. “Just nervous about the celebration.”“It’s natural to be nervous.” She studied me with those knowing eyes. “A birthday celebration is one thing. But if Adrian is planning what I think he’s planning…”My stomach flipped. “How did you know?”“He asked your father’s permission yesterday.” She smiled gently. “Your father gave his blessing. Adrian is a good match, Elena. Kind. Stable. From a respected family.”“I know.”“But?” She tilted her head. “I hear hesitation in your vo
ElenaThe lake was beautiful this time of year.Wildflowers dotted the banks, their colors reflected in the crystal-clear water. The sun was warm but not oppressive, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of pine and summer.Adrian had arranged everything perfectly.A blanket spread beneath a willow tree. A basket packed with my favorite foods—fresh bread, soft cheese, ripe strawberries, chilled wine.He’d even brought a book of poetry, reading to me while I rested my head on his shoulder.It should have been perfect.It was perfect.So why couldn’t I stop thinking about Kieran?“You’re distracted,” Adrian said, setting the book aside. “What’s wrong?”“Nothing.” I smiled up at him. “I’m just… overwhelmed. This is all so lovely.”“You deserve lovely.” He tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. “You deserve everything, Elena. And I want to be the one to give it to you.”His hand cupped my face, and he leaned down to kiss me.I kissed him back, trying to lose myself in it.His lips were so
This is the sequel to Leah and Ares’s story. While it can be read as a standalone, readers may want to read the first book to understand the history of the kingdom, the significance of the mate bond, and the events that shaped Elena’s parents. This story takes place eighteen years after Leah and Ares found their happy ending at the cabin by the lake. It is a story of their daughter Elena, and her bodyguard.
Elena“You’re dropping your left shoulder.”I gritted my teeth, adjusting my stance. “I know.”“Clearly you don’t, or you’d stop doing it.” Kieran’s voice was bored as he circled me in the training yard. “Again.”I lunged, putting all my frustration into the strike.He parried easily, barely moving, and I stumbled past him.“Sloppy.” He didn’t even look winded. “If I were an actual threat, you’d be dead.”“Good thing you’re just an arrogant ass, then.”His eyes flashed—the only sign I’d gotten under his skin. “Careful, Princess. That mouth of yours is going to get you in trouble one day.”“With who? You?” I laughed bitterly. “You’re my bodyguard, Kieran. You’re supposed to protect me, not threaten me.”“I’m protecting you from your own incompetence.” He gestured with his sword. “Now stop whining and actually try this time.”I hated him.Hated his cold green eyes. Hated his mocking tone. Hated how he looked at me like I was a burden instead of the girl who used to be his friend.Three
I woke to chaos.Elena, now three and a half, was jumping on the bed.“Mama! Papa! Wake up! Baby Thomas is crying!”Ares groaned, pulling a pillow over his head. “It’s your turn.”“I did the midnight feeding.” I shoved him. “Your turn.”He stumbled out of bed, scooping up Elena in one arm while heading to the nursery.I heard him soothing Thomas, our eighteen-month-old son, and smiled.Three children now. Elena, Thomas, and the new baby growing in my belly.Our family was expanding. Thriving.I got up, stretching, and moved to the window.The sun was just rising over the lake, painting everything gold.In the distance, I could see the castle—our castle now. We’d reclaimed it, but we only visited occasionally for official business.This cabin was our real home.Where we were happy. Where we were safe. Where we were us.Ares returned with both children, Thomas on his hip, Elena holding his hand.“Someone wants breakfast,” he announced.We made our way to the kitchen together, the mornin







