2. Watch where you’re walking

Amara POV

The days seemed to go by in a blur, and the next thing I knew, i was sitting in the carriage in front of the Dark Kings palace. I nervously fiddled with the sheer black skirts of my dress as the carriage door opened.

My Father had my dress made by one of the top designers in the surrounding packs. The black color looked amazing against my pale skin. It even matched my hair perfectly.

The bottom of the dress was see through. Thankfully, I had the proper undergarments on underneath, so you could only see my legs and arms. The torso looks like a corset, which is uncomfortable but very beautiful. The sleeves are long and flare out towards my wrists with lace at the ends. And there was lace at the bottom of the dress where it spilled out across the carriage floor. It’s a wonder that I’ve even been able to keep it in the corner where I sit.

I’m not sure how anyone expects me to dance in this dress.. but I guess I’ll have to make it work.

“Hurry up. We’re already late.” My Father hissed as he followed my three brothers out of the carriage.

A guard stood by the door of our carriage, holding his hand out for me to grab. I hesitantly placed my hand in his and stepped out, my eyes widening at the sight before me.

Goddess this is amazing!

I’d never seen anything quite as beautiful as the palace. The white concrete walls looked almost as if they were glowing as the moon sparkled against it. There were torches that lit the walkway leading to the entrance. And small fires that lined the top of the palace.

I couldn’t see them very well, but I could tell we were surrounded by all sorts of flowers and plants.. my nose picking up almost everything around me. The wind blew in my direction, fanning against my skin bringing chills to me.. the smell of water wafted around me, letting me know we were near a big water source. Goddess, it smells like heaven out here.

It’s a tall palace.. far bigger than anything I’d ever imagined. I never would’ve thought the Dark King would live in such a beautiful place..

“Amara!” My Father snapped. I looked up at him with an apologetic look and followed them towards the entrance.

The dark king.. goddess, I couldn’t imagine what he’s like. I’ve only ever heard tales of him and his wickedness. He’s a man of no mercy. A man of great power and rage. They say he’s the most deadliest as they come, which is why I’m most afraid..

Goddess help any man or woman with the thoughts to betray him. They would surely be put to death in an instant by his own hand.

A couple of men pushed the door open, my eyes wandering inside to see the main room full of men and women dancing around, chatting, and drinking. I could see fear etched onto most of their faces, excitement on others.. however, I couldn’t fathom why anyone would be excited to be chosen by the Dark King. I for one, certainly am not excited.

“I’m not seeing the King.. am I missing him?” Grim, my oldest brother, asked as he looked around. I’d never seen the King before, so I wouldn’t know.

“He probably hasn’t announced himself, yet.” My Father pointed out.

“The King, late to his own ball. Isn’t that ridiculous?” Grim continued searching around the room for even a glimpse of him.

“Get a drink. You’ll need it for your nerves.” Father said to me. I let out a sigh as I looked for the bar. The moment I spotted it, a small smile came to my face.

“Don’t be too long.” He added said dismissively. I didn’t even bother to respond as I walked through the people.

Goddess what is that scent? It is most alluring..

I turned my head in several directions, but nothing ever caught my eye. It must be the food.. or maybe even one of the many perfumes and colognes that flow through the air.

Once I made it to the bar, the bartenders attention was instantly drawn to me.

“And what might I get you this evening, pretty lady?” He asked with a gentle smile. He looked me up and down, his heart speeding ever so slightly as he took in my figure.

“Something strong, if I may.” I replied. He nodded once and averted his attention to his work.

“Any preferences?” He asked as he grabbed a glass.

“Just straight alcohol. And don’t go easy.” I said. He chuckled and nodded his head.

“As you wish.” He smiled. He handed me a glass half full of a dark liquid. When I brought it to my nose, my lips curled up into a smile.

“This will do the trick.” I said. I didn’t hesitate to put the glass to my lips and drink it all. His eyes widened when I placed down the glass and nodded for another.

“Nervous?” He asked.

“Goddess. Is it that noticeable?” I asked sarcastically as I shook my head.

“I wouldn’t worry. There are many women here tonight and you may not even get chosen. Just enjoy the night.” He said. He poured more into the glass.

“I hope you are right.. but even if he doesn’t, I’m still damned.” I said. I downed the second glass just as quick as the first. He went to pour me another when I shook my head.

“That should be just enough, thank you. Do you know where I may find the ladies room?” I asked.

“Just that way, miss.” He said as he pointed to the right side of me. I nodded as I gave him a soft smile.

“Thank you.” I said. I quickly made my way through the crowd. Once I’d found a clear path, I saw a sign that stated “ladies” and walked up to the door. Laughter could be heard from inside, and when pushed open the door it fell silent.

I stayed to myself as I walked to the sink and washed my hands. I stared at myself in the mirror before me.

Goddess. I hope I’m not picked.

I fixed my makeup as quickly as I could, hearing the girls whisper and giggle behind me. I recognized one of them as the other girl picked from my pack, Lola.

“Could that dress be any more see through? Doesn’t leave much to the imagination.” Lola laughed. I caught her eye in the mirror as she looked at me in disgust. Instead of speaking back, I just let out a sigh and turned back toward the door.

“She must think it will impress the king.” Another girl spoke.

I gritted my teeth as I turned around.

“You must think so highly of yourselves to speak against a fellow woman. Or maybe you’re just a little bit jealous that I look better than you?“ I asked. The girls fell quiet as they took in my words.

Goddess, I hate women like these.

“Fellow woman? Are you certain you’re even a woman?” Lola spoke again with a smirk.

“Oh, I’m quite sure. I just don’t announce it to every man that crosses my way.” I snapped. She threw herself at any man that looked at her. I know that for a fact.

“And since we’re on the topic of demeaning each other, might I just say that red is certainly not your color, Lola.” I added, referring to her bright red face of anger that matched perfectly with the hideous dress she wore.

Without waiting for a response I walked out. I looked around the room, searching for a way out of this place. Fresh air is greatly needed after being surrounded by all this perfume.

I spotted a door with hardly anyone near it and made my way there. I just need a few moments. Just a few. I stepped out of the doorway and found myself on a large patio pointed at what looked to be a massive garden. I stood there quietly for a few moments breathing in the fresh air.. it wasn’t until i heard the door open and turned around. Just then, a large figure bumped into me.

“Dear Goddess!” I hissed as I held my searing hip after it hit the banister. The scent I smelled earlier wafted around me. It drew me in almost instantly. I looked up to find myself staring at a the most gorgeous man I’d ever seen in my life.

“Watch where you’re walking.” He growled without even glancing at me. He fixed his black and golden frock coat.

“Me? You’re the one who needs to watch where you’re going.” I snapped without even thinking. He sniffed the air, his body tensing before he turned around. His aura was dark and dangerous.. powerful. I wondered if he was an Alpha.

And then our eyes met, my heart skipping several beats. He is the scent I smelled earlier.. and he.. is my mate.