AlastairThe sun cast a warm glow on the courtyard as I wrapped up my conversation with Ryle. The plans for the day were set in motion, and I turned my attention to Alice, who leaned against the stable wall with a yawn. Her yellow gown caught my eye, contrasting against the rustic backdrop of the stable.“I heard you called me,” she said, her voice tinged with a hint of curiosity. With a subtle shift, I leaned against a wooden beam, hands tucked into my jacket pockets. “We are going to patrol the northern wood today,” I explained, watching her closely. "Since you are willing to win the coming battle, thought you would be interested in going to the southernwood."Alice's thoughtful silence hung in the air as she processed my words. The proposition was a challenge, no doubt. She hadn't embarked on patrols through the woods before, while I had years of experience. Eventually, a nod confirmed her decision, and her gaze shifted briefly to Ryle.“The horses are ready,” Ryle's voice interjec

ChelseaAs I stood there, my heart pounding, staring at the majestic white horse beside me, I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of helplessness. "So, you're telling me that I can't truly ride if I don't have any experience?" I asked, desperately hoping for a different answer.The rider on the horse, who had initially tried to dissuade me, gave his response, his tone firm yet concerned. "Miss, you are going to lose your balance." He was right, of course. I had no idea how to even mount the horse properly. Besides, the Prince hadn't given any instructions to prepare a horse for me, and attempting to ride without any experience could be risky for both me and the animal.But despite hearing all these explanations, I wasn't about to give up. "I get that. But..." I began, my determination wavering slightly.Before I could finish my sentence, Alastair suddenly appeared beside me, cutting me off, his gaze shifting from me to the horseman. "What the heck is going on around here?" His voic

ChelseaAlastair's silence only heightened my anxiety as he urged the horse forward, guiding it with gentle tugs on the reins. The quietness from him didn't bode well. Before I could inquire further, a sudden noise disrupted the stillness. It sounded like wild creatures sprinting over the crunchy autumn leaves with their sharp claws.My heart pounded fiercely in my chest, and a shiver ran down my spine. Memories of the previous year flooded my mind, of the betas chasing me through a forest much like this one, on a sunny autumn day. I had called out Lucian's name with every terrified step, feeling abandoned and alone. He had never come to my rescue, and the bitter memory still haunted me. I had managed to protect myself by hiding behind a massive tree, but the journey back home had been a breathless one. He had only laughed after hearing my tale. I kept my silence, but the hurt had cut deep.“Chelsea, hold on," Alastair's whisper was filled with caution as he slowed the horse down, his

**ALICE**As I left the stable area, my thoughts were still consumed by the revelation that my brother, Prince Alastair, had a mate. It was something I hadn't expected, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions about it. I had always seen Alastair as my confidant, my partner in crime, and now it seemed there was someone else who held a special place in his heart. I needed to understand more about this situation, but for now, I had other duties to attend to.Later that evening, I found myself in the conference room, obliged to attend a meeting regarding the state of the kingdom's finances. It was a duty that came with being a member of the royal family, even though I played no direct role in the financial matters of the kingdom.The meeting concluded after an hour, and as my mother, the queen, left the room, I noticed Alastair engaged in a conversation with Ryle, his trusted horseman. Despite my desire to speak with my brother, he seemed wholly absorbed in his discussion with Ryle,

Alastair"Why did you lock the door? Were you doing something bad?" I questioned as I entered the room. Chelsea didn't reply verbally, but the sight of the open carton across the window spoke volumes.I took a deep breath as I turned to her. "I will take a shower." I was so freaking exhausted. So, no, I wouldn't trouble her with those.Chelsea didn't respond to my question but gave me an empty look, probably wondering why I bothered to inform.I moved, grabbing a towel and pointing toward the bathroom. "Let's go in."“W—what?” She stammered, clearly surprised by my words. "M-me too?" Her voice trembled with nervousness, and her wide eyes held a hint of uncertainty. It was as if I had just suggested something entirely unexpected."Yes, you too," I replied firmly, noting the fear in her large eyes. She had always been timid, but I had to admit, her reaction intrigued me."W-why?" Her stuttering only added to her nervousness, and I wondered what was going on in her mind.I tilted my head,