As Xavier made his way out of the council chambers, his mind still swirling with thoughts of Ariel, Jaxon walked closely beside him, sensing his friend's inner turmoil. Sensing Xavier's distracted state, Jaxon placed a steady hand on his shoulder, causing him to pause."Xavier, I know you're eager to return to your secret life with Ariel, but there's something you need to know," Jaxon said, his voice filled with urgency.Xavier turned to face Jaxon, his brow furrowing in confusion. "What is it, Jaxon? What could be so important?"Jaxon took a deep breath before continuing. "Alpha Cole, Ariel's sister Esther's husband, is currently in the palace. He's been waiting to see you, Xavier."Surprise washed over Xavier's face, momentarily replacing his thoughts of Ariel. Alpha Cole was a powerful and influential figure in the supernatural world, and his interest in Xavier's alliance was both intriguing and concerning."Why would Alpha Cole want to see me?" Xavier questioned, his mind racing t

Xavier's heart raced as he absorbed Esther's revelation. He knew that Esther held the power to change everything, to expose his true identity to Ariel. Yet, a part of him still clung to the hope of protecting Ariel from the burdens of his position as the Alpha King."Esther, please," Xavier pleaded, his voice filled with desperation. "I understand your concern, but Ariel doesn't need to know. It will only bring more danger and complications into her life."Esther's eyes softened, her gaze filled with empathy. "Xavier, I understand your intentions, but keeping such a significant secret from Ariel won't have a positive outcome," she said firmly. "She deserves to know the truth, to be a part of the decisions that affect both of your lives. Keeping her in the dark will only breed mistrust and resentment."Xavier's shoulders slumped, the weight of his secret bearing down on him. He knew deep down that Esther was right, that honesty was the foundation of any strong relationship. But the fea

Xavier's mind raced, trying to process Ariel's unexpected comment. He couldn't deny that he had been holding back, trying to respect her boundaries and give her the space she needed. But her words had caught him off guard, making him question his own actions.Before he could respond, a surge of emotions overwhelmed Xavier. The longing, the regret, and the desire that had been building up inside him suddenly took control. Unable to resist any longer, he leaned in and captured Ariel's lips in a passionate kiss.Ariel's eyes widened in surprise, but instead of pulling away, she found herself melting into the kiss. The flood of emotions that had been swirling inside her suddenly found an outlet, and she surrendered to the intensity of the moment.Their lips moved together in perfect harmony, their bodies pressed close. Xavier's hands gently cradled Ariel's face, his touch sending shivers down her spine. It was a moment of pure connection, a release of pent-up emotions that had been buildi

As Ariel continued to prepare dinner for Xavier, the scent of the food filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. She hummed softly to herself, lost in her thoughts, when suddenly she felt a surge of excitement from within. It was as if her inner wolf, which had always been weak and dormant, had come alive for the first time.Startled, Ariel turned around to see Xavier watching her with a curious expression on his face. He had noticed the change in her energy and was intrigued by the newfound vitality that seemed to radiate from her."What's happening?" Xavier asked, his voice filled with concern and curiosity.Ariel smiled, her eyes shining with excitement. "I think my inner wolf just woke up," she said, her voice filled with wonder. "I can feel her, Xavier. She's alive and full of energy."Xavier's eyes widened in surprise. He had always known that Ariel had a dormant inner wolf, but he had never seen her exhibit any signs of its presence. This was a significant moment

As the diner closed its doors for the night, Ariel found herself feeling a mix of exhaustion and sadness. The absence of Esther weighed heavily on her heart, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of loneliness. She locked up the diner and stepped outside, her eyes scanning the empty street.To her surprise, she saw Xavier leaning against his car, waiting for her. A small smile tugged at her lips as she approached him, grateful for his presence in this moment of vulnerability."Hey," Xavier greeted, his voice filled with warmth and concern. "I thought I'd wait for you. How are you holding up?"Ariel sighed, leaning against the car beside him. "It's been a tough day," she admitted, her voice tinged with sadness. "I miss Esther already. It feels like a piece of me is missing."Xavier reached out and gently took her hand in his, his touch offering comfort and support. "I understand, Ariel. Esther is an important part of your life, and her absence will be felt," he said, his voice filled