جميع فصول : الفصل -الفصل 230

The Alpha King's deep voice resonated through the grand dining hall, and I couldn't help but feel a shiver run down my spine. "I must admit, you aren't what I expected, Shana, but you know what they say about unexpected things."His words hung in the air, leaving me uncertain about their meaning.The King, casually lounged at the head of the table. He seemed to notice my hesitation and addressed it directly. "Come now, my dear. We can't have you being all timid and quiet in front of me. I want you to feel comfortable here."I nodded, finding my voice, "Thank you, Your Majesty. Prince Alexander has been incredibly welcoming."I chanced a glance at the Prince, and our eyes met briefly.He was watching me carefully, a small, mysterious smile playing on his lips, his glass poised just below his mouth."Incredibly welcoming," he repeated the words back to me. "I'll remember such a lovely compliment."I wanted to snap at him and tell him not to get his hopes up, but I didn't want to make a

The tour with Prince Alexander had felt like a long, intricate dance through the palace's many wings. I had to hand it to him, he was a pretty good tour guide, although I'd never admit it to him myself.He effortlessly blended humor with informative anecdotes, occasionally flashing one of his cheeky smiles that left me both intrigued and slightly uneasy. I wasn't sure if it was intentional or not, but he could turn his charm on so easily. I didn't want to fall into the trap like I'm sure many others have before me.The weight of his arm against mine felt peculiar. I couldn't tell what kind of body he had under his fine suit, but I'm sure it was impressive.As he guided me past the intricately designed training rooms, Prince Alexander casually mentioned that he often engaged in two or three training sessions a day."That sounds a bit excessive," I remarked, surveying the extensive array of top-notch training equipment that far surpassed Kendrick's modest facility. "Why would you ever n

Alex's words sent a shiver down my spine. The weight of the responsibility he placed on me felt immense. Suddenly, everything felt like too much.Opening a magical book with a spell on it wasn't something I had ever imagined doing, let alone being the key to unlocking its secrets."I don't even know where to begin," I admitted, feeling a mix of apprehension and curiosity.Alex reached out, placing a hand on my shoulder. "I think I know how you can open it.""Really?" I questioned, feeling a flutter in the center of my stomach. "What?""Wait here," Alex said, walking to his office desk. He pulled out a drawer and took out a shiny, silver object. Upon further inspection, I noticed that he was holding a small knife with intricate carvings on it."A knife?" I asked, starting to grow a bit nervous. How was that supposed to help?"In order to open the book, we'll need your blood," Alex explained, rushing toward me with the blade.I jumped back in fear. "You're not cutting me open!""I'm sor

The King must've noticed the change in my demeanor and offered a kind smile. "Shana, I hope you enjoy the breakfast. It's a small token of our hospitality. We're thankful that you're here."I nodded, grateful for the gesture, but the absence of Lucas lingered in the back of my mind.Once my server completed putting items on my plate, I picked up my fork. I began to eat but found it difficult to fully savor the exquisite food spread out before me.Alexander leaned in slightly, his eyes searching mine. "Is something bothering you, Shana?"I hesitated for a moment before deciding to share my feelings. "I was just wondering where Lucas and Kendrick are. Won't they be joining us for breakfast?""No," the King answered simply. "They are off touring the ground of the Ethereal Palace with Liam. They've been up since dawn, and had breakfast much earlier this morning."I gave a tight smile, trying to hide my disappointment. It seemed everyone had a schedule, not just me.A whirlwind of emotions

Unable to shake off the unsettling feeling from the whole breakfast ordeal, I pushed the remaining food on my plate around without any appetite.Paranoia had decided to take root, and every glance from the two of them felt like a potential trap.I felt used and ashamed. Why had I been so trusting when they clearly hadn't trusted me?I've let all of Kendrick's talk of respect cloud my judgment. I didn't know anything about the King or Prince, and now I was even more confused.The two of them seemed kind, funny, and even somewhat like a normal family.But now, after they admitted to poisoning me, there was no way I could trust them.Even if it didn't harm me, what if it would have? What would they have done then?Alex—no—Prince Alexander, he wasn't my friend. I wasn't going to address him as such anymore.Prince Alexander must have noticed my change in mood because I saw how he watched me carefully out of the corner of his eye. However, I refused to give in and make eye contact. He wasn