“Welcome,” she greeted us in a cheerful tone. “How can I help you today?” “We don’t have an appointment,” Elizabeth began smoothly, “but we were hoping to speak to someone about a custom order.” The woman opened a large, leather-bound notebook and began flipping through the pages. “I believe we
Ella POV Antonio Kingsman, a tall, slim man with a head of striking white hair and pronounced smile lines, entered the reception area with an air of quiet confidence. His sharp suit and polished demeanor made it clear why he was so sought after. He extended a hand toward me, his warm smile putti
“We don’t know for sure that he doesn’t,” I replied, trying to sound unconcerned. “He might have gotten one from somewhere else, or maybe he’s planning to wear something with sentimental value. I don’t know.” “That’s not out of the question, I guess,” Elizabeth said, though she sounded doubtful. “
Ella POV Alexander turned toward the doorway, his expression brightening as he saw me. “Here she is,” he said warmly. The man beside him turned as well, his sharp gaze sweeping over me in a way that felt both calculating and appraising. Then his lips curved into a charming smile as he approached
Known to the public simply as the Castle, it was a legendary estate—larger and more opulent than any other property in the kingdom. Its historical significance was unparalleled, rumored to have once been the Alpha King’s residence before the capital was relocated. It had fallen into direpair over
Ella POV Alexander smirked slightly. “You’ve been trying so hard these past few months to present yourself as a mature, grown-up woman. It’s nice to see that childlike excitement on your face again.” “I’m not being childish,” I said defensively, crossing my arms. “I didn’t say you were,” Alexa
Alexander looked momentarily surprised by the question but recovered quickly. “No, I haven’t put much thought into it yet,” he admitted. “As I’ve said before, I want your input. I think it would be best if we chose your dress first, and then I can find a suit to complement it.” “I suppose that mak
Ella POV I stepped out of the car, and the expression on my mother’s face hardened instantly. She looked angry—furious, even—and I couldn’t imagine what I’d done to deserve it. My mind raced as I walked toward her, trying to figure out the reason for her mood. Then it struck me. My stomach dropp
Alexander POVI checked my watch for what felt like the hundredth time. It was almost noon, and I had hoped to meet Sabrina and Lexie an hour ago. The plan had been simple: a shopping trip to get everything they would need for their big move to the Rowandwood pack.Lexie was excited about starting s
She trembled—barely noticeable, but I could feel it, see the way her body stiffened. Diana wasn’t one to show fear, but it was there now. Her eyes widened, though she tried to hide it behind a mask of defiance.She opened her mouth to speak, but her words faltered as she seemed to reconsider. Her ha
Ella POVIt took a while for August to calm down enough to leave. He wouldn’t give me any more information than he already had, but it did seem like he felt a little better now that he wasn’t the only one aware of the gravity of the situation.I was still standing in the doorway where I had spoken t
“I can’t,” he said weakly, his voice choked by tears.“Why?” I asked, frustrated.He looked away from me and I realized that I already knew the answer to that question. “Alexander is keeping something from me,” I said softly.He nodded, but couldn’t seem to meet my eyes.I could only imagine how har
Ella POVAugust paced across the living room, his brows drawn together in frustration. The tension in the room was thick.He and Alexander had a huge fight just a short while ago. I wasn’t in the room when it happened, but I could hear them shouting. I couldn’t make out any of the words, but it was
“I–” Sabrina looked at Lexie and sighed softly. “I’m very grateful. We’d be happy to stay with you until we’re able to find a safe place of our own.”My father smiled brightly. “Wonderful. We’ll be very happy to have you.”Overwhelmed with gratitude, I reached for his hand. “Dad…thank you. I didn’t
Ella POVThe warm glow of the restaurant’s chandeliers cast a golden hue over the elegantly set tables.I sat beside Alexander, my fingers absentmindedly tracing the edge of my wine glass as I watched Lexie beam with pure delight. The little girl twirled in her chair, the soft pink dress Alexander h
Alexander’s gaze softened as he considered the offer. “That… might actually be the best solution.” He reached across the table, taking my hand in his. “I can’t tell you how much it means to me that you’re thinking about her like this.”I squeezed his hand. “She’s important to you. That makes her imp
Ella POVThe bustling noise of the shopping center’s food court was drown out by the sound of Lexie’s excited voice. Her tray of food was mostly ignored in favor of conversation.Her bright blue eyes were filled with excitement as she rattled off every thought that came to her mind.“And then the pr