37

37

Jacob’s POV

The ancient library’s dim light barely illuminated the scattered scrolls and tomes in front of me. The words blurred together, and the intricate symbols seemed to mock my attempts to understand them. I leaned back in the leather chair, closing my eyes for a moment, trying to block out the overwhelming sense of responsibility that weighed on me.

I hated ruling. Every day was like a battle against my own nature. This was never meant for me. It was meant for Ian. Ian, with his calm demeanor, his unerring sense of justice, and his unshakable resolve. I’ve always admired my elder brother, even envied him. Now, I’d give anything to have him back, to see him stride through the grand doors of the palace and reclaim his rightful place on the throne.

I can still remember the day everything changed. Ian disappeared without a trace, leaving the vampire realm in chaos. Father, already weakened by centuries of rule, deteriorated rapidly, the burden of the lost heir crushing him. And