Ethan:
The room was an inferno of indulgence. Haunting melodies filled the vast hall, a blend of violins and guttural chants that vibrated through the air, sinking deep into the bones. Flickering crimson lights bathed everything in a surreal glow, amplifying the setting. Vampires and werewolves mingled in precarious harmony, but the tension was like a taut string waiting to snap. My nose crinkled at the metallic tang of blood that hung heavy in the air. Goblets of it were passed around freely, their deep red contents swirling like forbidden nectar. Vampires sipped greedily, their lips stained with the essence of life. Some even dipped their fingers into the liquid, tracing languid patterns on the pale skin of their companions. It was revolting, barbaric, and I struggled to keep my face neutral. Beside me, Edward appeared completely unaffected. He was seated with the same regal ease he brought everywhere, his golden goblet filled with what lookeLianna: The weight of the pack's affairs bore down on me the moment Edward left. The council elders sat around the grand hall, their stern faces scrutinizing me as though searching for a crack in my composure. I kept my back straight, my gaze unwavering, though my nerves coiled tightly within. This wasn’t a role I had ever wanted, but it was one Edward had entrusted me with. And I wouldn’t let him down. Ingrid stood at my side, her presence a steady pillar of strength. When I faltered, her subtle nods reassured me. When someone interrupted me or questioned my authority, she stepped forward with that sharp tongue of hers, silencing them with a mix of wit and intimidation. “Luna Lianna has spoken,” Elder Aldric declared firmly when one of the younger wolves tried to argue against my decision regarding resource allocation. His defense of me was surprising, but I wasn’t naïve enough to believe it was rooted in respect. The elders’ loyalty lay with Edward, and for now, that loyalt
Edward: The air in the dim corridor was thick with the scent of damp stone and faint traces of aged blood—a reminder of where we were tonight. My steps were cautious, measured, as I followed the shadow ahead of me. The woman in the crimson dress moved with practiced grace, her every gesture a calculated performance meant to deceive anyone watching. To them, she was just another indulgence of mine, a concubine caught by my charms and unable to leave my side. If only they knew. She turned into a secluded alcove, waiting for me to catch up. Her golden eyes gleamed in the flickering torchlight, her lips curving into a wry smile. “You’re late,” she whispered, her voice barely audible over the silence. “You’re impatient,” I retorted, scanning the corridor behind us to ensure we weren’t being followed. “And reckless. Someone could have seen you waiting here.” “Relax, Edward. You play your part, and I’ll play mine.” Her confidence grated on my nerves, but I couldn’t afford to l
Freya: The maids’ giggles grated against my nerves as I stood at the edge of the kitchen. I’d asked for tea—just tea—and yet here they were, dawdling, whispering, throwing glances at me as though I were some ridiculous figure of amusement. One of them, a girl with an unremarkable face but too much confidence for someone of her stature, turned to me with a smirk. “I’m sorry, Lady Freya. We’re a bit behind. Perhaps you could fetch it yourself?” The audacity of her words hit me like a slap. My nails dug into my palms as I forced myself to remain composed, but the boiling anger beneath my skin was almost too much to contain. “Perhaps you could fetch me your resignation,” I spat, my tone venomous. She merely shrugged, her smirk widening, before turning back to her work. I felt the air around me shift—other maids pausing, watching, waiting for my reaction—but I turned on my heel and stormed out. If they thought they could challenge me, t
Lianna: The morning light filtered through the curtains of my chambers as Ingrid entered, balancing a tray with her usual grace. She set it down on the table beside me, the porcelain teapot steaming gently. I inhaled deeply, my body immediately relaxing and going fully awake. “Chamomile and lavender,” she said, pouring the golden liquid into a delicate cup. “Calms the nerves, sharpens the mind. Perfect for someone who has to deal with the drama of the court.” I smirked, wrapping my hands around the warm cup. The tea’s floral aroma wafted up, soothing my senses as I took a careful sip. The bitterness of the chamomile balanced by the subtle sweetness of the lavender made for a comforting combination. Ingrid flopped into the chair across from me, her sharp blue eyes dancing with mischief. “Speaking of drama,” she began, “you’ll never guess what I heard this morning.” I raised an eyebrow, already bracing myself for one of
Lianna: The open fields stretched endlessly before us, bathed in the warm amber of the setting sun. The horses’ hooves beat a steady rhythm against the earth as we rode, the cool breeze brushing against my face and tousling my hair. I felt alive, free. Alistair, riding beside us, seemed calmer now. The tension that had clung to him earlier had eased, but there was still a shadow in his eyes, one I couldn’t ignore. Ingrid, as blunt as ever, turned to him with a knowing smirk. “So, Alistair,” she began, her voice dripping with mischief, “care to tell us why Freya was hanging around you earlier?” He stiffened visibly, the reins in his hands tightening. “Nothing’s going on,” he said quickly, his voice a little too defensive. Ingrid raised an eyebrow, glancing at me as if to say, See? Something’s definitely up. I chose not to press him further. Instead, I let the silence settle, focusing on the scenery around me. The vast fields were dotted with wildflowers swaying gently in
Lianna: I took my time, more than usual, as I prepared for dinner. It wasn’t just any evening—it was Edward’s first night back, and I wanted to look every inch the Luna Queen I had become. My reflection in the ornate mirror revealed my determination as I reached for the rosewater-infused cleansing oil, massaging it gently into my skin. The delicate floral scent calmed my nerves, grounding me in the moment. After rinsing, I applied a light cream with a faint shimmer that gave my skin a subtle glow, like the moonlight itself had kissed me. My hair came next—long, cascading waves that I pinned delicately with golden combs adorned with emeralds, matching the deep green gown I had chosen for the evening. The dress was a masterpiece, crafted from silk that clung to my figure before flowing into an elegant train. Golden embroidery, delicate as spider silk, traced the bodice and cuffs, giving it an ethereal quality. I adjusted the plunging neckline, knowing it was daring but tasteful
CHAPTER 58 Lianna: The cool night air kissed my cheeks as Edward extended his hand to me. The moon hung high in the sky, casting a soft silver glow over the garden path. It was almost surreal how quiet the world felt—just the two of us and the distant hum of crickets filling the silence. “Shall we?” he asked, his voice smooth and inviting. I hesitated, glancing at his outstretched hand. A walk in the garden, he had said. Innocent enough on the surface, but nothing about Edward ever truly felt innocent. Still, I slipped my hand into his, ignoring the warmth that shot up my arm when our skin touched. The garden was breathtaking, with sprawling hedges, fountains trickling softly, and modern lanterns glowing with a soft, bluish hue. This wasn’t just a garden—it was a haven, an escape from the chaos of the palace. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d felt so at peace, yet Edward’s presence had a way of stirring something deep inside me. “You’re quiet,” he said, breaking the sil
Lianna: Fucking hell. What just happened? The air between us was filled wwith something unspoken as we pulled away from the kiss. I didn’t know what to say or how to breathe properly. My heart raced, and I was certain Edward could hear it pounding in the quiet of the garden. “So,” I started awkwardly, my voice barely above a whisper. “The garden… it’s, um, nice. But it could use some work.” Edward blinked at me, clearly caught off guard. “The garden?” “Yes.” I cleared my throat, desperate to break the tension. “The arrangements are a little chaotic. The roses are too close to the lavender, which completely overpowers their scent. And don’t get me started on the color schemes. Whoever designed this had no sense of harmony.” His lips quirked up in amusement. “No sense of harmony, huh? I didn’t realize you were a garden critic.” I crossed my arms, warming to the topic. “It’s not criticism. It’s an art. You can’t just throw flowers together and hope for the best. Every colo
Lianna: Breakfast settled into an almost eerie quiet after Edward put Mariel in her place. A perfect, beautiful silence. I could sense Mariel’s wounded pride and Ethan’s resentment. Across the table, Mariel kept her head down, chewing mechanically and likely plotting new ways to make my life miserable. I didn’t care. She had bigger problems now. Like figuring out how to exist in a world where Edward no longer catered to her whims. I, on the other hand, looked positively radiant, cutting into my fruit with a pleased little smile. I didn’t say it, but I was reveling in the fact that Edward was the one who had humiliated Mariel instead of me. Not because I couldn’t have done it herself, but because Edward’s words had an impact that mine never would. Mariel could handle my hatred, but Edward’s indifference? That was a death sentence. Ethan was the only one not enjoying the moment. He was practically vibrating with anger, stabbing his food like it had personally offended h
Lianna: I had never felt this regal in my entire life. Every step I took down the long, gilded hallway was a declaration of self confidence. The maids paused in their duties, their gazes trailing after me with open admiration. The guards, usually stoic and detached, offered subtle nods of acknowledgment, their respect barely hidden behind their trained expressions. A smirk tugged at my lips. I was reveling in it, and why shouldn’t I? After the hell I had endured, the bruises I had earned, the blood I had shed, this moment, twas mine. Even with the dull ache threading through my joints, the soreness reminded me of my victory. I felt good. No, better than good. I felt untouchable. And if the gods were feeling particularly generous, Mariel would be waiting in the dining hall, seething, and barely keeping her composure as she drowned in the bitter taste of her own defeat. The thought alone nearly made me hum in delight. I pushed the grand doors open and stepped inside,
Lianna: Blood crusted against my skin, dried and flaking, but I walked through the halls like a queen. Warriors, maids, even the high-ranking guards who rarely acknowledged anything outside their turned to watch me pass. Some wore looks of shock, others admiration. A few dared to speak, their voices hushed but awed. "You fought like a beast, Luna." "I didn’t think anyone could beat that woman." "I knew she was strong, but this? This was something else." I smirked, head held high, spine straight despite the ache creeping into my muscles. Even with bruises blooming across my skin and blood drying on my lip, I felt untouchable. Behind me, Ingrid sighed heavily. "You are absolutely impossible, do you know that?" I chuckled, not slowing my pace. "I do, actually." She groaned in exasperation, quickening her steps to match mine. "Why, Lianna? Why did you do that?" I tilted my head, pretending to think about it. "Hmm... the thrill of battle? The sa
Edward: I'd woken to an empty bed. I stretched my arm across the mattress, my fingers meeting nothing but the lingering warmth Lianna had left behind. A slow smile tugged at my lips. She’d been up early. Again. It wasn’t surprising anymore. For weeks, she’d thrown herself into combat training, each session more intense than the last. I’d heard the whispers—about her skill, her sheer strength, how she was no longer just a woman learning to fight but a warrior in her own right. It amused me. It pleased me. She was taking this seriously, proving herself to everyone who thought she couldn’t. I leaned back against the pillows, stretching my arms over my head, allowing the quiet of the room to settle over me. Today was a court meeting day, which meant a long morning of listening to people complain about things I barely cared about. But at least breakfast would be worth it. I’d see her then. Maybe tease her a little. Chuckling to myself, I swung my legs o
Lianna: Pain. Sharp, searing and unrelenting moved through me as Mariel targeted my solar plexus. My body was screaming, every inch bruised. Blood spilled from my nose, staining my lips with its metallic taste. But I didn’t care. I had felt worse. The blows Mariel landed on me were nothing compared to the fire burning in my chest, the sheer fury fueling my every breath. She thought she was winning. She thought she had me down. Fool. I could hear the gasps, the shifting of feet, the numerous worried eyes on me, but they were background noise. Even Ingrid’s worried face barely registered in my mind. Edward stood at the sidelines, arms crossed, his jaw locked so tight I thought his teeth might snap. But he wasn’t stopping this. He couldn’t. Mariel smirked, her lips split at the corner, blood smeared along her cheek. “Look at you,” she sneered, rolling her shoulders, preparing for another round. “Flat on your back. You should be used to that by now.” I tasted i
Lianna: I woke tangled in Edward’s arms, and if it were another day, I would have gone back to sleep and enjoyed the comfort of his arms. But I’d had enough of lying still, enough of waiting for someone else to make the first move. I wasn’t going to be the woman who watched things happen to her anymore. Not today. Careful not to wake him, I eased out of his grasp. His hand slid down my side before falling away completely. I held my breath, pausing to be sure he stayed asleep. For a man who carried entire kingdoms on his shoulders, he looked annoyingly peaceful. I slipped out of bed, feet silent on the cold floor. The chill bit at my skin as I pulled on my training clothes—black leggings, a snug sleeveless top, and bandages wound tight around my wrists and knuckles. My boots were next, worn leather creaking softly as I laced them. I dragged my hair into a braid, tying it off with a sharp tug, and then slid out of the room without a sound. The hallway was empty. Eve
Lianna: I woke up to silence, the kind that draped over everything like a heavy wool blanket. Imogen’s soft snores were gone. She must have retreated to her room a while ago. Good for her. She had the sense to sleep through this misery. I, on the other hand, had the misfortune of being conscious. And thirsty. So damn thirsty. I swiped my palm across my face, grimacing at the stickiness on my skin from dried tears. No glass of water on the nightstand. Of course. No maid hovering about with one either. Why would they? I was supposed to be the Luna. Supposed to be cared for, respected. But it sure as hell didn’t feel like that tonight. With a muttered curse, I swung my legs over the bed, my bare feet hitting the cold marble floor. The chill bit into my skin, but I welcomed it. Pain was better than… this hollow ache inside. Wrapping my arms around myself, I padded toward the door. It creaked slightly as I eased it open and slipped out into the dim corridor. The palace
Edward: The moment Lianna’s breathing evened out, I rose from the edge of the bed and straightened. Her back was to me, her shoulders tight even in sleep, like she was bracing for another blow that wouldn’t come. Carefully, I pulled the covers higher over her bare shoulder. I stood there for a long minute, watching the gentle rise and fall of her back. My jaw clenched tight. None of this should’ve happened. Mariel never should’ve stepped foot in this house. And now, because I hadn’t dealt with her the moment she crossed my gates, Lianna was in this bed trying to convince herself I wasn’t another mistake. That wasn’t going to happen again. I shoved my hand through my hair, flexing my fingers to shake off the restless itch under my skin. I walked out, shutting the door behind me with a controlled click. Ingrid straightened from where she stood outside, but I waved her off before she could speak. “Stay here,” I ordered, and she nodded without protest. The cor
Ethan: The moment Edward stormed out of the room, I exhaled slowly and leaned back in my chair. My fingers tapped lazily on the stem of my wine glass as I watched Mariel standing there like she’d just been gutted. Honestly, I’d never loved a moment more. She blinked fast, like she was fighting tears but too damn proud to let them fall. That alone made me sit up straighter, lifting my glass to my lips as if I were toasting the disaster that had just unfolded. Mariel’s gaze slid to me, burning with something between frustration and grief. “Don’t say anything, Ethan,” she bit out, her voice tight, like it scraped her throat just getting the words out. “I swear, I can’t take it from you right now.” I smiled slowly. “Relax. I’ve got absolutely nothing to say.” I tilted my head, studying her with an idle curiosity I didn’t bother masking. “Just… wondering why it ended the way it did. Edward’s never exactly been chatty about you. Or anything, really. Guy’s tighter-lipped