From Arina’s POV The drive into town with Aella and Thiago was unsettling, especially since I didn't know them. While they tried to include me in the conversation, I wasn't sure what to say. The only thing I could do was gaze out the window and take in the surroundings. All the autumn trees displayed beautiful burnt orange, red, and yellow leaves, like postcard pictures. As I stared out the window at the big blue sky, I thought of the times when Father and I would go to the park after training with our ice cream in hand, and we would sit under the vast Acacia trees staring at the sky while talking about his trips to other cities, states, or countries. Among his favorite places were the French Polynesian islands. I remember he talked about a small island known as Papiete with its beautiful blue skies and crystal-clear waters. “One day, I will take you there, and you will fall in love with it,” my father would say. A tear rolled down my cheek as I remembered his story. Our car sudd
From Alexandre's POV As the full moon approached, I knew Arina had a good chance of shifting for the first time. I was sending out my last email when Thiago walked in. "Hey," Thiago said. I lifted a finger to signal for him to give me a moment. I quickly hit send, stood from my desk, and headed for the door. "You were saying,” I asked as I walked out of the office and headed toward the kitchen. “Well, before I was rudely interrupted, I was going to ask how long I was supposed to suffer before we could come home, but Bryan informed me you two are heading into town to pick up a dog?” he asked. I laughed at how he said "dog" as if it was the worst thing in the world. “Yes, we are picking up a French Bulldog puppy for Arina. You can head back at three-thirty. It gives the girls time to rest a bit on the way home, not to mention I can give her the puppy,” I replied. “Why a dog? You couldn’t get her a fish?” Thiago questioned. I was taken aback by his response and asked, "What is w
From Alexandre's POV The staff had set everything up perfectly, from the light gray cushion covers to the dim lights for when the sun gave way to the moon. The brightly lit fire in the center fire pit I built last month was the best centerpiece for the occasion. I had planned on having a movie night in the theater. However, with so many questions still needing answers, a cozy fire would set the tone for tonight. In addition, the full moon would mean Arina would shift. The first shift was the most brutal, especially for wolves. It's not as painful for Lycans since we stand on two legs instead of all four. For a wolf, it takes a heavier toll on your body because of how they transform. Yet, now that she was officially eighteen years old, there was no way to stop that from happening; the moon goddess herself couldn’t stop it even if she wanted to. I could see D’Artagnan pacing around in my head; he was also worried. Although he was usually quiet about his emotions, he was more concerned
From Arina's POV As he sat there watching me play with Kiara, I couldn’t help but feel something stir inside me. I couldn’t tell what it was, but it felt warm, loving, and caring. The silence was peaceful; there was no pressure on either of us to speak, and there was an unspoken level of comfort between us in each other's presence. A few minutes later, Alexandre stood and walked to the door. It was clear to me that I needed to say something. After placing Kiara in the puppy pen, I called him. “Alexandre,” I called softly. Suddenly, my mouth felt dry as he turned to look at me, clearing my throat. I mustered the minuscule courage I had. “Thank you so much. It must get boring to hear me repeat this. However, I would like you to know how grateful I am for everything, from opening your home to me to providing a bed and for her." I said, turning to Kiara, who was fast asleep in her bed. As I returned my gaze to Alexandre, I said, "I've not been treated so nice not since my father, and I
From Arina's POV Walking down to dinner, I was excited yet nervous. I knew tonight would lead to Zakara and I being united again, but I didn't know precisely when or how it would happen. That's what made me nervous. I realized I wasn’t alone, but I also knew this was not how it was supposed to happen originally. The dim lights added a bit of extra warmth to the area, the fire offered warming comfort, and the food smelled delicious. I was following next to Aella when I noticed it suddenly became quiet, and my eyes landed on Alexandre. He looked dashing. His black shirt looked like it melted directly onto his skin after he had dressed. His every muscle was accentuated, and his biceps naturally bulged. It sent a chill up my spine; his displayed tattoos made my mouth water. His ocean-blue eyes searched my entire body. “You look beautiful,” he told me as I approached. “Thank you, so do you,” I replied, realizing I called him beautiful. I quickly looked up, my face even more flushed as
From Arina’s POV Everyone remained pensive the rest of the night. Their facial expressions told me they had questions. The only neutral person was Maribelle, and I knew she had the answers we all sought. As Alexandre walked me to my room, I couldn’t help but wonder what this meant for him and me. He opened the bedroom door and walked in; I watched him take Kiara to her bed. Making my way to the couch at the foot of the bed, I sat down and took a deep breath. “Are you alright? You seem like there’s something on your mind,” Alexandre asked. I looked at him; he was so handsome. As much as I wanted to be in his arms, a sudden wave of fear came over me. But this wasn't a fear I had; it seemed like a feeling that manifested out of the blue. I was confused by this change. I had nothing to fear and was sure I hadn't felt this earlier today. “Ask him to stay with us tonight,” Zakara's voice rang through my mind. “Why?” I replied. “Something is not right.” She said before quickly retreati
Trigger Warning This chapter may include mention of physical violence, mental and emotional abuse, and sexual assault. I acknowledge that it may be difficult to engage with this content. From Alexandre’s POV As I stared at the note, I felt dizzy. It was beyond my comprehension. I recognized that handwriting anywhere. Though I wasn't sure if Arina knew, I knew I had to tell her it belonged to Zeno. The question is, how and why? I mind-linked Thiago, telling him to gather Bryan and Maribelle Enough is enough. I need answers, and I need them now. As King, I have a responsibility to my people, not just to them but to our cousin species. Once Arina was ready, we headed to the kitchen. I watched as she grabbed the puppy bowls, filling them with food and water for Kiara. Internally, I smiled. I could feel D'Artagnan push forward as he watched her in admiration. “She would make an excellent mom. I mean, she cares so much for the little rat. Imagine what she wouldn’t do for our pups,” D'
From Alexandre’s POV I decided to drive into town to grab a bite. It was the perfect way to get one-on-one time with Arina, more like on two, since the little Frenchie had to come with us. I was starting to think I had made a mistake in getting her the little dog since it constantly had to be with her. As we drove into town, I realized I didn't know much about Arina besides that she was Zeno's daughter. As I glanced at her, I noticed her head leaning against the window with a thoughtful expression on her olive-colored face. She was beautiful, as fresh and new as the early morning light. Clearing my throat, I asked. “So, do you have a favorite food or preference?” A shy smile spread across Arina's lips as she sat up. “Umm, well, it's not food, but I love brownies with a side of vanilla bean ice cream,” she replied, lowering her eyes. “What is it?” I asked. Arina looked up. “My dad was the one who would always take me after training to this little ice cream place. We would go to t