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
From Alexandre’s POV Upon returning home with Arina, I noticed Bryan outside. It was clear from his facial expression that his conversation with Maribelle had not gone well. Walking up the stairs, I nodded at Bryan, gesturing to follow. As soon as we entered the house, we headed to the kitchen. As Arina sat at the table, I grabbed a water bottle for us. Placing a kiss on her head, I told her I would be in my office if she needed anything. She nodded dotingly. As I followed Bryan out of the kitchen, I saw Aella descending the stairs. “Aella,” I called out to her. “I have some business to attend to. I left Arina in the kitchen. Don’t leave her alone." Aella smiled and nodded at me in acknowledgment. I saw Maribelle twirling with her hands on her lap as Bryan and I entered my office. Seeing me, she stood and opened her mouth to speak when she noticed Bryan, and I could see the anger in her eyes. I walked over to my desk and sat down. They both glared at each other, anger radiatin
From Arina’s POV|It wasn't easy to listen to everything Maribelle said about my father. The betrayal did not only come from Maribelle but also from my father. It felt like I was no longer a priority in my father's life. I was confused and hurt and didn't understand why he would do this to me. If that's what the Mate Bond did, I could understand why Alexandre was reluctant to find a mate in the first place. It was difficult to accept that he had neglected me in favor of fulfilling his desires. It made me question whether the mate bond was worth the struggles and sacrifices it brought. The more I thought about it, the more questions that arose: Was I not worth fighting for? If I'm not worth it, who is? That thought made me ponder the concept of self-worth and whether I held a valid place in the universe. I knew there was more to this, but right now, I couldn’t see past the fact that Maribelle was the one who carried out my father's final day. She helped him. I could hear them talki
From Arina’a POV We entered the coffee shop. It smelled so delicious. The freshly ground coffee and oven-baking smell of the freshly-baked pastries filled the air with an inviting aroma. The coffee shop was bustling with activity and the baristas were busy working, making sure every cup of coffee was perfect. The sight of the steaming espresso and the comforting smell of the coffee beans were a welcome sight. Alexandre walked us up to register and he ordered an order of bagels and a large canister of fresh ground coffee. When he asked me if I wanted anything in particular, I looked at the menu. I hesitated for a moment, then asked if I could get a couple of croissants. Alexandre nodded and added my request to the order. The order was placed, and we waited for it to arrive. When it did, we quickly gathered up our things headed back out to the car, and began the drive home. Arriving home we gathered up the food and walked inside. Everyone was still asleep so Alexandre and I decided t
From Arina’a POV After breakfast, Alexandre and Thiago excused themselves to attend to pack business. This left me to think about the coming day's events. I was feeling anxious, but I knew I had to remain focused and be prepared for whatever might come. I took a few deep breaths and reminded myself I was ready to take on whatever was in store. I was worried about what was to come. What would my mother say once she found out I was here? Could I still consider her my mother? I took a deep breath, realizing that these were questions I may never have an answer to. Wanting to clear my thoughts, I headed to the pool, deciding that going for a swim might help clear my mind. I slowly submerged myself in the cool water. The feeling of the water surrounding me was calming and I felt my worries drift away. Taking a few strokes, I focused on the calming rhythm of my arms and legs and let my mind wander. The first thought I had was my father. I thought about the stories he would tell me. Cl