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Chapter 8: An Offer of Freedom

Author: Steve Mathew
last update Last Updated: 2025-02-16 14:55:28

"You want freedom?" Lucien’s voice was low, a dark promise wrapped in silk. He stood too close, the scent of cedar and frost surrounding me. "I’ll give it to you—if you agree to my terms."

I stiffened, forcing myself to hold his gaze. I wanted to hate him, to recoil at his presence, but the weight of his words coiled around my mind like a snake.

"What terms?" I forced the words out, my throat tight.

Lucien’s lips curled into something that wasn’t quite a smile. He reached out, brushing his fingers against my wrist. A spark jolted through me, something I didn’t understand. His touch was light, teasing, and yet it carried an unspoken command.

"You will stand beside me, as my queen." His voice was steady, unwavering. "Not just in name, but in power."

I sucked in a breath. "You expect me to rule beside you?" My voice was sharp, disbelief cracking through it.

"I expect you to act as my mate," he corrected, watching me too closely. "To strengthen this pack. To be more than a prisoner."

I la
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