I woke up the next morning with a sense of anticipation and nervousness. Leaving my fake home with Ariel had been a difficult decision, but the pull between us was undeniable. Now, I needed to return to the palace, but one burning question consumed my thoughts - why had Ariel been invited? And who had extended the invitation?As I made my way through the grand halls of the palace, my mind was consumed with these questions. I needed answers, and I knew that my grandmother, Regina, would be able to provide them.I found Regina in her study, surrounded by books and papers. She looked up from her work as I entered, her eyes filled with a mixture of curiosity and concern."Xavier, my dear, what brings you here so early in the morning?" Regina asked, her voice filled with warmth.I approached her, a serious expression on my face. "Regina, I need to talk to you about something," I said, my voice filled with urgency. "Ariel received an invitation to the palace. Do you know anything about it?"
ARIELChloe and I exchanged a glance of disbelief as we stared at the coat in my hands. Xavier's name, clear as day, was imprinted on it. It was undeniable evidence that he was not only hiding something, but that he was also the Alpha King himself."He's the Alpha King?" I whispered, my voice barely audible. "But how? Why would he hide his true identity from me?"Chloe's eyes widened with realization. "Ariel, think about it. The Alpha King has always been a figure of power and authority. If Xavier revealed his true identity to you, it would have changed the dynamics of your relationship. He probably wanted to be sure that you loved him for who he was, not for his position."Her words made sense, but it was still difficult to process. I had fallen in love with Xavier, not knowing the truth about his true identity. The weight of the secrets he had kept from me suddenly felt heavier than ever.Just as Chloe and I were about to discuss our suspicions further, the sound of footsteps interr
Ariel——As I wiped away my tears, I took deep breath and looked into Chloe's eyes. It was time to reveal the truth, to unburden myself from the weight of the secret that had been consuming me."Chloe," I began, my voice steady but filled with trepidation. "There's something I need to tell you. Something that I should have told you a long time ago."Chloe's eyes widened, her curiosity piqued. "What is it, Ariel? You know you can tell me anything."I took another deep breath, gathering my thoughts before I continued. "You remember when Xavier and I told everyone that we were mates, right?"Chloe nodded slowly, confusion evident in her expression. "Yes, of course. It was a surprise to everyone, but we were all so happy for you."I looked down at my hands, unable to meet Chloe's gaze. "The truth is, Chloe... Xavier and I were never really mates."Chloe gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. "What? But why? Why would you lie about something like that?"Tears welled up in my eyes once again
XAVIER—I watched as Ariel slept peacefully on the couch, her gentle breathing filling the room. She looked so serene, and a sense of protectiveness washed over me. I couldn't help but feel a mixture of emotions as I continued to work, my mind divided between the tasks at hand and the woman who had just confessed her love for me.Just as I was getting lost in my thoughts, my beta entered the study room, a sense of urgency in his expression. "Xavier, I apologize for interrupting, but there's an urgent matter at the palace. The Alpha requires your immediate presence."I sighed, knowing that duty called, but I couldn't bear to leave Ariel alone at home, especially at this late hour. I looked at her sleeping form, contemplating what to do. I couldn't possibly ask her to come with me, as it was against protocol for a non-royal to be present during important meetings.However, I couldn't just leave her here without knowing she would be safe. After a moment of contemplation, I made a decisio
ARIEL——I watched Xavier carefully, my heart heavy with the knowledge of his true identity. It pained me to see him continue to lie, to pretend that he was just a guard when I knew he was so much more. But I couldn't reveal that I knew his secret, not if it meant losing him for good.Every time he spoke about his duties as a guard, a pang of sadness echoed within me. I wanted so desperately to tell him that I understood, that I knew he was the Alpha of our pack. But the risk was too great. If I exposed his secret, it could put both him and the pack in danger.As Xavier continued to explain the dangers that came with being close to him, I felt a mix of frustration and longing. I wanted to be by his side, to support him in every way possible. But I had to respect his decision to keep me safe, even if it meant keeping me at a distance."Xavier, I understand," I said softly, my voice filled with a mixture of resignation and sadness. "I don't want to put you or the pack in danger. I'll tru
Ariel—-Regina's words echoed in my mind as I sat there, grappling with the weight of Xavier's secret. The thought of losing him, of being replaced as his mate, tore at my heart. But Regina was right, communication was crucial, and I needed to have an open and honest conversation with Xavier.As I contemplated the next steps, Regina's voice broke through my thoughts. "Ariel, does Xavier know that you're aware of his true identity?" she asked, her voice filled with concern.I shook my head, my voice barely above a whisper. "No, Regina. I haven't told him," I admitted, my heart sinking. "I'm afraid that if I reveal that I know he's the Alpha, he won't want me anymore. He'll see me as weak, as someone who can't handle the responsibilities that come with being an Alpha's mate."Regina's eyes filled with empathy as she reached over and gently cupped my face. "Ariel, you underestimate Xavier's love for you. He chose you as his fake mate, and he cares deeply for you," she reassured me. "You
Xavier——Xavier's mind raced as he absorbed Regina's words. The realization that Ariel was his true mate sent shockwaves through him, leaving him both elated and filled with regret. How had he kept this secret from her for so long? And why did Regina seem so urgent in discussing this now? Questions swirled in his mind as he hurriedly ended the call and made his way back home.As I entered our empty home, my worry intensified. Ariel was nowhere to be found, and her absence only fueled my growing concern. I paced anxiously, my mind consumed with thoughts of what could have happened. Had something gone wrong? Was she in danger?My heart pounded in my chest as I replayed my conversation with Regina. The weight of Ariel's question lingered, and I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to her inquiry than met the eye. I couldn't help but be suspicious of Regina's constant probing and urgency.Unable to wait any longer, I grabbed my phone and dialed Ariel's number. It rang and rang,
Ariel’s pov—-Ariel's heart raced as she dialed her sister Esther's number, her mind swirling with the weight of the secret she was about to reveal. She needed Esther's guidance and support, knowing that she was the only person she could trust with this information.As the phone rang, Ariel's palms grew sweaty, her nerves getting the best of her. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself as she waited for Esther to answer."Hello?" Esther's voice came through the line, filled with warmth and concern."Esther, it's Ariel," Ariel said, her voice trembling slightly. "I need to talk to you. It's about Xavier."There was a brief pause on the other end of the line, before Esther responded, her voice filled with understanding. "I've been waiting for this conversation, Ariel. I know that Xavier is the Alpha King."Ariel's breath caught in her throat, shock and relief flooding through her. She had expected Esther to be surprised by this revelation, but instead, she sounded as if she had
Ariel couldn't believe what she had just felt. It was a surge of emotions and a connection unlike anything she had ever experienced before. But Xavier's sudden movement away from her brought a wave of confusion and disappointment.Xavier moved away from Ariel, his expression filled with fear and hesitation. He didn't want her to find out about the mate bond, not yet. There were too many uncertainties and dangers surrounding their situation, and he didn't want to burden her with the weight of their connection.Ariel, on the other hand, felt a mix of happiness and curiosity. She had always longed for a deep connection and love, and the mate bond seemed to offer just that. She couldn't ignore the pull she felt towards Xavier, the way her inner wolf seemed to want to bond with him."Xavier, what was that?" Ariel asked, her voice filled with wonder and excitement. "I felt something inside me, like my inner wolf was awakening. What does it mean?"Xavier's eyes flickered with a mix of emotio
Xavier couldn't shake off the anger and resentment he felt towards Alpha Cole for his actions towards Ariel. Despite Ariel's reassurances and their agreement to be cautious, Xavier couldn't let it go. He needed to confront Alpha Cole and make it clear that he would not tolerate anyone disrespecting or harming Ariel.With determination in his eyes, Xavier made his way to Alpha Cole's office. As he entered, Alpha Cole looked up from his desk, a smile spreading across his face."Xavier! What a pleasant surprise," Alpha Cole greeted, extending his hand for a handshake. "I've been meaning to talk to you about some business opportunities. I think we could benefit from collaborating."Xavier ignored the offered hand and instead crossed his arms, his expression cold and unyielding. "I'm not here for business, Alpha Cole. I'm here to address your behavior towards Ariel."Alpha Cole's smile faltered, confusion replacing his initial enthusiasm. "I'm not sure what you're referring to, Xavier. I'v
Ariel POV—-As Alpha Calvin's hand lingered near hers, Ariel's heart raced with unease. She desperately needed to diffuse the tension and prevent Xavier from revealing his presence. Just as anxiety threatened to overwhelm her, the sound of the front door opening provided a much-needed distraction."Hey, Ariel, I brought over some of those books you wanted," Chloe's cheerful voice echoed through the house.Ariel's eyes widened with relief as Chloe walked into the kitchen, her gaze immediately falling on Alpha Calvin. She paused for a moment, taking in the tense atmosphere, before a mischievous smile crossed her face."Am I interrupting something?" Chloe asked, raising an eyebrow playfully.Alpha Calvin quickly withdrew his hand, his expression shifting from intensity to one of composed authority. He straightened his posture and cleared his throat."Chloe, it's good to see you," Alpha Calvin said, his tone polite but distant. "I was just having a discussion with Ariel. Perhaps we can co
Ariel pov—-Ariel's heart pounded in her chest as Alpha Calvin's piercing gaze bore into her. She was at a loss for words, her mind racing to come up with a plausible explanation."He... he just left for work," Ariel stammered, hoping Alpha Calvin would buy her lie. She tried to keep her face neutral, her eyes betraying none of the fear that was threatening to consume her.Alpha Calvin's gaze didn't waver. He studied her for a moment, his expression unreadable. Ariel held her breath, her eyes darting to the staircase where Xavier was hiding. She prayed that he would remain unseen.Just then, she caught a glimpse of Xavier's silhouette at the top of the stairs. He was watching them, his body tense and ready to spring into action if Alpha Calvin made any sudden moves. Ariel's heart ached for him, knowing the fear and tension he must be feeling."Ariel," Alpha Calvin began, his voice stern. "I don't appreciate being lied to."Ariel's heart skipped a beat. Had he seen through her lie? She
Alpa Calvin ——Alpha Calvin stormed into his office, his mind filled with frustration and anger. He couldn't believe Xavier had rejected his offer, refusing to accept the potential mate he had presented. The audacity of Xavier's defiance ignited a fire within Alpha Calvin, fueling his determination to form an alliance with Xavier's pack.As he paced back and forth, his thoughts raced, strategizing the next move in this delicate game. He couldn't let Xavier's rejection deter him. The bond between their packs was crucial for the survival and prosperity of both.Alpha Calvin knew Xavier's reluctance stemmed from a deep-rooted fear of being controlled and manipulated. But what Xavier failed to understand was that the mate bond was a source of strength, not a tool of oppression. It brought unity and stability to packs, ensuring their survival in a world filled with dangers.Alpha Calvin's mind drifted to Ariel, Esther's sister who had claimed to have found a mate but never returned home. T
Xavier —Xavier took a deep breath, formulating an excuse in his mind. "Alpha Calvin, the truth is that I've never believed in the concept of a mate bond or connection. I've always valued personal freedom and the ability to choose my own path."Alpha Calvin's brow furrowed, a mix of confusion and disbelief evident on his face. "But Xavier, you've always been a staunch advocate for pack unity and the traditional values of our kind. It's hard for me to believe that you would reject such an integral part of our culture."Xavier met Alpha Calvin's gaze, his eyes steady as he continued with his fabricated explanation. "I understand how it may seem contradictory, but I've seen too many forced pairings in the past that have led to unhappiness and discord within packs. I simply refuse to subject myself or anyone else to that."Alpha Calvin's expression softened slightly, but his skepticism lingered. "I see. So, you're suggesting that love and compatibility can be found outside of the mate bon
Chloe was taken aback by Ariel's outburst, her confusion evident on her face. "Ariel, I don't understand. Do you know who the Alpha King is? I mean, nobody has seen his face, so how could you possibly know about any marriage agreement?"Ariel quickly gathered her thoughts, realizing that she couldn't reveal Xavier's secret identity as the Alpha King. She took a deep breath, trying to compose herself before responding. "Chloe, I... I've heard rumors, but I don't have any concrete information. It's just something I've heard people talk about. I didn't mean to react so strongly."Chloe's expression softened as she sensed Ariel's discomfort. "Oh, Ariel, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you. I should have been more careful with my words. But if there's anything you need to talk about or if you want to share something, please know that I'm here for you."Ariel nodded, a mix of relief and guilt washing over her. She appreciated Chloe's support and knew she could trust her with her deepest f
Xavier couldn't bear the weight of his imaginary guilt any longer. As he imagined the conversation with Cole reaching a critical point, he abruptly stood up and excused himself from the meeting. Without a word, he walked out of the throne room and headed directly to the study room.As he paced back and forth, trying to gather his thoughts on how to make Ariel stop thinking about having a baby, his grandmother Regina unexpectedly walked in. Her presence caught Xavier off guard, and he quickly tried to compose himself."Xavier, my dear grandson, what troubles you so deeply?" Regina's voice was filled with concern as she looked at Xavier with a mix of compassion and worry.Xavier hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to respond. He knew that his grandmother had always been there for him, offering wisdom and guidance in times of need. But the weight of his secret and the conflicting emotions swirling within him made it difficult to open up."Grandma, I... I have something to tell you," Xa
Xavier couldn't bear the weight of his guilt any longer. He knew that he had to confront his true identity as the Alpha king and leave the house he had shared with Ariel. With a heavy heart, he made the decision to return to the palace and fulfill his responsibilities.As Xavier prepared to leave, his mind was filled with thoughts of Ariel. He couldn't help but wonder how she would react when she learned the truth about him. Would she be angry? Would she feel betrayed? These questions haunted him as he packed his belongings.Just as Xavier was about to head out the door, there was a knock. He hesitated for a moment, unsure of who it could be. When he opened the door, hisnbeta was already there to escort him and when he entered the palace he was surprised to see Cole, Ariel's sister's husband, standing there."Xavier, I need to talk to you," Cole said, his voice filled with urgency. "It's about the pack. We're facing a dire situation, and we need your support."Xavier felt conflicted.