Chapter Twenty Four

Xavier's heart raced as he absorbed Esther's revelation. He knew that Esther held the power to change everything, to expose his true identity to Ariel. Yet, a part of him still clung to the hope of protecting Ariel from the burdens of his position as the Alpha King.

"Esther, please," Xavier pleaded, his voice filled with desperation. "I understand your concern, but Ariel doesn't need to know. It will only bring more danger and complications into her life."

Esther's eyes softened, her gaze filled with empathy. "Xavier, I understand your intentions, but keeping such a significant secret from Ariel won't have a positive outcome," she said firmly. "She deserves to know the truth, to be a part of the decisions that affect both of your lives. Keeping her in the dark will only breed mistrust and resentment."

Xavier's shoulders slumped, the weight of his secret bearing down on him. He knew deep down that Esther was right, that honesty was the foundation of any strong relationship. But the fea