Sixty eightRafe's words drifted through the grand hall, becoming a mere background hum to the chaos of my own thoughts. I stood there, feigning attention, while the echo of my mother's warning reverberated inside my head. The Crimson kingdom was on the brink of terrible danger, and somehow, I was the one with the task to save not just our realm but Rafe himself. What powers did she believe I possessed? Did she know of my protection powers? Was it foresight turning into my dreams or some weird magic stirring within me? "Freya, aren't you excited?" The bubbling enthusiasm in Addy's voice cut through my raging thoughts like a dagger. Her eyes sparkled with the thrill of impending adventure, oblivious to the turmoil in my stomach."Are you ready for the trip to the city?" she asked, her words tumbling out in a rush as she clasped her hands together.I managed a smile that didn't quite reach my eyes, and nodded. "Of course," I lied smoothly, my gaze briefly wandering to where Rafe stood.
Sixty nine*Freya* Connor and I stood at the far end of the hall, far away from Rafe but it felt like he was close by. I tried not to look in his direction. Tried not to feel his eyes on me because I didn't want him to know I was thinking about him. I didn't want to give him the satisfaction of letting him know how much he affected me. But it was too late; our eyes locked, Rafe's piercing gaze holding mine in a vice grip. As he approached us, The air crackled between us, charged with an energy that spoke of unspoken words and unfinished business. The tension was a living thing, stretching, reaching, wrapping around us both, binding us in silent acknowledgment of what simmered beneath the surface.With every ounce of willpower I possessed, I broke the connection first, tearing my eyes away as I dipped into a curtsey. "Alpha Rafe," I said, my voice betraying none of the chaos that whirled within me. As I straightened up, the moment broke like ice underfoot, and I steadied myself ag
Seventy*Freya*Heat crept into my cheeks, scorching the coolness of my pride as I watched Rafe's retreating back. The echo of his footsteps mocked me, a steady rhythm that reminded me of my humiliation. I was acutely aware of every pair of eyes boring into me, piercing through the flimsy armor of my composure. My heart throbbed with indignation, yet beneath that fiery cloak of shame, something else flickered—a dangerous spark. I clenched my fists, nails digging into my palms, and silently swore retribution. Rafe had overstepped a boundary, turning our personal conflict into public spectacle, and for the way had just kissed me in front everyone especially when i challenged him, he would pay dearly."I need a moment," I murmured to Connor, my voice barely above a whisper. He nodded with a concerned furrow knitting his brow, but I couldn't afford to be swayed by his worry. Not now. I needed solitude; I needed to steel myself against the anger brewing within me.My chambers awaited as I
Seventy one*Freya*I walked into the vehicle climbing aboard, I scanned the rows of plush seating, noting that many were already filled with eager passengers. My eyes locked onto the space I had intended to claim as my own, only to find Rafe seated beside it, his presence commanding even in repose. What the hell was he doing here?!His close proximity sent a jolt through me, a mix of irritation and an undeniable surge of something more primal. The Alpha king, resplendent in his own right, sent a look that reached out to me, whispering of temptation and danger alike. For a moment, I hesitated, caught between the desire to flee and the inevitable acceptance of my fate.Drawing in a breath, I steadied my resolve. With slow, measured steps, I made my way toward the vacant seat, past the curious glances of others, until I stood before Rafe, our future as uncertain as the clouds above us.My feet seemed to betray me, carrying me closer to Rafe with every reluctant step. The tension between
Seventy twoI stepped down from the vehicle, my hand gripping Alpha Rafe's firm arm for balance. As my feet touched the cobblestones, a roar of cheers erupted from the massive crowd filling the bubbly town square. I gasped, shocked by the sheer number of people who had turned out. Crimson kingdom banners flapped in the breeze as men, women and children craned their necks to catch a glimpse of us."They're here for you, for all of you," Rafe said close to my ear. His warm breath sent a shiver down my spine despite the summer heat. "The people want to see their future Queen."Kelly, Jessica, Aurora, Addy and I made our way to a raised platform in the center of the square, waving and smiling at the cheering throngs. Excitement buzzed in the air, the anticipation palpable. As we ascended the steps, the crowd began chanting."Freya! Freya!" some called out. My heart swelled at their support. It felt surreal to think I had actual fans. I was extremely excited and thankful that Rafe had give
Seventy three*Freya*"Hello, Freya, it's me. It's Daniel."The voice was like a bolt of lightning, jolting me back to a time before the palace, before Rafe. I forced my eyes open, blinking away the tears, and found myself staring up into the concerned face of Daniel Stonecrow, my old coworker from the villa."D-Daniel?" I croaked, my voice hoarse from the smoke and the screaming. "What are you doing here?"He offered me a tight smile, his eyes scanning our surroundings for any sign of danger. "I heard you were going to be here today, and I wanted to see you. But we need to get you somewhere safe. Can you stand?"I nodded, gritting my teeth against the pain as Daniel helped me to my feet. The world spun around me, and I clung to him for support, my heart pounding in my ears. As we stumbled away from the chaos, I couldn't help but wonder what had caused the explosions, and whether Rafe and the others had made it out unscathed.Please, Goddess, I prayed silently, let them be alright. Le
Seventy Four*Freya* "I won't give up," I promised, my voice trembling but determined. "I'll keep fighting, for as long as it takes. For Rafe, for my friends, for everyone I love. I won't let them down."Daniel smiled down at me, his eyes shining with pride and admiration. "That's my girl," he murmured, pressing a gentle kiss to my forehead. "You're stronger than you know, Freya. And we'll get through this, together. I promise."As he spoke, I felt a flicker of hope kindle in my chest, a tiny spark of light amidst the darkness. I clung to it like a lifeline, letting it guide me back from the brink of oblivion. And as I drifted off into a fitful sleep, I knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, I would face them with courage and determination, secure in the knowledge that I was not alone.*****Rafe* I opened my eyes with a start, my heart pounding. Where was I? I glanced around frantically, taking in the unfamiliar room. Sunlight streamed in through a small window, illumina
Seventy Five*Rafe* The moment we stepped out of the room, I was greeted by a sea of faces, my people gathered in the courtyard, waiting for me. Men, women, children - all looking to me for guidance, for reassurance in the midst of this devastating attack. Pride swelled in my chest, momentarily overshadowing the fear and anger that had taken root. They were here for me, loyal to the end.I stood before them, allowing my gaze to sweep over the crowd. "My friends," I began, my voice carrying across the hushed gathering. "Today, we have suffered a grievous blow. An enemy who is unknown at the moment, has struck at the very heart of our kingdom, shattering the peace and security we hold so dear."A murmur rippled through the crowd, expressions of fear and anger mirroring my own. I held up a hand, and silence fell once more."I come to you now not just as your Alpha, but as a man humbled by your unwavering loyalty, your courage in the face of this adversity. And I make you this solemn vow