Back at the palace, Malakai mechanically went through the motions of his royal duties, his mind a million miles away. The opulent halls and grandeur around him felt hollow and meaningless. His father, growing increasingly impatient with his son's newfound detachment, was unsure how to pull him out of the dark hole he now resided in. It seemed as if Malakai had lost all sense of purpose, his once vibrant spirit now dimmed.Nights became torturous for Malakai, sleep evading him like a fleeting dream. Tossing and turning in his lavish bed, he couldn't escape the haunting memories of Amani's smile, her laughter echoing in his mind like a bittersweet melody. The longing for her presence gnawed at his soul, an ache that refused to subside.In an attempt to burn off his restless energy, Malakai pushed himself and his patrol to their limits, their paws pounding against the earth as they sprinted through the sprawling Kingdom. The wind whipped through his fur, carrying whispers of secrets and
Over the next few days, Adam diligently prepared for a memorial service at his Manor, intending to create a heartfelt tribute to honor the life of his beloved mother. Amani, deeply saddened by the loss, offered her heartfelt condolences to Adam and couldn't help but admire his composure in the face of Bianca's passing. Adam found comfort in the knowledge that his mother had lived a long, fulfilling life and had peacefully drifted away in her sleep. Adam's perspective helped ease the pain in Amani’s own grieving heart, allowing her to maintain a semblance of emotional control. In an effort to keep her mind occupied, she graciously volunteered to assist in preparing food for the service. Despite Adam's insistence that she needn't trouble herself, Amani insisted on doing something, anything, to occupy her mind during this difficult time. Unfortunately, Emily's behavior was beginning to wear on Amani's patience, her passive-aggressive actions becoming increasingly frustrating. Amani fo
Amani was thrilled to receive her invitation to the art gala, where she would have the opportunity to present her work as a contestant. As she read the invitation aloud to Adam, her excitement accentuated every word."The Royal Museum cordially invites Selene Draven to the annual Midsummer Art Gala, where she will compete alongside the finest artists that the Pack Lands has to offer. Please bring two of your most exceptional pieces to be judged by our esteemed committee. The Grand Prize Winner will receive five hundred Lunars, a chance to have your art displayed in the prestigious Blackclaw Museum, and a special prize to be announced on the evening of the event!" Amani's joy was undeniable as she jumped up and hugged Adam.He held her tightly, his embrace lingering a bit longer than usual, but Amani was too elated to think much of it."This is absolutely fantastic, Amani. I am so happy for you. I have no doubt that you will emerge as the winner," Adam declared confidently."Even if I
Malakai followed Amani's scent into the museum, his heart pounding with anticipation. He had casually scanned the list of contestants before leaving the palace, curious if she would be among them. After all, she was the most talented artist he had ever encountered, and he believed that her extraordinary gift would leave the judges utterly astounded.The moment he stepped inside, a wave of surprised guests surged toward him, eager to bask in his presence. Skillfully navigating through the crowd, Malakai focused on following Amani's scent, leading him to the rows of art stations set up by the contestants. Steph caught up to him, perplexed by his behavior and unaware of his intentions. Suddenly, an event coordinator blocked his path, bringing him to an unwelcome halt."Your Highness!" A woman exclaimed, gracefully curtsying before Malakai. "It is the utmost honor to have you grace this year's gala with your esteemed presence. I am Rebecca, and I would be delighted to...""Excuse me," Mal
Amani had to stay in the city for a couple of days while Adam received treatment at a local medical center. It was crucial for him to rest and regain enough strength to shift into his wolf and make a full recovery. Amani allowed Emily to stay by his side, opting to give her some space. Amani decided that it was best for them both, as she was afraid that she might kill Emily for how she had been treating her, not to mention exposing her true identity. Amani found accommodation at a local Inn, where they refused to accept any payment. The townspeople seemed intimidated by Amani now that they knew who she truly was, and were cautious not to do anything that might upset the Prince.Even the following morning, as Amani walked to the market to gather herbs for her medicinal potion, she noticed that nobody would meet her gaze or even offer a smile. Unfazed, she chose not to hide her scars anymore, displaying them proudly for the world to see. After all, the truth had already been revealed.
Meanwhile, Steph decided to pay Emily a visit at the medical center. They took a quiet walk together, finding a secluded spot where they could have a private conversation, shielded from potential eavesdroppers."What can I do for you, my lady?" Emily inquired politely."Oh, I simply wanted to meet the brave slave girl who rushed to her master's side when he needed her," Steph said with fabricated admiration. "When I saw you, I thought to myself, 'She and I are going to be good friends.’”"We are?" Emily looked genuinely puzzled.Steph gently placed her hand on Emily's shoulder, making a conscious effort to conceal any signs of repulsion that she felt. "Absolutely! We have so much in common, you and I.""We do?" Emily responded, still uncertain."Mhm... for example, I can tell that you are deeply in love with your master, and I am equally in love with my Prince," Steph said, her eyes revealing her longing. "Unfortunately, there seems to be one irritating problem standing in the way of
Malakai spent two days roaming the hills in his wolf form, unable to escape the constant replay of the night at the gala. The moment he saw Amani, he had been prepared to give up everything for her, to beg for her forgiveness and whisk her away to a place where they could be together forever. But instead, he had succumbed to his possessive instincts, unleashing the beast within him and acting like a crazed animal. In the process, he had even harmed Amani, causing him to believe that she would never want anything to do with him again. Seeing Amani living a seemingly joyful life before his arrival shattered Malakai's heart. The way she had looked at him that night mirrored the same loathing she had shown when he first brought her to the palace. Did she no longer love him anymore? Was she now in love with that man, allowing him to touch her in ways only Malakai had before? The mere thought of Amani being intimate with someone else made him want to tear out his own heart. When Malakai
Steph hurriedly rushed to her father's chambers, clutching the letter that had just arrived from Emily. The overwhelming joy she felt was a rare sensation. With anticipation bubbling inside her, she knocked on her father's door, eager for him to grant her entry.As Jax swung open the door, his eyes fell upon the radiant smile adorning his daughter's face, instantly thawing his cold, black heart. There was no denying the favoritism he harbored towards Steph, considering her to be a reflection of himself, while viewing Archer as soft and spineless."Good morning, Princess. What has you smiling so beautifully today?" Jax inquired.Steph wrapped her arms around Jax, holding him tight with a determined grip. “Oh, I just have the best father in the world, willing to do anything for his little girl.”Jax’s brow furrowed with skepticism, his discerning gaze piercing through her facade. “Alright, what do you want, and how much is it going to cost me?”Casting a cautious glance around, Steph en