Chapter 27

ISABELLE’S POV

I stood in stunned silence, the weight of Kael’s confession slowly sinking in. He suddenly declared wanting to propose and I was caught off guard.

I never anticipated his feelings for me to run so deep, nor had I expected such displays of affection from the stoic general.

My wolf sighed deeply. ‘He’s sincere, Isabelle.’ She whispered to me.

I closed my eyes for a second, her fingers wrangled together as anxiety clawed at me. I was still very unsure of what I could say to him now.

Kael just asked me to wait, to let him prove himself on the battlefield before making our bond official.

How could I explain to him that I couldn't marry anyone in my condition? How could I tell Kael that I have been cursed by the moon goddess to have multiple mates?

I watched him, his expression strained as he waited for my response, but I knew I couldn't tell him the absolute truth.

Finally, all I could manage was a quiet sigh. “Let’s wait and see,” I whispered, avoiding his eyes.

My wolf growled in mild frustration, but I ignored her. She was lamenting Kael's sincerity and I also shared the same feeling, he was a good man.

Over the past few days, I have grown very fond of Kael. His loyalty, and unwavering strength, and even the flickers of warmth and humour he tried to hide under his stoic cold exterior.

But true love? I wasn’t sure. Was it even possible for me to really fall for someone with my curse?

Kael gave me a quick nod, hesitating for a moment before he turned and started putting on his clothes.

I watched his back, and almost gave in and ran into his arms but I waited silently as he got dressed, and left the room.

Immediately the door slammed shut, and the room lost all its warmth. A cold wave of air swirled around me, and I suddenly felt lonely.

After he left, I picked up my nightgown off the floor and skidded it back on, just then my maid entered the room hesitantly, a questioning look on her face.

“Your Highness,” she began, “do you truly have feelings for General Kael? Have you… moved on from Rowan?”

I paused, my head snapping up and studying her. My eyes narrowed slightly, as I weighed my own thoughts.

I adjusted the strap of my gown before I finally replied with a soft smile, “I let go of Rowan a long time ago. He was never mine to begin with.”

The maid tilted her head, clearly confused at my response.

I pooped back in the bed, my voice calm but firm. “I’ve come to understand something, Clara. Love can never be forced. It’s not about who you want but about who’s willing to love you back.”

The maid hesitated, then ventured cautiously, “But…?”

She started but I interrupted her. “I’m not the kind of woman who clings to a single man. You shouldn’t be either, Clara. Only foolish women do that.” I said with a faint smile.

Clara nodded slowly, though her expression still seemed puzzled.

Once she left the room, I was all alone with my thoughts again. I rose, standing in front of the canvas, lightly tracing my fingers over the painted portrait of Kael.

KAEL’S POV

I left Isabelle’s home with my mind muddled and my heart full of different emotions.

Her final words had been indecisive, although she didn't reject me outright, she didn't accept me either.

Still, I kept thinking of her lingering gaze, the feel of her electrifying touch, and the way our skin felt together.

I was thoroughly determined to prove my worth to her, I was going to do everything possible to make

I deserved her.

I didn't go home from Isabelle's villa but instead, I headed straight to the palace. I was summoned to an audience with Tristan, who had called me to discuss some very urgent matters.

I bowed before the throne, my posture ramrod straight and composed.

“General Kael,” Tristan began, his tone sharp and firm, “the Shallow Land Pack has recently been pushing harder on our borders. We cannot afford to lose any more territory or land to them. I need you to go to the frontlines to lead our army. Your final mission is to reclaim what we’ve lost and secure our borders.”

I bowed my head. “I am honoured by your trust, Your Highness. I will not fail you.”

Tristan leaned forward, his sharp gaze focused on me. “You have served me well for so many years, Kael. If you succeed in this mission, I will reward you handsomely.”

I hesitated for a moment before I lifted my head to meet the emperor's gaze. “I have no need for riches or titles, Your Highness. But… there is one thing I would ask of you.”

Tristan raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “And what might that be?” He asked.

I straightened even more, my voice steady and resolute. “If I succeed, then I would ask for your blessing to marry someone.”

The request took the emperor aback with surprise. Then his expression softened slightly, Brows were still furrowed. “You’ve never taken a liking to any woman before. I’m curious—who is this woman who has captured the great General Kael’s heart?”

I hesitated, my thoughts flickering to Isabelle. Her ocean blue eyes, her fiery spirit, the way she had challenged me at every turn.

I shuffled in my feet as I stood Alpha Tristan, I kept my expression calm but my heart was racing as I made my declaration. “The woman I love, Your Highness, is the most beautiful and noble in the world.”

He raised his eyebrow at me, clearly intrigued by my words and the unusual passion in my tone.

“Such high praises for the woman you love. Very well, General Kael. If you reclaim the territory from the Shallow Land Pack, I will honour your request. You have my word.”

I grinned and bowed deeply, filled with gratitude. “Thank you, Your Highness. I will ensure I do not fail, no matter what.”

He nodded in response and I gave a slight bow and left the palace. The wind was cold outside, but I felt weirdly warm inside. I have finally confessed my feelings out loud.