Hudson's POV"I have no idea," I replied, keeping my voice low. "But it sounds serious."Black J. squinted through the dirty glass, trying to get a better look. "I see Aiden and Claire," he said."Claire is with him?" I asked, surprise evident in my voice."Yeah," he confirmed. "She's right there.""Wow," I muttered. Claire being involved was unexpected and complicated things further.As we stood there, hidden in the shadows, suddenly an alarm went off, loud and piercing. "Check the perimeters ASAP!" I could hear Aiden shouting, even as his men picked up their weapons and started running in all directions."Boss, we gotta go now. If not, we'll be caught," Black J. urged, a note of urgency in his voice."No!" I insisted. "I must see what Aiden is planning.""Boss, trust me," Black J. said, grabbing my arm. "Staying here will put us in more trouble. I'll keep an eye on this location, I promise."I was torn. Anger and frustration bubbled inside me, but I knew he was right. Reluctantly, I
Aiden's POVI began pacing the room, my mind racing. Claire watched me, her eyes filled with concern. "What do we do now?" I asked, desperation creeping into my voice.Claire sighed, running a hand through her hair. "I don't know. Whatever Black J. is after, he never misses it. He's so good and accurate, and if he's on our tail... we are really in deep trouble.""My brother would do anything to get this throne back, I know," I said, staring at the wall, trying to piece together a plan. "Hmm... I have an idea.""What is it?" Claire asked, her curiosity piqued."Let's get all the elders to agree to bring the coronation closer and crown me king. That way, Hudson would be caught unawares.""You sure? That's a good idea?" Claire's eyebrows knitted together in doubt."It's the only way," I said, stopping to face her. "If I'm crowned, Hudson will have no choice but to recognize my authority. It will put him on the back foot."Claire nodded slowly, considering the plan. "It could work. But ge
Chloe's POVThe sun was setting, casting a warm orange glow through the windows as I sat in my room, flipping through a wedding magazine. Despite my best efforts to stay calm, my mind was a whirlpool of thoughts and worries. Planning a wedding was supposed to be an exciting adventure, yet here I was, feeling more anxious than ever.I heard the heavy wooden door creak open behind me. Turning around, I saw Aiden standing there, his face a mixture of determination and concern."Chloe, we need to talk," he said, his voice tense."What is it, Aiden?" I asked, my curiosity piqued by his serious tone.He walked over and sat across from me, taking a deep breath before speaking. "Claire told me to inform you about something important," he began, struggling to find the right words. "Our wedding... it's scheduled to happen very soon. On the day of my coronation."I stared at him, utterly shocked. "What?!" I exclaimed, my voice trembling. "How can that be? We talked about planning everything care
Chloe's POVI sat on my bed, staring at the wall. My mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, emotions running wild. Aiden had just left, and his words echoed in my head. "This isn't about using you or treating you like a pawn. We need to present a united front, especially now." What did that even mean? I felt tears prickling at the corners of my eyes, my heart heavy with confusion and hurt. How could he ask me to push aside our dreams and plans for some political game?The wedding. It was our wedding he wanted to rush. Less than two weeks from now. Why the sudden urgency? It didn't make sense. Unless... unless he knew about Hudson. My heart skipped a beat at the thought. Could Aiden have found out about the incident between Hudson and me? Was this rush his way of controlling the situation, of securing his place before anything else could happen?I shook my head, trying to clear the doubts. But the more I thought about it, the more it made sense. Aiden had always been strategic, always think
Chloe's POVThe dinner had lost its flavor in my mouth, my appetite vanishing with the unsettling thoughts swirling in my head. Pushing my plate aside, I sighed and looked at Ashley. "I'm done. Let's head back to my room. We have things to discuss."Ashley nodded, her concern mirroring mine. "Yes, ma'am."We rose from the table, the clink of silverware and soft murmurs of the other diners fading into the background. As we walked down the hallway, the grandeur of the palace seemed almost oppressive, its ornate decorations and rich tapestries failing to offer their usual comfort. My thoughts were a whirlwind of confusion and worry. What was going on with Aiden? And what mission could Hudson possibly be on?Just as we reached the staircase, Lucas appeared at the top, his expression serious. "Good morning, Princess Chloe," he greeted, bowing slightly."Good morning, Lucas. How are you doing?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady."I'm good," he replied quickly, his tone indicating that
Chloe's POVI sighed, pushing myself away from the door and walking over to the vanity. "It was... exhausting, Ashley. I just gave Aiden attitude and didn't really answer him when he tried to talk to me."Ashley frowned slightly, tilting her head to the side. "Why did you do that, ma'am? If you don't mind me asking."I met her gaze in the mirror, my reflection showing the strain I felt. "I didn't even want him around. I know he means well, but every time he looks at me with those eyes, I feel like I'm suffocating. It's just... too much right now."Ashley nodded slowly, her expression thoughtful. "Hmm... okay, ma'am. Whatever you say. But you know, sometimes it's better to face these things head-on rather than pushing them away."I turned to look at her directly. "I know, Ashley. It's just hard. I'm not sure how to handle all of this."She gave me a small smile. "I understand, ma'am. Let me get back to my duty post. I'll still have my eyes on Prince Aiden and Claire's movements and get
Aiden's POVWithout warning, I swung my fist, landing a hard punch on his face. He grunted, blood trickling from his lip, but the smirk never left his face. He spit the blood on my feet, chuckling."You know what, Aiden?" he said, his voice a mixture of amusement and contempt."What!" I barked, my patience wearing thin."I’ll tell you one thing. This throne you are fighting for can never be yours. Don’t you get it? Hudson is the rightful king of the entire—"Before he could finish, I slammed my fist into his stomach. He coughed, more blood splattering the floor, but he kept laughing."Who is this guy?" I thought, my mind racing. "After all these blows, he’s still laughing.""Let me tell you something, Aiden," Black J continued, his laughter echoing in the empty warehouse. "Hudson knows about all your plans.""You lie!" I shouted, my temper flaring. "Really?" he taunted, still laughing. "You think you caught me, or I made you catch me?"His words hit me like a ton of bricks. "Shit," I
Chloe's POVJenna's eyes widened with realization. "This cream only irritates those with child. If it's causing you pain, there's a chance you might be pregnant.""I'm not pregnant," I insisted, the words feeling heavy in my mouth. The possibility was too much to consider right now.Jenna hesitated, then shook her head decisively. "I think our session is over. I need to speak with Lord Aiden.""No!" I said sharply, panic rising in my chest. "You can't do that. He mustn't know of this.""But it might be good news," Jenna persisted gently. "If you are pregnant, this cream is a clear sign. It only affects those carrying a child.""I'm not with child!" I shouted, my voice breaking. "I'm not pregnant," I repeated, tears starting to flow. The emotions I had buried deep inside began to surface, overwhelming me."I'm so sorry," Jenna said softly. "I didn't mean to open old wounds.""It's fine," I said, trying to pull myself together. "Please, don't tell Aiden. You know we are still mourning t
Years LaterThe grand festival continued into the night, but as the celebrations waned, a quieter, more reflective scene unfolded. Amidst the joy and laughter, Aiden and Chloe found themselves watching their children, Alex and Mia, play in the castle’s expansive gardens.Alex, now a young man of seventeen, had inherited his father’s strong, determined spirit. He was tall and confident, with a sharp gaze that seemed to miss nothing. His interactions with the other children were marked by a natural leadership, a blend of kindness and authority that spoke of his future role as a leader.Mia, a year younger than Alex, was equally impressive. She was vibrant and intelligent, with a keen sense of justice that mirrored her mother’s. Even at her young age, her ability to understand and empathize with others was remarkable. She moved through the crowd with a grace that drew people to her, her laughter and energy infusing the air with an infectious enthusiasm.As Aiden and Chloe watched their c
Aiden’s POVI stood there, my mind racing with a mix of shock, betrayal, and disbelief. The flashing red and blue lights of the police cars painted an eerie glow on the faces of the people I once called family. Claire, Mason, and Hudson were being led away in handcuffs, their expressions a mixture of anger and resignation."It's funny," I muttered, more to myself than anyone else, "how people you call your family and blood would turn against you."Ashley, my best friend, stood beside me, her face pale. "I can't believe they had a hand in your son's disappearance," she whispered, her voice trembling. "All this time..."I shook my head, feeling a bitter laugh bubbling up. "Yeah, I know the world is wicked and all, but nah... this was too massive," I said, my voice rising with emotion. "Like wow... damn... so I really had fake bloods around me."The words felt foreign in my mouth, like speaking in a language I didn't quite understand. I watched as the police shoved Claire into the back o
Claire’s POVI arrived at the abandoned building, its skeletal structure of steel beams and concrete looming ominously against the twilight sky. This place, once a construction site left unfinished, now served as a perfect hideout for clandestine activities. Pulling up in my car, I shut off the engine and stepped out, my senses on high alert. Just then, my phone buzzed with a call from Mason."Mason, where are they?" I asked, my tone brisk."They’re inside the building, Claire. Just walk in, and you’ll find the kid," Mason's voice crackled over the line."Alright," I replied, my eyes scanning the darkened entrance. "I’m heading in now."Walking towards the entrance, the crunch of gravel underfoot punctuated the silence of the evening. As I stepped inside, the dim light from the setting sun barely penetrated the building’s interior, leaving me in shadowed uncertainty. I called out as I moved further in, my voice echoing off the empty walls."Mason, I’m inside. I don’t see anyone yet."
Claire’s POVI entered my room and slammed the door, shaking the walls with the force of my anger. My breath came in ragged gasps, and my heart pounded furiously in my chest. God!!!! Chloe!!!!!! After all I have done to get rid of you, you still were able to squeeze yourself back into my life. Wow... Nice. I muttered to myself, an evil smile playing on my lips as I paced back and forth, trying to calm the storm inside me. I will make sure you and Aiden never have peace of mind.The room was dimly lit, the curtains drawn tight to shut out the world. My desk was cluttered with papers and books, the remnants of a life I was trying to rebuild. But now, all I could see was red. Memories of Chloe flooded my mind – the times she outshone me, the moments she humiliated me, the way she always seemed to have Aiden's attention.I paused in front of the mirror, staring at my reflection. My eyes were wild, filled with a mix of rage and determination. "You always thought you were better than me, di
Aiden’s POVThe room was dimly lit, and the smell of antiseptic was heavy in the air. I blinked slowly, trying to clear the fog from my mind. My head throbbed with a searing pain that felt like it was tearing through my skull. It took a moment for my surroundings to come into focus—the hospital room, the steady beeping of monitors, and the IV drip attached to my arm."Finally, you're awake," a familiar voice broke through the haze. It was Lucas, sitting in a chair beside my bed, his face a mixture of relief and concern."Lucas..." I croaked, my voice raspy and weak. "What... what happened?"He leaned forward, his eyes never leaving mine. "Aiden, we thought we lost you. Chloe managed to reach me after it all happened. She said you both were attacked."I struggled to sit up, wincing as pain shot through my body. "Yeah, we were... Is she okay? Are the kids okay?"Lucas hesitated, his silence stretching like a taut wire. I repeated my question, my voice rising in urgency. "Lucas, are Chlo
Aiden’s POVI was beyond happy as I drove my family back with me to my pack. Having Chloe and my kids in the car was one of the happiest things that had ever happened to me. As I heard Mia and Alex having their playful banter in the back seat, I couldn’t help but smile. Yeah, finally, I had gotten what I had been missing all this while to myself."Why are you smiling really hard?" Chloe asked, her voice pulling me back from my thoughts."Ooh, nothing," I said, my smile widening."Hmm, you sure?" she asked, giving me a sideways glance."Yeah, just thinking about how perfect everything is right now," I replied, glancing at her briefly before focusing back on the road."I can see that," she said with a soft laugh. "It’s kind of contagious, you know.""What is?" I asked, curious."Your smile. The kids are smiling too. Look at them," she said, turning slightly to look at the back seat.I glanced in the rearview mirror and saw Mia and Alex giggling, their faces lit up with joy. It warmed my
Aiden’s POVThe guard took a deep breath, his voice trembling slightly. "The news reaching us right now is that Aiden will be returning with Chloe.""Okay?" I replied, confusion lacing my voice. "That's good news... because I know definitely he's returning with her head in a ba—""No, Your Highness," the guard interrupted, his tone more urgent. "It is said that they are returning as couples.""What! Couples? How?" I exclaimed, standing up so abruptly that my chair toppled over. "Isn't Aiden meant to kill her for him to have peace? Wasn't that what the goddess we paid instructed him to do?""Yes, sir, but—""But what?" I cut the guard off angrily. "See, get me Claire," I told him, even as I sat back angrily in the bathtub. "What sort of rubbish is this?"The guard nodded quickly and scurried out of the room. I leaned back in the tub, the warm water doing little to soothe my rising irritation. How could Aiden betray us like this? What could possibly have happened?Minutes later, Claire,
Aiden’s POVBefore I could answer, Chloe's stepfather, the alpha of the pack, interrupted me. His stern expression softened as he looked at Chloe and then turned to me, confusion etched on his face.'What is going on here?' the alpha demanded. 'Who is this man, Chloe?'Chloe took a deep breath and stepped closer to her stepfather. 'Dad, this is Aiden. He was... he was my husband.'The alpha's eyes widened in shock. 'Your husband? The one who...''Yes,' Chloe interrupted, her voice trembling. 'The one who sent me away.'The alpha's gaze turned hard as he looked at me. 'You have a lot of explaining to do, young man.''I know,' I said, meeting his gaze. 'I owe Chloe and you an explanation.'Chloe gestured for us to sit. 'Let's all sit down and talk. There's a lot to discuss.'We moved to the sitting area, the tension in the room palpable. Chloe sat next to her stepfather, while I took a seat across from them.'Aiden,' the alpha began, 'I want to hear your side of the story. Why did you s
Aiden’s POV"Hey, sir, sorry to intrude, but I couldn't just keep quiet. You really have amazing grandkids, Sire," I said, trying to mask my curiosity with a friendly tone.King Aiden looked at me and chuckled. "Yeah, I sure do. They are really something special. My grandkids are the best gift life has given me.""That's really lovely, Sire," I said, genuinely touched by his pride. "From the way your grandson looked, I'm pretty sure their mother must be very beautiful."The Alpha's face lit up with a broad smile. "Oh, you have no idea. My daughter is beyond beautiful. She's a queen in every sense of the word," he said, his voice filled with pride as he continued praising her beauty and grace."I can imagine," I said, smiling. "She must be very special to have such a wonderful son.""She is," King Aiden nodded. "Chloe has always been the heart of our family. Strong, kind, and fiercely protective of those she loves."As we continued our meal, the atmosphere was light and filled with lau