Lilith’s POV
As I sat in front of the mirror with steam still on my skin after a long and relaxing bath, I admired how my dark hair fell over my shoulders. The wet strands emphasized the nice curve of my neck like a small relief in the chaos in my mind.
Cara moved around me skillfully putting on my makeup with her hands expertly highlighting my beautiful features.
I moved in a little closer while taking a good look at the way my own emotions were playing out in my eyes like a flickering light. My mind began to wander back to the time I spent healing Bartholomew’s wound.
In that space, I was not just battling the infection that was taking over his wound, but I was also wrestling with a deep and dark feeling that seemed determined to consume me entirely. I could still feel the surge of power that flowed through me then, and I recalled how I was tempted by whispers that brushed against my mind trying to lure me in with the promise of gaining great strength.
However, I knew that this strength came with dangerous risks that were hidden just out of sight. It was during this troubling moment that I felt the ominous presence of Augustus, the rogue king. His presence served as a reminder of the threats that were hiding just beyond the safety of the palace.
When I felt the vagueness wrap around me, I gave in to it and everything around me vanished. When I finally opened my eyes again, I found that Adams was right there beside me.
“Your Highness, you look beautiful,” Cara said while pulling me from my daydream.
I put on a smile to hide my feelings. “It’s just the makeup, Cara. How long have I been asleep?”
“Three days, Your Highness,” she said softly, making me blush. “The Alpha King came back the next morning, and he hasn’t been away from you since. It’s fascinating how much he cares for you.”
The idea of Adams made my heart race. “He’s my mate, and I’d help him too,” I said gently while feeling a nice warmth inside.
“Oh, it’s not often you see such loyalty,” Cara said, tilting her head as she looked at her work. “The connection you two have is amazing.”
I felt my face flush with a smile appearing despite myself. “I guess I really did end up with the right guy.” Thoughts of loving looks and the comfort he brought filled my head.
“Yes,” Cara agreed, then she took a step back. “But it’s time to go out into the world again, Your Highness.”
Taking a deep breath, I stood up and fixed my dress while running my fingers over the fabric as I prepared for the talks ahead. Each step down the stairs echoed with hopes for a new day and a fresh goal-not just as a queen but as a fighter in my own way.
At the bottom of the stairs was Adams, looking sharp in royal clothes, with his dark hair nicely done. When I saw him, his smile filled the room with warmth.
“Lilith, my dearest,” he said with his voice full of praise, “You look really beautiful.”
My heart raced as I found the words to say. “Thanks, Adams. You look good too.”
His eyes were full of focus as he moved nearer with his hand lightly touching my cheek and resting on my waist. “But something feels off,” he said quietly, with concern on his face.
“What do you mean?” I asked, tilting my head in confusion.
Without saying anything else, he took out a shiny diamond necklace from his pocket with the jewels shining like stars. “I’ve kept this for you,” he said, with his voice becoming softer.
“Adams…” I said quietly, watching him gently put it around my neck, with the cool metal touching my skin. When he fastened it, I turned to look at him with my eyes wide with wonder. “It’s so pretty.”
“Only the best for my queen,” he said with his voice full of genuine feeling. “You deserve everything.”
I touched the necklace while sensing his love in its beauty. “Thank you,” I said, feeling joyful. “I really love it.”
“Come, breakfast is ready,” he said, and put his arm around my waist, then led me to the table.
As we got closer, a friendly warmth surrounded us, but our calm didn’t last long. The big doors opened and in walked Bartholomew and Raoul, both showing joy and friendship.
“Good morning, Your Highnesses!” Bartholomew said loudly and cheerfully. “I hope you got plenty of rest, Lilith.”
“Good morning, Bartholomew,” I said with a smile. “I’m feeling a lot better, thanks.”
He stepped closer and knelt before me on a knee. “I really can’t thank you enough for your assistance,” he said seriously. His eyes showed real respect and I felt proud standing there understanding the importance of my new role and the strength I had inside me.
I saw Adams looking at me, and he gave a slight nod while smiling. “I just did what I had to do,” I said quietly, while stretching my hand toward Bartholomew.
“You fought the darkness and saved me. You’re a hero,” he said.
Bartholomew stood straight with a sense of pride brightening his face. “My injuries were cursed by dark magic. It was that dirty sorcery from Augustus,” he said, with his tone becoming serious. But then-
Raoul interrupted, “Let’s talk about that after breakfast, okay?”
A quick look shared between Bartholomew, Adams and me showed surprise. Adams paused before saying, “I agree. We should gather our thoughts and energy before facing such serious news.”
Bartholomew paused, but then nodded before taking his seat beside Raoul, who gave me a shy smile. I felt happy seeing the brothers reconnect-it seemed like a new beginning, with Adams in charge, after all the past tensions.
The maids came in with trays of delicious breakfast, but Adams raised a hand to stop them. “Hold on a second,” he said with his voice strong and commanding. “Today we will have breakfast with two special guests.”
I sat up clearly curious. “Guests?” I repeated while looking at Adams. “Who?”
Before he could reply, a guard came into the room and whispered to him. Suddenly, Adams’ face lit up with excitement. “Yes, bring them in,” he said.
I frowned in confusion and mixed with excitement. Who could be so special?
A short time later, the guard came back and with him were Dale and Ronan. I felt a wave of surprise and confusion alike. “Dale! Ronan!” I said. “What’s going on…?”