Kael
As I followed Frederick to meet my father, I thought about calling Seraphina. I wanted to tell her about my current situation-I was worried this trip would take a long time, and I might not even return tonight. She was already at my apartment, and I hadn’t had the chance to speak with her yet.
But before I could make the call, my father appeared before me.
He had come here, too.
He stood in front of the teleportation array, his face stern as his eyes studied me.
“Is this how badly that werewolf hurt you?” he asked.
I nodded.
He placed a heavy hand on my shoulder, the weight of it unmistakable.
“Let’s go. We’ll talk back at home,” he said.
I had no choice but to follow him back to the estate nestled deep in the forest. I only came here once a month, at most, because I disliked this place.
Despite its grandeur, luxury, and imposing atmosphere, I found it cold and unwelcoming. I preferred the modest comfort of my small, single-bedroom apartment in the city. Here, everything felt stifling.
When I stepped into the grand hall, the polished marble floor gleamed like a mirror, reflecting the light from the massive crystal chandelier hanging above. Every crystal facet sparkled, scattering light like fallen stars.
The walls were adorned with intricate golden reliefs depicting ancient myths and historical scenes. The craftsmanship was impeccable, each detail a testament to the artisan’s skill.
In the center of the hall, my father’s most loyal subordinates were already gathered.
They were discussing matters about the nearby town, including Tempest Fang’s Alpha. We exchanged a brief greeting, and my father joined their conversation.
I, on the other hand, had no interest. All I wanted was to leave as soon as possible. Seraphina was waiting for me back at the apartment.
“Kael, go change out of that shirt,” my father suddenly said, his commanding gaze fixed on me.
I nodded and turned to leave.
My room in the estate was twice the size of my apartment, but I hated staying there. It was filled with bad memories. Every time I came back, I felt an overwhelming tension, unable to relax.
I stripped off my shirt, took a shower, and changed into clean clothes. I considered calling Seraphina again but decided against it.
Our relationship had only just started to mend. What if this situation upset her and pushed her away again? I couldn’t bear the thought. I would rather get back to her as soon as possible. After all, teleportation made travel quick.
Dressed in fresh clothes, I returned to the hall.
My father and his subordinates were still deep in discussion about recent events in Storm Town.
“Why are so many rogue wolves gathering there? And those other creatures-now even witches are getting involved,” my father, Alaric, said.
“We’re not sure yet,” one of his men replied. “But there’s talk of a sweet scent hanging over the town. It might be attracting them.”
“A sweet scent?” My father frowned. “Could it be because their mates are in that town?”
Then he turned to me. “Kael, it seems they’re getting closer to your school. Is there something there that could be drawing their attention?”
I immediately thought of Seraphina. I might need to give her something to mask her scent.
“I don’t know,” I said, denying it.
I knew Seraphina wanted a peaceful life, and I would do everything in my power to protect it. If my father discovered her unique qualities, he would undoubtedly capture her.
“Then keep investigating,” Alaric ordered.
I yawned and said casually, “If there’s nothing else, I’ll be leaving now.”
“Stop,” Alaric called out sharply.
I froze and turned to face him. “What is it, Father?”
“You’re just going to leave? You rarely come home, and we haven’t even had a proper conversation about your situation.”
“What situation?” I asked, my expression cooling. A sense of foreboding crept over me.
“How are things between you and Lila?” he asked, though his gaze shifted to Richard.
This same question again. I let out a cold laugh. “Didn’t you say you wouldn’t interfere until I graduated?”
“But if the situation becomes dire, I hope you’ll think about your marriage to Lila-for the good of the pack.”
Richard nodded in agreement. “I believe an alliance would make us stronger.”
So that’s why he was here today-to pressure me into considering this marriage. I understood immediately.
“Since when has Crimson Luna been so fragile?” I sneered. “Father, you’re strong enough. Surely you don’t need your son to sell his body to protect the pack?”
“Kael, watch your mouth!” Alaric slammed the table, his expression cold and commanding.
The room fell silent. No one dared to speak.
When my father was serious, his presence was suffocating. The invisible weight of his authority pressed down on everyone, making even breathing feel like a challenge.
I glared at him, my frustration boiling over. “You’ve always been like this, controlling every aspect of my life, planning my entire future. Why should I live according to your rules? I’ve had enough!”
I was tired of being a pawn in his plans.
Since the day my mother died when I was five, my life had been devoid of joy. It was nothing but relentless training, learning, and discipline.
Every step I took was dictated by my father.
Even marriage-I was never given a choice.
Maybe I would have obeyed in the past. But after meeting Seraphina, I knew I couldn’t be with anyone else.
Alaric’s lips curled into a humorless smile. “Good, Kael. You’re growing bold enough to defy me. That’s what I like to see in my heir. But tell me, is this rebellion because of that girl?”
I stiffened. Had he already guessed?
“No,” I denied instinctively.
“It is,” Alaric growled.
A powerful force slammed me to the ground. I struggled but couldn’t move, pinned by the weight of his magic.
“Stay here tonight and reflect on your actions, Kael. I am your father. Everything I do is for your own good. Why can’t you understand that?” Alaric stepped closer, his deep brown eyes, so much like mine, filled with sorrow.
“For my own good? You’re just afraid I’ll die young like my mother, and you won’t have an heir to take your place,” I snapped.
The moment the words left my mouth, another wave of pressure struck me. Pain tore through my chest, and I coughed up blood.
“You don’t know anything,” Alaric hissed, his anger tinged with grief.
For the first time, I saw sadness in his eyes.
Was it because I mentioned my mother? They had loved each other deeply, but that was fifteen years ago…
Bound by his spell, I lay on the cold floor, unable to move until dawn.
I was desperate to get back to Seraphina, but there was nothing I could do. I could only hope she wouldn’t be angry with me.
I regretted everything. I shouldn’t have fought with my father.
When the spell lifted at eight the next morning, I immediately returned to my apartment.
But Seraphina was gone.
I caught her scent at the school and rushed there, my heart pounding.
I found her in the infirmary.
And standing beside her was Magnus.