AriLife in Skagi continued, and it was my sanctuary, away from those who might have wished me harm. Here, I felt safe, surrounded by people who cherished me. Skagi was my haven, but it also filled me with sadness, for it kept me apart from my own people."I'm sorry, everyone. It was the only way I could protect you," I whispered to myself, a heavy weight on my heart. Despite my longing to see my people, I had heeded Ulric and Lady Aleria's counsel. Avoiding the capital for the time being was the wisest choice, they said. It was to shield my people from the potential cruelty of Maddie and Seraphina, who wouldn't have hesitated to harm them to spite me. As my status had suddenly risen, I had become untouchable, but it only made them more vindictive towards those I cared about. It was a bitter truth, one I wished I hadn't had to accept."I just wished there was a way to reassure them why I had been absent," I murmured, hoping for a solution to bridge the distance between us.As long as

MaddieOnce prepared, I headed to the ceremony hall, where familiar faces of importance awaited. My attention was drawn to Lady Aleria's family, causing a twinge of discomfort in my stomach.Taking my place beside Kristoff at the front, I felt the weight of all eyes on us. However, I refused to be intimidated. With so many eyes watching my every move, I knew better than to do anything foolish that might compromise my situation again."Unfortunately, the esteemed Ironwolf cannot be with us today," announced the speaker. His words were met with murmurs of disappointment from the crowd. "Nevertheless, the ceremony will proceed, led by the heir to the throne, Jarl Kristoff, and his wife, Lady Maddie."Applause filled the hall, yet Kristoff's demeanor remained distant, a constant reminder of our loveless union. But I had grown accustomed to the ache, resigning myself to my fate.The ceremony dragged on, each moment feeling endless. I could hardly bear it any longer, my mind yearning for es

AriI was working late, buried in an important report, seeking solace downstairs. Nestled in a chair by the main door, I delved into the text, trying to focus despite the late hour. Suddenly, the door swung open, revealing Ulric's distraught face."Oh, it’s late. Where have you been, Ulric?" I inquired, my concern evident.Ulric barely acknowledged me, his gaze distant as he passed by. Confusion clouded my thoughts as I watched him go, pondering his unusual behavior. Concern gnawed at me, wondering what could be troubling him.Returning to my desk, I found myself unable to shake off the distraction. My mind wandered as I attempted to work. What's wrong with him? I asked myself. The next day arrived, bringing with it another critical meeting at Skagi. Among the attendees, I sat, my attention occasionally drifting towards Ulric, who seemed lost in his own thoughts. Lady Aleria led the discussion, her authoritative presence commanding the room.“Glad each one has some great ideas to sh

MaddieAs I made my way to where we were supposed to meet, my feelings were all mixed up. I was excited to see Jaxon again but my spirit wolf was pushing me with urgency. Time was running out, and Jaxon needed help. However, at that moment, all I wanted was to feel his comforting embrace and ease the turmoil in my mind.Finally arriving at the end of the trail, I saw Jaxon standing by the riverside. His face lit up with joy as he spotted me. Seeing his happiness mirrored my own, and my heart swelled with joy.“MADDIE!!!”Jaxon’s voice rang out as he dashed towards me, enveloping me in a tight hug.“Hello, my love,” I murmured, feeling my worries melt away in the warmth of his embrace.With a smile, Jaxon cupped my face in his hands and whispered, “I got something for you.”Curious, I followed his gaze as he led me to the riverside, where he picked up a bouquet tied together with dried grass.“In my culture, each flower holds a meaning,” he explained, pointing to the vibrant yellow blo

AriAs Ulric and I prepared to leave Skagi for the capital, urgency gripped us. We both wanted to meet Maddie as soon as possible. Time was of the essence for our mission to save Jaxon.“Let’s go, Ari. There’s no time to waste. I’ll handle the sudden meeting with the Jarl’s wife. I’m Kristoff’s brother, so meeting Maddie will not be suspicious and can be seen as normal,” Ulric urged.I agreed, and we rushed out of the door. But to our surprise, Jaxon was about to enter.“Oh guys, how have you been?” Jaxon asked, eyeing our belongings with curiosity. “Are you going somewhere, Ulric? Why didn't you inform me?”Ulric was caught off guard by Jaxon’s sudden visit. “There’s no place to go aside from the capital.”“Really? What’s the reason behind the visit?” Jaxon inquired.Ulric didn’t know what to say, and heaved a sigh, smiling awkwardly. Luckily, I was quick to think.“To the omega quarters of the Alpha mansion, Delta Jaxon,” I interjected.I never uttered a word about my people from th