Elaine’s POV I watched the doctors bustling around, finishing their tasks with clinical efficiency. My eyes tracked their every movement, trying to find some semblance of understanding in the chaos that had become my life. Machines beeped steadily, the rhythmic sound a constant reminder of the fragile line between life and death. The antiseptic smell of the infirmary clung to my senses, making it hard to breathe without feeling overwhelmed.As I lay there, my mind drifted between reality and the surreal experience with the Moon Goddess. The memory of her words echoed in my mind, adding to the confusion and disbelief that swirled within me. I was lost in these thoughts when the door creaked open, and I turned my head slowly to see who had entered.Killian walked in, looking more haggard than I had ever seen him. His hair was disheveled, falling in tousled waves around his face. Dark circles shadowed his eyes, heavy with exhaustion and something else I couldn’t quite place—perhaps w

Killian’s POV I woke up to find myself in my own room, the soft morning light filtering through the curtains. Confusion settled in as I tried to piece together how I ended up here instead of beside Elaine’s bed. The memory of falling asleep next to her, comforted by her presence, was still fresh in my mind. Her voice like nothing I have ever heard in all the years of my life. I glanced around the room, my eyes landing on Leah, who was calmly sitting at the vanity table. Her composure did nothing to mask the fact that she had seen me with Elaine. Her eyes met mine, and for a moment, a flicker of something unspoken passed between us. I know Leah long enough to understand what she is hiding. "Good morning," Leah said, her voice unnervingly steady.I rubbed my eyes, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. "Morning," I replied, my voice rough. "How did I get here?"Leah smiled, but it didn’t reach her eyes. "You looked exhausted, Killian. I thought it best for you to rest in your o

Killian’s POV The grand hall was filled with the hum of anticipation as the guests, dressed in their finest, gathered for the coronation. The air was thick with the scent of incense and the sound of distant drums, setting a solemn yet festive atmosphere. The hall was adorned with banners and tapestries, all bearing the sigil of our kingdom. The marble floor shone under the light of countless chandeliers, each crystal reflecting the magnificence of the event.I stood at the end of the aisle, feeling the weight of the moment. My heart pounded in my chest, not just from the gravity of becoming the alpha king, but also from the complexities of the decisions I had made. I walked forward and the room fell into a reverent silence. The elders and ministers stood in their ceremonial robes, their faces a mixture of pride and expectation.Leah stood beside me, resplendent in a regal gown that accentuated her beauty. Her eyes sparkled with triumph and ambition. She was my chosen queen, the on

Elaine’s POV As I moved through the crowd, I could feel the weight of their stares. Most of the guests kept their distance, retreating as far as they could while still maintaining the illusion of mingling. Their whispered conversations and furtive glances followed me, but I held my head high, my expression composed and unbothered.Some of them tried to glare at me, their eyes filled with judgment and disdain. It was almost laughable. They had no idea how powerful I truly was now. I felt a surge of strength coursing through me, a power that none of them could comprehend or challenge.Occasionally, a brave soul would approach, offering polite, if strained, greetings. I responded with a courteous nod, my demeanor regal and unwavering. I was no longer the scared and desperate girl they thought they knew. I had been reborn, and my newfound strength radiated from every pore.In one corner, I saw a group of elders huddled together, their eyes occasionally darting in my direction. They w

Killian’s POVI couldn't tear my eyes away from Elaine and Orlo as they moved gracefully across the dance floor. Anger simmered beneath my skin, each step they took together feeling like a deliberate provocation. Orlo had always enjoyed testing my limits, but this was different. This was personal.Elaine, in her elegant black dress, exuded a confidence that seemed to taunt me. Her every movement was poised and assured, a stark contrast to the Elaine I remembered. Now, she stood tall and unbothered, commanding attention and respect, while I stood on the sidelines, seething.Orlo caught my eye, his expression annoyingly amused. He knew exactly what he was doing, and the satisfaction in his gaze only fueled my rage. He spun Elaine around, her laughter ringing out softly, and I clenched my fists at my sides."What the hell is he thinking?" I muttered under my breath. My heart pounded in my chest, a mix of jealousy and frustration swirling within me. Orlo's audacity to cozy up to Elaine,