
LYDIA'S POV
Brandon stepped forward. "The Alphas from the other packs approached us with a proposal to abolish the aristocracy altogether."
"What?" I exclaimed, taken aback. "Why would they want to do that?"
"They believe it's the only way to ensure real change," Evan explained. "They don't trust the nobles, and frankly, neither do we."
My heart sank. "So, you're saying you don't trust my decision?"
"It's not about trust, Lydia," Brandon said, trying to calm me. "It's about what's best for the kingdom."
I felt a wave of anger rising. "You think I don't know what's best for the kingdom? After everything we've been through?"
"We're not saying that," Evan said, his tone measured. "But we need to consider all options."
"All options? Or just the ones you prefer?" I snapped, my frustration boiling over. "I made a choice to give them another chance. Are you questioning my ability to lead?"
Brandon and Evan exchanged a glance, unsure of how to respond. Their silence felt like a betrayal.
"I see," I said coldly. "You think I'm weak because I chose mercy over vengeance. You doubt my abilities."
"Lydia, that's not it," Brandon began, but I cut him off.
"No, it is," I insisted, my voice trembling with emotion. "You don't think I'm strong enough to make the right decisions. You're just like everyone else, doubting me at every turn."
"Lydia, please," Evan tried to intervene. "We're on your side. We just want to find the best solution."
"The best solution?" I laughed bitterly. "Or the one that suits your vendetta?"
Brandon's jaw tightened. "This isn't about vendettas. It's about stability."
"Stability?" I echoed. "You mean stripping away everything we've fought for? Abolishing the aristocracy won't solve our problems; it will create new ones."
"Lydia, listen to us," Evan pleaded. "We're trying to help."
"I don't need your help," I retorted. "I need your support. But clearly, that's too much to ask."
Brandon and Evan looked at each other, their expressions pained. "We do support you, Lydia," Brandon said quietly. "But we also need to think about the long-term consequences."
"Long-term consequences?" I repeated, feeling the weight of their words. "You mean you don't trust me to lead this kingdom into the future."
"That's not true," Evan insisted. "We trust you. We just want to make sure we're doing the right thing."
I shook my head, feeling a mix of hurt and anger. "If you trusted me, you wouldn't be questioning my every decision."
Brandon stepped closer, his eyes filled with concern. "Lydia, we're not your enemies. We're your allies. But we need to work together."
"Together?" I scoffed. "It doesn't feel like we're together."
Evan sighed. "We're trying, Lydia. But this is complicated."
"Complicated?" I repeated. "Or just an excuse to undermine me?"
"Lydia, please," Brandon said softly. "We're not against you. We just need to find a way to move forward."
I looked at them, feeling the weight of their words and the pain of their perceived betrayal. "Fine," I said finally. "We'll discuss this further. But remember, I am the queen, and my decisions stand."
With that, I turned and walked away, my heart heavy with the knowledge that even those closest to me could doubt my abilities.
Today was a new day. I felt accomplished and complete after months of hard work and sacrifices. I was finally here. The excitement in the mansion was palpable, with preparations for my upcoming coronation ceremony in full swing. The nobles, as promised, were also participating in the ceremony's preparations. Though I wasn't letting them off the hook completely, I would keep my eyes on them for a while, at least until I trusted them fully.
As I walked through the bustling hallways, servants and advisors hurried past, ensuring every detail was perfect for the grand event. I smiled at their dedication, feeling a sense of pride in the unity that was forming within the kingdom. The air was filled with anticipation and hope, a stark contrast to the chaos and uncertainty of the past.
Despite the joy surrounding me, I felt a pang of longing for my father. I wondered how he would feel if he were here, witnessing this pivotal moment. Would he be proud of the choices I made, the strength I displayed? The questions weighed heavily on my heart.
Deciding to seek solace, I made my way to the secluded area of the gardens where my father's grave was located. The path was lined with blooming flowers, a testament to the life and love he had nurtured in the kingdom. As I approached his grave, the noise of the mansion faded away, leaving me alone with my thoughts and memories.
Kneeling beside the gravestone, I traced my fingers over the engraved words, feeling a connection to the man who had shaped so much of who I was.
"Hello, Father," I whispered, my voice trembling slightly. "I hope you can hear me."
The gentle rustling of leaves was the only response, but I felt a sense of peace, as if he were there, listening.
"I did it, Father," I continued. "I stood up to Oleg and the nobles. I protected our kingdom, just like you always taught me. But it wasn't easy. There were times when I doubted myself, when I thought I wasn't strong enough."
I paused, taking a deep breath to steady my emotions. "But I remembered your lessons, your wisdom. You always believed in justice and truth. You taught me to lead with compassion and strength, and I tried to embody those values. I hope I made you proud."
Tears welled up in my eyes as I spoke, the emotions of the past months flooding over me. "I miss you so much, Father. There were so many moments when I wished you were here, to guide me, to give me strength. Losing you was the hardest thing I've ever faced, but it also made me realize how much you prepared me for this role."


