The night air was crisp and cool. As we headed to the parking lot, where a fleet of luxurious cars awaited us. Jayden and I slipped into the same car, while Amelia rode with her parents. My parents, content in the knowledge that I was with Jayden, didn't seem to mind the arrangements.

The palace grounds were aglow with twinkling lights, casting a magical spell over the entire scene. As we drove to the venue, the buildings along the way were a pleasant sight, their facades illuminated by sparkling light bulbs.

As we arrived at the venue, the grandeur of the venue’s architecture took my breath away. The bright lights and bustling energy of the crowd created an electric atmosphere. We stepped out of the car, and our driver expertly navigated the vehicle to the designated parking area.

Jayden and I walked down the red carpet, his parents in front of us with regal poise. The air was filled with the hum of conversation, the clicking of cameras, and the rustling of designer gowns.

The scent of expensive perfumes wafted through the air, adding to the sense of luxury. As we walked down the red carpet, the bright lights and spotlights illuminated our face. The paparazzi were relentless, snapping photos of us together as the latest chosen mate of the werewolf Kingdom.

As we entered the grand hall, the celebration unfolded before us. The decor was truly luxurious and beautiful, with intricate details and sparkling lights that seemed to dance across the walls. We were greeted by the escort, and familiar faces smiled in our direction, their warm welcomes and polite conversation a blur as I scanned the room for a glimpse of freedom.

Jayden was soon swept away by the king, drawn into a discussion with the friendly kingdoms and empires they collaborated with. Jayden's departure left me feeling a mix of emotions, relief at having a moment to myself.

I and the queen were left to mingle with the guests, I felt a surge of restlessness. I longed to break free from the expectations and protocols, to be myself without the weight of responsibility. I made some excuse to the queen, citing a need for fresh air, and she nodded graciously, unaware of my true intentions.

Amelia and I were left to our own devices, and I was grateful for her company. Amelia's presence was a comfort, and I was grateful to have her by my side as we navigated the complex web of alliances and rivalries.

Amelia and I strolled through the grand hall, the soft glow of the chandeliers casting an ethereal light on the lavish decorations.

The scent of fresh flowers and the hum of conversation filled the air, but Amelia's nose twitched, and she sniffed the air. "Davina, I think I'm smelling the scent around the hall, though it's faint," she said, her voice low and curious. I smiled reassuringly, my eyes scanning the room for any signs. “Don't worry, you'll find who it belongs to”

Just then, I looked up to see Pricilla and her friend Jessica making their way toward us, their faces twisted in malicious grins. I knew Pricilla was coming to stir up trouble, and sure enough, she didn't disappoint.

As they approached, Pricilla's eyes locked onto me, and she sneered, her voice dripping with venom. "Look who's here, Jessica, our lovely soon-to-be Luna," she said, her tone laced with sarcasm. "Is she the one you said seduced your love, Prince Jayden?" Jessica asked, her eyes gleaming with interest.

Pricilla's eyes flicked to Amelia, and she sneered again, her voice oozing with disdain. "Yes, she's the one. Because her grandfather was one of the most powerful elders, and she's Amelia's best friend. I don't know what she sees in her to be her friend," she said.

Amelia's eyes flashed with anger, and her gaze turned icy cold, her presence radiating an aura of power and authority. "Pricilla, you'd better get the fuck out of here before I rip your neck apart," she growled, her voice low and menacing, her eyes glowing with leila presence.

The air seemed to vibrate with tension as Pricilla took a step back, her eyes flashing with fear. But she quickly regained her composure, her face twisting in a snarl.

"You think you're so powerful, Amelia?" she spat. "But you're just a royal blood, nothing more." Amelia's eyes blazed with fury, and she took a step forward, her fists clenched. As she planned to attack I stopped her “leave them” I placed my hand on her back.

Jessica and Pricilla quickly retreated, not wanting to provoke Amelia further. "Calm down, they've left," I said, trying to soothe her frazzled nerves. Amelia took a deep breath, her anger slowly dissipating.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to burst out like that," she said, her voice laced with apology. "But I don't know what's wrong with me; I've been on edge since we arrived at the hall." I nodded understandingly. "It's okay, I understand."

Suddenly, she started sniffing the air, her eyes narrowing. "What's wrong?" I asked, curiosity getting the better of me. "I smell the scent, it's more intense” she whispered, her voice barely audible.

"But it's coming from that door." she said, pointing to the door the royal Lycans will use to enter, her finger trembling slightly. "It's intoxicating." The door burst open, and two men strode in, their presence commanding attention.

One of them was Gemma, his piercing gaze sweeping the room, while the other was a stranger, his eyes locking onto Amelia with an intensity that made my heart skip a beat. As the unfamiliar man locked eyes with Amelia, she let out a soft whisper beside me.

"Mate." I turned to see her eyes glowing golden, fixed intently on the stranger. My mind reeled as I realized that this must be her mate. The stranger's eyes never left hers, and I could sense the connection between them, like a thread of fate weaving their lives together.