We arrived at the Eirindral pack house in sleek, rented SUVs. As I stepped out of the car, my eyes immediately found her. She was standing confidently among her team, introducing herself to my men. Her scent hit me like a wave, but I held my composure.

‘Why are they with her before me?’ I thought irritably. ‘They’ll pay for that later.’

She caught my attention instantly—poised, stunning, undeniably captivating. For a moment, I felt an attraction stir, but I pushed it aside, focusing on why I was here. When she approached, her extended hand met mine, and the spark of connection was immediate. My Lycan, Drexius, stirred within me, restless. 

Erastai.

Her reaction, however, was surprising—calm, detached, as though she felt nothing. I caught her subtle glance, her eyes skimming over me, and I nearly smirked.

‘She is ours,’ Drexius growled.

‘Let me handle this,’ I replied firmly to him.

Rox Kenway, a nice name. She gave us a tour of the pack house. I was impressed—not my kingdom's level of grandeur, but respectable. When we were alone in my assigned room, I managed to get her number under the guise of professionalism, though I wanted much more.

Her intoxicating scent was impossible to ignore, and my thoughts strayed toward her throughout the day, as well as evening.

At dinner, I mingled with the Alpha and other leaders, enjoying excellent food and conversation. But Drexius’s insistence on her nearness had me excusing myself early. My royal beta, John, covered for me as I slipped out of the dining area and searched for her.

I found her preparing to leave, her guarded yet curious expression softening when I called her name.

"Ms. Kenway," I said warmly, approaching her.

"Your Majesty," she replied looking up at me, startled but respectful. "Is there.. something you need?"

"Please, call me Cassian when it’s just us," I said, my gaze steady.

She hesitated but nodded. "Okay... C..Cassian. You can call me Rox."

"Are you walking home alone?" I asked, concern in my voice since I saw no car outside.

She smiled faintly. "It’s only ten minutes. I could use the exercise."

I shook my head. "Allow me to walk you. It’s not safe at night, especially for a beauty like you."

She chuckled softly, her cheeks clearly blushing. "I’m probably scarier than anything out there. But... thank you."

Despite her initial reluctance, she relented, and we set off together. I couldn’t ignore how natural it felt to walk beside her, to talk to her.

"The moon looks brighter out here, doesn't it? It's one of my favorite things about living so close to nature." She pointed at the full moon.

"It’s breathtaking. I didn’t think anything could compete with the sights back home, but I might have to reconsider." I responded, agreeing with her.

She chuckled, "I doubt we’re as grand as your home."

"True, but sometimes simplicity holds more charm." I responded, looking at her.

“So, three years in this pack—what made you stay?" I asked, curious.

“I see the alpha filled you in on all of us.” Sarcasm dripping from her but then she responded thoughtfully. "The people. They’re welcoming, and the Alpha is a good leader. It feels... steady, you know?"

"Steady sounds nice, but I get the feeling you’re capable of handling chaos too." I looked at her smiling.

She had a smirk on her face. "I’ve had my share of it. Steady is underrated."

"I’ll take your word for it—for now." I chuckled.

"So, what do you think of the pack house?" she asked with genuine curiosity.

"Efficient, welcoming, and the food is impressive. You had a hand in that, didn’t you?" I responded, knowing she did.

She shrugged, "I just oversee things. The pack runs like a machine, thanks to a great team."

I momentarily stopped, looking at her and smiling, "Don’t sell yourself short. Leadership shows in the details."

 "Thank you." She responded, blushing faintly.

“You seem too relaxed for someone managing an entire pack house. What’s your secret?" I asked.

She starts laughing, "Can of coke and a very selective tolerance for nonsense. But seriousTechnically, I just do event planning, so in a sense I make sure visits and events run smoothly."

"Selective, huh? Should I be worried about which category I fall into?" Still surprised she hasn’t found me irritating.

She looks at me grinning "Let’s just say, the jury’s still out."

"Do you always walk home alone at night?"

She shrugs her shoulders, "It’s quiet, peaceful. Plus, I can handle myself."

I raise an eyebrow at her response, "I don’t doubt that, but even the strongest need backup sometimes."

"Well, you’re welcome to join me on walks anytime, Your Majesty." Giving me a thumbs up.

I smirked at her response, "Careful, Rox. I might take you up on that."

"But seriously, you’re not worried about walking this late? No lurking dangers out here?" I asked, a bit concerned.

She truly was a beauty, her full lips, long dark hair, even her eyes were captivating, and let’s not get started on her body.

"The only thing I worry about is running into a cocky royal who thinks he knows everything." She responded playfully.

With a grin on my face, I replied, "Ah, then I’m your worst nightmare."

She pretends to think, "More like a mild inconvenience." Making us both laugh loudly.

When we reached her house, my admiration grew. It perched atop a small peak with a breathtaking view of the moonlit forest.

"This is incredible," I said, genuinely awed.

She smiled. "It’s my favorite part of the day, coming home to this."

To my surprise, she invited me in for a quick tour. I agreed, my curiosity outweighing my exhaustion. Her home was cozy yet elegant, a perfect reflection of her. When we reached the back porch, the view of the waterfall under the moonlight left me speechless.

"It’s my oasis," she admitted, her voice tinged with pride.

Drexius growled his approval. Mark her.

Snapping out of it, I replied, "It’s one of the most beautiful views I’ve seen—and I’ve seen many. I might have to visit often, just to enjoy it."

Rox chuckled, brushing off my flirtation. "You should rest, Cassian. You’ve had a long day."

I stepped closer, my tone soft but deliberate. "Before I go, when can I see you again?"

She smiled, playful yet guarded. "Let’s see what tomorrow brings."

As she led me to the door, I admired her resilience and independence. Most women threw themselves at me—Rox didn’t care either way. I liked that.

"Goodnight, Rox," I said, my smile lingering.

"Goodnight, Cassian," she replied, closing the door.

I stood there for a moment, sensing her on the other side. She exhaled deeply, and I smiled to myself. I hated that she lived here alone, secluded in the woods. I’d have my men keep watch. She didn’t know it yet, but she was mine