He had searched.

He had sent his soldiers under the guise of patrols, hoping they might catch even a whisper of the boy's presence. Yet the forest remained silent, mocking his efforts.

Vanished.

Just like last time.

His fingers curled into a tight fist, nails biting into his palm. Who are you?

For the first time in his life, desire consumed him beyond reason. He was no stranger to lust—his body had needs, and he had always satisfied them without effort. But this… this was different.

This was torment.

The image of him was burned into his mind, impossible to shake. The way moonlight caressed that smooth, golden skin. The way his long, wet strands of black hair clung to his back, trailing over delicate shoulders. The way his crimson eyes burned, unguarded yet defiant, as if daring the world to touch him.

A rare beauty. A forbidden sight.

And he had fled.

The king's jaw tensed, frustration seeping into his veins like fire. No one had ever run from him. No one had ever denied him anything.

Yet this boy had.

And that only made him want him more.

His breath came slow and heavy as he leaned forward, dipping his fingers into the cool water, watching the ripples distort the reflection of the sky.

Would he come back? Would fate be cruel enough to tempt him once more?

Or would he disappear forever, slipping through the king's fingers like a dream lost to the dawn?

No.

The king's eyes darkened with resolve.

I will find you.

And this time, I will not let you escape.