Bathed in golden sunlight, standing waist-deep in the clear river, was the most breathtaking omega he had ever seen. His wet, black hair clung to his pale skin, long strands trailing over his exposed chest and shoulders. Droplets of water slid down his collarbone, tracing slow, sinful paths over his lean, toned body before disappearing beneath the soaked fabric that clung to his hips. His crimson eyes were half-lidded, his lips slightly parted as he exhaled, unaware of the way he looked—like something meant to be worshiped.

The king’s throat went dry. His body reacted instantly, heat pooling in his gut, blood rushing south. His cock twitched beneath his robes, straining, aching, as he took in every movement. The way the omega dragged his hands over his arms, rubbing away the cool water, the way he reached down, lifting his soaked garment just enough to squeeze out the excess water—revealing a glimpse of smooth, toned thighs. Fuck.

His breathing grew heavier, his fingers curling against the rough bark of the tree he hid behind. He wanted to step forward, to pin that delicate body against a tree, to push aside those wet clothes and see just how soft that pale skin felt beneath his touch. He wanted to hear those lips part for something other than a sigh—to hear his name, gasped, moaned, as he claimed him, made him his.

The omega’s fingers ghosted over his stomach, unintentionally teasing himself, and the king let out a shaky breath. His cock throbbed at the sight, the urge to touch, to take, nearly unbearable. His mind was flooded with images—those long legs wrapped around him, nails digging into his back, that breathless face beneath him, filled with pleasure only he could give.

He was so lost in the haze of desire that he didn’t notice the rustling of leaves until it was too late.

The omega stilled. Then, in an instant, he bolted—vanishing into the trees like a phantom.

The king swore under his breath, his entire body strung tight with frustration. The ache between his legs was unbearable, his need for release clawing at him. But this wasn’t over.

He would have him.

No matter what it took.