SERENITY

“Mate! Our mate is here!” Maia, my tiny wolf, let out a loud cry once more out of surprise and doubt as I quickly got up, trying to figure out if it was actually happening or some sort of deception.

After the guards whispered something in Vivien's ear, she quickly dropped the whip and disappeared from the room.

The news appeared to be extremely alarming, as it was the only explanation for Vivien's intense panic, to the point where she even forgot she was about to harm me.

Although I was confused about its nature, I couldn't resist expressing gratitude to the guard who had recently rescued me from a painful ordeal.

“Did you not hear Vivien talk about the Lycan a moment ago?” The frightened voice of Maia resonated, causing my jaw to fall open as I suddenly realized the cause of her fear.

‘If a Lycan had come to our pack then that means… we will face a terrible disaster. It means a doom to our pack.’

Lycans are wicked and possess greater strength. They are highly skilled in all areas where we cannot compete with them. Even a group of ten werewolves would not be able to defeat a single ordinary Lycan in combat.

I quickly exited the room, wrapping my partially exposed body with my arms as I hurriedly headed towards my room along the corridors, running without caution as my face turned red with embarrassment and frustration.

The guards standing outside were staring at me intensely, and it made me feel uncomfortable as I ran faster, pushing my legs to their limits.

Irrespective of the events that occurred in my life, it remained unchanged that I was the daughter of the Alpha. I still had royal blood flowing through my veins.

The majestic packhouse was constructed as a three-level structure, featuring extensive corridors on each floor that interconnect rooms through staircases.

Although the palace was situated on the second level, my room was located on the ground floor.

I was brought to a restroom by the guards on the top floor of the palace's three-story building. To get to my own restroom, I had to go down to the first floor, which meant I would have to walk through the palace hallway.

As soon as I reached the hallway on the second floor, it was completely silent, as if there was nobody around.

It seemed as if everyone had departed or had been cautioned to remain silent. As usual, there were no security personnel present in the vicinity, which was both unusual and perplexing.

I walked softly and carefully to prevent violating any potential rules of silence, if they existed.

As I approached the palace door, the final room before the descending stairs, I once again caught a whiff of someone's soothing and incredibly fragrant aroma, the scent of my mate.

However, this time it was more intense and overpowering than before.

A delightful scent entered my nose, enveloping me completely and captivating my mind. It was so amazing that I couldn't move for a short time, experiencing a captivating feeling on my entire body.

“Serenity, listen. Our mate, he is within the palace. The person we had been anticipating to save us from the dreadful pit. Finding our soulmate will bring an end to our pain as he will cherish us and rescue us from this place! We are still incredibly fortunate!”

I felt a surge of joy as my wolf playfully jumped and chirped within me. I couldn't help but smile as I became captivated by the enticing scent of my mate.

With a rush of excitement, I hurried to my room and grabbed a dress from the clothing rack. I didn't even have time to notice its color or quality as I quickly made my way back, eagerly heading towards the palace.

I had completely overlooked the eerie quietness and Vivien's anxiety about the existence of a Lycan in the pack.

I couldn't think clearly because of everything going on, and my mind was solely focused on my mate. Encountering him and embracing him tightly as we immerse ourselves in the intense emotions of our deep connection.

My father once told me that I would never find a mate due to a supposed curse, but he was clearly mistaken.

Today, he would realize that I was similar to every other wolf. At the age of eighteen, a female wolf discovered her soulmate and they would live in eternal happiness together, destined by the moon goddess.

I regained my composure when I pushed open the door to the palace. At that very instant, as I stood before the entire crowd, I suddenly realized the perilous situation I had placed myself in.

It's not only risky, but also a self-destructive decision. I finally realized the reason behind everyone's silence. It became clear to me why Vivien was shaking like a frightened little kid who had just encountered a terrifying creature.

Perhaps it would have been better if I had immediately gone to my room and concealed myself. I regret coming here, it would have prevented this situation.

However, the most terrifying aspect was still on the horizon.

“Is he... the one? Our… destined mate?” I was terrified as my wolf stuttered, and I desperately wished the ground would open up and swallow me.

It was especially horrifying when he lifted his head and locked eyes with me, his glowing red eyes resembling those of a creature.

I was overcome with fear and anxiety when I saw his monstrous appearance. He was a combination of a man and a wolf, and his size was incredibly intimidating.

However, despite my fear, I couldn't help but be drawn to the captivating scent emanating from his body.

‘He was still… my mate! But how can a Lycan be a werewolf’s mate? What kind of humor was the lunar deity pulling off?’

The terrifying creature occupied my father's seat of power, while everyone else, including my dad, lay flat on the ground, bowing in submission and terror.

Our gazes met, and I noticed him narrowing his eyes in confusion, examining me carefully as if he was searching for something.

I was expected to bend like everyone else because, from the corner of my vision, I could perceive my father signaling for me to lower myself, but I'm unsure why it felt so difficult for me.

This man right there, had turned out to be my mate, and my heart was pounding for whoever he might be.

Despite being a Lycan, I felt no fear or whatsoever. Instead, I desired to rush into his embrace for protection.

He was my source of hope, while my father only cared about the pack and not about me.

Right at that exact moment, he transformed into a human with such speed and enchantment that I couldn't help but be impressed.

However, what truly astonished me was the incredibly attractive and charismatic young man standing before me in his true appearance.

I couldn't help but feel a flutter in my heart when I saw him. A surprised gasp escaped my mouth, and my eyes instantly filled with tears as I found myself staring at him with admiration.

He had an irresistible charm, with his sun-kissed complexion and wavy chestnut locks cascading around his well-defined face.

His captivating gaze, now resembling the color of the sea, added to his allure. He wore a majestic gray robe adorned with orbs and pearls, which made him look like a deity from ancient Greece.

“Who is this filthy swine?” I listened to his voice for the very first time, and I couldn't even detect the anger in it.

All I heard were deep, satisfying sounds that I found enjoyable.

“We are… we are mates!” I let out a joyful scream to him using the mental bond, the mind-link, that I hastily established by tapping into our connection as mates.

A wide smile spread across my face as I walked towards him, filled with happiness at last discovering my partner.

However, my excitement quickly vanished when he growled and stood up from the chair, anger evident in his eyes as he stared at me.

In an instant, he stood up from the throne and swiftly charged towards me.

Smash!

With great force, he delivered a strong punch to my stomach, causing an intense, piercing pain. I was thrown against the wall and then forcefully thrown back onto the floor.

“Ahhh!” I screamed in pain as my eyes stung and tears streamed down my face.

I held onto my stomach and gritted my teeth, feeling the intense agony as if my life was slipping away.

However, it seems that my mate is not finished with me yet.

To my surprise, I witnessed him raise his bulky, coarse boot and forcefully bring it down onto my face. Bang!

Fortunately, I managed to swiftly evade it, causing him to strike the ground instead. I was filled with dread as I watched the tiled floor shatter under the impact of his feet.

A strong sense of fear washed over me like a turbulent ocean, and in that moment, I was incredibly shaken and unable to comprehend what was happening.

All I could do was sit up and gaze in confusion at my attractive mate, who seemed completely unfamiliar to me now.

He glared at me with the ferocity of a famished lion pursuing its elusive prey.

I was the target. Me, who was his mate was the target, and recently, he nearly smashed my face.

‘Did I just have a dream? Was this all part of another nightmare?’

“Refrain yourself from talking! I'd rather not hear the word 'mate' from anyone!” He shouted at me using mind-link, and I started to vigorously nod my head, retreating in fear as he moved closer towards me.

“I-I promise… I… I won't utter those words again. I apologize. I kindly request that you refrain from physically harming me. Please spare my life. I'm sorry for my lack of intelligence. Could you kindly...” As the blow to my stomach intensified, a wave of pulsating pain spread throughout my body, causing me to sob uncontrollably.

I can't fathom what it would be like to receive any more blows from him. There is a possibility that I could perish immediately.

He suddenly stopped walking towards me and gazed at me intently for a brief moment.

“In that case, there's no problem, as long as you avoid bringing it up.” He forced a smile and then turned around, making his way back to the throne.

“Please, everyone, find a seat and sit down. I have a couple of things to mention.” He spoke brusquely, exuding an air of dominance and strength in his vocal delivery.

There was something unique about his energy. His incredible power was evident in every word he uttered, yet my heart was overwhelmed with excruciating agony as I helplessly observed him, while the stench of despair assaulted my senses.

After eagerly anticipating my soulmate as my rescuer for many years, I ultimately discovered a malevolent being as my mate - someone who would harm me if I referred to them as my mate.

A person who referred to me as a filthy swine with disdain in his tone.

He belonged to the group of cruel Lycans, whom my mother had cautioned me against associating with due to their monstrous nature.

‘Moon Goddess, until when will I suffer?’

SERENITY

The sound of my ribs breaking was horrifying, and I felt intense pain spreading throughout my body, rendering me unable to move.

A throbbing pain. I experienced an agonizing ache, caused by both his blow and the intense animosity in his gaze. The scent remained strong, and the more I inhaled it, the more shattered I felt.

The pain was so intense that I wished the earth would open up and engulf me, causing me to disappear from existence.

I felt like my life had come to an end, and the idea of dying seemed very tempting at the moment.

I had a coughing fit and a thick crimson liquid sprayed out of my mouth. I felt my lips quiver and my eyes well up with tears that streamed down my face like never-ending rivers, scorching my skin.

I let out a deep groan as a sharp pain shot through my stomach, a painful reminder that my destined mate had struck me with such force, as if they wished for my demise.

‘But how is this possible? Why would he do that?’

I couldn't believe my eyes as I glanced up at the Lycan, making sure I wasn't imagining things. However, the heartless man didn't even acknowledge my presence. It seemed as if he had completely overlooked my presence.

As soon as I let out a cough, all the people in the palace turned their heads to look at me. However, my cold-hearted mate didn't even bother to acknowledge my presence.

I sat hunched on the ground, feeling defeated and broken. I experienced intense pain in my stomach and chest, making it difficult for me to even scream.

However, I didn't have the bravery to interrupt him with my suffering. I couldn't even express my pain through screams while he was speaking, as I feared he would become furious and harm me.

The chill on his face made me close my mouth instantly. All I could manage was a quiet whimper and groan, as I attempted to endure the pain using my wolf-like ability to heal.

The force of his punch was incredibly strong. Whenever I caught a glimpse of the shattered tiles on the floor, I couldn't help but imagine that it could have been my head if I hadn't managed to avoid it.

Fear would instantly grip my heart, causing it to sink into my stomach. I was nearly killed by my destined mate simply for referring to him as my mate.

‘Why did I have to be so unfortunate to end up with such a creature as a mate?’

Even my wolf, who was thrilled about having a mate, can't stop howling in disappointment and extreme sadness.

“Lycan…” I attempted to communicate with my mate once more using mind-link, but I quickly realized that he had already severed the link, preventing my thoughts from reaching him.

‘Is he filled with such intense dislike for me upon our initial meeting?’

‘Didn't I become his mate to melt his heart and captivate him with an immediate love upon our first meeting?’

He didn't refuse me, but he also didn't agree. After striking me, he simply cautioned me to never bring up the term ‘mate’ in his presence ever again.

‘That's so heartless... That’s so cruel of him…’

“Everyone, let me introduce myself first. I am Maximus, the prince of the Lycans, as I'm sure you are all aware. Right now, I need everyone's full attention. I will only say this once, and I expect complete compliance. Any defiance will not be tolerated.” The Lycan started to discuss with the pack members after his brief of silence since he attacked me.

Had it not been for the coarseness and intimidation in his face and eyes, I might have interpreted the silence as an indication of regret.

His voice resonated with the power of thunder, emitting a captivating and intense energy that left everyone frozen in place.

I let out a startled breath when he revealed himself as the prince of the Lycans.

However, it appeared that I was the sole individual who had just come to the realization that he was not merely a Lycan, but rather the prince, as no one reacted in the same way I did.

I understand now. This really clarified why my dad turned into a puppet in front of the Lycan.

I am aware of his immense courage and lack of fear, however, every werewolf was well aware that no matter how brave one may be, it would be futile to try and escape the fury of the Lycan prince, who holds dominion over the armies of the Lycans.

I finally understand why my mate had such a strong and terrifying presence that could make anyone lose their bravery and feel weak.

His presence had the ability to seep into the walls, causing a collective shiver of fear among us.

A sense of fear overwhelmed me as my inner wolf retreated deep within, quivering with fright. It's hard to believe that my wolf and I become scared of the man who was supposed to accept us as his beloved mate.

‘Why is my life in such disarray?’

I glanced up at his face once more and noticed how he stood confidently, with well-defined muscles visible in every area of his physique, particularly his strong arms and wide chest, despite his loose-fitting long-sleeved robe.

It subtly indicated the immense power and strength possessed by this individual.

He coughed to regain his voice, his expression becoming even more serious, causing everyone to feel more anxious as we anticipated his next words.

He delicately moved his hand across his nose, wiping it softly, and emitted a snort as if he had detected a strong odor.

I sensed that my scent was causing him to rub his nose in annoyance, and it deeply saddened me.

Perhaps he could have a girlfriend who is also a Lycan, and witnessing a werewolf like myself becoming his mate has ignited anger and repulsion within him.

However, during my mother's lifetime, she reassured me that my mate would adore me in ways I couldn't fathom, cherishing me like a queen and valuing me as the most treasured aspect of his being.

Prior to my mother's passing, we would often spend time together on the balcony. I would sit on her lap as she shared stories and knowledge about the special connection called mate bond, particularly for those of us with royal lineage.

The story was so captivating that it made me imagine experiencing a day similar to it.

On the day I reached the age of eighteen, I unexpectedly encountered my incredibly attractive soulmate who shares the same royal lineage as me.

Our hearts, souls, and bodies were inexplicably drawn to each other.

The way she explained everything was incredibly touching, and I eagerly anticipated the arrival of that day.

My mother didn't mention anything about rejecting a mate or feeling hatred towards anyone.

When I asked her if it was a possibility, she assured me that it could never happen to me, because I am special being the princess of the pack.

‘But now? What's happening here?’ My mate nearly caused my demise in a horrifying manner just now.

“Just to let you know, I arrived here because I will temporarily reside in this pack alongside you, vulnerable creatures. I am familiar with the faces of everyone present, thus I feel compelled to deliver a cautionary message to each and every one of you…”

“I don't want anyone to know about my real identity as a Lycan. I arrived here with the intention of leading a regular life, free from any unfortunate incidents or calamities. However, should you choose to defy me, your actions may compel me to engage in such behavior.”

“Tonight, I will be staying in this luxurious lodge, while a different lodge will be constructed within the next day for me and my warrior guards to reside in, anywhere within this area.” The Lycan conversed with regality and authority, and everyone in the room nodded in agreement, saying ‘Yes, sir,’ repeatedly.

“If anyone from outside this pack ever behaves in a way that shows they found out I'm not a werewolf but a Lycan, it means someone has revealed my true identity. The consequence for all of you is death! Was I able to convey my message effectively?” He inquired firmly, and they all responded with nods, bowing their heads.

He continuously evaded eye contact, directing his gaze anywhere but towards me.

As I gazed deeper into his expressionless countenance, it grew increasingly intimidating and horrifying.

“That’s all I could say, I think I’m done for now. I've said everything I wanted to express. This is an uncomplicated order, and failure to comply will result in death. Take note of that!” He finished speaking, and they all nodded in agreement, except for me.

I was primarily worried about what would happen to me. He had no intention of mentioning me, his fated mate, as if I didn't exist to him.

With grace and grandeur, he descended the small staircase below the royal seat. Once more, everyone in the room lowered their heads.

“What? Move! Are all of you crazy? Why are you still sitting there with your head down? Who will be responsible for organizing the room where I will be staying?” With a sudden bark, fear gripped everyone in the room, causing them to startle.

“Go ahead, help him! Please go to my room and collect all of my things. Then, kindly give them to him.” Without thinking twice, my dad yelled, causing all the housekeepers to rush out and do their assigned tasks.

I understand that they were simply too frightened to remain in that palace any further.

At that moment, the Lycan finally looked at me, directly on the ground, where I remained seated with my knees pulled up to my chest.

I felt a strong, pulsating fear engulf me, causing me to close my mouth tightly and recoil as I noticed his eyes fixed on me.

It would have been wonderful if his eyes were serene, but unfortunately, they were not. I could only perceive flashes of animosity emanating from it.

“You! Guide me to the garden! Now!” He spoke abruptly, causing me to flinch.

I narrowed my eyes and glanced to the side, questioning if his words were directed at me.

“Yes, you! Are you deaf too, you filthy servant!” He growled, clenching his jaw in complete irritation, so I promptly rose, flinching as my stomach pained me further.

“I apologize, sir.” I muttered sadly, swiftly walking away from the room without glancing back or verifying if he was coming after me.

I never want to lay eyes on him or be near him right now.

“Take your time moving, slave!” He yelled at me and my legs froze in place, tears welling up in my eyes.

‘Why is he referring to me as a slave? I am his mate! And what's the reason behind his request to see the garden all of a sudden?’

I simply desired to flee and keep a great distance from him but I know I couldn’t. He has shattered my heart and destroyed my very essence, piece by piece.

I felt even unhappier at that moment, and each instance of mistreatment or cruelty from my father or Ophelia appeared insignificant compared to the pain inflicted by him, my fated mate.

The sole individual whom I had hoped to love and show concern for me has also turned his back to me, referring to me as a servant.

He showed no interest in inquiring about me, his mate, and my scent was bothersome to him.

Perhaps it would be better if I were to end my life, as this burden is overwhelming.

‘I couldn’t handle what could happen next.’

SERENITY

The journey was brief, but by the time we reached the garden, I was perspiring and my heart was pounding in my chest.

I felt nervous and had a lump in my throat that I had to swallow. I had to face difficulties in order to reach the garden without falling.

I felt my legs tremble as he walked closely behind me. I was aware of his gaze fixed on me, so I made sure not to look back even once.

‘Who would dare to gaze upon the countenance of such a creature?’ I complied with his request to walk at a leisurely pace, even though I didn't agree.

I hadn't intended to comply when he referred to me as a slave, but his voice was incredibly dominating and appeared to have complete power over my perceptions.

Arriving at the garden, I couldn't resist letting out a big sigh of relief. I promptly positioned myself at the corner, eagerly anticipating his entrance so I could depart, or rather sprint away as fast as possible.

The garden stretched out as far as the eye could see, decorated with the most beautiful flowers one could ever imagine.

There were also trees filled with the melodies of singing birds, who built their homes on the branches. Multiple rivers converge at the intersections.

Inside, you'll find custom-made wooden chairs designed specifically for two people. I loved this garden more than anything else because of the scent of the forest and the refreshing wind that brings peace to the mind and spirit.

The view of nature's splendor was truly captivating. I can only remember how much I used to love this place.

However, they are all in the past and are now cherished memories that can never be recreated. If I were to enter this place, my father would be furious and punish me severely.

Furthermore, the royal guards would apprehend me and physically assault me for trying to access the garden.

My life turned chaotic and disorganized after I caused the death of my mother. It was a wonderful feeling to come back here once more, but being with my mischievous mate made me feel restless, preventing me from fully enjoying whatever was in the garden.

A few minutes later, he entered through the gate, which made me curious about why it took him so much time.

I was certain that he was right behind me when I entered. His eyes lit up with excitement as he beheld the garden's stunning beauty. It was clear to me in an instant that he shared my deep affection for it.

Perhaps I ought to develop a dislike for this garden, so that I no longer share any similarities with this creature.

“Woah!” He looked around in awe, taking deep breaths and extending his arms to let the air flow through his entire being.

I observed as his mouth attempted to form a smile but failed to do so. It appeared as though he despised smiling, as I fail to comprehend why he refuses to relax his attractive countenance and illuminate it with his grin. Imagine how adorable he would appear with a genuine smile on his face.

I stood at the corner, eagerly awaiting his command to depart, while also hoping for a smile from him, my hands tightly clasped in front of me.

I must say, the garden is incredibly stunning and truly a sight to behold. Everyone who enters this place will not only have a smile but also a wide smile on their face. I suppose I was referring to individuals who are ordinary, as opposed to this merciless Lycan present.

He wandered aimlessly, admiring the flowers, before eventually making his way to the waterfall, which was located a short distance away.

Afterwards, he went back to the forest, where he picked a few fruits and sat down to savor them. He was acting as if I don’t exist in the garden, and not telling me what to do next.

“Serenity, let’s go! Why are we just standing here?! We should leave? It's clear that he doesn't have anything else to offer us!” Maia howled at me, and I sensed the sincerity in her words.

I feel foolish for remaining here after he simply asked me to guide him to the garden.

‘What more could I have anticipated from him?’

I thought I might be the one acting strangely because I stayed there simply to observe if he would smile and also to anticipate any words, he might say to me.

‘I wonder why he's not communicating with his mate?’

I find this guy incredibly bothersome and strange. I believe I would anticipate finding a different mate as this individual does not seem to be the suitable one to share my life with indefinitely.

I walked towards the exit gate, trying to ignore the urge to wait for him to call me back. I felt really lost and my emotions were all jumbled up.

“What was that? Why did you make a hissing sound towards me?” As I was about to pass through the gate, I heard a low growl coming from behind me.

I felt a surge of fear in my chest, and the unexpected sound startled me so much that I stumbled.

I was taken by surprise when he appeared right next to me, speaking out of nowhere.

I didn't hear his footsteps or realize he was nearby. As I was leaving, he was seated on a distant bench, so I was completely taken aback and ended up standing beside me.

I stumbled, but instead of falling to the ground, I managed to stay upright. And instead, I found myself embraced by someone...

‘Oh, I need to say his name since it's only the two of us present.’

I was nestled in his strong embrace, feeling the sweetness of our connection.

‘Oh my goodness!’ This is the first time I experienced such a comforting and pleasant feeling.

When I looked at him and saw him staring at me, it felt as if everything had come to a halt.

His face was incredibly near, and those captivating eyes stole my spirit from my physical form.

His rosy, full lips were slightly parted, and I had no idea that such a small detail could make someone's lips incredibly alluring, making it impossible to resist.

I'm probably blushing a lot right now, and I saw that he noticed my flushed cheeks and frowned, so I had to hide my face.

I couldn't help but stare at his face; it was so flawless that it seemed unreal. This guy resembled a Greek God. How I wish I could give him a kiss.

I hope he could pick me up and hold me like a bride while I put my arms around his neck. We would then go into the center of the garden and have a great time, talking and laughing while admiring its beauty.

‘But no. You, poor thing…’

I had such a lovely, dreamy experience. Unattainable desires that can only come true within the realm of my dreams and imagination.

“Answer my question! Did you just hissed at me?” He let out a sigh and quickly let go of my hand.

I fell to the ground immediately, crushing all those hopes in an instant as a sharp ache surged through my buttocks and elbows from the hard impact on a rock.

“Aw!” I cried out in agony, my lips splitting open, while I tightly held my hand. Tears welled up in my eyes, streaming down my face.

“You wouldn't dare to hiss at me, and by the way, where were you headed?” With a contemptuous expression on his face, he asked, towering over me like a solid barrier.

“No, I wasn't making a hissing sound towards you, and in the meantime, I was about to leave as you witnessed. What other activities am I engaged in at this place? I was just instructed to guide you to the garden. You didn't engage in conversation or acknowledge my presence, so I assumed that I might be a burden here.”

I replied abruptly, massaging my rear end and finding it difficult to rise while the discomfort continued to intensify.

“Yes, that’s right. I didn't have a conversation with you, and why didn't you speak up to let me know you were present?” He angrily crossed his arms.

I glanced up at him and felt frustrated by his complete lack of concern for my significant tumble.

“Could you just please give me some space? I'm suffering on the floor, and you don't even show any concern! Can't you understand my suffering and sorrow?” I exclaimed and was on the verge of rolling my eyes and turning my gaze elsewhere when I caught sight of the initial spark of empathy that flickered in his eyes.

“Why? Are you looking for assistance to stand up from the ground?” He muttered in a dry tone, extending his hand for to give assistance.

I held onto it tightly, and he effortlessly lifted me up. However, due to the strength of his pull, I ended up landing on top of him.

“I'm convinced that you weigh less than a sheet of paper.” He let out a sigh and moved away from me.

"I can't believe you lack the ability to treat women with care," I replied with a boisterous chuckle that caused him to scowl.

“What do you mean? Why should I treat you with care?” He inquired with great interest. He was narrowing his eyes in my direction.

“Since I am your...” I grinned as I observed him snarl with a cautionary gaze.

“Stop before you regret doing so!” He frowned, and I felt scared.

“Look, I mean… It wouldn't make a difference. We both detected the scent of each other and..."

“Stop the nonsense, will you? And no, I couldn't detect any scent from you!” He suddenly snapped and let out a loud hiss before taking a seat on the nearby bench.

“Same goes for me,” I quickly reacted, making a sharp sound and taking a seat on the bench at the same time as him. And with that, it caused him to look at me with confusion.

“Listen, you filthy swine. You have no clue about the peril you are heading towards. Continue to savor the journey until you find yourself immersed in a fiery lake!”

He was furious, and his intimidating tone nearly caused me to panic, but suddenly all my fear vanished. He prevented me from referring to him as my mate or bringing it up, but that doesn't imply that we are not bonded to each other.

“So… will you… will you reject me then?” I asked a question that had been troubling me ever since the first time I met him.

I believe it was the appropriate moment for him to decide the destiny we share.

If he were to reject me, it would be incredibly painful. The pain would be incredibly intense and shatter me completely, but I would pull myself together, embrace the rejection, and continue on my path as a forsaken individual with no one to show concern.

He appeared to be oblivious to my initial statement, so I restated it with increased volume.

“Tell me, will you reject me as your mate?” As I spoke, my voice faltered, and I sensed my heart pounding forcefully in my chest as he looked up at me. His expression was frigid, resembling ice, and his eyes became intensely fierce.

“Go away! Leave, now!” Instead of giving me a response, he sneered me giving an order, and I can’t help but to responded with a smile.

‘Does that mean… he doesn’t want to reject me either?’

He looked confused, with a crease between his eyebrows.

“Are you a crazy kind of swine of something? You ought not to have a smile on your face! You have such bad luck!” He cleared his throat, and at that moment three housemaids entered, informing him that his room was ready.

He agreed and went after them. I tried to follow him discreetly, but as soon as he reached the location where the garden security was positioned, he commanded them to escort me elsewhere.

“Slave, if you believe that I would rescue a filthy swine like you from going back to your low rank… well, you must be dreaming!” He scoffed at me using the mind-link and quickly cut it off before I had a chance to respond.

“Then what was his plan?”