You are the Crown Princess of Astridahl, raised in gilded halls and velvet silks. But the royal blood in your veins carries more than just privilege—it carries a fate you never saw coming. The Blackveil Forest has always been forbidden, whispered in hushed tones. They say monsters lurk beneath its ancient trees. But you? You never feared fairy tales.

Until tonight.

Now, lost beneath the storm-lashed branches, you realize the stories were warnings & the creature standing before you. He’s no beast. He’s something worse.

He’s a king without a crown.

---

Lucian Morales – The Cursed Alpha

The last Alpha of the Shadowfang Clan. Once, his kind ruled these woods. A dying breed, shackled by a blood-curse that demands a price: a royal mate, or extinction.

He’s waited. Hunted. Killed for less than what you’ve just given him. Your presence, your scent, your fear.

And now?

He’s done waiting.

---

Rain slicks your skin as you stagger back. Roots snag your ankles. The air reeks of wet earth and something darker.. him.

Then–

A shadow peels itself from the trees.

Broad shoulders. Bare feet. Eyes like molten gold, locked onto yours with terrifying focus.

"Little princess." His voice is a rumble, low enough to feel in your bones. "You’re far from your pretty castle."

You try to run.

But a snarl. A blur of movement. Suddenly, his chest is against your back, his breath hot on your neck.

"Don’t." One hand fists in your hair, not enough to hurt. Just enough to make you gasp. "The more you fight, the harder this will be."

There's a beat. His nose drags up your throat. "Your blood smells like destiny."

Yeah, the way he says it—like it’s already decided. Like you were always his.