Chapter 42. Sebastian Draven (2)

Sebastian sat in his dimly lit study, his fingers drumming impatiently against the edge of his polished desk. The faint glow of the city outside barely illuminated his features, but the fire burning in his dark eyes could rival the night’s gloom.

He had spent years plotting, years trying to undo the injustice that had been dealt to him. It wasn’t enough to simply hate Valen; no, he wanted to destroy him, to see the legacy Valen held so tightly crumble into ash.

[Flashback]

Sebastian was just a young boy when the weight of his father’s favoritism first crushed him. Lord Alaric had gathered his sons to discuss an important mission, one that would cement the family’s influence within the vampire world. Sebastian had prepared tirelessly for this opportunity. He memorized every detail, studied every strategy, and practiced endlessly.

He could still remember standing tall, his chest puffed with pride, as he awaited his father’s approval. But Alaric’s gaze had passe