Chapter 77. Tonight We Begin Anew

Nathan's POV

The hunger that once raged within me has now dwindled to mere embers. I sit alone in the dimly lit chambers, the silk sheets crumpled, devoid of warmth. The women who pass through my life are but ghosts, their faces fading from memory as quickly as they flee my cold touch. There is no pleasure in the pursuit, no triumph in the capture.

Tonight, the air is thick with the scent of rain and something else- anticipation. A National Day looms, a celebration of our kingdom's glory and strength, yet my thoughts are knotted around a singular, seething intent: to dethrone Elliot and claim Ally as mine once more.

"Lucas," I murmur, feeling his restlessness mirroring my own. "Patience. The time for retribution is nigh."

I can almost taste the sweet poison of vengeance on my tongue. The image of Elliot, his reputation tarnished, his honour destroyed before all, it dances before my eyes- a siren's call. And Ally, her gaze sh