Chapter 45. The North Palace

The weather was bright and pleasant, so Althea and Melva decided to take the chance to leave the palace walls while the sun was still high. The Alpha King had already granted them permission, though it came with one clear condition—they could only wander within the grounds of the North Palace.

At the door, three guards stood firmly stationed.

“My Lady and I would like to walk around,” Melva said with a polite smile.

Althea’s curious eyes studied them. “What are your names?” she asked softly.

The guards exchanged glances, unsure if they should speak. Finally, the tallest of the three stepped forward. “I am Rudy, My Lady.” He then gestured to the others. “This is Ben, and this is Trudis. His Majesty ordered us to be assigned to you… to ensure you will not escape.”

Althea’s stomach tightened. So that was it. Gavriel had not stationed them for her safety, but as a chain—subtle, unbreakable, and always watching.

“I see.” She drew a steady breath and