The Lycan King and his Dark Temptation novel Chapter 89

VALERIA

“Valeria, what’s wrong?” I suddenly heard Celine’s voice, and I looked up into her worried eyes.

“Valeria, my love, what’s happening? Are you feeling unwell?” Aldric quickly approached, kneeling in front of me. His fingers gently brushed against my face, wiping away my tears.

I hadn’t even realized I was crying, overwhelmed by intense emotions that were suffocating me.

“I want to leave this place. I want to go back already,” I whispered, swallowing my sobs as I wrapped my arms around his neck.

Without hesitation, he lifted me in his arms, holding me protectively against his broad chest.

“Quinn, don’t take too long. Please, try to speed this up,” he instructed, his tone firm as Quinn stood, equally concerned.

I felt embarrassed about making a scene, but I couldn’t help it. It was as if countless memories were crashing into my mind, bringing unbearable pain without offering any clarity.

Aldric carried me back to the house in a near sprint, laying me down on the bed and staying with me. He comforted me, cradling me and stroking my back.

At some point, I drifted off to sleep in his massive, protective embrace. How I wished he could shield me from my inner demons, too.

When I woke up again, the last rays of sunlight were filtering through the window.

I found myself alone in the bed. Rising, I went to the bathroom to splash some water on my face. My eyes were puffy and red, but the oppressive weight in my chest had eased.

I grabbed a shawl, draping it over my dress before leaving the room. Walking down the narrow hallway, painted a creamy shade and adorned with pictures of gardens and flowers, I overheard a conversation coming from the living room.

“But… Your Majesty, my wife has prepared a humble dinner with much love. It would be an honor to host you at our home…”

“I’m sorry, but I’ve already said we can’t come. My mate—”

“I’m fine. I’m feeling better now,” I said, stepping forward and gently stroking Aldric’s arm.

“My love, you shouldn’t have gotten up,” he said immediately, turning to examine me. My heart melted at the protective concern radiating from him.

“You’re the King. You need to build relationships with the packs. Enough of this bad reputation of cutting off heads and being rude,” I told him telepathically.

“I don’t care what they think. I never wanted to be the damn King in the first place. I’ve been trying to hand this role to anyone willing to take it,” he replied, pulling me into an embrace. His affection made me blush slightly, aware of the Alpha’s discomfort at our public display.

“I don’t want you to seem like a tyrant, Aldric. People are afraid of you, which is why they often don’t ask for your help,” I said, though my intention wasn’t to defend these fools but to improve the image of my King.

“We’ll come. Thank you for the invitation,” I said aloud. The Alpha nodded enthusiastically.

I could feel his curious glances, though he tried to hide them in Aldric’s presence.