Chapter 5 Spark in Shadows

|| Lilac's POV ||

"May I?" Kael asked, extending his hand. I forced a smile.

The crowd cheered as Kael led me to the dance floor. His grip on my hand was tight, like he already owned me. The music was soft, but I felt nothing but anger.

I hated this. I hated his fake smile, his hand on my waist, his pretend love. Every step felt like I was betraying myself.

How did I end up here again? I had a second chance to change things, but here I was, dancing with the man who ruined me. Memories of my past life came rushing back- Kael's betrayal, his cold words as he left me to die.

"You dance well," Kael whispered, his breath hot on my ear. I shivered, disgusted.

"Practice makes everything perfect," I said, keeping my voice steady. In my past life, I'd learned to pretend to enjoy your company.

The music dragged on, each note a reminder of what I'd lost. When it ended, I walked away, leaving the cheers behind.

In my past life, I'd been naive. That version of me died betrayed and broken. This time, I'ld be stronger. But how could I, a beta with no power, stand against the future Alpha King?

I wandered into the garden, away from all the eyes. My mind racing. It was peaceful here than in the hall. Exhausted, I stumbled, but someone caught me. The scent of pine filled the air. I looked up and met Alaric's grey eyes.

Alaric! The forgotten son, overshadowed by Kael. His mother, late Luna Aria used to be the heart of our kingdome. Everything changed afte she died. The alpha king brought home a new Luna, Cassandra.

Rumors said he was cursed, that his touch brought death. But as he held me, I felt no fear... just a strange warmth. His touch was firm but gentle, his presence calming.

A spark ran through me, something I'd never felt before. It was like the world had shifted, and it was just us. My heart raced. This felt real.... and it scared me.

☆☆☆☆☆

Moonlight spilled over the garden, painting the path in silver. The air was thick with the scent of jasmine, the leaves rustling softly in the breeze. Peaceful. Or it would have been-if not for the voice cutting through the night.

"I wonder what my sister-in-law is doing out here all alone."

I stopped. My pulse kicked up, but I turned slowly. Alaric leaned against a tree, half in the shadows, smirking like he owned the place. His grip was still there on my arms as he pulled me a bit closer. Moonlight caught in his gray eyes, sharp and unreadable.

I pulled my hands free from his grip, hating the way my skin still tingled. "I'm not your sister-in-law."

He chuckled. "No?"

He stepped closer. I didn't move. He was way too taller than me, too close, too damn smug.

"I could've sworn I saw you in my brother's arms tonight, dancing in joy," His tone was light, but there was something else under it.

"I didn't have a choice," I said. "Queen Cassandra decided that for me."

He tilted his head. "So you're just a victim? No fight left in you? Poor, helpless Lilac."

Anger flared hot. "I'm not helpless."

His smirk widened. "Of course not." His voice dropped lower, almost amused.

I stepped back, my shoulders hitting the rough bark of a tree. He moved in, filling the space between us, bringing the scent of pine and leather with him.

"Regretting your decision already?" His breath was warm against my cheek.

I forced a steady voice. "I don't regret anything."

His eyes flickered. "Liar."

He reached up, brushing a stray lock of hair from my face. My breath hitched. Too close. My eyes fell on his full lips and suddenly all I wanted to do was kissing him, running my hands in his soft dark hair.

"What are you thinking so deeply about, sister-in-law?" He said and I saw a dangerous smike over his lips.

Focus Lilac! He was one of the Reventhorns. STAY AWAY FROM THEM AND YOU MIGHT LIVE LONGER! I yelled in my head.

"None of your business," I replied.

I ducked under his arm and put distance between us, my steps quick. I could feel his gaze on my back, but I didn't turn around.

The path stretched ahead, bathed in silver light. I needed to think. To get out of this mess. There had to be a way.

But first, I had to deal with this engagement.

And I had a feeling that wasn't going to be easy.