Xavier woke up early, the sun barely peeking through the curtains. He stretched his tired muscles, feeling the weight of the responsibilities that awaited him. It was the day of the elders council meeting, and he had to present himself as the alpha king, not just a mere person.

As he got out of bed, Xavier couldn't help but feel a pang of longing for the peaceful moments he had shared with Ariel the night before. He wished he could stay with her, wrapped in her warmth and love. But duty called, and he had to fulfill his obligations as the alpha king.

With a sigh, Xavier made his way...