XAVIER—

I watched as Ariel slept peacefully on the couch, her gentle breathing filling the room. She looked so serene, and a sense of protectiveness washed over me. I couldn't help but feel a mixture of emotions as I continued to work, my mind divided between the tasks at hand and the woman who had just confessed her love for me.

Just as I was getting lost in my thoughts, my beta entered the study room, a sense of urgency in his expression. "Xavier, I apologize for interrupting, but there's an urgent matter at the palace. The Alpha requires your immediate presence."

I sighed, knowing that duty called, but I...