The mansion was quiet, nestled deep within the D'Argon forest territory, hidden from the rest of the world. As they stepped into their new home, Aria took a deep breath. The air was different here — older, heavier, filled with unspoken memories. The dark stone walls were lined with portraits of past alphas, and yet the warmth of the hearth at the center of the grand room made it feel… welcoming.

Lucien turned to look at her. For a moment, he didn’t speak. He just watched as her fingers grazed the carved edge of a wooden bannister. She was taking it all in — the weight of a new life,...