Corvine couldn't tear his eyes away from Athaliah. She was absolutely breathtaking, the kind of woman who made everything around her feel a little brighter.
Everything about her seemed so effortless, that gentle smile, the quiet confidence she carried in every move. Just watching her made his throat go dry.
He swallowed hard, doing his best to keep his cool even as warmth bloomed deep in his chest. From the very first time they'd met, the way she spoke about her business had blown him away.
She was sharp, respectful, and never once acted entitled even though she was the Alpha King's daughter.
For one wild, reckless second, real hope flickered to life in his heart. Then she spoke.
"Well..." A helpless little smile crossed her face. "My father would never let me marry anyone below an Alpha."
Corvine's heart plummeted. The words hit like a punch to the gut, but he kept his face carefully blank.
