Chapter 5. Moonlight frenzy

Kael woke before dawn, his body craving the freedom of a run. The need to transform into his wolf form and hunt was overwhelming, a primal urge he couldn't ignore. He slipped out of the palace unnoticed, making his way to a secluded thicket.

As he shed his human skin, agony coursed through his veins. His body contorted, muscles twisting, until he finally emerged in his wolf form. With a burst of speed, he sprinted through the forest, the wind rushing past his fur. He ran to clear his mind, to shake off the turmoil that had been brewing inside him.

The hunt was exhilarating, but his worries soon resurfaced. The full moon was approaching, and with it, the risk of losing control. His thoughts were consumed by Farah, his mate, and the fear of being discovered. What if he lost his mind and did the unthinkable?

Determined to maintain his sanity, Kael took a deep breath and began his transformation back into his human form. He bathed in a nearby stream, washing away the sweat and dirt of his run. As he dressed, he steeled himself for the challenges ahead.

With a sense of trepidation, Kael made his way back to the palace, hoping to avoid detection. Little did he know, his secret was already beginning to unravel.

However, Kael's stealthy return to the palace didn't go unnoticed. Princess Farah had been watching him, determined to uncover his secrets. Though Kael caught her scent, he didn't dare acknowledge her presence, pretending instead that he hadn't seen her.

Resuming his post, Kael's sensitive nose picked up the sweet fragrance of unfamiliar perfume. He turned to see a petite brunette with striking hazel eyes emerging from the balcony. Her regal demeanor screamed royalty, and Kael instinctively knew she was Farah's sister.

Zoya approached him with a flirtatious smile, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "You must be the new guard. News certainly travels quickly around here."

Kael bowed his head respectfully. "My lady."

Zoya's smile deepened, her voice taking on a playful tone. "So, tell me... what's your name?" She raised an eyebrow, her gaze locked on his, awaiting his response.

"Kael, my lady," he replied, his eyes cast downward.

Zoya's voice took on a gentle, teasing tone. "You can look at me, Kael." He hesitated for a moment before meeting her gaze.

Zoya's breath caught in her throat. She had never laid eyes on a man as captivating as Kael. His chiseled features, piercing eyes, and rugged charm left her breathless.

"Is this really where you've been assigned?" she asked, her voice laced with surprise. "It seems like a lowly position. Why don't you become my personal guard instead?" Her eyes roamed over him once more, her interest unapologetically evident.

Kael's expression remained neutral, his voice polite but firm. "That's very kind of you, my lady, but I'm content with my current position."

Zoya's face fell, her eyes narrowing slightly. She lifted her chin, her voice taking on a haughty tone. "Very well. I'll be seeing you again, Kael." With that, she turned and departed, leaving Kael to wonder about the unexpected encounter.

As Kael's senses came alive, he caught the sweet, familiar scent of his mate, Farah. A slow smile spread across his face, but it was met with a scowl from the princess.

"My lady," Kael bowed, his voice low and respectful.

Farah's eyes narrowed, her voice dripping with suspicion. "Tell me, where were you coming from this morning?" She waited, her gaze piercing.

Kael's breath hitched, but he carefully maintained his composure. "I went to the stream, Your Highness." He locked eyes with her, his expression neutral.

Farah's scowl deepened. "The stream? There are plenty of streams within the palace grounds. Why did you feel the need to venture outside?" Her tone was laced with accusation.

Kael's heart pounded in his chest, but he kept his tone light. "I simply preferred the stream outside, Your Highness. No particular reason." He held her gaze, careful not to reveal the truth.

Farah's eyes flashed with determination. "I know you're hiding something, Kael. And I'll uncover it soon enough." With that, she turned and departed, leaving Kael to breathe a sigh of relief.

Kael's mind racing, he knew he needed a plan - and fast. His sole purpose for being here was Farah, his mate. Claiming her was crucial, but he doubted she'd accept him, given his lowly rank. Yet, he was willing to risk everything to have her by his side.

Kidnapping her was a desperate option that crossed his mind, but he quickly dismissed it. He couldn't bear the thought of Farah hating him more than she already did. But what other choice did he have? He was, after all, a monster - a being driven by primal instincts. And for his mate, he'd stop at nothing