"Tonight, you'll meet the supernatural world." Those were the last words Dante said to her.
He drove in silence, but the tension between them was electrifying. She could still taste the kiss from the night before, but this—this—was different, in as much as she would love to dwell on one of the best kiss of her life she couldn't help but wonder what the future held for her.
Before embarking on this journey she had met up with Genevieve and she had confirmed that they are from the Valkara bloodline- the royal bloodline of the witch enchantresses.She left the supernatural world because she didn't want to have anything to do with them and she had wanted her daughter to live a normal life.
She met Gregory in her office.
"I'm trusting you," she said, sliding the signed documents across the table. "The company's yours, Gregory. Handle it how you see fit."
He stared at her, stunned. "You're really leaving?"
"I have to," Ava replied. "There's something bigger I'm meant to do."
Now all the drama that happened with her ex boyfriend and her step sister felt like nothing now, she had bigger things to worry about now.
When they got to a hidden road, they both got down and Dante led Ava through the forest, his grip firm but gentle on her hand. The trees began to blur as they approached an ancient stone archway.
"This is the gateway," Dante said. "Beyond this, the world changes."
Ava took a deep breath. Her heart hammered in her chest. "I don't know what to expect."
"Just trust me."
Together, they stepped through the arch.
The air shifted immediately. The heavy, earthy scent of the forest gave way to something crisp and electric. Above them, the sky had turned an impossible shade of deep purple, dotted with stars that shimmered like diamonds. The moon glowed so bright than any she'd ever seen.
They found themselves on a path lined with glowing lanterns floating in midair. Around them stretched a city unlike anything Ava had ever imagined.
Tall buildings made of black stone rose into the sky, strange creatures moved along the streets.
"This is Umbra," Dante said softly. "The realm where all supernatural beings gather."
Ava's eyes widened. "How have I never known this place existed?"
"Because it's kept secret from humans."
They walked deeper into the city. The sounds of laughter, music, and quiet conversation filled the air. They passed vendors selling trinkets, potions glowing softly in glass bottles, and magical creatures that seemed both familiar and utterly alien.
Soon, they reached a building at the city's heart.
Dante took Ava's arm, leading her inside.
The crowd parted as they entered, and whispers rippled through the room.
"Ava of the Valkara bloodline," someone said. "The Lycan prince's mate."
Ava swallowed hard. She could feel all eyes on her—eyes filled with curiosity, respect, and some with thinly veiled suspicion.
A tall woman with silver hair and piercing green eyes stepped forward. Her presence demanded attention.
"Welcome to Umbra, Ava," she said, her voice calm but firm. "I am Lady Mirabelle, leader of the witches. We have awaited your arrival."
Ava's breath caught. "You've been waiting for me?"
Lady Mirabelle nodded. "The prophecy names you as the one to save us all. Your powers run deep, even if you do not yet understand them."