Ayesha's eyes widened. "A soul? You mean—"
"Yes." His tone was unyielding, his gaze unwavering. "Not just the instincts of a lycan, but an actual soul—ancient, untamed. It lives inside me. I fight it every day, and during the full moon… I always lose. That's why I built this place, away from the estate, away from the pack. Because when it claws for control… I can't risk anyone being near me."
Her fingers tightened around her dress, heart hammering against her ribs. She had heard whispers about Alaric her entire life—the Alpha King born with unmatched blood, a lineage so pure it made him invincible. But the truth was more terrifying. It wasn't his blood. It was something else entirely.
"You mean… you can talk to it?" Ayesha asked softly, her voice hesitant.
Alaric's frown deepened. "What do you mean, Ayesha? You can also talk to your inner wolf?" His sharp eyes locked onto hers.
