Chapter Three
With a newfound sense of determination, Melody stood and began pacing her room. Whatever challenges awaited her, she would face them. She would not be defeated.
Still, her thoughts drifted back to the Alpha of Tharenos.
Who was he, really?
What did he want?
Why had he agreed to marry her, a fae princess from a different kingdom?
Surely, there were women in Tharenos eager to become his mate. Why her? Why now?
She had no answers, only spiraling questions. All she hoped was that he would give her the space she needed. She wasn't going to surrender quietly, but at this moment, she felt overwhelmed.
Exhaustion settled over her, heavy and suffocating. She sat on the edge of her bed, unaware of how tired her soul had become, until sleep finally claimed her.
She forgot all about the birthday party her father had promised.
A birthday celebration she had never received in all her eighteen years. Now, on the eve of being traded away like a bargaining chip, he suddenly remembered.
The irony stung.
Morning light crept through the window, pulling her from restless sleep.
"Princess Melody!" a voice called. "It's time to get dressed. The guests are almost here!"
Melody blinked, disoriented. "What guests? What's happening?"
Her personal maid entered, beaming. "Have you forgotten? Today is your birthday. His Majesty has arranged a party in your honor."
The memories came rushing back. The ball. The engagement. The lie.
"How am I supposed to enjoy a birthday party," Melody muttered, "when I'm being forced into a life I never chose?"
The maid dressed her in a lavender gown lined with silver, unlike anything she had ever worn. It was beautiful, expensive, and completely foreign.
She stared into the mirror, barely recognizing the girl staring back.
A princess in appearance, a prisoner in truth.
The grand hall glowed with golden light, music, and laughter. Flowers adorned the pillars, and silken banners hung from every corner. It was breathtaking.
Yet Melody felt nothing.
She had always watched these celebrations from afar, excluded from the joy given freely to her siblings. Now, as the center of attention, she felt more alone than ever.
The guests smiled politely, offering hollow compliments. The same people who had ignored her existence for years.
She felt like a stranger surrounded by familiar faces.
Her father took her hand and led her forward.
"My beloved daughter comes of age today," he announced. "Happy birthday, Melody."
She stiffened. He had never spoken those words to her before.
Was she supposed to feel grateful?
Mira stood nearby, clapping with smug satisfaction.
The only person Melody truly missed was her brother Lucas, the only one who had ever treated her kindly. He was away at the borders. If he were here, he would have fought for her. He would have understood.
Her father raised a hand to silence the crowd.
"Tomorrow, Melody will leave for Tharenos," he declared. "She will unite our kingdoms through marriage to the new Alpha."
Gasps rippled through the hall, followed by uncertain applause.
Melody met Mira's gaze and saw pity reflected in the eyes of the nobles around her.
She hated it.
Tomorrow, her life would change forever.
And she would have to protect her secrets more carefully than ever.