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The music was soft, yet every beat pulsed like a warning drum. The coronation had begun, but even with dancers twirling and goblets raised. I could feel his gaze burning, focused, unrelenting.

Apex

I didn’t dare look at him. Not with the storm it stirred inside me. Not with the strange pull that made my heart stumble.

Instead. I kept my eyes on the goblet before me, fingers barely brushing the rim.

Then a voice boomed above the murmurs.

“All hail the Lycan Heir. Before he is crowned, does anyone wish to offer a toast?”