“Draven wanted some ‘male bonding time’ with him,” Lila replied, trying not to wince at the possibilities. “I’m sure it’s fine. What’s the worst that could happen?”
“Do you really want me to answer that?” Harper arched an eyebrow. “Remember the time you got your head stuck in the playground fence and cried for an hour straight? Or when you insisted on wearing that hideous sparkly tutu everywhere you went when you were ten?”
“Harper!” Lila’s cheeks flushed.
“What? I’m just saying your brother has ammunition for days.”
Her mother laughed—a sound Lila hadn’t heard in years. “Actually, I think it’s wonderful that Draven wants to get to know Liam. It shows he’s serious about becoming part of our family.”
Our family.
The words hit Lila square in the chest.
When had her mother talked about them as a unified family unit?
“Mom,” she said, turning to face her fully, “I’m so glad you decided to stay for a few weeks. I know Nova Aurora might seem overwhelming, but?—”
“Are you kidding?” Her mother’s eyes lit up. “This place is magical, Lila. Literally magical. And seeing you here, seeing how confident and radiant you’ve become...” She trailed off, emotion thickening her voice. “I’ve missed so much of your life. I want to be here for this new chapter.”
She’s really trying. We’re both trying.
“I’d love nothing more than to show you around.” Lila’s excitement bubbled over. “Draven says there are places here that would take your breath away.”
“Speaking of breathtaking,” Gerri interjected with a sly grin, “have you given any thought to what comes after the coronation? Because something tells me your king is going to have a very hard time keeping his hands to himself once you’re officially his queen.”
The mate bond pulsed at Gerri’s words, sending a surge of anticipation through Lila’s veins. Even separated by castle walls, she could feel Draven—his alpha energy, his desire, and his protective love.
“Gerri!” Lila protested, though heat flooded her body.
“What? I’m just saying that dress is going to drive him absolutely wild. And the way he looks at you...” Gerri fanned herself dramatically. “That man is completely and utterly devoted to you, sweetheart. It’s written all over his face.”
A sharp knock interrupted their laughter. “Your Majesty?” Nyra’s voice carried through the wooden door. “It’s time.”
Time.The word sent a fresh burst of nerves and excitement racing through Lila’s system. In minutes, she would officiallybecome Queen of the Southern Dragon Dominion. She would rule beside Draven, help guide his people, and step fully into the destiny she’d never seen coming.
“Ready?” Harper asked, offering her arm.
“I’m so ready.”
Moments later, as they were approaching the castle gardens, Lila could hear the murmur of voices—the witnesses to this momentous occasion. Her heart beat wildly, but the mate bond steadied her, Draven’s calm strength flowing through their connection.
He’s waiting for me.
The gardens came fully into view, transformed into something from a fairy tale. Jarek and Nyra had outdone themselves—the ancient fountain served as a backdrop, its water cascading in glittering arcs while Nova Aurora’s native flowers splashed color around the ceremonial space. Council members, nobles, and clutch members filled ornate chairs arranged in a semicircle, their formal attire a sea of rich fabrics and glinting jewelry.
And there, at the heart of it all, stood Draven.
Dear God, he’s magnificent.
Her king wore his ceremonial suit like armor—midnight blue fabric that emphasized his broad shoulders and powerful frame. The obsidian and gold crown rested on his dark hair, catching the twin suns’ light and throwing it back in brilliant flashes. But it was the object in his hands that made Lila’s breath hitch. Her beautiful tiara—delicate gold adorned with crystals and rubies that would mark her as his queen.
Liam stood to Draven’s right, grinning widely and looking completely at ease despite being surrounded by alien nobility. On Draven’s left, Lyric waited with solemn dignity, ready to perform the ancient ceremony that would bind her to this world forever.
This is really it. This is my destiny.
But as Lila’s gaze swept the assembled crowd, unease pricked at her spine. Something was missing. Someone was missing.
“Where’s Veyra?” she whispered to Harper, scanning the faces again.
