Rise of the Underdogs: KADEN

His Fear, Her Answer

As dinner ended, I gently set my napkin on the plate in front of me. With deliberate care, I began stacking the now empty dishes, demonstrating the proper way for them to be collected by the staff. My actions were purposeful, meant as a quiet example for others at the table.

Though unsure at first, both Jasper and Akita observed my movements and soon followed suit. They mimicked the way I arranged my plate and utensils, signalling their willingness to participate in this small act of courtesy. Together, we made the staff’s work just a little bit easier, all while observing respectful dining etiquette.

“Akita and I will take dessert in the upper library. It’s quiet in there, so we can study in peace,” I said, gently catching the maid who had prepared our meal by the sleeve of her spotless white shirt. My tone was calm and respectful, conveying both my appreciation for her work and my intent to continue the evening in a tranquil setting.

Monica’s smile was warm, her eyes crinkling with laugh lines at the corners. She replied, “The college Psychology book that you were awaiting arrived this afternoon while you were out, Sire. I hadn’t the time to let you know until now. Have the invitations to Lord Dreson and Lord Leif’s wedding been delivered?” Her words carried both helpful news and a gentle reminder of another responsibility.

I nodded in response and assured Monica, “I’ve already taken care of that earlier today and last evening. Please, there’s no need to disturb my brothers. It’s Leif’s birthday, and they’re having a small, intimate celebration—just parents and their children—until Saturday.”

“Of course, my Lord,” Monica replied, then respectfully turned to address my parents. “Your Highnesses?”

Mom nodded in agreement. “Monica, please have our dessert brought to the first-floor study. There are… matters to discuss with my future daughter-in-law’s legal guardian.” Her tone was gentle but firm, signalling the importance of the upcoming conversation.

“Certainly, my Queen,” Monica replied, her posture attentive and ready to serve.

Jasper’s brows drew together in a mild scowl as he lifted his wine glass, taking a thoughtful sip. “What matters do we need to discuss?” he asked, his tone shaded with curiosity and a hint of concern.

Dad flashed a grin and explained, “It’s nothing too serious. Mostly family history and such. We like to keep our own records of anyone who joins the family. This helps us make the right cultural connections and ensures that no one is accidentally offended.”

Jasper chuckled in response, his voice tinged with amusement. “So, you’re the reason he has that trait?” he joked. “I always wondered how he manages to avoid stepping on anyone’s toes.”

The table filled with laughter. Mom shook her head and replied, “Oh, honey, Kaden’s only interested in stepping on one person’s toes on a regular basis—his brother’s. My sweet Dreson usually gives as good as he gets, though.”

Jasper joined in the banter, sharing, “I’ve experienced it myself during training. Colton once dared me to spar with Dre, and I ended up flat in the mud within minutes.”

Dad laughed, nodding in agreement. “That sounds exactly right. Dreson is the kind of fighter who skillfully uses his environment to his advantage, as well as his opponent’s own balance and momentum against them. He’s resourceful in the heat of battle, making every element around him part of his strategy. Kaden, however, is formidable in a way that inspires genuine fear in others. His strength lies not only in traditional combat, but also in his rare ability to wield magic while in his wolf form. This sets him apart, as there have only ever been a handful of individuals capable of this feat, and none have ever been alive at the same time as another.”

“That’s amazing,” Akita breathed. “So he’s, like, really rare?”

I was momentarily taken aback, reminded of something I’d nearly forgotten. More precisely, how teenage girls often add words that aren’t strictly necessary. It’s not just about their excitement or enthusiasm. It’s the habit of weaving in extra phrases that don’t always serve a direct purpose in conversation.

The way she spoke unexpectedly made me think of Leif. There was a softness in her manner, gentle at the core, yet bordered with a sharpness like the fine edge of a blade. Capable of cutting close if needed.

With a composed nod, I confirmed, “I am, yes.” The words hung in the air, but I met them with an even calm. “Shall we?”

Rising from my seat, I extended my hand to Akita, leaving the choice in hers. She responded, her fingers sliding into mine. Warm to the touch and undeniably soft. Yet beneath that gentleness, there was a strength. A reminder of the power she could wield, fierce enough to break a foe in combat. The contrast was striking, her presence both inviting and formidable.

Tucking her hand into my arm, I led her to the second-floor library. Getting to the hall, I grinned. “So?”

“Your mother is lovely, and your dad seems like the type to pull pranks when he’s bored.” She commented smoothly, making me laugh. “The food was delicious, though. It was like seeing a side of you I haven’t seen before. The way you’re so… regal and poised during formal stuff.”

“I’m not cut and dry, Kita,” I answered, my tone as soft as a whisper. Lacing my fingers with hers, I sighed. “In royal settings, I behave how I was raised to. With friends, I relax and joke around. Greg wasn’t kidding. Depending on who I’m talking to, I react accordingly. I don’t overpower. I don’t overreach. But if anyone wanted to hurt those I care about, I’ll totally match energy. And yes, before you ask, I’m in college doing a Psychology course.”

She smiled, acknowledging my explanation with a gentle nod. “And with me?” she asked, her question laced with curiosity and openness.

I met her gaze and answered honestly, “With you, I’m myself. I’m not pretending or putting on a show. I’m simply being who I am. My intention is nothing more than to build trust between us by offering my true self. If you didn’t like that, you’ve had plenty of opportunities to walk away.”

“There is no one else worthy of me, myself, and I.”

What the…

She showed no hesitation whatsoever. Her conviction was steady. There was neither a pause nor any second-guessing. No attempt to shift the topic or reconsider her words. Instead, she offered a direct and unmistakable affirmation of my value, making it clear how she viewed me with quiet certainty.

Okay. Someone call the fire department. My face was on fire, and I knew it.

As we walked together, the air between us grew charged with a subtle, irresistible energy. Malachite’s voice broke the silence, dreamy and wistful, ‘Having her near, having her this close… it’s tempting in the best way.’

There was no denying the allure of her presence, and the words hung in the air like a confession.

I couldn’t help but agree, my own thoughts echoing his sentiment. ‘Tell me about it, buddy. Fine doesn’t cover it at all.’

My reply was honest, acknowledging that her proximity stirred a feeling that was hard to put into words. It wasn’t just admiration. It was an attraction that bordered on overwhelming, reminding both of us just how captivating our Mate truly was.

As we made our way down the hall, I gestured to the doors we passed, offering a quick explanation of each. “That one’s the bathroom,” I pointed out first, ensuring she’d know where to find it. “This is my room when I’m staying here,” I continued, indicating the door that marked my own space. “And right across from mine, you’ll find Dreson and Leif’s room.”

We came to a stop in front of an imposing set of large, ornately carved oak doors. I paused, letting the moment linger. “And here,” I said, my hand resting on the intricate woodwork, “is the library.”

The chandeliers above bathed us in a soft yellow glow, casting warmth across the moment. As I pushed open the massive oak doors, they swung silently inward to reveal a grand library that felt both regal and inviting. Shelves of polished wood soared to the ceiling, filled with centuries-old volumes and pristine new releases alike.

Between the towering bookcases, sleek reading tables with cleverly embedded lights and charging ports lent a contemporary air. Rich velvet sofas in jewel tones formed cozy nooks by the windows, while discreet speakers piped in gentle classical music, blending tradition and innovation. The faint scent of leather and paper mingled with the subtle whir of climate control, crafting an atmosphere that was undeniably royal, as well as distinctly modern.

We made our way over to the first table, its polished surface gleaming under the soft glow of the chandeliers. With a quiet sense of purpose, we each drew out our schoolwork, placing books, writing tools, and papers in front of us. As we sank into the upholstered leather chairs, the gentle creak echoed through the vast library, adding to the hushed atmosphere.

Opening our books to the pages we needed for our assignments, we immersed ourselves in the rhythm of study. The space around us seemed to encourage focus and concentration, making it easy to lose ourselves in the tasks at hand.