Stefan’s POV
I knelt before my father and my mother in the throne room, listening to them. They were both seated on their throne, the weight of my father’s authority heavy in the air. My mother was beside him, her presence regal but quieter, more restrained. My father’s eyes bore into me, demanding my full attention.
“I am sure that you understand your duty, Stefan. He said, his tone leaving no room for debate.
I nodded, my jaw tight. I understood it, but that didn’t mean I accepted it. The word ‘duty’ felt like a chain around my neck, dragging me down, trapping me in a life I hadn’t chosen. But I wouldn’t argue. Of course, I ‘understood’ my duty to the pack and the entire realm and the next Lycan king after my father.
“Mating with the omega girl is the best thing for every pack in th
