It was a secret. Of sorts. But Chrystal knew. She had to. She had smelled Klaric on Darius numerous times. She had smelled others on her Noble Alpha, from time to time, but Klaric’s scent was always the strongest.
It was not from hunting, or fighting, or practicing, though those things did leave traces. It was from skin, sweat, and heat; from a different kind of engagement. The kind reserved for mates. But Darius was her mate. Hers. No matter what or whomever he played with. He was her prince, her Alpha-to-be.
Within Darius’ circle, his band of warriors, Klaric number one, in every way that counted. But more than that, he was Darius’ favorite person in the world, as far as Chrystal knew. More precious than her father, whom Darius worshiped, and more precious than her, his bride-to-be, wh
