The Crown's Seduction

Chapter 488: Two Broken Souls

Niran blinked against the harsh sunlight streaming into her room, her vision slowly adjusting as she realized where she was. Her bedroom. Her familiar, quiet sanctuary. And yet, the sight of it filled her chest with an aching hollowness.

She shifted slightly on the bed, her body heavy with lingering exhaustion. As her hand instinctively touched the mark at the junction of her neck and shoulder, she flinched. The skin there still throbbed faintly, a constant reminder of the Coupling Rite and Raul's bite… his claim.

Her fingers trembled as they brushed against it. It was warm to the touch, as though his presence lingered even in this mark. A wave of emotions surged through her… confusion, regret, and the overwhelming sting of loneliness.

Tears welled in her eyes as she sat up slowly, her gaze wandering around the room. She remembered his arms carrying her, cradling her like she was precious. The memory was vivid, and it brought an odd mix of comfort and pain.

He hadn't stayed.

The emptiness of the room mirrored the hollow ache in her chest. She had hoped, foolishly, perhaps, that she would wake to find him nearby. But instead, she was alone, left to grapple with the turmoil of her heart.