The Alpha’s Rebellious Fiancee novel Chapter 16

Lucien’s POV

After the girl left, swaying her hips like she owned the damn courtyard, I turned to Seraphina. She stood a few feet away, arms crossed, eyes blazing with fury. But me? I didn’t even flinch.

“We’re not in love,” I said, voice cold and sharp. “This is arranged. I never promised you loyalty.”

She clenched her jaw, but I kept going.

Why is Seraphina always in the way? I thought bitterly. She’s not even trying. It’s not like she gives me anything.

“Don’t act shocked,” I muttered under my breath. “You knew what this was.”

Her lips parted, but not with shock. With pure rage. “You didn’t have to,” she snapped. “But at least pretend to respect me in front of the pack.”

Her voice cracked at the end, but she didn’t let it show. I raised an eyebrow, cold as ice. “Don’t tell me how to behave.”

She took a step closer, fists clenched. “Then don’t treat me like dirt in public and expect me to smile in private.”

I scoffed. “Just play your role and stay out of my business.”

And just like that, she stormed off. Head high, shoulders stiff, silver braid swinging behind her.

I stood there for a moment, staring after her.

Was I wrong?

Maybe.

But I wasn’t about to admit it.

***

That night, I came back late from patrol, sweat clinging to my shirt, my head pounding. The moment I stepped into our room, I knew something was off.

It was quiet—too quiet. No flicker of candlelight. No rustle of blankets. Just emptiness.

She wasn’t there.

But her scent was—wildflowers, leather, and something sharper underneath. It lingered in the air like she had just left.

I frowned, kicked off my boots, and checked the bathroom.

Nothing. “Seraphina?” I called. No answer.

I stepped into the hallway. No guards had seen her leave. No servants had passed her in the halls. That’s when it hit me.

The woods.

***

I followed her scent past the training grounds and through the thick trees. The moon hung high, casting silver light across the forest floor. Leaves crunched beneath my boots as I moved quietly between the shadows.

Then I heard it.

Thud.

Thwip.

Thud.

I slowed, staying just out of sight.