Chapter 294

A FEW MONTHS LATER

The warm breeze brushed against my skin as I made my way through the palace gardens, the vibrant colors of the flowers blooming all around me.

Even though Alex had called the royal gardens overrated, it was my favorite place here.

I always found myself walking through the rows and bushes of flowers.

It had been a few months since the tumultuous events that had changed the course of our lives, and yet, the memories still felt fresh in my mind.

Despite not moving into the palace, I found myself spending more and more time there, drawn by the sense of duty and responsibility that now rested on my shoulders.

As King Alexander's right hand, along with Liam, I had taken on a new role within the kingdom, providing support and guidance to the young monarch as he navigated the challenges of ruling a kingdom.

The transition hadn't been easy, but together, we had managed to weather the storm, leaning on each other for support as we forged ahead.

As White Wolf, I commanded a level of authority and respect from others, and it was a responsibility I didn't take lightly.

It felt right being in the palace with Alexander during the day. This is where my duties belonged. I was meant to be here to help him, and help myself.

I was able to offer a lot to our kingdom with the skills and strength that I had. I never would've imagined that I would be best friends with the Alpha King, but here I was.

Graduation had come and gone, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as I watched Lucas embark on the next chapter of his journey at Hawking University.

His passion for hockey had led him to pursue his dreams, and I knew that he would excel in whatever path he chose to follow.

Although I spent half of my time at the Ethereal Palace, the other half I was back home with Lucas.

We had moved out of Grandma Jo's and got our own place with some of the money we had saved up. It was close to campus for Lucas, but also far away enough from the city so that we could have our own privacy.

It was just the right size for the two of us, a sanctuary where we could unwind and recharge after a long day.

While Lucas was at school, pursuing his dreams, I served as a trusted advisor to King Alexander, lending my support wherever it was needed.

The days were busy and filled with challenges, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

"It's a beautiful day, isn't it?" Alexander remarked, breaking me out of my thoughts. I stopped beneath a blooming cherry blossom tree.

I nodded, a soft smile playing on my lips.

"It truly is," I replied, my gaze drifting over the vibrant colors of the flowers in full bloom. "It's moments like these that remind me why I'm here."

Alexander glanced at me, his eyes shining with appreciation.

"Well, I'm glad someone is taking advantage of these gardens. The flowers bloom more when you visit them."

"That's because you always talk down on them when you come out here."

"Not true!" Alexander laughed. "I just think they're..."

"They're beautiful," I stopped him before he could say anything to ruin the moment. "You should be lucky to live in a place like this."

"You're right. I'm very lucky," he said sincerely, showing my shoulder playfully. "You know, I've been meaning to say this, but you've been a tremendous help, Shana. I don't know what I would do without you by my side."

I felt a swell of warmth in my chest at his words, as a sense of pride swelled within me.

"Thank you, Alex," I replied, my voice filled with emotion. "I'm happy to be here to serve as your right hand, and I'll always be here to support you in any way I can."

Alexander nodded, his expression serious for a moment before he flashed me a playful grin. "And to make sure I'm preserving the gardens," he teased.

I chuckled, rolling my eyes. "Of course, someone's got to keep you in check."

He bumped my shoulder lightly, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "Hey, it's a tough job, but someone's got to do it."

We exchanged a knowing look, the weight of our responsibilities momentarily lightened by the easy banter between us.

Despite the challenges we faced, moments like these reminded me why I was here—to support Alexander and ensure the prosperity of our kingdom.

"And who else would put up with your terrible jokes?" I added with a grin.

Alexander feigned offense, clutching his heart dramatically. "Hey, my jokes are legendary!"

"Legendary for their terribleness, maybe," I teased, unable to contain my laughter.

"Alright, fine, you got me there," he conceded. "But in all seriousness, Shana, I really do appreciate everything you do for me and for the kingdom."

His tone shifted, becoming more serious as he continued. "Especially with your role as White Wolf. You've taken on so much responsibility, and you handle it with grace and strength. I know it hasn't been easy with you going back and forth between here and your place with Lucas."

"It's my choice to be here," I said. "I don't mind it."

Alexander nodded, his expression softening with understanding.

"I know, but I also want to make sure you're not overextending yourself," he replied, his concern evident in his tone. "You have a lot on your plate, Shana, and I don't want you to neglect your own well-being in the process."

I appreciated his concern, grateful for his thoughtfulness.

"I'll make sure to take care of myself, Alex," I assured him, offering a reassuring smile. "But I appreciate your concern. It means a lot to me."

He returned my smile, a glimmer of warmth in his eyes.

"Good," he said, his voice gentle. "Because your well-being is just as important to me as the well-being of our kingdom. Besides, I need you here. Liam drives me insane."

I laughed, shaking my head at him. "Liam's not even that bad, and don't lie. You love messing with him."

Alexander chuckled.

"Alright, maybe I do enjoy getting under his skin a little," he admitted, his grin widening. "But that doesn't mean he doesn't drive me insane at times."

I smirked, knowing all too well the dynamic between Alexander and Liam.

When everything went down with the previous Alpha King, Liam stuck around to help clean up the pieces even though he had considered Alex's father a close friend.

Alexander's mother had left with the King, and now, the only person close to family he had nearby was Liam. They had an interesting relationship for sure, but I knew deep down that Alex loved and respected him which is why he was still around.

"Yeah, Liam's a good guy," I said, acknowledging the complexity of their relationship. "He's been through a lot with you, especially during all the chaos with your father."

Alexander nodded, a somber expression briefly crossing his features.

"Yeah, he has," he replied quietly. "I don't know what I would've done without him by my side during those times. He's been like family to me."

"Well, you've both been through a lot together," I said gently. "It's good to have someone like him who's always had your back."

"Definitely," Alexander agreed. "And I'm grateful to have you here too, Shana. You're my friend, but you're also like the sister I never had."

I smiled, feeling touched by his words.

"Thanks, Alex," I replied sincerely. "I'm glad to be here for you, always."