章 51: A Game of Questions

(Azaria 'Ziya' Point of View)

I didn't stop running until I reached the maze, my heart pounding in my chest like a drum. I wandered aimlessly, letting my feet guide me through the winding paths as my thoughts spun in circles.

The King—my mate—was at my son's party. The idea was still baffling to me. It wasn't just the fact that the Lycan King was my mate, but that the King was also a woman. That realization alone had sent my mind spiraling, and I needed to clear my head. As I finally reached the open area in the center of the maze, I found a small bench and sat down, trying to make sense of everything.

I hadn't realized I was speaking out loud until I heard a voice behind me. The sound was smooth, with a subtle hint of huskiness, rich like velvet.

"Please, just wait a moment. You know, I was invited to the party. I didn't just stop by…although I could have."