Lycan's Prey by Jessica Hall

Chapter 246

Soren

The reception is in full swing, laughter and music filling the air. Candle lit chandeliers sway gently overhead, casting a warm golden glow over the festivities. Aubrey is standing across the room, radiant in her wedding gown, surrounded by people. Her smile brightens the entire hall, and for a brief moment, I allow myself to relax and take it all in.

But only for a moment.

Because even as the celebration continues around me, my attention remains locked on King Alaric. He stands near the edge of the room, surrounded by his entourage guards, his every move watched by my own, his eyes sharp as he scans the crowd. He looks the part of a respected king–dressed impeccably in a dark suit, exuding an air of calm authority. But beneath that polished exterior, I can sense the unease simmering beneath his skin. He’s hiding something, and soon, he’s going to find out that his secrets are no longer safe.

I don’t take my eyes off him. This isn’t just a wedding for me- it’s a trap, and Alaric has walked right into it.

Minutes pass, and then I see it–the subtle change in his demeanor. One of his men approaches, leaning in close to whisper something in his ear. Alaric’s smug expression falters, his brows drawing together in a brief flicker of concern before he schools his features back into neutrality.

He knows.

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Chapter 246

288 Vouchers

Nodding to Damian, I see my men usher Aubrey, my mother and Max out of the ballroom and to the tents outside in the courtyard. This is still Aubrey’s day and nothing will ruin it if I can help it.

I watch as he carefully places his glass down on a nearby table and casually starts to edge toward the exit. He moves with the precision of a man who’s used to slipping away unnoticed, but not this time. Not here. Not on my watch.

I step forward, my voice cutting through the noise of the reception like a blade. “Going somewhere, Alaric?”

all eyes turning toward us. Aubrey’s gaze snaps to mine as she is ushered

“Soren, it’s late. My guard is nervous for the trip home, not that

my voice cold. “And now, while

let attend start snapping shots for the papers, no doubt this will splashed over every single one by morning. And the council

for a split

Chapter 246

288 Vouchers

hands curling into fists at his sides. “You’re making a

remains calm, but my aura pulses out, heavy and commanding. “Clyde’s testimony, Bianca’s confession, and the evidence we seized from your shipments. It’s over, Alaric. You’ve lost.

chandelier’s light as he glares at Magnus. “You think you can corner me like some common criminal?” he growls before turning his attention back to me. “I built my empire while you were still learning how to walk, boy.”

watching it crumble,”

an old vampire, his strikes precise. He grabs one of my guards who advances toward him, throwing him across the room like he weighs nothing. Tables are upended, glasses shattering on the marble

lives. He nods, immediately stepping in to direct the guards toward the panicked crowd while the rest

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I knew Alaric wouldn’t go down without a

Alaric. He’s fast, but I’m faster. I shift into my lycan form mid–leap, my muscles

I dodge his strike, swiping at him with my claws. He hisses in

a man who’s used to winning, but he’s

sends him crashing into a nearby pillar. The stone cracks under the impact, dust and debris raining down

pure hatred. With one final surge of power, I leap forward, sinking my claws deep into his chest. He gasps, his eyes widening in shock as I lift him off the ground. For a moment, everything goes still. The sounds of the reception fade into the background, and all I can hear is

with a swift motion, I rip his