the rejected mate: special awakening

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I woke to the crackle of firewood and the scent of herbs in the air. A soft, warm blanket was draped over me, and the throbbing in my head had dulled to a dull hum.

Lucien sat across from me, sharpening a curved blade with steady, practiced hands. His silver hair caught the flickering firelight, making him look ethereal—otherworldly. For a moment, I wondered if I was still dreaming.

"You're awake," he said without looking up.

I nodded, trying to sit up more comfortably. "Where are we?"

"My sanctuary," he replied. "Deep in the outskirts of the Elderglen Forest. No one can find us here unless I allow it."

"Why are you helping me?" I asked cautiously.

He finally looked up. "Because I once loved someone like you. She, too, was a rare blend. She was hunted, feared, misunderstood. I failed to save her."

His eyes darkened, pain flickering across them for just a second before vanishing.

"I won't fail again."

I swallowed hard, unsure what to say. The silence between us stretched until I finally asked, "What now?"

Lucien stood and crossed the room. He opened a hidden compartment in the wall and pulled out a black leather-bound book. The cover shimmered faintly in the firelight, runes dancing along the edges.

"Now," he said, placing the book in front of me, "we find out what you really are—and how to control the storm inside you."

As he opened the book, a rush of energy rippled through the air. I felt it pulse through my veins like lightning. My wolf stirred, Diaris growled, and deep within me, the witch whispered something ancient—something powerful.

Lucien's voice brought me back to focus.

"You are more than a rejected mate, Felice. You are a threat to every kingdom that built its throne on fear of the unknown. And they will come for you."

"Let them try," I whispered, fire igniting in my chest. "I'm done hiding."

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