38.

The morning sun filtered through the large windows of Alex’s royal chamber, casting a warm glow on the intricately designed walls and ceilings. The room itself was a blend of alien architecture and luxury, everything from the silken curtains to the soft rug beneath their feet bespoke royalty.

Aeryn slowly stirred from sleep, her mind still heavy with the events of the past days. She was beginning to adjust to this strange new world, though everything about it still felt surreal. As she turned, she saw Alex sitting on the edge of the bed, already awake and dressed in simple but elegant attire, his back turned toward her.

Alex, feeling her gaze on him, turned around, his eyes soft as they met hers. "Good morning," he said in his low, smooth voice. He leaned down, his fingers gently brushing her hair away from her face. "How are you feeling today?"

Aeryn sat up slowly, her body still recovering from the ordeal of the past few days. "I feel better," she said softly, offering him a small smile. She was grateful for his tenderness. Even though they had been thrown into this situation, he had been nothing but patient and protective.

Alex’s eyes flickered with relief, and he stood, offering his hand to help her out of bed. "Come, we’ll have breakfast together before the day begins. We have much to do, but first, you need to regain your strength."

Aeryn took his hand, allowing him to guide her. As she stood, she glanced down at the dress she had been wearing since yesterday—an elegant alien garment that felt foreign on her skin. It was beautiful but strange, much like everything about this place. Yet, despite her initial discomfort, she was starting to adjust, starting to find some semblance of normalcy here.

Alex led her to a side chamber where a breakfast table had been laid out. The table was filled with delicacies from his planet—brightly colored fruits, pastries with intricate designs, and beverages that shimmered in the light. Aeryn had never seen anything like it, but the scent was inviting, and her stomach growled softly, reminding her that she hadn’t eaten properly in days.

As they sat down, Alex poured her a glass of a pale, glowing drink. "It’s sweet," he said, noticing her curiosity. "Made from the nectar of our planet’s rarest flowers. I think you’ll like it."

Aeryn took a tentative sip, her eyes widening at the taste. It was sweet but light, with a hint of something floral. "It’s wonderful," she said, her smile widening slightly.

They ate in silence for a few minutes, the atmosphere between them warm and comfortable. Every now and then, Alex would reach across the table to hand her something, their fingers brushing as he did. Each small touch sent a shiver down her spine, a reminder of the strange connection she was beginning to feel toward him.

Alex watched her quietly, his intense gaze softened by the affection he seemed to hold for her. He was aware that Aeryn still felt out of place in his world, but there was something about her that drew him in, something that made him protective in a way he hadn’t expected. She wasn’t just a human to him—she was different, and the bond they were forming was undeniable.

"Once we’re done here, I’ll take you to the council chambers," Alex said, breaking the comfortable silence. "There are a few formalities we need to address, but nothing too demanding for you today. I’ll handle most of it."

Aeryn nodded, feeling a bit relieved. She wasn’t ready to face the full responsibilities of being in this alien world yet, but knowing Alex was beside her gave her some measure of comfort.

They continued eating, and Alex occasionally glanced at her, as if ensuring she was eating enough. Every so often, he would catch her eye, and they would share a brief moment of silent understanding, a look that said more than words ever could. Despite the confusion, the danger, and the uncertainty, there was something growing between them.

---

Meanwhile, in a different wing of the palace, Arin’s fury was palpable. She stormed into her chambers, her fists clenched and her heart pounding with anger. The sight of Alex with that human girl—*that human*—had been too much for her to bear.

She had always been fiercely protective of Alex, not just because he was her cousin but because she believed he deserved better. He was the king, the ruler of their people, destined for greatness. And yet, here he was, tied to a mere human—a fragile, insignificant creature who didn’t belong in their world.

With a snarl of frustration, Arin picked up a delicate, ancient vase from one of her shelves and hurled it across the room. It shattered against the wall, pieces scattering across the floor like the fragments of her composure.

She didn’t stop there. Her anger spiraled out of control as she grabbed more items—an antique mirror, a fragile sculpture, an ornate lamp—and smashed them against the walls. Each crash echoed her frustration, her disbelief that Alex could have made such a foolish decision.

"He’s a king," she muttered to herself, pacing back and forth. "He’s supposed to be with someone worthy of him, someone who can stand by his side and rule. Not... not a human!"

Her mind raced as she tried to make sense of it all. She couldn’t understand why Alex had chosen Aeryn. What could he possibly see in her? Was it some sort of infatuation? A fleeting fancy? Arin hoped it was temporary, but the way Alex had spoken about Aeryn earlier—the possessiveness in his tone—made her worry that it was something more.

With a frustrated growl, Arin collapsed onto her bed, burying her face in her hands. She had fought in countless wars, led armies, and earned the respect of her people. She had always believed that Alex and she were on the same path—that they would rule together, side by side. But now, everything had changed. He was slipping away, choosing someone else over the bond they had shared.

"I won’t let her take him from me," Arin whispered, her eyes blazing with determination. "I won’t let a human ruin everything."

---

Back in the dining chamber, Alex had finished his meal and was now leaning back in his chair, watching Aeryn with quiet amusement. She had taken a liking to one of the alien fruits on the table, and though she was trying to eat it delicately, a small bit of juice had dripped onto her chin. Without thinking, Alex reached across the table, gently wiping it away with his thumb.

Aeryn’s cheeks flushed at the intimate gesture, and she quickly looked away, embarrassed by the growing feelings she couldn’t quite control.

"Are you feeling more comfortable?" Alex asked softly, his voice low and filled with genuine concern.

Aeryn hesitated for a moment before nodding. "It’s... different," she admitted. "But you’ve made it easier. I don’t feel so... lost."

Alex’s expression softened further, and he leaned forward, his gaze locking onto hers. "You’re not lost, Aeryn. You’re exactly where you’re meant to be."

The sincerity in his voice sent a shiver down her spine, and for a moment, Aeryn wondered if he truly believed that—or if he was just trying to make her feel better. Either way, the effect was the same. She felt a warmth spread through her chest, a growing sense of connection to this alien king who had risked everything for her.

They finished breakfast in companionable silence, and as they rose from the table, Alex took her hand in his, leading her toward the council chambers where their duties awaited. Aeryn knew there was still much to face—much she didn’t understand—but with Alex by her side, she felt a little less afraid.