novelxo Chapter The Lycan King’s Secret Child: Prologue
A Moonlit Encounter
Silvercrest Grand Hotel’s ballroom glowed under the cascade of crystal chandeliers, the soft hum of classical music weaving through conversations of the town’s elite. Amelia Hart stepped through the ornate doors, her emerald dress hugging her figure elegantly, her eyes alight with determination.
Amelia: ‘Alright, Amelia, time to find the man of the hour.’
She whispered to herself, clutching her small notebook disguised as a clutch purse. Scanning the room, she noted the clusters of influential guests, but no sign of the reclusive billionaire.
Waiter: ‘Champagne, miss?’
Amelia: ‘Yes, please. Thank you.’
She accepted a flute, taking a small sip as she continued to observe.
Voice Behind Her: ‘Enjoying the gala?’
She turned to face a tall man with sharp features and a friendly smile.
Amelia: ‘It’s quite the event. The organizers have outdone themselves.’
Man: ‘They certainly have. I don’t believe we’ve met. I’m Daniel, Daniel Reid.’
Amelia: ‘Amelia Hart.’
They shook hands briefly.
Daniel: ‘So, what brings you here tonight, Amelia? You don’t seem like the typical gala attendee.’
She raised an eyebrow, amused.
Amelia: ‘And what does a typical attendee look like?’
Daniel: ‘Oh, you know, more interested in flaunting wealth than observing others.’
Amelia: ‘Perhaps I’m just good at people-watching.’
He chuckled.
Daniel: ‘Touché. Let me guess—journalist?’
She tilted her head.
Amelia: ‘Guilty as charged. I’m here covering the event for the Silvercrest Times.’
Daniel: ‘Ah, I hope we won’t be reading any scandalous stories tomorrow.’
Amelia: ‘That depends on what I uncover.’
They both laughed.
Amelia: ‘Actually, I’m hoping to get a glimpse of our mysterious host.’
Daniel: ‘Mr. Drakov? Best of luck. He’s not one for the spotlight.’
Amelia: ‘So I’ve heard. Any idea where he might be hiding?’
Daniel glanced around theatrically.
Daniel: ‘If I were him, I’d be on the balcony. Quieter there.’
Amelia: ‘Thanks for the tip.’
Daniel: ‘Anytime. Enjoy your evening, Amelia.’
He gave a slight bow before merging back into the crowd. Amelia made her way toward the balcony, weaving through guests engaged in lively conversations.
Stepping outside, she was greeted by the cool night air and the sight of the full moon hanging low over the horizon. A solitary figure stood at the railing, his back to her.
Amelia: ‘Mind if I join you?’
The man turned slowly. Alexander ‘Xander’ Drakov’s piercing blue eyes met hers, a hint of surprise flickering across his composed demeanor.
Xander: ‘Not at all.’
She moved to stand beside him, the city lights stretching out before them.
Amelia: ‘It’s beautiful tonight.’
Xander: ‘Indeed it is.’
They stood in comfortable silence for a moment.
Amelia: ‘You throw an impressive gala, Mr. Drakov.’
He glanced at her, a faint smile playing on his lips.
Xander: ‘You have me at a disadvantage.’
Amelia: ‘Amelia Hart. I’m with the Silvercrest Times.’
She extended her hand. He took it gently, his touch cool and firm.
Xander: ‘A pleasure, Miss Hart.’
Amelia: ‘The pleasure is mine. I’ve heard a lot about you.’
Xander: ‘All good things, I hope.’
Amelia: ‘Mostly. Though you are quite the enigma.’
Xander: ‘I value my privacy.’
Amelia: ‘A rare trait these days.’
He looked back out over the city.
Xander: ‘What brings a journalist to my event? Looking for a story?’
Amelia: ‘Isn’t everyone?’
He chuckled softly.
Xander: ‘Fair enough. And what story do you hope to find here?’
Amelia: ‘Perhaps one about a generous philanthropist opening his doors to the community.’
Xander: ‘That sounds rather dull.’
Amelia: ‘Then maybe you can help me spice it up.’
He raised an eyebrow.
Xander: ‘Are you always this forward, Miss Hart?’
Amelia: ‘Only when I’m intrigued.’
Their eyes met, a charged moment passing between them.
Xander: ‘Intrigue can be dangerous.’
Amelia: ‘I like a little danger.’
He smiled more openly.
Xander: ‘In that case, would you care for a tour of the estate?’
Amelia: ‘I’d love one.’
He offered his arm, and she took it. They re-entered the ballroom, moving gracefully through the crowd.
Guest: ‘Mr. Drakov, wonderful event!’
Xander: ‘Thank you. Please, enjoy yourself.’
They continued onward.
Amelia: ‘You seem well-liked.’
Xander: ‘An unavoidable consequence of hosting parties.’
Amelia: ‘And yet, you avoid the spotlight.’
Xander: ‘Perhaps I prefer meaningful conversations over idle chatter.’
Amelia: ‘Then I hope I don’t disappoint.’
Xander: ‘So far, you’re exceeding expectations.’
They reached a set of double doors leading to a quieter wing.
Xander: ‘This is my favorite part of the hotel.’
They entered a grand library, floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with books.
Amelia: ‘This is incredible. Do you read all of these?’
Xander: ‘Many of them. Books are a window to countless worlds.’
Amelia: ‘I couldn’t agree more.’
She ran her fingers along the spines.
Amelia: ‘You have quite the collection.’
Xander: ‘Do you have a favorite genre?’
Amelia: ‘I’m partial to mysteries. The thrill of uncovering secrets.’
He leaned against a shelf, watching her.
Xander: ‘A seeker of truths.’
Amelia: ‘Is that so wrong?’
Xander: ‘Not at all. Though some truths are hidden for a reason.’
Amelia: ‘Now who’s being mysterious?’
He laughed lightly.
Xander: ‘Perhaps we’re both playing the same game.’
Amelia: ‘And what’s that?’
Xander: ‘A dance of curiosity and caution.’
She faced him directly.
Amelia: ‘Then maybe we should stop dancing around and be direct.’
Xander: ‘What would you like to know?’
Amelia: ‘Why does someone as influential as you shy away from public life?’
He considered her question.
Xander: ‘I’ve found that true influence doesn’t require a spotlight.’
Amelia: ‘An interesting philosophy.’
Xander: ‘And what about you? Why journalism?’
Amelia: ‘I’ve always been fascinated by people’s stories. Everyone has one, and they’re all worth telling.’
Xander: ‘Even mine?’
Amelia: ‘Especially yours.’
He walked closer, the space between them shrinking.
Xander: ‘You might not like everything you uncover.’
Amelia: ‘I’m willing to take that risk.’
Their gazes locked, tension thick in the air.
Xander: ‘You’re quite bold, Miss Hart.’
Amelia: ‘Life’s too short to be anything else.’
He reached out, gently brushing a stray hair from her face.
Xander: ‘I admire that.’
Her heart raced at his touch, but she maintained her composure.
Amelia: ‘You know, this would make for a great interview.’
He withdrew his hand, a hint of a smile still on his lips.
Xander: ‘Perhaps another time.’
Amelia: ‘I’ll hold you to that.’
A soft chime echoed through the room.
Xander: ‘It seems the charity auction is about to begin.’
Amelia: ‘Duty calls?’
Xander: ‘Indeed. Would you like to join me?’
Amelia: ‘Lead the way.’
They returned to the main hall, where guests were gathering around the stage. Xander was quickly pulled aside by event organizers.
Organizer: ‘Mr. Drakov, we’re ready when you are.’
Xander: ‘Of course. Give me a moment.’
He turned back to Amelia.
Xander: ‘Will you be staying for the auction?’
Amelia: ‘I wouldn’t miss it.’
Xander: ‘Good. I look forward to seeing you afterward.’
He inclined his head before moving to the stage. Amelia found a spot among the crowd, watching as he took the microphone.
Xander: ‘Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us tonight. Your generosity supports a cause close to all our hearts…’
She listened attentively, noting the sincerity in his words. There was more to him than the aloof billionaire persona.
After the auction concluded, which raised an impressive sum for the charity, guests began to disperse. Amelia searched for Xander but couldn’t spot him.
Sophie, her friend and fellow journalist, approached her.
Sophie: ‘There you are! I’ve been looking all over for you.’
Amelia: ‘Hey, Sophie. Did you enjoy the auction?’
Sophie: ‘It was fantastic! But more importantly, I saw you with Alexander Drakov. Spill!’
Amelia smiled slyly.
Amelia: ‘Just a friendly conversation.’
Sophie: ‘Uh-huh. And I’m the queen of England. Come on, give me something.’
Amelia: ‘Honestly, he’s intriguing. There’s a depth to him that’s… unexpected.’
Sophie: ‘Well, be careful. Rumor has it he’s quite private.’
Amelia: ‘I know. But that’s what makes him interesting.’
Sophie: ‘Just don’t get in over your head.’
Amelia placed a hand on Sophie’s shoulder.
Amelia: ‘I can handle myself.’
Sophie: ‘I know you can. Anyway, I need to run. Deadline looming. See you tomorrow?’
Amelia: ‘Absolutely.’
Sophie hugged her before hurrying off. Amelia decided to take one last stroll through the now quieter ballroom. She felt a presence behind her.
Xander: ‘Leaving so soon?’
She turned to find him standing close, an unreadable expression on his face.
Amelia: ‘I was beginning to think you’d disappeared.’
Xander: ‘I had some matters to attend to. But I didn’t want you to leave without saying goodnight.’
Amelia: ‘That’s very considerate of you.’
He offered her a small velvet box.
Amelia: ‘What’s this?’
Xander: ‘A token of appreciation for your company tonight.’
She opened it to find an elegant silver pen engraved with intricate designs.
Amelia: ‘It’s beautiful, but I can’t accept this.’
Xander: ‘Please. Consider it a tool for uncovering those stories you seek.’
She met his gaze, seeing sincerity there.
Amelia: ‘Thank you. I will cherish it.’
Xander: ‘Good.’
A comfortable silence settled between them.
Amelia: ‘I should go. It’s been a long night.’
Xander: ‘Allow me to escort you.’
Amelia: ‘That’s not necessary.’
Xander: ‘I insist.’
They walked together to the entrance. His car waited outside, a sleek black vehicle that exudes luxury.
Driver: ‘Evening, Mr. Drakov.’
Xander: ‘Joseph, Miss Hart will need a ride home.’
Amelia: ‘Really, that’s too much. I can catch a cab.’
Xander: ‘I wouldn’t feel right letting you leave unaccompanied at this hour.’
She considered protesting but relented.
Amelia: ‘Alright. Thank you.’
He opened the door for her. Before she got in, she turned to him.
Amelia: ‘Will I see you again?’
Xander: ‘I have a feeling our paths will cross.’
Amelia: ‘I look forward to it.’
He nodded, a subtle smile on his lips.
Xander: ‘Goodnight, Amelia.’
Amelia: ‘Goodnight, Xander.’
She settled into the car, and as they pulled away, she watched him grow smaller in the distance.
Inside the car, she traced her fingers over the pen.
Amelia (to herself): ‘What a night.’
Her mind buzzed with thoughts of Xander—their conversations, the magnetic pull she felt toward him. There was a story there, one she was determined to uncover.
Meanwhile, Xander remained at the entrance, watching until the car disappeared from sight. Marcus, his loyal confidant, approached.
Marcus: ‘You seem taken with her.’
Xander: ‘She’s… different.’
Marcus: ‘You know the implications.’
Xander: ‘I’m well aware.’
Marcus: ‘The council won’t approve.’
Xander: ‘The council doesn’t dictate my personal affairs.’
Marcus sighed.
Marcus: ‘Just be cautious. We can’t afford unnecessary risks.’
Xander: ‘I understand. But something tells me she was meant to enter my life.’
Marcus studied him for a moment.
Marcus: ‘Then perhaps it’s fate.’
Xander: ‘Perhaps.’
They stood in silence before Marcus spoke again.
Marcus: ‘The patrols have reported increased activity near the eastern border.’
Xander: ‘Double the watch. I don’t want any surprises.’
Marcus: ‘Consider it done.’
Xander looked up at the moon, its glow casting a silver sheen over the landscape.
Xander: ‘Change is coming, Marcus.’
Marcus: ‘And we’ll face it as we always have.’
Xander nodded, but a sense of anticipation stirred within him—a feeling that his encounter with Amelia was just the beginning of something profound.
—
As the night deepened, two souls pondered the unforeseen connection forged between them under the moon’s watchful gaze, unaware of the destinies that would soon intertwine their lives in ways neither could imagine.