The Secret Heirs of the Lycan King (by Misha K) novel Chapter 1

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**When Midnight Winds Carry Secrets Toward Worlds Yet Unknown**

**Chapter 1**

Three days before the wedding, I found myself at the boutique, eager to try on my gown. The moment I laid eyes on it, my heart raced. It was a stunning white dress, intricately designed, adorned with delicate lace that cascaded down the skirt like a gentle waterfall. As the seamstress meticulously pinned the sides and adjusted the length, I couldn’t help but gaze into the mirror, my excitement bubbling over. I envisioned Craig’s face lighting up when he saw me in this beautiful creation. There was an unspoken bond between us, one that thrived on sharing every little detail of our lives.

Lucy, my stepmother, stood nearby, her gaze sweeping over me with a thin smile gracing her lips. “You look good, Bella,” she remarked softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Thanks, Mom!” I replied, my enthusiasm spilling over. “Can I show this to Craig?”

She shook her head firmly, her expression shifting to one of resolve. “No, we have to follow the rules. It’s considered bad luck for the bride and groom to see each other so close to the wedding.”

“Please, Mom,” I whined, desperation creeping into my voice. “I won’t show it on me. Just the dress in the box. He’ll be so happy. It’s only bad luck to meet the day before,” I added, trying to reason with her. “Not three days before.”

“It’s still bad,” she insisted, her tone leaving little room for negotiation. “You’ll see him at the rehearsal dinner tomorrow, and that’s it!”

I didn’t want to push my luck; Lucy could be quite stubborn when she set her mind to something. With a resigned sigh, I nodded. “Okay…”

Yet, despite the disappointment, a thrill coursed through me, like bubbles fizzing in my chest. After the fitting, I clutched the garment bag tightly, envisioning Craig’s radiant smile. I told myself that I would be quick. Just a fleeting moment to show him the dress, still safely tucked in its protective bag, and then I would return without Lucy ever knowing.

I had fallen for Craig during my sophomore year in college. He was a senior, and on a rainy day, he had gallantly helped me carry my books, walking me to the parking lot beneath his umbrella. Our friendship blossomed into late-night texts and coffee dates, where he would inquire about my classes, remembering the smallest details. I found myself drawn to him, and as time passed, love crept in, warm and undeniable.

After graduation, our relationship deepened. We introduced each other to our families, navigating the worlds of my father, Jared Williams, who ran a prestigious fashion house, with its glamorous events and runway shows. Craig was by my side, smiling for photographs, holding my hand as if he belonged there. He was the only child of parents who owned two luxurious hotels, a world apart from mine, yet we fit together seamlessly.