Crowned by Fate Chapter 110

Skye’s POV

"Skye."

We paused at the doorway. Adrian's body tensed beneath my arms as we both turned to face Leon. His cold blue eyes held an almost calculating gleam as he studied us.

"Before you leave," Leon said, his voice emotionless and clinical, "there's one more thing we need to discuss." He gestured toward Dr. Kingsley. "Doctor, would you explain to them the physical implications of our situation?"

Dr. Kingsley cleared his throat uncomfortably. "When werewolves establish a mate bond, their physical and emotional states become intertwined. If one mate engages in... intimate relations with another party, the betrayed mate experiences significant physical pain."

Heat rushed to my face as I realized what Leon was implying. Adrian's arms tightened around me protectively.

"The intensity of this effect diminishes with distance," the doctor continued. "Many miles apart, the connection becomes negligible. However, in close proximity, such as within the same town..." He trailed off, the implication clear.

"You're suggesting that Skye and I abstain from sex during the election," Adrian stated bluntly, his voice tight with controlled anger.

Leon's expression remained impassive. "I'm not suggesting anything. I'm stating a fact. Any sexual activity between you two would cause me considerable discomfort, which would naturally impact my performance in the trials."

I squirmed in Adrian's arms, embarrassment warring with indignation. "You can't seriously think you have any right to dictate my personal life after four years!"

"I'm merely pointing out the reality of our situation," Leon replied smoothly. "Every action has consequences. If you choose to continue your... arrangement with Adrian, I'll be forced to seek similar relief. And I suspect the resulting pain would affect you far more severely than it would me."

His tone was so matter-of-fact, so devoid of emotion, that I wanted to scream. He was discussing our intimate lives as if negotiating a business deal.

Ethan cleared his throat uncomfortably, his face flushed with embarrassment. He stood abruptly and moved toward the door, gently tugging the doctor's sleeve.

"Alpha Leon," my brother said, his voice strained, "I think I'm not suited to participate in this conversation. Skye is my sister."

Leon waved dismissively. "Fine. You're excused."

Before leaving, Ethan pulled out his phone. "Skye, let me get your number. It's been too long since we've talked."

I recited my number as he entered it into his contacts. His expression softened as he met my eyes.

"I know you don't belong to Frostshadow anymore," he said quietly, "but no matter which pack you're part of, you'll always be my sister."

The simple sincerity in his voice brought tears to my eyes. I managed a small nod as he squeezed my hand one last time before slipping out with the doctor.

"So now you're threatening to sleep with other women just to hurt Skye?" Adrian's voice had dropped dangerously low. "That's a new low, even for you."

Leon shrugged, unmoved by Adrian's anger. "Not a threat—simply cause and effect. Besides, it's hardly my fault that our mate bond remains intact. The Moon Goddess works in mysterious ways."

"You sound pretty confident for someone who's about to lose the Alpha King election," I said, finding my voice again. "Are you that worried about your performance that you need to ensure there are no distractions?"

A flicker of annoyance crossed Leon's otherwise stoic features. "I have no doubts about my victory. However, I'd prefer to win on my own merits rather than because my opponent's Beta was incapacitated by mate bond distress."

Adrian took a step toward Leon, his muscles coiled with barely suppressed rage. "You have no right to dictate what happens between me and Skye. None."

"Perhaps not," Leon conceded. "But think about it logically. Your pack is already at a numerical disadvantage. The team trials begin next week. Can you really afford to have your Beta crippled with pain because you couldn't control your urges for a few weeks?"

His words hit home. The second trial would indeed require teamwork, and Oasisborn couldn't afford any weaknesses. I glanced at Adrian, seeing the same realization dawn in his eyes.

"Fine," I said, before Adrian could respond. "One month. No sexual contact between Adrian and me until the election is over."

"Skye—" Adrian began to protest.

"It's just a month," I interrupted, meeting his gaze steadily. "And he's right about one thing—we can't afford any disadvantages during the trials."

Leon nodded, satisfaction evident in his cold smile.

"A wise decision," Leon said. "I'll have a formal agreement drawn up by morning. Nothing complicated—just a promise that both parties will refrain from sexual contact for the duration of the Alpha King election."

"That won't be necessary," Adrian growled. "We don't need your paperwork."

"Oh, but I insist," Leon replied, his smile never reaching his eyes. "Consider it insurance against... forgetfulness."

Without waiting for a response, Adrian turned and carried me from the room, his jaw clenched so tightly I could hear his teeth grinding together.