My fingers tug at his shirt, the fabric tearing under my grip, and I feel Eric’s hands on my shoulders, his lips moving lower, trailing fire across my skin. It’s raw, consuming, the kind of heat that could burn this whole pack house down. 

I want more—more of Rick, more of Eric, more of this bond that makes us whole, even without her.

“What the hell are you guys doing?” a voice snaps, sharp and raw, cutting through the haze.

I freeze, my lips still on Rick’s, my hands gripping his hair. I turn my head, slow and deliberate, and there she is—Lia, standing in the doorway, her eyes wide with shock, her face a storm of fury and something else, something that makes my wolf howl. 

My smirk widens, slow and deliberate, as I meet her gaze, letting her see every bit of the monster she hates.

### Chapter 16: Breaking the Chains 🐺🔥🌙


Rick stands up, his hazel eyes soft but heavy, his voice quiet. "I'm leaving, Lia. Don't do anything stupid ok, if you need anything just let me know."


I nod, my throat tight, watching him walk away, his footsteps echoing as he disappears through the door.


I stand, my heart pounding, and creep to the door, my fingers trembling as I turn the handle.


To my surprise, it's open, the lock undone, like they're daring me to try again.


I laugh to myself trying to wonder how stupid they are thinking locking me up will make me obey them.


I peek out, the hallway empty, shadows flickering in the dim light, no sign of guards or those damn mates.


I chuckle, a bitter sound, wondering how stupid they think I am, believing I'd stay caged like their pet.


I slip out, easing the door closed, my bare feet silent on the cold stone as I move through the hallway.


Chapter 17 - chapter 16