Days passed. The forest whispered with danger, yet Selene returned. She told herself it was curiosity, but her heart betrayed her.
Kael was waiting.
"You're reckless," he muttered when she stepped into the moonlight. His tone was stern, yet his amber eyes softened.
"And you're still here," Selene countered.
For a moment, they stood in silence, two enemies who should have been tearing each other apart. Instead, they spoke in hushed tones, testing the edges of something fragile.
They shared stories—Kael of his burdens as Alpha, of protecting a pack that demanded strength without weakness. Selene of her cage-like coven, where every choice was bound by tradition and fear.
For the first time, they found a mirror in one another. Both leaders in chains of expectation. Both yearning for freedom.
The night grew colder, yet neither left. When Selene finally turned away, Kael caught her wrist gently.
"If they discover us—"
"They won't," Selene whispered. But her heart knew the truth. Secrets never stayed buried forever.