Night fell heavy over the valley, shadows stretching across the stone walls. My mark pulsed faintly under my skin. I felt it before I saw him—Kaiden.
Lucien's eyes flicked to the forest line. "He's close. Not alone, but he wants you."
My chest tightened. Wanting me? Or controlling me?
"Kaiden…" I whispered. The name carried fear, memory, and something I didn't expect—a spark of longing.
"Focus," Lucien said sharply. "He's testing you."
Suddenly, a wolf stepped into the clearing. Not a rogue. Not Lucien's pack. Kaiden. Broad shoulders, cold gray eyes scanning, calculating.
"You're stronger than I thought," he said quietly. His voice didn't accuse; it measured, gauged, weighed.
I swallowed, feeling my mark pulse faster. "I'm not yours," I said.
His gaze lingered. "You could be. Stronger than any Omega I've ever… handled."
I flinched. Hand trembling, I looked to Lucien. He only nodded—control, Selene, control.
Kaiden's wolf stirred beneath his skin, tension coiling like a spring. I felt it, sensed it, and realized: he wasn't just here for me. He was here to reclaim what he believed was his.
I clenched my fists, letting the energy build. "I am not yours. Not now. Not ever."
Kaiden's eyes narrowed, but his lips curved slightly—interest, not anger. "We'll see."