Zaria's body trembled in Leon's arms, her wolf still howling in silent agony from the broken bond. Her breath came in sharp, shallow bursts. The rejection wasn't just emotional, it was spiritual. A burning wound where connection once sparked.
The murmurs around them continued.
A rogue and an Alpha? Absurd.
"Did she cast a spell on him?"
"Leon's going to get dragged into this mess too."
But Zaria wasn't listening. Her eyes stayed locked on Kael. His face was unreadable. Cold. His jaw tight, fists clenched at his sides.He had felt the bond too. She knew it.Why, then? Why reject her?
Leon's grip tightened as he helped her up. Can you walk?
Zaria nodded weakly, although every step felt like shards beneath her skin. Kael turned away without another word. Without even looking back.
---
That Night
Zaria sat alone at the edge of the woods, the moonlight casting shadows across her pale face. Her wolf whimpered inside her, trying to heal, trying to understand.
Her fingers curled into the dirt. I won't cry again. Not for him.A soft rustle broke the silence, Leon,he stepped into view, holding a blanket and a steaming cup of something herbal. I figured you wouldn't want to be around the pack house.I don't belong there, she said flatly, without looking up.
He knelt beside her, offering the cup. You don't belong in pain either.Zaria finally looked at him. Why are you being kind to me? I'm just… a rogue.
Leon's eyes glowed faintly under the moonlight. You're more than that. I don't know what the Goddess was thinking, but she doesn't make mistakes.
Zaria sipped the drink in silence. Then, softly, I still feel it.
Leon's jaw tensed. The bond? She nodded. It's still there. It shouldn't be… but it is. Leon didn't answer immediately. But when he spoke, his voice was low. Then maybe it's not just Kael's bond.
Zaria's head snapped toward him. What?
Leon stood, eyes troubled. Nothing. Just rest, Zaria. You'll need your strength.As he turned to leave, Zaria heard it, a second whisper in her soul. Different from Kael's cold rejection. Warmer… steady. Familiar
Mate.
Her eyes widened.
No. That's impossible.
---
In the Shadows…
The old seer stirred her fire, watching the flames twist into shapes. Two wolves. One girl.
"The curse awakens now," she murmured.
"One will love her.
One will kill her.
Both will claim her."
The wind howled through the trees like a warning.
---
To be continued...