Eleven
A loud crack of thunder jolted me awake. It sounded like it hit right outside my window. My heart raced–I hated thunder. My wolf stirred uneasily, memories flashing back to when I was a kid…N
That stormy night. I’d nearly gotten struck by lightning while trying to shield my little sister in the park. She had broken a vase, and our parents were furious. I took the blame. Got punished for it.N
I was drenched, shivering in the rain, and they didn’t even flinch. Like I deserved every drop for that damn vase. But now? Monica breaks something again, and they just brush it off. That night I thought I was saving her. Turns out, it meant nothing
My chest tightened. I got out of bed, heart still pounding, and went to shut the half–open window. But I froze.
Someone was out there.
A man sitting on the back porch was soaked to the bone. Shivering.N
It was Lucas.
What the hell was he doing here?N
I closed the window and watched him through the glass, waiting for him to leave. He didn’t move. My brows pulled together. My wolf growled low, restless.
Just let him freeze, she muttered. He’s not your problem.N
If he stayed out there any longer, he’d get sick.N
Was he seriously out of his damn mind?N
With an annoyed sigh, I grabbed an extra umbrella. This wasn’t about pity. He could pull whatever pathetic stunt he wanted–just not on my damn property.
The rain was relentless, and even with my long coat, some of it seeped through, dampening my nightdress underneath.M
He looked up as I stepped outside. His eyes lit up–hopeful. Pathetic.N
I scowled. This was no coincidence. He planned this.N
He stood when I got close, and I shoved the umbrella toward him.N
“Here. Take it. And leave.“N
He didn’t even glance at it. Just kept staring at me, like he was trying to read my soul.N
“Take it. And leave,” I repeated, sharper this time.N
“Can we talk, Elira?” he asked in a hoarse, pleading voice.N
I met his gaze. Those eyes I used to adore… breathtaking once. Now? Just another pair.N
“I’m being polite to a stranger,” I said coldly, stressing the last word. His jaw clenched, like he wasn’t ready for that hit.
“Take the damn umbrella and leave. This is private property,” I added, tone casual, like I was addressing any hotel guest. “I can call security to escort you–or the Alpha of this territory. Your choice.“N
My voice held no warmth.!!
ce He Doesn’t Deserve