Two Souls, One Fate.

Chapter Four: Mystery Boy

In The Cafeteria

“Who’s he?"

Tyler and Paige exchanged glances before looking at me. “Who?“

"The New Kid. From geometry class. Who is he?" They turned toward the table where the new guy sat, surrounded by other students I'd never seen before.

"Oh, him? That's Alec Axton,” Paige said, her voice dropping to a casual murmur. "The rest are Khloe Mars, Jake Rivet, and Andrew Lake. They're from Rivershill— a city two states over.“ She popped a fry in her mouth, chewing with an air of nonchalance.

"Didn't they just start school today? How do you know them already?“ Tyler asked in disbelief.

"I know everything about everyone.“

"He's strange,” I muttered, my eyes lingering on him. Paige arched an eyebrow at me. "Strangely cute, you mean,” she teased, giggling.

"Paige, you have a boyfriend," I reminded her, rolling my eyes.

“Doesn't mean I can't appreciate the view," she shot back, smirking. I ignored her.

Studying Alec, I couldn't help but wonder. Why did that wolf growl at him? Was he dangerous?

From where I sat, he didn't look dangerous. But I could sense something was off about him. His wavy black hair brushed the base of his neck. It nearly covered his flawless green eyes. His lips curved in a wide smile as if one of his friends had just said something funny. He seemed... Normal.

“Speaking of other guys," Tyler chimed in, his tone dropping to one of disdain. “Here comes Mr. Cheater boyfriend."

I flinched when I felt an arm wrap around my shoulders. "Hey, babe.“

Tristan, my boyfriend of two years, slid next to me—his cologne— a floral scent that wasn't mine— mixed with a hint of lipstick invaded my nostrils. I frowned, my gaze locking on the pink smudge on his neck.

“Where've you been, Tristan?“ I asked, frowning at him.

"Practicing. Big game next weekend," He replied casually—a practiced lie.

“Of course," I muttered.

As if on cue, Mikayla strutted by. Her hips swayed unnaturally as she tossed a wink in Tristan's direction. Who stared after her, his expression betraying a flicker of interest.

My stomach churned.

“Anything going on between you two?" I asked, my insecurity betraying me.

“No, why do you ask?"

“Because you smiled at her," I replied.

“What? No," He scoffed. “I didn't even notice her."

Before I could press further, he kissed my cheek and got up. “I gotta go, babe. I'll see you after school."

He left before I could respond.

“Just break up with him already," Tyler muttered, glaring at him. “I’m getting sick of him.”

"Seriously, “ Paige agreed. "He doesn't even hide it anymore.“

I sighed, my chest tightening. He hadn't always been like that.

When I glanced back at Alec's table, I froze. He was staring at me. His gaze was neither curious nor friendly. It was... Sharp. Like he had been listening.

I blinked, and just like that, his expression softened into a polite smile. I stood abruptly, mumbling something about needing to leave.

The walk home felt like an eternity. At 6:15, the streets were quiet, the air heavy with an odd stillness. I decided to take a shortcut through the woods, hoping the solitude would clear my head.

The wolf hadn't appeared anymore since geometry class. I wondered why. Was it because of Alec? Was there something it was trying to tell me?

I looked up.

The sky grew dark in Oakswood—The trees loomed tall and gnarled, their branches twisting like skeletal fingers. It was too early for dusk, yet the shadows stretched unnaturally long across the forest floor.

I paused when a distant howl echoed through the trees.

What was that?

My pulse quickened as I scanned my surroundings, but all I saw were trees. Another howl echoed. It sounded closer this time.

Yeah, no. Not today.

I turned back the way I came, only to bump into the new guy.

“What are you doing here?" I said, stepping away from him.

Alec stood before me. His brows raised in quiet amusement.

“I walk here," he said simply, his tone calm, almost detached.

A third howl pierced through the air, making me flinch. Alec's lips curved into a faint smile. “Luna, right?'

I looked at him. Yeah?“ He took out his hand.

"Alec Axton.“ I hesitated before shaking it. His hand felt warm.

"Nice to meet you.“

"I assume you know it's a full moon tonight,” he said, glancing skyward. I followed his gaze. The moon, round and luminous, had already begun to rise.

" So?“ I questioned him.

"It's not safe to be in the woods on a full moon,” he replied, his tone almost teasing.

“Really? And why’s that?"

“Oh, you know, shadows, wild animals, werewolves,” he mused. “A lot can lurk around when the moon’s out.” I laughed.

"What? You don't believe in werewolves, do you?“ I joked.

His smile didn't falter. "Some myths do have their truth.“

A shiver ran down my spine. I cleared my throat, looking away from him.

"Why don't I walk you home?" He offered.

I stopped, getting a good look at him. “But I just met you." He shrugged.

“Then cheers to a new friendship."

I couldn't help but scoff at his casualness. As we walked through the woods, I couldn't shake off the feeling that I was being watched.

At the edge of the forest, I stopped. “Thanks for the escort. But I can take it from here," I said to him.

He stared at me. “No problem," he replied, his voice low.

“Be careful, Luna." I watched him linger before I turned to walk away.