The realization made my chest ache. Even now, I felt like a pawn in his game, not a partner. Not an equal.
When the session ended, I lingered longer than the others, not wanting to return to him. But I couldn’t stay forever. Eventually, I made my way back.
His scent was the first thing I noticed.
It wasn’t unpleasant—far from it. But his fresh territory markers radiated power, making my every breath heavy with his Alpha presence.
I froze outside the den, clutching my stomach without even realizing it. My heightened senses left me dizzy, and for a moment, I didn’t think I could enter. But I forced myself forward, one step at a time.
Inside, his presence was stronger. Though he wasn’t in sight, I could sense the agitation of his wolf through our faint bond.
Then I saw it.
My be
