Chapter 2
765 Words
CHAPTER TWO: Snowbound with the Alpha
Aria woke to warmth.
That was the first thing she noticed, and the strangest. Her body felt cocooned, wrapped in something soft and comforting, a sharp contrast to the frozen terror she remembered from the night before.
The second thing she noticed was the scent.
Pine. Smoke. And something deeper, earthy, masculine, intoxicating.
Her eyes snapped open.
She was lying on a large bed, thick fur blankets pulled up to her chin. A fire crackled nearby, casting golden light across wooden walls carved with intricate symbols. Snow drifted past a wide window, piling high against the glass.
This was not her apartment.
Her heart pounded as she sat up, clutching the blanket tighter around herself.
Memories rushed back: the forest, the wolf, the impossible man with silver eyes who had looked at her like she was something sacred.
Because you’re mine.
A shiver slid down her spine.
The door creaked open.
He stepped inside quietly, as if afraid to startle her. He was fully dressed now, dark jeans, a fitted sweater that stretched across broad shoulders. His presence filled the room instantly, the air seeming to bend toward him.
You’re awake, he said gently.
Aria’s gaze flicked to the door behind him. Where am I?
My home, he replied. You were hypothermic. I couldn’t leave you in the forest.
Her jaw tightened. You didn’t think of taking me to a hospital?
I didn’t think they’d understand why the moon reacted to you.
Her breath hitched. Stop saying things like that.
Kael studied her carefully, as though gauging how much truth she could bear. You’re safe here, Aria. The storm is worsening. Roads are closed.
As if summoned by his words, the wind howled outside, rattling the windows. Snow fell thick and relentlessly, burying the world beyond the lodge.
Trapped.
Her chest tightened at the thought.
I’ll leave as soon as I can, she said, though the words felt hollow.
I know, he replied. I won’t stop you.
That surprised her.
You Won’t? She asked.
His silver eyes softened. A mate bond can’t be forced. Even by an Alpha.
Mate.
The word stirred something low and unfamiliar inside her, a warmth she didn’t want to acknowledge.
She swung her legs over the side of the bed, wincing slightly. Kael moved instantly, steadying her with a hand at her elbow. The contact sent a jolt through her body, heat racing beneath her skin.
She pulled back, startled.
He did too.
I’m sorry, he murmured. I forgot how sensitive the bond feels to humans.
There is no bond, she snapped. I don’t believe in destiny or magic or wolves.
And yet, he said quietly, you felt it.
Silence stretched between them.
Her stomach growled traitorously.
Kael’s lips twitched. Come. You need to eat.
The lodge’s main hall was massive, with high ceilings, exposed beams, a towering Christmas tree decorated with silver ornaments and glowing lights. A long table sat near the hearth, laid with food that smelled so good her eyes stung.
You celebrate Christmas? she asked again, more softly this time.
We honor the turning of seasons, Kael replied. “Winter marks endings and beginnings.
She took a cautious bite of the stew he offered. Warmth spread through her chest, grounding her.
Other people drifted in and out, men and women with sharp gazes and quiet strength. They looked at her with curiosity, respect… and something else.
Reverence.
Why are they staring? She whispered.
Because, Kael said evenly, the Moon has never chosen a human mate for a Guardian Alpha.
Her spoon clattered against the bowl.
Guardian? She echoed.
Kael’s jaw tightened. I protect the Moon Boundary, the line between our world and yours. During the holidays, the veil thins. That’s when fate intervenes.
Aria pushed back from the table. I didn’t ask for this.
I know, he said. Neither did I.
His honesty disarmed her more than anger would have.
That night, she stood by the window, watching snow blanket the forest. Kael joined her, careful to keep a distance.
You might hate me, he said quietly. But the bond will grow stronger.
She wrapped her arms around herself. What if I don’t want it?
His voice dropped. Then I’ll suffer in silence. But I won’t lie to you.
She turned to face him, emotions tangled and raw. Why me?
His gaze softened, almost reverent. Because you’re stronger than you know. Because the moon recognizes broken things and heals them.
Outside, the moon glowed brighter, pulsing once, as if listening.
And deep inside Aria, something ancient stirred… answering the call.
- Writer
