Marked by the Alpha’s son

Closer threats

Stephanie read the new note with shaking hands. The words felt like a cold blade against her skin. The outcast’s blood will pay for the devil’s crimes. We are coming for her. Soon. She folded the paper and gave it back to Darien. Her heart beat fast, but she tried to stay calm.

Darien’s silver eyes burned with anger. He pulled her close, his strong arms wrapping around her like a shield. “They’re trying to scare you. It won’t work. I’m here.”

Damien and Alpha Thorne arrived quickly after the guard’s report. They talked in low voices about extra patrols and strengthening the walls. Stephanie listened quietly, but her mind kept returning to the note. The rogues knew about her past. They were using it against her.

After the meeting, Darien took her back to their suite. The room felt safe, but the threat still hung in the air. He sat on the edge of the bed and pulled her onto his lap. His big hands rubbed her back gently.

“You don’t have to be strong every second,” he said softly. “It’s okay to be scared.”

Stephanie leaned into him. “I am scared. But I don’t want to be the weak one anymore. I want to stand beside you.”

Darien kissed her temple. “You already are.” He tilted her chin up and kissed her lips. The kiss started soft but quickly grew deeper. The bond flared hot between them. Stephanie kissed him back, her hands sliding over his broad shoulders.

The middle of the chapter brought them closer. Darien laid her down on the bed with care. He undressed her slowly, kissing every inch of skin he revealed. “You’re so beautiful,” he murmured against her stomach. “My strong, perfect mate.”

Stephanie helped him remove his clothes, running her hands over his muscled chest and the scars that told his story. He was hard and ready for her. Darien took his time, using his mouth and fingers to bring her pleasure first. He worshipped her body completely, making her moan his name until she trembled beneath him.

When he finally entered her, it was slow and deep. Their bodies moved together in a rhythm full of need and comfort. Darien held her close, whispering how much he treasured her, how he would protect her always. The bond glowed warmly as they reached their peak together, crying out in shared pleasure. Afterward, he held her tightly against his chest, stroking her hair while they caught their breath.

“You make me feel safe,” Stephanie whispered.

“You are safe,” he replied, kissing her forehead. “I will always come back to you.”

They rested for a short while, wrapped in each other. The intimacy helped push some of the fear away. But reality returned too soon. A knock on the door reminded them of the outside world.

Damien’s voice came through. “Darien, Father wants us in the hall. The scouts have new information about the rogues.”

Darien sighed but got up. He helped Stephanie dress, his touches still gentle. They joined the family downstairs. Alpha Thorne looked serious as he spread a map on the big table.

“The rogues have a camp not far from the southern border,” he said. “They’re small but organized. We need to strike before they grow stronger.”

Darien studied the map. “I’ll lead a group tomorrow. We can’t wait for them to come here again.”

Stephanie stood beside him. “What if I go with a small group to Silverfang? I could help with the healers and show them we’re united.”

Darien looked at her with pride, but worry crossed his face. “It’s dangerous right now.”

“I won’t go alone,” she said. “And I need to do something. Hiding won’t stop them from targeting me.”

Luna Elara supported her. “She has a point. Showing strength together could help.”

After more discussion, they agreed on a plan. Stephanie would go with a protected group to Silverfang the day after tomorrow, while Darien handled the rogue camp. The decision made her feel useful, but it also brought new nerves.

That night, they returned to their suite. Darien held her close again. “I don’t like the idea of you going out there, but I’m proud of you for wanting to help. You’re becoming the Luna this pack needs.”

They fell asleep tangled together. The bond felt stronger after their earlier intimacy. Stephanie slept better knowing he was beside her.

But early the next morning, loud howls woke the entire mansion. Guards shouted from the walls. Another attack was happening — this time on the eastern side, closer than ever.

Darien jumped out of bed and dressed fast. “Stay inside with Damien. I’ll handle this.”

Stephanie watched from the window as he shifted into his massive black wolf and ran toward the fighting. The sounds of battle echoed through the trees. She touched her mark and whispered, “Come back safe.”

The rogues were pushing harder. And they seemed focused on breaking the new bond between her and Darien.