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The first streak of daylight reflects against my eyelids and my eyes slowly flutter open. The first sensation I become aware of is the dull ache in my sex, reminding me of the events from the night before.

My eyes are itchy from the tears, the only thing that had finally softened Alaric's heart to let me cum after taking me twice in succession.

It is difficult to get out of my head the force of pleasure that followed the long awaited climax and I breathe a quiet sigh.

The weight of Alaric's hand over my waist is the second thing I take note of. I expected to wake up to an empty bed, but Alaric's soft breaths against my neck tells me my expectation was wrong.

Turning my head slightly, heat rushes up to my cheeks to find Alaric is completely naked, having kicked off the duvet and his morning wood is visible in all its glory.

It is difficult to fathom how Alaric can still be aroused after the events from the night before, but his deep sleep testifies to the fact that he is also exhausted.

Originally, I guessed I would be unconscious for at least a few days but I am already up at the crack of dawn, even before Alaric.

The sight of Alaric's peaceful face while he slept leaves me gawking, his hair is splayed out on the pillow, and his lips are slightly parted.

His lashes are longer than I had previously noticed, long and full, even more than mine and his skin, though tanned is completely spotless, he is pure manly handsomeness, exuding an untouchable aura even while he sleeps...he is truly one of the moon's favourite children.

And then, my musings are cut off when a quiet murmur sounds from Alaric. It seems to be a quietly whispered word but I do not quite hear it and I lean in closer. 

"Carla..." 

The word is legible this time and I smile mirthlessly, not surprised by Alaric's longing for his mate even after an entire night of intimacy with me.

'They say every one born into this world only ever knows one great love... she must have been yours.' I murmur.

The reality is not difficult for me to accept, I already knew what I was getting into when I chose to walk through these doors. Alaric's heart is not mine to claim and at this time, it is a reality I can live with... and I dearly hoped that did not change.

Slowly and carefully, I detach myself from Alaric, getting off the bed. I quickly pick up my clothing and throw it on before making my way to the door, keeping my steps as silent as I can.

Getting to the door, I glance back, breathing a sigh of relief to find Alaric is still sound asleep. And then I slip out of his quarters and hurry down the hall, making my way to my room before I bump into anyone.

Thankfully, the pack members rarely came to this part of the silver tower, which was why Top gave me residence here.

Once back at my room, I hop in the shower, washing off the smell of sweat and sex that I know clings to my skin. 

I come out feeling refreshed and I quickly grab a change of clothing before heading to the boardroom where I know Top and the rest will be waiting to hear a briefing from me.

Uncomfortable as it is to have to constantly report to Top, I do not have much of a choice.

Arriving at the boardroom, I am greeted by a tense atmosphere. Tech, Tracker, Top and Sera were all present and all eyes turn to me the moment I step in.

The look in their eyes is unsettling and my brows furrow slightly, only then did the news on the screen catch my attention.

"The Wildfire in the woods is one of the many unusual occurrences in the Everdale Shaded woods over the years. On site reports state that there has been no identified source of the fire, nor any indications of natural causes." The anchor began a clipped tone.

"Coming just two weeks after the fire at Nightfall Square which laid waste to the DA's mansion and many others in close proximity, leaving many injured, the people of Everdale wonder if there is a connection between these consequent strange fires and if there is more to the fires than meets the eye." 

"While the police and fire department still investigate both cases for indications of natural causes or any evidence of foul play, wild guesses fly around on social media and an unclear image captured by a child's drone during the wildfire is going viral." The anchor's voice grows distance as an image is projected on the screen.

My heart sinks to the pit of my stomach as I stare at what was clearly me, or my silhouette running through the fire in the woods.

The drone camera was of the poorest quality and with the thick black smoke, the image was barely legible, it was difficult to tell if it was a human or an animal but I know who I am staring at, and everyone else in the room does too.

"Some netizens seem to believe this image shows a person running through the woods while others argue it is an animal. But this viral image now strongly supports suspicions of foul play."

"In a recent interview, the DA assures his full support in identifying the cause of these fires and any relation between both fires." The anchor's image gives way for a clip of the interview and as Mikos's face comes up on the screen, terror roots me in spot.

"This is not the first time Everdale faces a concerning situation. While I hope the fires are nothing but natural mishaps, the law enforcement is committed to investigating the truth behind them and whoever is the cause of these fires... I will go after them, and make them face the full weight of the law." Mikos vows, his tone firm and chilling.

A chill of terror runs down my spine. Many would assume Mikos speaks of the human law, but I know better. The law of Everdale Pack is clear...a life for a life.

"Speculations surrounding the DA statements question if the DA already has an idea that there is a person behind these unusual fires." The anchor pauses, his voice lowering by half a tone for dramatic effect.

"Is it just an animal in that image? Or does Everdale face a serial arsonist on loose?"