Flames in the Night

The skies were clear that night, the air cool and tinged with the woody scent of pine.

A soft wind whispered through the trees surrounding the college's vast open field, now transformed into the legendary "Midnight Bonfire"—an annual tradition everyone had been talking about for weeks.

This was the first time Lily would be attending the famed bonfire, and she had no idea what to expect.

Beautiful lights were strung from tree to tree, giving the clearing a magical glow.

The central bonfire had already been lit, and the towering stacks of logs stood in a precise formation that ensured the fire won't go out anytime soon.

Students were already gathering, music pumping softly in the background, drinks being passed, laughter echoing through the night.

Maya arrived first, her long dark braids bouncing as she walked confidently beside Graham, her mate.

Graham, tall and broad-shouldered, wore a smug grin and a leather jacket slung over one shoulder.

They looked every inch the power couple—strong, united, and utterly in love.

"Okay, okay, this place is gorgeous!" Maya said as she turned around, arms wide. "I swear this year's bonfire better live up to the hype. I’ve been hearing about it since orientation."

Graham chuckled.

"It’s not bad. But it’s only perfect now that you’re here."

Maya rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide her smile.

She gave him a quick kiss.

"Cheesy but cute. I’ll allow it."

Just then, a soft rustle of footsteps drew their attention.

Lily walked in, a beauty in a fitted dark red dress paired with a black leather jacket.

Her long waves cascaded down her back, and her lips were painted a subtle wine shade.

Walking on either side of her were the Alpha twins—Lucas and Liam. Both dressed in dark, sharp outfits that made them stand out effortlessly.

Liam’s shirt was slightly unbuttoned, his eyes gleaming with pride, while Lucas was more reserved, his eyes scanning the crowd with alertness.

"There you are!" Maya called out, practically jogging up to hug Lily. "You look like a goddess. Seriously, I feel underdressed."

"You look amazing," Lily said, returning the hug. "And this place? Wow. It’s even more magical than I imagined."

Graham gave the twins a friendly nod.

"Alphas."

"Graham," Lucas acknowledged. Liam added, "Ready to set this place on fire?"

They all laughed and formed a little circle, excitement building.

"So this is your first bonfire, huh?" Graham asked Lily.

"Yep," she replied. "First real party since coming here. I’m glad I get to share it with you guys."

Maya grinned.

"Well, we’re going to make sure it’s a night you’ll never forget. Tonight is all about having fun, dancing, and maybe embarrassing ourselves a little."

Lily giggled.

"I could use some fun."

As the group continued to chat and joke, the sound of approaching heels made everyone glance toward the edge of the clearing.

Lena had arrived.

She wore a dark green silk dress that shimmered under the lights, her silky hair cascading in waves over her shoulders.

Her expression was soft and pleasant, though the glint in her eyes hinted at something less genuine.

Her gaze locked immediately onto the group—and specifically Lily with the Alpha twins.

"Lily!" Lena called out cheerfully, walking over with a bright smile. "You look stunning tonight."

Lily turned and beamed.

"Lena! Oh my god, you came! I was hoping you would."

Lucas and Liam stiffened slightly, but they said nothing.

Lily, too excited to notice the slight tension, quickly turned to the others.

"Guys, this is Lena—the girl I told you about. She’s the one who saved me when Ethan nearly ran me over."

Graham’s expression lit up with recognition.

"Ah, yes. Thank you for that. Seriously."

Lucas nodded.

"We remember. That was incredibly brave of you."

Lena gave a modest smile.

"It was nothing, really. Anyone would have done the same. I’m just glad she’s okay."

Liam’s eyes lingered on Lena a bit too long, narrowed and curious.

There was something in the way she smiled—too practiced, too perfect.

Still, he said nothing.

"Are you here with anyone?" Maya asked, politely.

"Oh no," Lena replied. "Just here to enjoy the night. Hopefully meet some new people."

"Well, stick with us," Lily offered warmly. "We’re going to have the best night."

Before anyone could respond, a new presence entered the clearing.

Ethan.

He strolled in casually, hands in his pockets, his cocky smirk firmly in place.

The moment his eyes landed on Lily, his gaze darkened with interest. And then he winked.

Lily visibly tensed.

Lucas’s jaw clenched.

Liam’s eyes turned cold.

"That son of a—" Liam began, but Lily quickly placed a hand on his arm.

"No," she said firmly. "Not tonight. Please. Let’s just have a good time."

Lucas growled under his breath.

"He winked at you, Lily. He has no shame."

Graham stepped closer, clearly ready to join in if fists started flying.

"Do you want me to escort him out? I can make it happen."

Maya, now standing between the boys and the potential chaos, raised her hands.

"Okay, let’s not turn this bonfire into a battle zone. He’s not worth it."

Lena stayed suspiciously silent.

Lucas and Liam continued to glare at Ethan from across the field.

"He’s just trying to get a reaction," Lily said gently. "Don’t give him the satisfaction."

Lucas looked down at her, visibly trying to calm himself.

"Alright. But if he tries anything, anything at all..."

"We’ll deal with it," Lily promised. "Together."

She stepped in, hugging both of them tightly.

Her kiss on Lucas's cheek softened the hard set of his jaw. Another one for Liam and his shoulders relaxed.

"Now," she said, eyes bright. "Let’s make this a night to remember."

Lena smiled, watching from the side as the trio seemed lost in each other’s energy.

As music picked up and laughter filled the night, Lily looked at the sky, stars twinkling above them.

Something about the evening felt too perfect. A twinge of unease prickled at the back of her mind.

She hoped—desperately—that nothing would go wrong.

But deep down, she had a strange feeling that the night was just getting started.