Chapter 24

*Hazel*

  I removed my clothes and wiped off my makeup. I dismissed Bella and Mira, as it was late and they needed to rest as well. Finally, I slipped off my damp thong, trying to push the memory of the encounter with Orion from my mind. Arousal was still building slowly as I recalled how he had inserted his long finger into me—no man had ever done that before. I promised myself that it would be the last time. If I continued replaying the incident, I would become too horny to sleep.

  I sank into the bathtub, letting the warm water soothe my body, rubbing my smooth skin. The Dark Silver Pack truly treated me well—their care and nutrients had enhanced my skin and body over time, leaving me soft, supple, and glowing.

  After my bath, I laid down on my bed and drifted off to sleep, though my thoughts kept returning to Orion and everything that had happened tonight.

  *Orion*

  I couldn’t sleep all night. I could sense Hazel’s arousal from her quarter, and it was doing no favors for my wolf—or for me. I knew I needed to apologize to her tomorrow; I didn’t want her to be mad at me. Yet, I also craved her in ways I couldn’t suppress. She couldn’t control her own body, and neither could I—we both felt the spark between us. My dick refused to relent. I desperately wanted to fuck Hazel, though I forced myself to block my wolf out, aware that he might otherwise take over and mark her completely.

 I’ve always been a confident and scrupulous Alpha, feared and respected by the pack. Most members probably didn’t recognize me because I live far from the palace. My beta handles much of the pack’s daily work; I only intervene when absolutely necessary. I do this to protect my people, ensuring their safety without revealing my full presence.

  *Hazel*

  I woke up with a throbbing fever and ran a bath to help soothe it. To my surprise, Mira was already there, holding a scrub in her hand. My eyes darted around in search of Bella.

  “She is preparing your breakfast,” Mira answered immediately.

 I chuckled softly. “How did you know I was awake?”

  “My lady has forgotten she’s now part of the pack. We can all sense your presence,” she said, her cute dimple flashing as she smiled. I nodded, understanding her words.

 “Thank you, Mira,” I said, moving closer and taking her hand. “I really mean it—you both can’t understand how lucky I am to have you by my side.”

 She stood timid for a moment, then hugged me tightly, sniffling. “We are lucky to serve someone like you too,” she said, getting emotional.

 The rest of the day passed smoothly—eating, playing games, and exercising in the pack’s fitness center.

  Night fell, and Beta Shane visited as usual, bringing supplements and fruit.

  “Would you like to walk with me? At least for some fresh air,” he asked, wearing his callous smile. It seemed rude to refuse.

  “They’re not coming with you?” I asked, surprised. I wasn’t used to being alone.

  “Worry not, my lady. You are safe,” he added with the same irritating smile.

  We walked around the palace, the cool night breeze brushing against our skin. He told me stories about the palace, his voice calm and casual, though my mind kept wandering. Finally, I asked, “Where does the Alpha’s personal guard stay?”

  “Alpha’s guard?” he asked, pretending not to understand.

  “Orion,” I said, hoping that would jog his memory.

  He laughed lightly. “There he is,” he said, pointing. I froze, shocked, and my heart skipped two beats as I unconsciously moved toward him. There he stood, in a black shirt and grey pants, his presence sending shivers down my spine. The image of last night flooded my mind, embarrassed and blushing at the same time.