Chapter 4:

To her horror, a familiar figure emerged from the shadows, framed by the dim glow of the streetlights.

Her breath caught. Her heart stuttered. She squinted, hoping—praying—that the man she thought she recognized was only a trick of the light.

She wasn’t.

It was him. The man who had given her a ride home, whose presence she hadn’t anticipated seeing again.

“Damn it,” she whispered, teeth clenched, her palms slick with sweat.

There were only two choices: return to the camp and face the cage she’d fought so hard to escape… or run.

Her legs moved before her mind could protest. She ran.

Going back wasn’t just terrifying—it was unthinkable. That place was a prison. And the thought of being trapped under his control, tethered to a man she barely knew and couldn’t trust, made her chest tighten with fear.

“Luna, wait!”

His voice tore through the night behind her, urgent, demanding. Panic surged, igniting her muscles. She didn’t slow. She sprinted faster, weaving through narrow alleys, each footfall echoing like a drum of warning.

“Stop following me! I am not your Luna!” Her voice cracked, sharp and desperate.

Footsteps thundered closer. A growl rolled through the shadows—a low, predatory sound—and then a heavy thud struck.

She slammed into someone. Strong arms wrapped around her, catching her before she could collapse. The scent hit her first—cool mint intertwined with warm cinnamon, intoxicating, disorienting. Familiar… dangerous.

Her heart skipped a beat. Her world tilted. The memory of the first time she had faced him—the alpha—flooded her mind, leaving her dizzy and vulnerable.

Before she could struggle free, darkness swallowed her.

When she awoke, warmth enveloped her. Strong, unyielding arms held her close, pressing her against him like she belonged there, whether she wanted to or not.

“You thought you could escape me, love?” His voice was low, amused, vibrating through his chest against her cheek.

She opened her mouth to curse, but a rough, calloused hand covered it gently.

“No cursing, love,” he murmured, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “You look too good when you do that. I might end up kissing you non-stop.”

Her eyebrow shot up, annoyance flaring. He only laughed, deep and rich, and pulled her closer, just slightly tightening his grip.

“It’s half a joke,” he added, softer this time, though his hold betrayed a firmness she couldn’t ignore.

“Why are you calling me ‘love’?” she demanded, voice edged with frustration. “Can you please stop?”

He didn’t loosen his arms—not even a fraction.

“Paris,” Lucas said, his warm baritone cutting through the tension, making her eyes lock onto his. “Why are you looking at me like that? I called your name, and your expression… it’s disappointed. Do you want me to call you ‘love’ forever?”

“No. I don’t want that.” Her voice was clipped, defensive, but he just smirked, pinching her nose lightly.

“I thought you’d never look for me. That our plan would succeed.” His brows furrowed, and he pulled her into a tighter embrace, as if to physically remind her of the truth she couldn’t escape.

“It will never work,” he whispered, his lips brushing her ear. “Your scent… your presence… they’re already engraved in my mind. No matter what you do, I’ll find you. I’ll bring you home, love.”

Her heart raced, panicked and defiant.

“I don’t want a cage. I only want freedom. Away from my family… and from you.” Her plea trembled, but he didn’t argue. He simply held her tighter.

“Please… that’s the only way,” she whispered, desperation lacing every word.

“I won’t allow it,” he said, his voice low and thunderous. He moved the blanket that covered them and stood, towering over her. “You need to meet the pack today.”

Paris shook her head, a futile gesture. Deep down, she knew she couldn’t defy him.

He gave a reluctant nod, stepping back slightly. “I need to refresh before I find you again,” he admitted, but his gaze lingered, sharp and assessing, as if measuring her truth. Then a warm smile curved his lips. “I’ll wait for you outside, love.” Calm, patient, unwavering.

Paris stood slowly, her chest tight with unease. She opened the cabinet and began searching for something suitable to wear—but then her eyes froze on what lay inside…

The dress are either pink or white but she notice that the dress have the same pattern as if that is someone favorite. "Someone live here before me--"

"Luna, are you ready? The alpha and the pack members are waiting for you outside" She sighed and picked a dress that is suitable for her. "Luna?"

"I'm coming," she said while opening the door. She reached for his hand and let him walk her to the crowd. She was to shy to see everyone so she remain her head down but when a growl she immediately raised it. Their eyes locked. Dangerous... Obsessed was written all over Lucas face. She want to ask why but Tan already took away her hand. "I'm sorry, Luna, our Alpha is quiet jealous," he murmured and walk away.

"Damn it!" She uttered when Lucas come closer. "I'm f*cked up!"