Nathaniel's grip on Rain didn't loosen even as the air settled back into an eerie stillness. The presence had retreated, but the weight of its words lingered, sinking deep into the marrow of the room.
Rain's breath was uneven, his mind racing through possibilities. Who was hunting them? And why did it feel like they were always a step behind?
Nathaniel's golden eyes darkened with unspoken fury. "They think they can threaten what's mine," he murmured, voice lethal. His fingers flexed against Rain's waist, his possessiveness a physical thing.
Rain's pulse jumped. "I'm not yours," he shot back, even as his body betrayed him, drawn helplessly into Nathaniel's heat.
Nathaniel exhaled a soft, amused breath. "Liar."
Before Rain could protest, Nathaniel turned, grabbing his wrist and pulling him along. "We're leaving."
Rain dug his heels in. "Where?"
"To find out exactly who's trying to interfere with what belongs to me."
Rain clenched his jaw. "You can't just—"
Nathaniel's patience snapped. He spun Rain around, pressing him against the nearest wall in one swift motion. Their bodies collided, the heat between them almost unbearable.
"I can and I will," Nathaniel growled. "I've given you space, Rain. I've tolerated your defiance. But there are enemies closing in, and I will not stand by while they try to take you from me." His hand gripped Rain's chin, forcing him to look up. "So be good and listen for once."
Rain's breath hitched. Every nerve in his body was on fire, torn between resisting and surrendering. The worst part was, deep down, a part of him didn't want to run.
A sharp knock on the door shattered the moment. AGAIN.
Nathaniel released Rain but kept his body close, shielding him as the door swung open.
Soren stepped inside, his face unreadable. "We have a problem."
Nathaniel's eyes narrowed. "Speak."
Soren didn't glance at Rain but his voice was clipped. "The ones who sent that message? They're already inside the palace."
The room turned deathly silent.
Nathaniel's entire body tensed, his wolf bristling with violent rage. Rain felt the air shift again—this time, not from an outside force, but from the storm building within Nathaniel himself.
And then, just like that, the Alpha King smiled.
It was sharp, dangerous.
"Good," Nathaniel murmured. "Let them come."
To Be Continued...