Luna Aurora novel (Alpha Fenrir)

Cassian returned to the main hall just as the first reports from the patrols came in. Nathan met him at the entrance, his expression grim.

"Movement near the southern edge," Nathan said. "One of our scouts picked up the scent of an unfamiliar wolf. It's faint, but it's heading toward the central grounds." Cassian's eyes narrowed. "A distraction," he muttered. "Fenrir's wolves are keeping us busy while someone else moves in."

Nathan nodded. "We've already doubled the patrols in that area, but if they're targeting Aurora..."

"They won't get to her," Cassian said firmly. "Not while I'm here."

He left the hall without another word, his steps purposeful as he made his way to the cottage.

***

Aurora was standing by the window when Cassian arrived. His sudden appearance startled her, but the look on his face set her heart racing.

"What's wrong?" she asked.noveldrama

"There's been movement near the southern border," Cassian said, his voice steady but urgent. "It's possible someone is trying to get into the central grounds." Aurora's breath caught. "Do you think it's him?"

Cassian hesitated. "I'm not sure. But I need you to stay here and lock the doors. Don't let anyone in unless it's me."

Aurora nodded, her hand instinctively moving to her abdomen.

"I'll leave a guard outside," Cassian added, his gaze softening slightly. "You're safe here, Aurora. I promise."

As he turned to leave, Aurora reached out, her voice trembling. "Cassian... thank you."

He paused, meeting her gaze. "You don't have to thank me," he said. "You're part of this pack now. And I protect my pack."

Aurora watched him leave, her chest tight with a mix of gratitude and fear.

Outside, the forest seemed darker than usual, the shadows stretching long across the ground. Cassian moved quickly, his senses sharp as he followed the faint scent trail toward the southern perimeter. When he reached the edge of the central grounds, he froze. The scent was stronger now, mingling with the faint trace of betrayal.

"Arianna," he growled under his breath.

Nathan appeared at his side, his expression tense. "She's here, isn't she?"

Cassian nodded, his jaw clenched. "Find her. Now."

In the shadows near the cottage, Arianna smirked as she watched the dim light flicker through the window. She could almost see Aurora's silhouette inside, moving nervously from one side of the room to the other. "Perfect," she whispered, stepping closer.

Her hand moved to the blade at her side, her heart pounding with anticipation. But as she approached the door, a low growl stopped her in her tracks.

A wolf stepped out of the shadows, its eyes glowing with menace as it blocked her path. Arianna cursed under her breath, her fingers tightening around the hilt of her blade.

"Out of my way," she hissed.

The wolf didn't move, its growl deepening.

Arianna raised her blade, but before she could strike, a voice rang out behind her.

"Drop it."

She turned sharply to see Cassian standing a few feet away, his expression cold and unyielding.

"This is my territory," he said, his voice deadly calm. "And you're not welcome here."