Luna Aurora (Alpha Fenrir)

Chapter 223

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting warm hues across the forest. Dain sat on the edge of the creek that bordered the school grounds, skipping stones across the water. His fiery orange eyes caught the reflection of the setting sun, but his thoughts were elsewhere-

on Elyra, as always.

"Dain?" a soft voice broke his reverie.

He turned to see Mia standing a few feet away, her sketchbook tucked under one arm. Her timid smile faltered slightly as she looked at him.

"Mia," he said, his voice neutral. "What are you doing out here?"

"I was looking for you," she admitted, stepping closer. "You've been acting different lately. I just... I wanted to talk."

Dain frowned but didn't respond, turning back to the water. He wasn't in the mood for a conversation, but Mia wasn't going to leave.

know you care about her," Mia said quietly, her words making

you talking about?" he asked, his voice sharper than

watching out for her. Protecting her. But... it's more

on the stone in his hand tightened. "She's

closer, her sketchbook slipping from her hand to the ground. "I've seen the way you look at her, Dain. And I know it's not what you want. I know how

toward her, anger flashing in his

Mia said, her voice trembling.

froze, his breath catching in

and loyal, and you care so much about the people you love. I thought maybe if I told you how I feel,

confidence was gone. "You shouldn't feel that way

challenged, her eyes searching his. "Because

how complicated this is for you, but I also know that you're trying so hard to be what everyone needs you to be. Can't I be what you need?" Before he could respond, Mia stepped forward and kissed him. Her lips were warm and soft against his, and for a moment, Dain froze, torn between pulling

kiss broke, he stared at her, his chest heaving. "I can't..." he

unshed tears. "Why not, Dain? Why can't you let yourself feel something for me? Is it because of