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.

her," Mia said quietly, her words making Dain's jaw

talking about?" he asked, his voice sharper

Mia said softly. "You're always watching out for her. Protecting her. But... it's

the stone in his hand tightened. "She's

slipping from her hand to the ground. "I've seen the way you look at

toward her, anger flashing in his glowing eyes. "You don't know

to love someone you think you shouldn't," Mia said, her voice trembling. "I've been

his breath catching in his

"You're strong, and loyal, and you care so much about the people you love. I thought maybe if I told you how

but his usual confidence was gone. "You shouldn't

challenged, her eyes searching his.

spoke volumes, and Mia's breath hitched. "I'm not blind, Dain. I know 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

his chest heaving. "I can't..." he

Dain? Why can't you let yourself feel something for