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.

said quietly, her words making

talking about?" he

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

"She's my sister," he said

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

flashing in his glowing eyes. "You don't know anything

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

breath catching

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

his usual confidence was gone. "You shouldn't feel that way about me," he

Mia challenged, her eyes searching his.

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

the kiss broke, he stared at her, his chest heaving. "I can't..." he started, but the words felt

were shimmering with unshed tears. "Why not, Dain? Why can't you let yourself feel something for me? Is