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,

talking about?" he asked, his voice sharper than

softly. "You're always watching out for her. Protecting

the stone in his hand tightened. "She's my sister," he said firmly, though his

ground. "I've seen the way you look

anger flashing in his glowing eyes.

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

expression froze, his breath catching in his

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

over her, but his usual confidence was gone. "You

not?" Mia challenged, her eyes

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

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

unshed tears. "Why not, Dain? Why can't you let yourself