Leo ran through the forest, his legs moving with relentless speed as the cool night air whipped against his face.
The thrill of the hunt still lingered in his veins, but it was nothing compared to the rush of anticipation building in his chest. His heart pounded harder with every step, a steady rhythm fueled by the thought of seeing Eliana again. It was absurd how much he missed her after being away for only a short while.
What was wrong with him?
"You're in love," Xander's voice echoed smugly in the back of his mind.
"Quiet, wolf," Leo muttered, a small laugh slipping past his lips. "I'm not in love. She's just my maid, that's all."
"Sure. Whatever helps you sleep at night, Leo," Xander shot back, his tone dripping with amusement.
Leo shook his head, pushing the wolf's teasing aside. He had no time for pointless arguments with Xander. His focus remained on the path ahead, weaving through the trees with practiced ease.
