Mila slipped out of bed, clutching the sheet around herself as she cast a lingering glance at the man sprawled beside her. His chiseled frame lay in a relaxed sprawl against her pillows, each sculpted muscle catching the faint morning light filtering through the curtains. His tousled ash-blond hair fell messily across his forehead, accentuating his ruggedly handsome features. A strong, defined jawline framed his face, giving him an air of authority softened by his current vulnerable state of sleep.
He stirred, the movement causing the intricate tattoos on his forearm and shoulder to shift in the light, revealing the artistry of swirling patterns that told stories of battles and strength. Blinking open groggy emerald-green eyes, he squinted slightly, the vivid color of his gaze piercing even in his half-asleep state. His lips curved in a faint, lazy smirk, the kind that held a hint of mischief, as if he'd caught her watching him.
With a low, rumbling sigh, he stretched out an arm across the bed, his fingers grazing the sheets where she'd been lying moments before, reaching instinctively for her warmth. The muscles in his bicep flexed subtly, showing the strength that lay beneath his calm exterior, and his fingers curled slightly, as if trying to capture her presence even while he lingered in that space between sleep and waking.
"You're still here?" she murmured, her voice laced with irritation, as her eyes flicked to the clock showing 5 AM.
Luca's lips curled into a lazy smile, his eyes barely open as he watched her. "Thought you wanted company," he muttered, his voice rough.
"Not if Ash or my parents catch you here," she replied, her tone cool and dismissive. "You shouldn't have stayed. It's early. Leave."
Before she could reach the bathroom, his arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her close against his chest. "MilaâŠ" His voice softened, his lips brushing against her neck. "Why don't you just tell him? Or your parents? We could tell everyone."
She took a deep breath, meeting his hopeful gaze with a cool, unwavering stare. "Tell them what, Luca? We're not a couple."
He sighed, rolling his shoulders back with mild frustration. "But we could be," he pressed, his fingers trailing lightly down her arm.
Mila's expression hardened, a trace of irritation flashing in her eyes. "I said no strings attached from the start. Why is it that you guys always have to complicate things?" Her voice held an edge, the warmth entirely gone. "Now, reallyâyou need to go." Without another glance, she turned and slipped into the bathroom, closing the door behind her firmly.
Through the door, she listened as he got dressed, the faint sound of the window sliding open as he made his quiet exit. Finally. She let out a small sigh, her posture relaxing.
Well, that went well, Lea, her wolf, commented dryly, a hint of sass coloring her tone. How many times do I have to tell you? They always catch feelings.
I know, I know, Mila replied silently, scrubbing away the last traces of his scent from her skin. But you know why I do this.
Lea huffed, unimpressed. Oh, I know. But it wouldn't kill you to choose someone with at least half a brain next time. Or, better yet, one who knows how to leave without making it a whole scene.
Mila rolled her eyes, but a hint of amusement slipped into her thoughts. Yes, boss. Anything else?
Yeah, Lea shot back with a smug authority. You can start by listening to me when I warn you. I'm not here just to give you commentary.
After changing her sheets, airing out the room, and tossing her clothes from the previous day into the wash, she checked the time: 6:30 AM. She dressed in her gym clothes, ready for a run to clear her head, and stepped outside, breathing in the crisp morning air as she jogged toward the forest.
The forest was her haven, a world untouched by the expectations and façades she maintained. The morning sun filtered through the leaves, dappling the forest floor with light as she ran deeper, letting the cool air wash over her. Here, she could just be herself.
You could've picked someone less clingy, Lea sniffed. Honestly, it's like you have a radar for needy guys.
Oh, still on about that? Mila shot back, brushing her hair out of her face as she hurried along the trail.
Absolutely, Lea replied smoothly. What makes you think Mr. Ash-Blond Abs won't go whining to Ash? You know he's just itching to spill everything.
Who's going to believe him? Mila scoffed, quickening her pace. Ash has better things to worry about than my personal life.
Right, right, Lea responded, unfazed. But don't come to me later when Lover Boy gets chatty. I'm only here to remind you: I told you so.
"Mila! Out for another run?" Her mother turned to her with a warm smile, her features radiating warmth and kindness. Soft waves of chestnut-brown hair framed her face, reaching just past her shoulders, and a few strands had begun to turn a gentle silver at the temples, adding to her graceful, nurturing presence. Her deep, warm brown eyes crinkled at the corners when she smiled, a natural kindness shining in them that seemed to put everyone at ease. Faint laugh lines traced the edges of her mouth, a testament to years filled with joy and gentle humor.
There was a softness to her mother's features, from her rounded cheekbones to the gentle curve of her chin, that contrasted sharply with Mila's own sharp, intense look. While her mother exuded a quiet, calming energy, Mila's striking blue eyes and raven-black hair held an intensity that set her apart, as if she were a shadow in a house of sunlight.
"Yeah, Mom," she replied easily, flashing a small smile. "Clears my head. Finals are coming up, you know?"
Her father, with his salt-and-pepper hair cut close and a sturdy build that still hinted at his own Gamma past, nudged Ash with a playful grin. Deep-set gray eyes held a spark of both wisdom and humor, softened by faint crow's feet at the corners. His broad shoulders and strong frame showed the remnants of a life spent training and protecting the pack, though he now carried himself with a quiet ease, no longer in the throes of his Gamma duties.
"Hear that, Ash?" he teased, his voice warm but laced with gentle sarcasm. "Maybe you should be more like your sisterâshe takes her studies seriously." He shot Mila a proud look, one brow raised in approval.
Mila walked over, dropping a quick kiss on her dad's cheek before shooting a teasing smile at Ash. Her brother was practically a younger version of their father, with the same broad shoulders and naturally athletic build. His unruly brown hair matched their dad's from his younger days, a bit too wild to ever be fully tamed, and his brown eyes held a mischievous spark, always ready for a laugh or a challenge.
"Come on, Dad," Mila said with a playful grin. "Ash is focused on his training. Future Gamma, remember? We need him strong."
Ash rolled his eyes, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Yeah, Dad," he chimed in, flexing his arms dramatically. "Somebody has to keep up the family legacy."
"Still, he could stand to crack a book once in a while," her dad mumbled, only to be whacked on the arm with a kitchen towel by her mom.
"Don't you dare call our son brainless," her mom chided, half-laughing. Mila chuckled, enjoying the easy banter and warmth that filled the kitchen. These were the moments she cherished, even as she kept her real self carefully hidden.
After breakfast, Mila retreated to her room, slipping into an oversized hoodie that nearly swallowed her petite frame and a pair of thick, black-rimmed glasses. She adjusted her appearance in the mirror, pulling her hair back in a loose ponytail. The geeky look was just enough to keep unwanted attention at bay.
For heaven's sake, Lea sighed, exasperation dripping from every word. Why do you dress like⊠that? You look like a walking laundry pile.
It keeps people at a distance, Mila shot back, a satisfied smirk tugging at her lips.
Oh, I'm sure it does, Lea retorted smoothly. Probably scared half the pack into thinking you've given up on life.
As she stepped out into the hallway, Ash gave her an exasperated look. "One would think you're about to rob a bank dressed like that."
She raised an eyebrow, suppressing a grin. "Not a fan of my style, huh?"
He snorted, folding his arms over his broad chest. "Who even dresses like that?"
"Me," she replied smoothly, giving him a light shove. "And it's not like you act like we're siblings at school, anyway." Sticking her tongue out, she dashed out of the house, laughing at his groan of frustration behind her.
Outside, four boys were waiting, each exuding the quiet strength and natural confidence that came from their roles within the pack.
Jace, the Beta, was the tallest of the group, standing with a natural authority that matched his rank. His thick, dark curls framed a chiseled face, and his piercing green eyes held a sharp, almost calculating intensity. With his strong build and unwavering posture, Jace looked every bit the second-in-command, his presence both steadying and commanding.
Beside him stood Caleb, the Delta, whose lean, athletic frame hinted at agility over sheer power. Sandy-blond hair fell casually over his forehead, contrasting with the playful glint in his sharp blue eyes that always seemed to suggest he was seconds away from stirring up trouble. His easy-going charm balanced the group's energy, but his posture and the restrained strength in his stance were a clear reminder of his capabilities.
The other two, the Thetas, were identical twins, Logan and Eli. Both were built sturdily, with a strength that suggested relentless dedication to their training. They shared intense, focused expressions, and though they had short, dark brown hair and similar rugged features, subtle differences distinguished themâLogan had a small scar above his right eyebrow, a memento from an old sparring match, while Eli's gaze held a slightly softer edge, revealing a keenness for observation. Their silent communication and synchronized movements showed an unspoken bond, each instinctively understanding the other's next move.
As Mila approached, they gave her slight nods of acknowledgment.
Jace grinned at her. "Ash coming soon?"
She nodded. "Yeah, he's just finishing up."
Caleb raised an eyebrow, his tone playful. "Need a lift?"
She shook her head with a laugh. "Nah, it's close by. Besides, with all the driving you guys do, you might end up with beer bellies."
Logan chuckled. "Not a chance. We train enough to work it off."
"Still," she teased, casting a look back as she started her jog, "better safe than sorry." The boys laughed, and she took off, her pace steady as she headed toward school, the crisp morning air carrying the sounds of their laughter behind her.