Chapter 4 (Ava's POV)
As days passed, I learned more about Kael's pack. They were rough, but loyal. I saw how Kael protected them, provided for them.
One pack member, Ryker, seemed particularly hostile. He sneered at me, his eyes filled with resentment.
"Hey, princess," Ryker taunted. "Think you're better than us?"
I stood tall, refusing to back down. "I'm not looking for trouble."
Kael intervened, his dominance clear. "Leave her be, Ryker."
Ryker backed down, but his gaze lingered.
Later, Kael took me on a walk through the forest. The moon cast eerie shadows.
"You're adjusting well," he said.
"I'm trying," I replied.
Kael's eyes locked onto mine. "You're not like the others."
"What others?" I asked.
"The ones who think they're above us," Kael said.
I sensed a deeper meaning.
(Kael's POV)
Ava's resilience impressed me. She adapted quickly, despite her captivity.
I watched her defend herself against Ryker's taunts. Her eyes flashed, and she stood tall.
I realized Ava was more than just a valuable prize. She was strong, capable.
My interest in her grew.
I began to question my motives.
Why did I take her?
Was it just power?
Or something more?
As alpha, I couldn't show weakness.
But Ava made me feel.
Feelings I thought were long dead.