Chapter 0330

Waking up in Victor's arms is becoming my new addiction. The warmth, the security, the way his body molds perfectly against mine—it's everything I never knew I needed. Every moment with him deepens our connection, both emotionally and physically.

The physical part? Mind-blowing. I always heard stories about the mate bond intensifying pleasure, but nothing prepared me for this. If this is how it feels before completing the bond, I can't fathom how much more intense it'll be after.

This morning, I don't hesitate to press myself back against him, relishing the way his body responds instantly. His sleepy growl vibrates against my skin as I wiggle closer, teasing the hard length pressed against my back.

"Mmm, what are you up to, little wolf?" His voice is rough with sleep, sending shivers down my spine.

"Just enjoying my favorite pillow." I smirk, grinding against him deliberately.

In one swift motion, he flips me onto my back, pinning me beneath him. His amber eyes darken with desire as he nips at my throat. "We have a bus to catch soon," he murmurs against my skin, though his hands are already roaming. "One more stop, then we're home. Or what used to be home for me."

I arch into his touch, emboldened by the morning light. Aurora's voice purrs in my mind, 'Stop teasing him unless you plan to follow through.'

Challenge accepted.

Sliding off the bed, I stand just out of reach, letting the sheet pool at my feet. "Come shower with me, old man."

Victor moves faster than I can blink. One second I'm standing there, the next I'm airborne as he tosses me over his shoulder. I shriek with laughter as he carries me effortlessly to the bathroom.

"Old man?" He growls, setting me down under the spray. "Did I seem old when you were screaming my name last night?"

I bite my lip, shaking my head.

"Need a reminder of how young and capable I am?" His hands slide down my hips.

"Maybe."

He proceeds to remind me—three times—before we even finish washing up.

The next two days pass in a blur of roadside diners and tangled sheets. We push through wolf territory without stopping, finally reaching a rundown motel on Birmingham's outskirts.

Exhausted, we collapse onto the bed after showering. Victor traces circles on my bare shoulder as we talk about his makeshift pack. "They're survivors," he says. "Loyal to a fault, but they need structure. Leadership."

I study his profile. He claims he's not a true Alpha, but everything about him screams leadership—the way he commands respect, protects fiercely, thinks strategically.

My canines pricked last night when I kissed his neck, the urge to mark him nearly overwhelming. Victor noticed but didn't push, even though I know he's waiting for me to take that final step.

Two more days of travel lie ahead. As much as I'm enjoying our time together, I'm eager to see this pack he's gathered. To walk the lands we might rebuild together.

Victor may not believe he's Alpha material, but I see the truth. With my knowledge and his instincts, we could build something extraordinary.

Aurora's voice rings clear in my mind: 'Stop overthinking. He's ours. The pack will be too.'

I curl into Victor's side, breathing in his scent. For the first time in years, the future doesn't just look bearable—it looks bright.