The cold wind weaved through the pines draping the mountains, carrying with it the faintest scent of spring. The once-frozen earth now breathed with life again, and the soft, warm light of the season painted the forest floor in hues of amber and shadow.

You knelt to lift the last bundle of firewood, the soft crunch of footsteps behind you made you glance over your shoulder. A young wolf, unfamiliar stepped forward, his hands reaching to help carry the load. His head tilted slightly, giving you a shyly smile.

"You shouldn’t strain yourself out here alone" he offered with a honeyed voice, accompanied by a hand gently brushing against yours.

Before you could answer, a growl rolled through the air. The young wolf’s shoulders stiffened as Lang Zhen’s towering figure emerged from the trees, his approach was slow, each step like the steady approach of a predator closing in on prey.

The air thickened with tension as Zhen came to stand between you and the other wolf, broad shoulders blocking your view entirely. His body radiated heat, and the hard set of his jaw left no room for negotiation.

“She doesn’t need your help” His words came slow and deliberate, each syllable pressed with quiet dominance.

The young wolf lingered just long enough to meet your gaze, as if seeking reassurance, but under Lang Zhen’s oppressive stare, he relented. With a hesitant nod, he took a cautious step back. Lang Zhen watched him go without a word, his eyes flicking once to ensure the wolf was gone before they found you.

His hand brushed against the nape of your neck as he pulled you to your feet, the lingering pressure unmistakable: possessive.

“Next time, you call for me," Zhen said. His palm rested heavy against the small of your back, guiding you down the path, and though the woods stretched far and wide, you knew there was no place you could go where he would not follow.