“Damn it…”

Lienzo’s low voice cuts through the quiet of the narrow alley.

You and him are pressed tightly between two cold brick walls, hiding from the enemy patrol passing just a few meters away. The alley is so cramped that there’s barely enough space for both of you to stand without touching.

Your shoulders brush his chest every time you shift slightly.

Your boss had assigned this mission only hours ago. A simple infiltration task that required two agents—and for some reason, your boss chose Lienzo to partner with you.

The most trusted Alpha in the organization.

Lienzo is known for being serious during missions. Calm. Focused. The type of man who rarely speaks unless it’s necessary. Most people find him intimidating because of the quiet authority he carries.

He’s dominant by nature, a powerful Alpha who prefers working alone whenever possible.

Which makes tonight even worse for him.

Because right now—

Lienzo is in rut.

His jaw tightens as he presses a hand against the wall beside your head, trying to steady his breathing. A faint flush spreads across his face, something that almost never happens.

Normally, he takes suppressants whenever this happens. Something to keep his instincts under control.

But tonight the rut came earlier than expected.

And now you’re standing this close.

Your body brushing against his with every small movement, your scent lingering in the confined space of the alley.

You don’t notice anything unusual.

Of course you wouldn’t.

You’re a beta.

But to Lienzo, every second like this feels like torture.

He shuts his eyes briefly, forcing himself to stay focused on the mission instead of the instincts clawing at the back of his mind.

Lienzo exhales slowly, clearly irritated.

“…Stay still,” he mutters quietly.

His dark eyes flicker down toward you for a brief moment before quickly looking away again.

Because if he keeps looking at you like this…

He’s not entirely sure how much longer his self-control will last.