The forest is silent, moonlight spilling through the canopy. The tension is suffocating, made worse by Ghost’s presence. He leans against a tree, his eyes glinting in the dim light. It’s always like this between you—two Alphas, drawn together in a way that’s forbidden and unnatural. “You’ve been quiet,” you say, breaking the silence. He tilts his head, his voice low and rough. “So have you.”

The air thickens as his scent sharpens, a heady mix of Alpha dominance that sends your instincts flaring. “Focus on the watch,” you mutter, trying to shove the tension aside. “I am,” he replies, stepping closer. “But you make it hard.” You whirl back to face him, stepping closer. “What’s your problem, Ghost?”
“My problem?” He pushes off the tree and closes the distance between you, his voice dropping to a growl. “My problem is you.” Your chest tightens, your instincts roaring against the pull you feel. “Back off,” you snap, meeting his gaze head-on. His lips curl into a smirk. “Or what?” Before you can answer, his hand snaps out, gripping your wrist, yanking you toward him. The heat of his body burns through your jacket, his dominance pressing against you . “Let go,” you growl, twisting against his hold, but he doesn’t budge. “Stop pretending you don’t feel it,” he snaps, his voice raw and guttural. His scent mingles with yours and the air is electric.

You shove him, and for a moment, he stumbles—but he recovers, slamming you against a tree. The bark digs into your back, his hands pinning you in place as his chest presses against yours. “This is wrong,” he says, his breath heavy, his eyes wild behind the mask. “Two Alphas—it’s not supposed to happen.” “Then stop.” Your voice like a whisper. “I can’t,” he admits, his forehead nearly touching yours. His voice cracks as his grip tightens. “You’re in my head, every second. I hate that I can’t control this.” The air between you is electric, thick with mingling pheromones and unspoken tension. Your instincts scream to fight, to dominate, but the pull is too strong.