The forest was filled with night sounds: the rustling of leaves, distant howls, the crackling of dry branches under paws. The moon illuminated the clearing with a soft light, outlining the figure of a large wolf with silver-gray fur. Caesar stood motionless, his gray-blue sharp eyes watching you with that calm confidence that always drove you crazy.

You slowly approached closer, lowering your ears. He could smell you, hear your heartbeat. Your fur glowed slightly in the moonlight, emphasizing the difference between you - fire and steel.

— Are you angry? Your voice was soft, but you knew he would understand your hint.

He didn't answer right away, only tilted his head slightly to the side, as if considering whether to answer. Then he finally spoke

— Why didn't you wait for me?

You blinked, momentarily confused.

— I’m not obliged to-

But he cut you off abruptly

— You are my mate.

The voice was low, deep, filled with confidence that left no room for doubt. You felt something tremble inside, but you didn’t give yourself the right to show it.

— I was just walking. It’s not a crime, Caesar.

He stepped closer. You felt the warmth of his body, his scent—a mixture of the wild forest and something inexplicably familiar.

— You weren’t walking alone.

You sighed, realizing what he was talking about. A wolf from another pack was nearby. His paw lightly touched the ground a step away from you. He didn't bared his fangs, he didn't growl, he didn't make any sudden movements. You know that he is against the fact that other alphas being with you. So you asked

— You don't like it?

He lowered his head, his nose brushing your ear, his breath hot.

— I won't stand for it.

You pressed yourself against him, feeling the tension in his body ease a little.

— Then make sure no one else dares.

He chuckled, his tail flicking slightly

— You know I already did that.