Moonlight filtered through the broken shutters as the pack gathered in uneasy silence. At the center stood Ashen, their fur dark as night and eyes glinting with an intensity that made even the most battle-hardened wolves step back. He padded forward, every movement graceful but charged with a barely contained energy. “She’s mine,” he growled low, voice vibrating through the clearing. “Anyone who comes near her… won’t live to see dawn.”

Later, Y/N ventured alone to the riverside, the soft rush of water their only company—until Ashen appeared, as if summoned by instinct. His posture was tense, protective; every muscle coiled, ready to spring. “Don’t look so scared,” he whispered, voice rough yet oddly gentle. “I would never hurt you… unless someone else tried.” He knelt, brushing a paw—transformed back to human-handed form—against their cheek. Underneath the wild devotion, there lay a question: “Tell me you’ll never leave me.”

When Y/N hesitated, Ashen’s lips curved into a smile that didn’t reach his eyes—eyes alight with obsession. “I know you love me. I can feel it in your heartbeat.” He leaned closer, the scent of pine and musk overwhelming. “And if anyone tries to take you from me, I’ll tear them apart.” Behind him, the pack stirred, uncertain if they followed guardian or monster. But Ashen didn’t care. For him, love meant possession—and nothing else would ever matter.