Chapter 37%
Nok stood by the large oak table in his chamber, going through scrolls and maps with a sharp focus. His brows were furrowed, and his jaw was tight as he marked territories with red ink. I leaned against the doorway, watching him for a moment before speaking.
“You look like you’re ready to conquer the world,” I teased lightly, walking in.
He glanced up, his stem expression softening instantly. “Lyna,” he said, his voice warm, “I didn’t hear you come in.“%
I smiled, stepping closer. “What’s all this about?” i gestured toward the spread–out maps.
He straightened and crossed his arms “I’m leaving tomorrow,” he said. “I need to visit a faraway territory to finalize plans for the development project I’ve been working on.“8
“Development project?” I tilted my head, curiosity getting the best of me.X
“Yes,” he nodded, his tone firm but proud. “It’s a series of improvements for our packlands–trade routes, better infrastructure, and securing alliances. It’s all to ensure we remain the best and most dominant pack in Wereworld.“\
I couldn’t help but smile at his determination. “That sounds like a lot of work,” I said, moving closer to him. “Are you sure you’ll manage?”
He smirked, tilting his head. “You doubt me, little wolf?”
Hlaughed. “Never. I know you’ll do it perfectly.”
“Good,” he said, stepping closer and brushing a strand of hair behind my ear. “Because I won’t settle for anything less than perfect. Especially when it comes to protecting this pack–and you.”
“So, how long will you be gone?”
“A week,” he said, his voice softening: “Maybe longer if things don’t go as planned.“8
I tried to hide my disappointment, but Nok’s sharp eyes caught it.X
“Til miss you too,” he said, his lips curling into a small smile.!!
“I didn’t say that,” I protested, crossing my arms.
“You didn’t have to,” he chuckled, leaning down to kiss my forehead. “I’ll miss you, Lyria. But this is important. I need to ensure everything runs smoothly so we stay ahead of the rest.”
I nodded, looking up at him. “Just don’t overwork yourself, okay?”||
“I won’t,” he promised. Then, with a teasing grin, he added, “But if you miss me too much, you can always dream about me.“%
I rolled my eyes.
He reached out, taking my hand in his. “Always,” he said. And for a moment, it felt like he wasn’t just promising to retum–but promising me everything.
Rudina burst into my chamber, her face pale and frantic “Lyria! You need to come with me. Now!
I groaned, sitting up from my chair. “Rudina, I’m tired. Whatever it is, can’t it wait?”
“No,” she snapped, grabbing my wrist and pulling me to my feet. “This is serious. You need to see this!”
“Fine!” I muttered, letting her drag me along
We ran through the winding paths of Nok’s territory, my heart pounding. Rudina didn’t say another word, which only made me more anxious. When we finally reached the borders, I froze.!!
There they were. Damon and my mother.X
“What in the-” I started, but Rudina stepped back.&
“I let you handle this,” she whispered, her eyes wide.
I took a deep breath, letting Lyca stir within me. The moment Damon’s eyes met mine, my wolf surged forward, taking control. “Lyria, wait-” Damon began, but it was too late.
2:26 PM