The familiar sounds of domestic chaos were both comforting and jarring after the day's events.
Michael looked a little overwhelmed, so I guided him to a quieter area—Zane’s study.
The room was filled with books and maps, the scent of old paper and leather adding to the sense of calm.
Zane must’ve heard us enter because he soon joined us in the office, his presence commanding as always.
He looked at Michael for a long moment, his expression a mix of curiosity and wariness.
I understood why he would be cautious; after all, I brought a stranger to his home, to our pack. But I didn’t think Michael was a threat. Michael was a victim, not an enemy.
“This is Michael. Michael, this is Zane, the lead alpha of our pack,” I introduced, keeping my tone neutral yet respectful.
“N-nice to meet you,” Michael mumbled, looking downright terrified of Zane.
I couldn’t blame him; Zane was leaking some of his intimidating aura. I shot Zane a glare, and he noticed, toning it down.
"Get some rest," Zane said, his eyes finally taking in Michael's state with a hint of concern. "You've both earned it."
I led Michael upstairs, away from the noise of the first floor. I could hear Ivan and Draven arguing in another room and decided to let Zane deal with them.
My first priority was Michael. I guided him to the empty guest room next to the one I was currently occupying.
“You can stay here. I’m right next door,” I assured him, opening the door to a cozy, well-furnished room.
He looked around, his eyes wide with wonder and a hint of apprehension.
"Is this... is this really happening?" he asked softly, almost as if he was afraid to believe it.
"Yes," I said, squeezing his hand gently. "You're safe now."
He let out a shaky breath and sat down on the edge of the bed, the weight of the day's events finally catching up with him.
"I don't even know how to thank you," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
I sat beside him, my hand still holding his.
"You don't have to," I replied. "Just promise me you'll stay here, stay safe. We'll figure out the rest together."
He looked up at me, his eyes filled with gratitude and something else—something that made my heart race.
"I promise," he said, his voice stronger this time.
Our faces were inches apart, the air between us charged with unspoken words and emotions. The pull I felt towards him was undeniable.
Slowly, I leaned in, giving him plenty of time to pull back if he wanted to. But he didn't.
His breath hitched, and then his lips met mine in a gentle, tentative kiss that quickly deepened. The kiss was everything—comforting, passionate, a promise of something more.
When we finally pulled apart, we were both breathing heavily, our foreheads resting against each other.
"I'm glad you're here," I whispered, my voice hoarse with emotion.
"Me too," he replied, a small, genuine smile spreading across his face.
I stood up, reluctantly breaking the moment.
"Get some sleep. I'll be right next door if you need anything,” I said.
