Chapter 3: The Mate Declaration

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EDITED AND REVISED 11/12/2024

Lena floated in a cocoon of comfort, basking in the warmth and softness surrounding her. Her body was reluctant to leave the peaceful slumber it had found. She snuggled closer to the delicious warmth enveloping her, breathing in the intoxicating scent that seemed stronger than usual. Suddenly, her eyes snapped open, and worry seized her as she realized this wasn't her bed or her room. Her gaze dropped to the toned arm wrapped around her waist, and panic erupted within her. She lets out a piercing scream and frantically attempts to crawl away from danger.

In an instant, she found herself pinned on her back, wrists trapped above her head by a strong grip. "Why the hell are you screaming like that?" a deep, groggy voice demanded. The words died in her throat as she took in the Greek god towering over her. His dark chocolate hair cascaded in loose waves around his perfectly sculpted face, his short-trimmed beard adding to his rugged appeal. But it was his eyes that truly captivated her. Their haunting dark gray rims framed a piercing, whitish-gray gaze that demanded attention. His massive frame covered hers, making it impossible for her to see more of him.

"Did you forget how to speak?" he asked, irritation lacing his voice.

Shaking off her daze, Lena struggled against his grip. "No, you idiot," she replied with frustration. "Anyone in their right mind would scream waking up in a stranger's bed!"

Damian cursed himself for not escaping before she woke. He released her and leaped from the bed, running agitated fingers through his hair. What was he thinking? How had he let this happen? Turning back, he found her sitting up, studying him with curious eyes. Something in her gaze stirred him deeply, forcing him to look away as his wolf stirred restlessly.

The moment he left her side, Lena felt bereft, cold without his touch. An inexplicable urge to comfort him clashed with her confusion until realization struck. "NO!" she yelped, launching herself from the bed as fear coursed through her. When he spun around, fresh heat flooded her body. Shirtless, he was a masterpiece of muscle—impossibly tall and solid, with perfectly defined pecs tapering to a smooth, tan stomach and that glorious V-line disappearing beneath his basketball shorts.

"What?" His deep voice sent shivers down her spine.

Fighting to ignore her body's response, she straightened. "Where am I?"

"My pack house," he answered curtly.

"Why am I here?"

"You were injured and needed assistance."

"Why am I in your bed?" She narrowed her eyes. When he failed to answer, she pressed, "And who are you?"

Fiery rage burned in his eyes; every muscle coiled like a tightly wound spring. "You dare question me? I am an Alpha, and you will show me respect," he roared, his fists clenching with raw power.

But Lena refused to back down, her own fiery spirit rising to meet his. She strode over to him, standing toe-to-toe with the arrogant yet undeniably attractive giant. "Listen here, you arrogant bastard," she snapped, driving a finger into his chest. "Alpha or not, I have every right to question you. You're not the one who woke up with a stranger's arms wrapped around them!" She glared up at him, defiant and unafraid.

"Back off, pup," Damian growled, his breathing ragged. Her proximity was driving his primal instincts wild with the urge to claim her.

Their gazes locked and his restraint shattered. He crushed his mouth to hers, powerful arms enveloping her body possessively. Lena succumbed to the kiss, her lips responding with equal passion. A soft moan escaped her as she rose on tiptoes, fingers tangling in his hair. He deepened the kiss, and a surge of warmth and electricity shot through her body, undeniable proof of their mate bond.

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