Takeabite
Ari removed her gloves, tossed them aside and answered her phone.
"You better hold on, I promise I'll be on my way." She turned her phone off and faced Arcus who was still at a loss of what was happening.
Ari kicked off her high stilettos, showing Arcus her pinkish ankles.
"Now," she breathed, "so much for being womanly."
"What the hell is happening?" Arcus in his Alpha tone, but Ari was unfazed.
"I need your help. I-I know I might not be the best pick for you right now, but I promise you that I will be the best Luna that I can be. I will never betray you and will treat your people as much as I want to be treated." She sounded desperate, really, and Arcus wanted to laugh. This mysterious girl, he couldn't understand her at all.
Time was running out and Ari had to gamble.
She softened her gaze and dropped her eyes to his lips.
"If there is a tiny space in your heart that wants to choose me, hang on to that, Arcus." Her fingers traced his lips and Arcus became completely under her spell in an instant.
HIs arms automatically wrapped around her when their lips touched. He moved his lips over hers expertly, ignoring the fact that she was obviously inexperienced.
Ari then pushed him determinedly.
"I-I have to go. I have to leave." She turned, scared of the conflicting emotions.
"Wait!" Arcus couldn't help but stop the woman who was suddenly leaving after kissing him.
"Let go, Arcus!"
He tightened his grip instead.
"What's the meaning of this, tell me!"
She pulled her arm from him once again and he finally let her.
"Believe me when I say that I have to leave."
It happened so fast, Ari turned and ran. Arcus was left torn between following her or returning to the ballroom. It was nearing midnight and he was about to announce his chosen Luna.
But then, Ari emerged from the stables, bear-footed, still wearing her gown and mask, and riding a black stallion running towards the forest.
Announcement be damned, he was going after her.