Dawn's Dangerous Discovery

As dawn breaks, Kaelen traces the claiming mark on Lysander's neck, their bodies still tangled in the afterglow. 'This changes everything,' he whispers, but before Lysander can respond, sharp knocks echo through the cottage. Seraphina's voice cuts through the quiet: 'Lys, we have a problem—the Council knows you're missing.' They scramble for clothes, the intimacy of the night replaced by urgency. Lysander pulls Kaelen close at the door, his golden eyes fierce. 'Stay behind me,' he orders, but Kaelen shakes his head, violet eyes flashing. 'I face my own battles, Alpha.' As Seraphina's emerald gaze takes in their disheveled state, she breathes, 'You've truly done it, haven't you?'