A twig snapped nearby, and she spun around swiftly. That’s when she saw a figure emerge from the shadow of the trees—a tall, muscular man with a fierce look. His eyes glowed with a mysterious light under the moon, and his piercing gaze fixed on her with a disquieting intensity.
“Who are you, and what are you doing here, alone in the forest?” the stranger asked, his deep voice breaking the silence.
Clara hesitated, studying this man’s face, both harsh and intriguing. He didn’t resemble any werewolf she’d met. He radiated raw strength, an untamed energy that gave her a hint of his true nature.
“I could ask you the same question,” she replied with feigned boldness, trying to hide her nervousness.
The man flashed a slight smile, almost amused. “I live here. You could say I’ve been part of this territory for a long time.”
He stepped closer, his gaze never leaving her. Clara felt her heartbeat grow faster, but she refused to lower her eyes, determined to show her own strength.
“My name is Aiden,” he finally said, softening his tone.
Clara held his gaze for a moment before murmuring, “Clara.”