Even Alphas falter when their mate is in sight.
Darius pulled me away from the dance floor before whoever was watching could make their move. His grip was firm but gentle, protective without being controlling.
We moved through the crowd, his body positioned to shield me from potential threats. Students parted without realizing why, responding instinctively to Alpha presence.
He led me to one of the quieter garden areas at the festival's edge. Lantern light filtered through trees, creating pockets of shadow and illumination. Far enough from the main celebration that we could talk privately, close enough that we weren't violating mandatory attendance.
"Who was it?" I asked once we were relatively alone.
"Don't know. But my wolf recognized threat. Recognized intent to harm."
Through the bond, his wolf was still on high alert. Scanning, searching, prepared to defend at any moment.
