Natalie~
The soft hum of the night seeped into the guest room as I sat on the edge of the large bed. Zane's words from earlier echoed in my head, loud and unrelenting, like a storm I couldn't escape.
"Not everyone in your life is out to hurt you, Natalie, you're safe as long as you stay here."
Safe. Could I trust him? Could he really protect me? Could he stand up to Alpha Darius? The mere thought sent a cold shiver down my spine. Zane didn't know the depth of Alpha Darius's cruelty. He didn't know the lengths that monster would go to ensure I never escaped his grasp entirely. And yet, Zane had spoken with such conviction, such quiet strength, that for a fleeting moment, I'd almost believed him.
But belief was dangerous.
I stood, shaking off the weight of my thoughts, and turned to Alexander, who clung to my waist like a little koala. His small arms wrapped tightly around me, his head resting against my hip as though I might disappear if he let go.
