My eyes fluttered open as I took in my unfamiliar surroundings.

Where was I? How long had I been unconscious? The memories of recent events came crashing back, hitting me like a tidal wave. The battle with the rogues had left me feeling numb, and my abdomen throbbed with pain. I couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment that Leon wasn't here.

"Oh my god! Luna, you're finally awake!" A woman dressed in white exclaimed. "I'll examine you first, and then I'll notify the Alpha."

I assumed she was the pack doctor. After she finished inspecting my wounds, I waited, my thoughts consumed by the anticipation of seeing Leon.

Within minutes, Leon stormed into the room. His disheveled hair and dark eye circles contrasted with his undeniable handsomeness. Despite his unkempt appearance, there was no denying his irresistible allure.

He walked toward me, placing a reassuring hand on mine. "Are you alright?" he asked, his tone a blend of concern and the alpha's authority.

His sudden change in demeanor caught me off guard. I nodded in response, still unsure of how to react to his newfound kindness. He went on to confer with the pack doctor.

"Let's head back home," he said as he helped me to my feet, his arm supporting me. But when he suggested that I sleep in his room, confusion and apprehension washed over me. What did he have in mind? I wasn't ready for that.

Leon seemed to sense my hesitation, sighing as he said, "I won't do anything you're not ready for." I remained uncertain but dared not defy him. Why was he suddenly being so considerate?

I went for a quick shower and changed into one of my oversized tees, similar to what I wore to bed.

After I settled into bed, I noticed Leon removing his shirt. My gaze drifted to his chiseled abs, and I had to consciously restrain myself from reaching out to trace them. "Done checking me out?" he teased with a smirk.

Blushing, I buried my face under the covers. He slid into bed beside me, shirtless. Was he planning not to wear a shirt?

He chuckled softly and pulled up the covers, wrapping an arm around my waist and drawing me close. His scent enveloped me, and although I flinched slightly, he didn't seem to notice. My eyelids grew heavy, and I eventually drifted off to sleep, his protective and affectionate presence easing my mind.

However, my peaceful slumber was soon disrupted.

In the dead of night, my body ignited, every inch of my skin aflame with searing heat. The pain was unbearable, and I screamed in agony as I sat up. I knew what was happening.

My mother had told me about this. Heat.

It occurred when a female encountered her mate but didn't complete the mating process. Instead, the female would go through heat, developing a profound connection with her mate. She'd be irresistibly drawn to him, her entire body burning, her abdomen cramping painfully, and in severe cases, she might even vomit. I never expected it to happen so soon.

Leon must have heard my screams, as he abruptly woke up. Concern etched his face as he stared at me. "I... I'm... going...through..heat," I managed to blurt out between agonizing spasms.

He sat there momentarily, seemingly dazed, before muttering, "Shit."

Another scream escaped my lips as the cramps intensified. Leon's eyes shifted from their usual blue to a deep, dark black, a clear indication that he was struggling to control his wolf's instincts. My scent was arousing him, but he fought to restrain himself.

He drew me closer, providing a semblance of comfort. It eased my pain slightly, though it still hurt immensely. I writhed in discomfort until I finally found a position that allowed me to sleep until daybreak.

In the morning, a wave of nausea washed over me, and I rushed to the bathroom. I knelt before the toilet bowl, retching. Leon arrived seconds later and held my hair back for me. I struggled to keep my composure, fighting the overwhelming influence of his presence.

Throughout the day, he remained by my side in bed, offering solace and doing his best to alleviate my discomfort during this heat. I couldn't wait for it to be over, but I welcomed his comforting presence.

As we sat together watching television, he unexpectedly asked, "Charlotte, can you tell me how you got those scars and injuries on your stomach?"

His question caught me off guard, and I hesitated. I was afraid to tell him, fearful that he would confront Austin.

"It's... nothing. I just hurt myself once while running in the woods," I stammered.

"Don't lie to me," he retorted, using his alpha tone, and his eyes turned black.

He left the bed, slamming the door shut behind him. Panic washed over me. I had somehow triggered a sudden change in his mood. He had reverted to the old Leon, and I couldn't fathom the consequences of my response.

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