Chapter 5
230words
"Werewolves have lived alongside humans for centuries," he explained on our third night. "We adapt. We blend in."
"Except during the full moon?" I asked.
He grimaced. "Hollywood exaggeration. The moon affects us, yes, but with training, most can maintain control."
"Most?"
"Unmated Omegas have it hardest." He wouldn't meet my eyes. "Especially those who suppress their nature."
I leaned forward. "Like you."
"Like me," he admitted. "The full moon is in two weeks. It will be... challenging."
"How challenging?"
His silence was answer enough.
By our fifth meeting, the pretense of professional distance had evaporated. We talked about everything—his family's expectations, my chaotic upbringing, his carefully constructed facade, my tendency to dive headfirst into trouble.
"You're the most reckless Alpha I've ever met," he said, almost fondly.
"And you're the most controlled Omega in existence," I countered. "We're quite the pair."
Something shifted in his expression. "We're not a pair, Noah."
"Not yet," I said boldly.
His pupils dilated slightly. "You don't know what you're asking for."
"I'm starting to."
The tension between us had become a living thing, electric and dangerous. Each night, we orbited closer, the gravity between us increasing.
Then came the email that changed everything: *Company retreat next weekend. Full moon. Need to talk.*
