Lyra stood frozen on the balcony.
The night air suddenly felt colder, sharper against her skin.
Kael was standing just beyond the trees, his figure partly hidden in the shadows—but his presence was unmistakable.
And his eyes were on her.
Not by accident.
Not coincidence.
He knew she was there.
Lyra’s heart began to beat faster.
Her wolf stirred again, no longer quiet this time.
Mate.
The word came softly, but with certainty.
Lyra gripped the edge of the railing.
“No…” she whispered under her breath.
But she didn’t move away.
Below, Kael took another step forward.
The distance between them shortened.
Not much.
But enough.
Lyra felt it immediately.
That strange pull.
Stronger than before.
It wasn’t just in her chest now—it felt like it was surrounding her.
Calling her.
