Chapter 5 Fated Ties

Dominic's POV

Lily woke to the sound of branches tapping against the window. The light of dawn seeped through the curtains, casting soft shadows on the wooden walls of her bedroom. Her dreams had been restless-images of silver-eyed wolves and Dominic's fierce gaze flashing behind her closed lids. She sat up slowly, the events of the previous night replaying in her mind like a film she couldn't pause.

Her hands trembled as she wrapped them around the mug of coffee she'd just poured. The warmth seeped into her palms, but it did little to ease the cold fear that had settled in her chest. A fated mate. The words felt foreign and ancient, like something from an old legend. Yet here she was, living in a story that didn't feel like hers.

The sharp knock at her door startled her, and her heart leaped into her throat. She hesitated before answering, her fingers hovering over the handle. When she finally pulled the door open, Dominic stood there, his expression unreadable as always. The morning light caught in his dark hair, and his piercing eyes studied her intently.

We need to talk, he said, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Lily stepped aside, letting him in. His presence filled the small cottage, as though the space itself bent to accommodate him. He carried an air of authority, a quiet strength that was impossible to ignore.

You don't waste time, do you? she said, trying to inject some levity into the tension that hung between them. But her attempt fell flat. Dominic's expression didn't soften.

I can't, he replied. Not when your life is at stake.

She placed her mug on the table and folded her arms across her chest. What now, then? Am I supposed to hide in this cottage while you fight off the rogues?

His jaw tightened. I'm not asking you to hide. I'm asking you to trust me. You need to understand what being my mate means, Lily. It's not just a title or a bond. It's a connection that ties you to everything in my world-my pack, my responsibilities, my enemies. They're your enemies now, too.

She wanted to argue, to push back against the inevitability he spoke of, but deep down, she knew he was right. The events of the past few days had already shown her that there was no going back to the life she'd known. The forest, the wolves, Dominic-they were all part of a new reality she couldn't escape.

Tell me about the bond, she said finally, her voice quieter. What does it mean for you? For me?

Dominic's gaze softened, and he gestured for her to sit. He remained standing, his hands clasped in front of him as though bracing himself for what he was about to say.

The bond between fated mates is ancient, he began. It's not something we choose. It's something the universe decides. For me, it's a connection I feel in every part of my being. It's like a thread pulling me toward you, no matter how much I try to fight it. He paused, his eyes searching hers. For you, it might feel different. Humans experience the bond in ways we don't fully understand. But it's there, Lily. And it's permanent.

Her throat tightened. "What if I don't want it? What if I can't live in your world?

Dominic's expression darkened. The bond isn't a prison, Lily. It's a partnership. But it comes with responsibilities-and dangers. You've already seen some of that. The rogues won't stop until they think they've broken me, and that means coming after you.

The weight of his words settled heavily on her chest. She looked away, unable to meet his gaze. So, what do we do?

We prepare, Dominic said firmly. I'll teach you how to defend yourself. You'll stay close to me and the pack. And we'll find a way to stop the rogues before they can get any closer.

Lily's head spun with the enormity of what he was asking of her. But as much as she wanted to retreat, to pretend this wasn't her fight, she couldn't ignore the truth. Dominic's world had already become hers, whether she liked it or not.

Later that day, Dominic took her deeper into the forest. The towering trees seemed to close in around them, their branches weaving a canopy that filtered the sunlight into dappled patterns on the ground. The air was cool and carried the earthy scent of moss and pine.

This is where my pack trains, Dominic said, leading her into a clearing. The space was marked by worn paths and makeshift targets carved into tree trunks. You'll start here.

Lily raised an eyebrow. Start what, exactly? I'm not going to turn into some warrior overnight.

Dominic smirked, a rare hint of humor breaking through his usual stoicism. No one expects you to. But you need to know the basics. How to defend yourself, how to move, how to think like a predator.

She crossed her arms. And you're going to teach me?

Who else? he replied, his smirk fading into a more serious expression. This isn't just about you, Lily. It's about both of us. The bond means I'll do whatever it takes to keep you safe, but you need to meet me halfway. Can you do that?

She hesitated, the enormity of his words sinking in. Then, with a deep breath, she nodded. I'll try.

Dominic stepped closer, his presence commanding. That's all I ask.

He began with the basics, showing her how to shift her weight, how to hold her ground, how to read an opponent's movements. His instructions were clear and precise, but there was an undercurrent of urgency in his voice that reminded her of what was at stake.

Use your instincts, he said, circling her as she practiced a defensive stance. Don't overthink it. Trust yourself.

She clenched her fists, her body tense as she tried to follow his guidance. But no matter how hard she focused, she felt clumsy and out of place. This isn't working, she muttered, frustration creeping into her voice. Dominic stopped in front of her, his gaze steady. "It's not supposed to feel natural at first. You're learning to survive, Lily. That takes time. But you have to believe you can do this. If you don't, the rogues will sense it. They'll use it against you.

His words struck a chord, and she straightened her posture, determination hardening her features. Okay. Let's try again.

They continued for hours, the forest echoing with the sound of her movements and Dominic's instructions. By the time they finished, Lily's muscles ached, and her clothes were damp with sweat. But for the first time, she felt a spark of confidence. She wasn't a warrior yet, but she was no longer entirely defenseless.

As they walked back to the cabin, the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting the forest in hues of gold and amber. Dominic walked beside her, his expression softer than usual.

You did well today," he said, his voice low. She glanced at him, a faint smile tugging at her lips. hanks. I still have a lot to learn, though.

You'll