"I'll go to him, L.A. Don't worry, I'll handle it," I assured her before heading towards Marcus's office.
"Where are they?! They were supposed to be here today!" Marcus's furious voice roared from inside.
"Alpha Jhoseph called it off," Michael calmly explained. "The rogues attacked their pack. They need to repair the damage before they can come."
"Damn it! Leave, Michael. I want to be alone. Keep patrolling the borders and report back to me," Marcus commanded. The door swung open, and Michael stepped out, his head bowed.
"Michael," I softly called. He looked up and smiled faintly.
"I have to go, Luna. I need to check on L.A.," he said before walking away. I watched him disappear down the hall before turning my attention back to Marcus's office. Taking a deep breath, I steeled myself and pushed the door open.
"Why are you here, Anya?" Marcus asked, his expression unreadable. His cold eyes bore into mine, making me instinctively bite my lower lip.
"I wanted to see you," I admitted in a hushed tone. His glare hardened, and I flinched. I quickly looked away.
"I don't want to see you. Get out," he snapped. His words struck me like a blade. Would I ever get used to his cruelty?
"B-but I w-want to help," I stammered.
He scoffed. "You really want to help?"
"Y-yes," I nodded hesitantly.
"Come here," he ordered. I hesitated before stepping closer.
"Sit on my lap," he commanded. Shocked, I blinked at him but obeyed, sitting stiffly with my back to him.
"Look at me, mate," he murmured huskily. A shiver ran down my spine. Gulping, I turned to face him and sat on his lap properly. Heat rushed to my cheeks, making me avert my gaze. He lifted my chin, claiming my lips in a deep kiss. I melted into it, responding as my arms wrapped around his neck.
A loud ringtone shattered the moment. I pulled away as Marcus growled in frustration before answering his phone.
"What?! I told you not to disturb me!" he barked.
"Apologies, Alpha, but we found two dead bodies near the lake. There's something written on them," Michael reported.
"Damn it!" Marcus cursed, slamming the phone down.
"Marcus," I whispered, concerned.
"Get off me!" he snapped, pushing me aside. I stumbled, gripping the desk for support as I stood up.
"What are you still looking at?! Get out!" he bellowed.
"I heard what Michael said. I want to help," I stated firmly, relieved my voice didn't waver. Marcus stormed toward me, gripping my arm tightly. I winced but stood my ground.
"I told you to leave! Why can't you understand?! I don't need your help!" he shouted.
"I'm the Luna of this pack! It's my duty to help!" I shot back.
He stepped back and let out a mocking laugh. "Luna? Ha! You wish, Anya."
My heart clenched at his words. Tears burned my eyes, but I refused to let them fall. "Leave," he ordered coldly, shoving me toward the door. I stumbled but quickly regained my footing, leaving his office with my head held high. The moment I reached my room, I collapsed onto my bed, finally allowing my tears to flow.
Marcus's P.O.V
"Where are they?" I asked Michael as I arrived at the site. He pointed to the two bodies covered with cloth. I approached and removed the cover.
I will have my revenge, Marcus. Prepare yourself.
The message was carved into their flesh. My jaw clenched as I replaced the cover and turned to Michael.
"Deliver their bodies to their families and arrange a proper burial," I instructed. Michael nodded and motioned for the pack warriors to carry the corpses. I returned to the pack house, but my thoughts drifted to Anya, prompting me to head to her room. I opened the door and found her fast asleep.
"M-Marcus..." she murmured in her sleep. A soft chuckle escaped me as I noticed her light snoring. She looked so peaceful. My heart pounded against my chest unexpectedly, making me clutch it in confusion. Shaking my head, I quickly exited her room and retreated to mine.
"What the hell just happened?" I muttered, collapsing onto my bed. My hand instinctively went to my chest again, feeling my rapid heartbeat.
"You need sleep, Marcus. That's all this is-lack of rest," I told myself before forcing my eyes shut. Yes, that had to be it.