Chapter 4 The Stranger in the Shadow

Lila's POV

The sound of feet crunching on the parched leaves behind me became more noticeable. I sped up, holding on to my little bag while my pulse raced in my chest. The moonlight was hardly visible through the thick forest above the dark bush. I had the sense that someone or something was following me.

"Who is there?" With a shaky voice, I screamed out. No answer. Just the steady, intentional sound of footsteps.

I started running, breathing in quick, desperate breaths. Even though my legs hurt, I continued. I was unable to. Not to defend my baby.

A man suddenly appeared from the darkness, blocking my way. With my heart beating, I skidded to a stop. It was a tall, thin man with warm brown eyes and sandy blond hair. His hands were up, perhaps to indicate he meant no harm, and he looked at me quietly.

"Easy there," he remarked in a calm, smooth voice. "I promise not to harm you."

I stepped back and looked about for a way out. "Who are you?"

He carefully dropped his hands and stated, "My name is Kael." "I caught you running. You appeared to need help.

I had no trust in him. Not after all that had happened. I shook my voice and said, "I don't need your help."

He studied me with a tilt of his head. "You're Lila, right? From the Kian's pack?

I gasped. "How are you aware of that?"

Though it didn't reach his eyes, he grinned. In the world of werewolves, word spreads quickly particularly when the mate of an Alpha leaves from his group.

When I heard the word "mate," I winced. Kian had stated clearly that I wasn't his mate. No more.

With a sour tone, I stated, "I'm not his mate."

Kael's face became softer. "I apologize. I didn't mean to annoy you. However, you shouldn't be by yourself out here. It's risky.

I didn't answer. My thoughts were racing. Could I rely on him? At first, he and Kian looked to be friends.

Kael took a timid step closer and whispered, "Look." "My house is close by. There, you can rest and eat. There are no conditions. You are free to leave in the morning if you so want.

I paused. My body was worn out, and the thought of food made my stomach rumble. There weren't many choices for me.

"All right," I replied at last. "But only for tonight."

Kael grinned, and it appeared sincere this time. "All right. Come with me.

A warm fire was burning in the grate of Kael's small yet cozy home. I gulped down the stew he served me, not realizing how hungry I was.

Kael, who was sitting opposite me, said, "So." "Whatever became of Kian?"

With my spoon hanging above the bowl, I tensed up. "It's... complex."

His face showed understanding as he nodded. "If you don't want to, you don't have to talk about it. However, I'm ready if you need someone to listen.

I was taken aback by his kindness as I stared at him and asked. "Why are you helping me?"

He gave a shrug. "Because it appeared that you needed it." Additionally, I understand what it's like to be alone and by yourself.

I wondered about his past because there was a touch of sadness in his voice. However, I didn't ask. I was too tired and overwhelmed.

"Thank you," I muttered.

He grinned. "Take a nap. Here, you're safe."

Kael looked after me for the following few days. He provided me with a comfy bed, made sure I ate enough, and even helped me in collecting herbs to treat my morning sickness. He always seemed to know what I needed before I asked, and he was nice and thoughtful.

But something didn't feel right.

Little things began to catch my attention. The way he would be missing for hours at a time and then come back without saying why. Sometimes his look was impenetrable as he stared at me. And the way he always listened, as though he was expecting something.

I once heard noises outside the house when I woke up one night. I slipped over to the window and took a quick look. Speaking to someone I couldn't see, Kael stood in the dark.

"She's here," Kael replied quietly. "However, she has no suspicions."

Kael nodded as the other guy mumbled something. "I'll hold her near me." Do not be worried.

My heart beat. To whom was he speaking? What did I not suspect?

I rushed back into bed and pretended to be asleep when Kael returned. As he passed by, I could feel his eyes on me even though he remained silent.

The attack happened a few days later.

At the time of the rumble, I was outside picking greens. With my heart in my mouth, I turned to see a pack of wolves coming out of the bush. Their teeth were revealed, and their eyes gleamed with bad purpose.

My legs refused to move as I froze, despite my thoughts telling me to go. Kael emerged out of nowhere and moved ahead of me. His speech was cool but serious as he stated, "Stay behind me."

The wolves lunged, and Kael immediately changed into a sleek, strong wolf. He easily fought them off, moving quickly and deadly. As his body moved like a ghost in the night to protect me, I looked in wonder.

Kael heaved his chest and changed back as the final wolf ran away. His eyes were worried as he turned to face me. "Are you alright?"

I nodded while still shaking. "I'm grateful."

Though it didn't reach his eyes, he grinned. "Lila, you're safe with me. I will always keep you safe.

I wanted to think he was real. However, when I looked into his eyes, I couldn't get rid of the idea that he was hiding more than he was showing.

I saw an odd mark on Kael's arm as we made our way back to the cabin; it's a sign I had seen in Hayden's pack before. Knowing that Kael might not be who he claims to be which makes my heart race.