Chapter 6 Chapter 6 Hope and Freedom

"Kathleen told me everything that happened."

His voice erupted suddenly-low and wild, like thunder rolling across the sky, making my eardrums buzz. I felt the floor give way beneath my feet, a wave of dizziness almost knocking me off balance. Even after all these years, he could still shake the ground beneath me with such ease.

"Little wolf, do you need my help?" Lucien's voice rumbled, sharp as claws gliding softly over skin. I shivered from head to toe.

My throat went dry, the air felt sucked out of the room. I nodded instinctively, then remembered he couldn't see me through the phone.

"Yes..." I cleared my throat, forcing my voice to steady. "I need your help, Alpha Lucien."

There was silence on the other end-three full seconds, long enough to choke me. I could almost picture him: those silver eyes gleaming dangerously, the lazy yet lethal smirk on his lips, waiting for me to crumble further.

"Heh," he suddenly chuckled, voice like flames licking old parchment. "You're bold, little wolf. You're the first to ever ask me for help."

My heart skipped a beat.

"So, have you thought about how you'll repay me?" he asked slowly, deliberately, like luring prey into a trap.

I bit my lip, hesitated, then whispered, "What do you want?"

"A lot." His low laugh hinted at layered meanings. "But not now."

Fury sparked in my eyes, and I snapped, "I won't be your whore! If this is just a game to you, then you never should've called!"

The line went dead silent. I could hear his breathing-slow, deep, like a beast prowling in the night.

"Ah," he finally murmured, his voice brushing against my ear like the night wind. "So the little wolf has grown claws now... I like that."

There was something feral in his tone-an untamed hunger, like a predator slowly closing in.

My heartbeat surged. Memories flooded back. Seven years ago, I was a meek little girl. Every time Lucien appeared, my wolf would cower.

But not anymore.

I straightened my back, keeping my voice as calm as I could. "A lot has changed, Alpha Lucien. I need real help, not a joke. If you can't take this seriously, maybe Kathleen misjudged you."

He didn't respond right away. The silence was crushing, as if he was examining my soul through the phone.

Then came a cold chuckle. "Changed your strategy, did you? First rage, then provocation?"

I held my breath, my knuckles white from gripping the phone.

"I don't intend to help someone still stuck in the past, torn by hesitation." His voice grew colder, tinged with impatience. "This call is over. If you're sure you're ready to fight back, then we'll talk again."

The line cut. I stood frozen, phone in hand, heart pounding.

Lucien's arrogant tone echoed in my mind. I threw the phone away.

How could I ever put hope in a male alpha, even if he was my best friend's brother?

Hope shattered again. I screwed it up again.

I rushed downstairs. I needed air. But Alexander had forbidden me from leaving.

Ruby appeared at the door, eyes glowing with excitement. "Luna Scarlett, you can go outside!"

I blinked, stunned. "What?"

"Alpha Alexander just issued the order himself. You're no longer restricted!" she beamed, like she'd just delivered the best news in the world.

I nodded slowly, emotions swirling inside.

What the hell was he playing at now? Just letting me go, just like that?

Ruby saw the doubt on my face. She stepped forward and hugged me tightly. "Alpha must've realized his mistake! He knows you're better than Faye. Everyone sees it. Only you can help the New Moon Pack, Luna Scarlett!"

Maybe she was right. But I wouldn't let my guard down.

Then my phone buzzed.

A text from Faye.

"You really should thank me. I convinced Alexander to release you. I showed the pack I'm a forgiving Luna, even after your jealousy nearly killed my child."

Rage flared hot and fast.

Of course it was that bitch meddling behind the scenes. How could I even consider Alexander acted out of decency?

I clenched my fists.

I needed to hit something. Hard. I needed to get this fury out before it consumed me.

I stormed into the training field; at least I had my freedom back. What better way to use it than to vent some of this fury? I'd rather roughhouse with a few warriors than let Faye drive me insane.

The sun blazed. Warriors shouted and wrestled in the dirt.

I scanned the area. Cain was there, sparring with a few others.

The field was split. My original team on one side. Alexander's team on the other. His group looked newer, more polished. Their gear shinier.

I wondered what he was scheming this time, dividing our warriors like that.

Then I noticed a brand-new archery setup off to the side-completely unused. Alexander had probably ordered them not to touch it.

A wicked idea sparked in my mind:

Why not tug the lion's tail a little?

I grabbed one of the machines and dragged it to my side-my wolves' side.

Whispers and sharp breaths followed me. I didn't care.

A tall warrior stepped forward. Muscular. Proud. Wearing the same insignia as Alexander.

"This breaks the rules," he said, arms crossed. Normally, without Faye around, he'd never dare talk to me like this. I didn't blame him.

I arched a brow. "Then stop me."

A sly grin curled on his lips. "You're too fragile. Don't make me hurt you."

I smiled sweetly. "Oh, darling. You're not ready for the embarrassment I'm about to deliver."

Laughter echoed. A crowd began to gather.

"You wanna fight?" he taunted.

I squared my stance, eyes locked on his.

"No. I want to teach your ego a lesson."

He chuckled. "Ladies first."

I didn't smile. I reached out and grabbed a spare sword from the nearest warrior, pointing it straight at him.