Moonlight In Chains (Trinity and Asher) novel Chapter 129

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**TITLE: The Day He Forgot He Hated Me by Evangeline Marrow**

**CHAPTER 129**

The dawn following Rafe’s unsettling visit was eerily tranquil, a stark contrast to the chaos of the night before. The packhouse buzzed with the usual morning activities, yet an undercurrent of tension persisted, thick and suffocating, like smoke clinging to the air. Each member of the pack moved with caution, frequently casting nervous glances toward the tree line, half-expecting to see that infuriating smirk that had haunted our clearing just hours earlier.

Eryx had summoned us for a meeting mid-morning, and the air was thick with anticipation. This gathering wasn’t solely about Rafe; it was about the Shadow Lords, a dark shadow looming over us, a constant reminder of our vulnerability. The events with Rafe had only amplified our fears, reminding us that danger could strike at any moment.

As we assembled in the main hall, the pack formed a loose circle around Eryx, who stood at the center, exuding calm authority. “We need to address the situation regarding the Shadow Lords,” he began, his voice steady and commanding. “Their presence is intensifying, and their attacks are becoming more frequent. It’s imperative that we plan, coordinate, and prepare ourselves. Each of you has a role to play in this.”

Arlo stepped forward, unfurling a map that detailed the areas where energy surges had been detected over the past few days. “These markers indicate where the Shadow Lords are focusing their energy,” he explained, his brow furrowed in concentration. “The pulses are increasing in intensity. If we don’t take action soon, they’ll breach our borders, and that’s when it becomes perilous for everyone outside the safety of the packhouse.”

I leaned closer to the map, feeling a heavy weight settle in my chest. The Shadow Lords had always been a distant threat, a slow-moving storm on the horizon. But Rafe… he was different. He was personal, unpredictable, and dangerous in ways I was still struggling to comprehend.

Eryx’s gaze shifted to me and Asher. “Trinity, Asher, your bond is growing stronger. That connection will give us an advantage. We will need both of you on the front line if they decide to test us directly. However, we must also be prepared for unexpected threats.”

I exchanged a glance with Asher, who offered me a small, reassuring smile. The bond between us pulsed faintly, a steady reminder that we were not alone in this fight. But the memory of Rafe’s calculating stare made my stomach churn, a knot of unease tightening within me.

After the meeting concluded, I felt an overwhelming urge to escape the tension of the packhouse, so I decided to head downtown. The town was a short distance away, and the fresh air would do me good. As I walked through the streets, I noticed the town beginning to awaken; small shops were opening their doors, and the delightful aroma of fresh bread and coffee wafted through the air. I tried to immerse myself in the mundane rhythm of everyday life, but it didn’t take long for reality to intrude.

Then I spotted him before he noticed me—Rafe. He was leaning against a brick wall at the corner of Main Street, a smirk plastered across his face as he shoved a young man against the rough surface. “Relax, kid,” he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “I’m not here to hurt you… much.”

The young man stumbled backward, fear etched across his features, and a few bystanders began to gather, their whispers growing louder. My stomach twisted into knots. I couldn’t stand idly by while this happened. Not here, not in front of innocent people. This was my pack, my responsibility.

I stepped closer, allowing my presence to pulse slightly, careful not to reveal all of my energy. “Hey!” I called, my voice steady and unwavering. “Leave him alone.”

Rafe’s head snapped up, his eyes locking onto mine with a predatory glint. His smirk widened, a sinister grin that sent chills down my spine. “Well, well, if it isn’t Trinity. The little pack princess out on her own. What brings you here? Looking to play the hero?”

“I’m looking to stop you from causing trouble,” I retorted, stepping forward, energy thrumming faintly around my hands, a warning simmering beneath the surface.

He let out a low, dangerous laugh that sent a shiver through me. “Oh, I see. You’re feeling confident. Brave. Maybe even a tad reckless. I like that. But do you truly believe you can stop me?”

“I don’t need to believe it,” I replied, my voice firm. “I know it.”

With a theatrical flourish, he pushed the young man away, who stumbled back, and then took a slow step toward me. “Bold words,” he said, his tone mocking. “But bold words don’t mean much when you’re outnumbered.”

I flared my energy slightly, letting him feel the pulse, the unmistakable warning. “I’m not alone,” I said, my voice steady. “And messing with the pack… messing with me… won’t get you far.”

For a brief moment, Rafe’s smirk faltered, and I could sense the shift in his demeanor. He thrived on control and intimidation, and right now, I was showing him that I wasn’t afraid—not entirely. Not enough for him to push me around.

“Wow,” he said quietly, almost with a hint of admiration. “I didn’t expect this much… fight.”

“Save the commentary,” I shot back, energy coiling lightly around my hands, ready to defend if necessary. “I don’t want your approval. I want you to leave, and I want you to leave these people alone.”