The Alpha’s Rebellious Fiancee novel Chapter 17

Lyra (Seraphina)

The moon was high as we walked back through the woods toward the estate. I was still fuming, still thinking about that smug look on Lucien’s face when I almost skewered him with an arrow. So, naturally, I did the most mature thing I could think of.

I stuck my foot out and tripped him.

He didn’t fall completely, but he stumbled and growled low in his throat, spinning around to glare at me.

“What the hell, Seraphina?” he snapped, shoving me lightly on the forehead. “You’re annoying as fuck, you know that, right?”

I just shrugged, unbothered. “And you are a meanie. Most of the time.”

He blinked, stunned, and then let out a half-laugh, half-growl. “A meanie? What are you, five?”

“Well, you’re acting like a big spoiled wolf baby.”

He rolled his eyes dramatically. “I’m a meanie, you’re a cock blocker. I have needs, Seraphina.”

I threw my hands in the air. “Then keep your dick in check, Lucien. Or use your hand.”

He stared at me. “My hand? Wait—is that—are you saying I should…?”

I nodded. “Yes. You’re a grown man. Handle it yourself.”

He looked scandalized. “Why would I do that when there are so many people lining up for me?”

I stopped walking and turned to him, making the most exaggerated gagging sound I could. “Oh my goddess. That’s disgusting.”

He grinned. “What? Can’t handle the truth?”

“You’re talking about a line of people for you? Gross.”

“Why can’t you line up for me?” he teased, walking backward now with that annoying smirk on his face.

“I would rather throw myself into a ditch,” I said, pretending to gag again. “Ugh. Your ego is disgusting.”

“My dick is pretty tasty, or so I’ve heard,” he said smugly.

I made another loud barf noise, this time doubling over and holding my stomach dramatically. “Please stop! You’re going to ruin my appetite for the week! Oh my goddess, Lucien!”

He just laughed like it was the best thing he’d heard all day.

I blinked in the dark. Lucien’s voice was groggy but alert.

He was already by the bed, crouched beside me. “It’s okay. It’s just a dream.”

I didn’t answer. Couldn’t.

He reached out carefully, placing a warm hand on my arm. “You’re safe.”

I shivered.

My whole body was trembling, the fear still wrapped around my lungs like chains. “Come here,” he said softly, pulling the blanket back and sliding in beside me.

I didn’t resist. Didn’t fight. I let him pull me into his arms.

His scent—cedar and smoke—was suddenly comforting instead of irritating. His arms wrapped around me, strong and steady, as he pulled me to his chest.

“You’re okay,” he whispered again, fingers brushing through my hair. I pressed my face into his shirt, letting the heat of his body soak into mine. My breathing slowed. My heart calmed.

And in that drowsy, half-asleep state, something strange happened.

I let myself feel… safe.