THREE PART 1

Chase’s Point of View

In response to Isabelle's heart-wrenching howl, I sprinted through the dense woods, driven by a mix of worry and anger over whatever Tyler had done to her. Something had clearly gone terribly wrong, and as a seasoned member of the Silverstone pack, I could discern the distinctive cries of my packmates, including the ones that tore at my own heart.

"I'm on my way, baby," I murmured under my breath, my determination propelling me forward. The clearing where Isabelle and Tyler had initially met was now empty, but I sensed her presence nearby. Her wolf's whimpering echoed through the trees, tugging at my instincts.

Regretfully, I hadn't thought to bring my night vision goggles, but I relied on my enhanced wolf senses to guide me. Though my human vision was sharp, it paled in comparison to the keen sight of a wolf. However, I did have my trusty gun, which I quickly drew from the concealed holster at the small of my back. I knew I had to be prepared for anything, ready to do whatever it took to protect Isabelle from that damn kid.

I sprinted towards the source of the distressing sound, and my heart nearly stopped as I stumbled upon Isabelle, lying vulnerable and naked in a huddled position on the ground. Confusion and concern flooded my mind as I quickly scanned the surroundings, ensuring we were alone, before gently brushing her long hair away from her eyes.

"Isabelle," I said urgently, my voice filled with worry. "What happened? Did he hurt you? Where are you injured?" My hands searched her trembling body, desperately seeking any sign of harm. The rage inside me grew stronger with every passing second, vowing to seek vengeance against whoever had caused her pain.

"Ins-inside," she stammered, her words barely audible amidst her shudders. I frantically tried to make sense of her response. Inside where? Had the perpetrator hurt her and fled? I couldn't comprehend her message, and the absence of any visible injuries only deepened my confusion. Yet her piercing cries continued, resonating through my eardrums with an intensity that pierced my soul.

"Not like that," she sobbed, her arms wrapped tightly around her stomach, her face contorted in anguish. "I need your help."

"Tell me, and I'll do it. Whatever you need, I'm right here for you," I assured her, determined to fulfill any request she had. The sound of her distress was unbearable, and if it meant putting an end to it, I was ready to confront Tyler myself.

Suddenly, her eyes widened with a mixture of fear and anticipation, and her body tensed as a piercing scream pierced the air around us. Damn it. If we didn't act quickly, campus security and who knows who else would be on our heels.

Without hesitation, I gathered her into my arms, cradling her fragile form, and swiftly turned deeper into the woods. Returning to the dorms was out of the question. Too many prying eyes and too many questions we couldn't answer.

"Hold on, baby. I'll find us a safe place, and then I'll figure out a way to make everything right. I made a promise I wasn't supposed to keep, but I'll make things better."

It took me a moment to fully grasp the situation. The arrival of the new moon had triggered her mating heat, subjecting her to an excruciating torment. And there was only one solution to alleviate her suffering.

"We have to act now," she moaned, her words muffled against my arm.

"Not until I know you're safe," I insisted, determined to protect her.

"I can't wait," she gasped, the urgency in her voice growing. "We have to do something now."

"Isabelle," I spoke with the authority of an alpha, pouring my own strength into my words. Though it wouldn't affect her like it would an alpha wolf, I had used this technique during our training to captivate her attention. "Focus on my voice and recall your training."

"I didn't prepare for this," she snapped, her frustration evident.

A faint smile tugged at the edges of my lips, even though the situation held no humor. I couldn't help but appreciate her feisty spirit. Our bond had been a battle from the start, and she still couldn't conform.

"We weren't prepared for this," I acknowledged. "But you're an alpha. You don't shy away from challenges."

"I despise you," she retorted, her words laced with frustration.

"No, you don't," I countered, my voice firm yet gentle. We both knew the truth—we loved each other deeply. But as guardians, we were bound by strict rules that prohibited intimate relationships with the wolves we were sworn to protect.

"If you don't help me, I will," she exclaimed, her anger evident in her voice but overshadowed by the pain etched in her eyes.

"Just hold on a little longer. We're almost there," I assured her. I didn't know why, but some instinct urged me to find an alternate route, and now it seemed like my paranoia was about to pay off.

We emerged from the woods, far from any campus buildings, and I scanned the surroundings for any signs of trouble. Thankfully, it was Friday night and the administration buildings in this remote area were practically deserted. I had taken precautions and ensured camera control out here months ago.

"Chase, please! I can't endure another moment," she pleaded, her voice desperate.

I briefly considered her request but dismissed it. The heat radiating from her skin seeped through my shirt, and her overwhelming need called to me in a way I couldn't resist.

"We're almost there," I gritted my teeth, fighting against my own body's response to her potent pheromones. "You can manage another two hundred feet."

Although I wasn't certain if I could. I might not be a wolf, but her pheromones were wreaking havoc on my body as well.

The overwhelming urge to take her forcefully, pin her down, and claim her consumed me, vividly playing out in my mind like a vivid movie.

With immense effort, I fumbled in my pocket and gripped the keys to the waiting SUV, pressing the button to unlock the doors. The vehicle stood ready, providing a sanctuary from prying eyes and a space where we could find release.

Just as I was about to guide her towards the car, she twisted in my arms and pressed her bare, wet center against my hand. The sensation sent a jolt through me, making my head spin. Countless nights I had fantasized about her bared and vulnerable, yearning for her touch. And how many times had I resorted to frigid showers, trying to cool the fire that burned within me while I watched over her with Tyler.