Chapter 27

Azrin's body moved on instinct the moment he realized Lexus was about to bolt. But he wasn’t quick enough. A sharp, commanding “Stay,” snapped from the flighty male's lips, and before Azrin could even process the order, his body obeyed. His limbs froze mid-motion, and he felt himself collapse, face-first, into the soft, plush nest beneath him. The disobedient part of his mind screamed for control, but his body was helpless against the command.

When Azrin finally managed to glance up, the blond had already fled. All that remained was the unsettling scent he left behind—an acrid mix of rot and fire, like a forest decaying under a blaze. The realization hit him with a jolt: Lexus had a scent. His alpha had a scent, which meant he had entered his rut. The timing was terrible. It dawned on Azrin that Lex had claimed him, his omega, and now hated himself for it.

“Oh, no.” The words slipped out as his mind raced. This was bad, really fucking bad. What was he supposed to do now?

“Azrin, you c