Chapter Five

Lucia's heart raced as Aiden and Declan led her through the grand cabin. The rustic yet modern space was far more luxurious than anything she was used to. Her eyes widened as they showed her the spacious bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, complete with a large soaking tub. 

"This is where you'll be staying," Aiden said, his deep voice sending a shiver down her spine. "The tub is perfect for an ice bath if you need to cool down."

Lucia nodded, her throat suddenly dry. The thought of sinking into a frigid bath was tempting, but the idea of being so vulnerable made her anxious. 

Declan stepped closer, his amber eyes warm yet intense. "While you're here, we'd feel better if one of us accompanied you anytime you need to leave the cabin. We trust our pack, but your safety and comfort is our priority."

Lucia considered his request. Though the idea of being chaperoned made her uneasy, she recognized their concern. "I understand. Thank you, both of you, for your hospitality." She offered them a small, grateful smile.

Aiden reached out and gently squeezed her shoulder, his touch igniting a spark within her. "We're glad you're here, Lucia. Make yourself at home." 

As they exited the bedroom, Lucia couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. These alpha wolves had already begun to burrow under her skin, awakening parts of herself she had long since buried.

Aiden and Declan left her to get settled, promising to return soon with a meal. Lucia stepped into the en-suite bathroom, the plush towels and high-end toiletries a stark contrast to the meagre accommodations she was used to.

Turning on the taps, she let cold water fill the deep soaking tub. Shedding her clothes, she sank into the cold water, the cold soothing her burning skin. Lucia let out a contented sigh, feeling her body relax.

As she soaked, Aiden's scent enveloped her, clinging to the robe he left for her, calming her frayed nerves. She inhaled deeply, focusing on the notes of pine and earth. The alpha's presence, even in his absence, was a soothing balm. Lucia felt her wolf stirring, yearning to be near him.

She pulled herself from the tub, wrapping Aiden's soft robe around her. The material clung to her damp skin, and she couldn't help but bury her face in the collar, revelling in his scent. Her wolf purred at being surrounded by the alpha's scent.

Feeling more centred, Lucia stepped out into the bedroom, her gaze immediately drawn to the array of clothing the men had left for her. Selecting a long t-shirt and boxer shorts that bore Declan's enticing aroma, she quickly dressed, the soft fabrics caressing her skin.

Curiosity piqued, Lucia exited the bedroom, her bare feet padding silently along the hardwood floors as she explored the cabin. Paintings of the pack's territory adorned the walls, each one more breathtaking than the last. She paused before a serene landscape of a glittering lake, admiring the skilled brushstrokes.

"Admiring our art, I see."

Lucia jumped at the sound of Aiden's deep voice, her heart racing. The alpha emerged from the kitchen, his eyes crinkling with amusement.

"I - yes, they are beautiful," she stammered, suddenly self-conscious in her choice of attire.

Aiden's gaze swept over her, his nostrils flaring as he drank in her scent. "Don’t worry, little Luna. You look comfortable, and that is the most important thing."

Lucia's wolf purred under his scrutiny, her skin flushing with heat. 

The purr was so loud Lucia would not have been at all surprised if Aiden heard it.

Aiden took a step closer, his presence overwhelming her senses. "I'm glad you're feeling at home here." His voice was low and rough, sending shivers down her spine.

Aiden offered his arm, a small smile playing on his lips. "Shall we head to the kitchen? Declan is preparing dinner."

Lucia hesitated for a moment, her wolf thrumming with excitement, before tentatively slipping her arm through his. Aiden's warmth and intoxicating scent enveloped her, calming her nerves.

As they entered the kitchen, Lucia's gaze was immediately drawn to Declan, who turned at their arrival. His eyes widened slightly as he took in her attire, his nostrils flaring as he noticed her bare legs beneath his boxers.

"Lucia, I'm glad to see you're settling in," Declan said, his voice rich and smooth. He gestured to the bar stool. "Please, have a seat. Can I get you something to drink?"

Lucia perched on the stool, her heart fluttering under their combined attention. "Some ice water would be lovely, thank you."

Declan poured a glass of ice water and slid it across the counter to her, his fingers brushing hers briefly. Lucia shivered at the contact, her wolf yearning for more.

The three of them settled around the kitchen island, an air of comfortable familiarity settling over them. Aiden and Declan engaged Lucia in light conversation, asking about her interests and passions, their eyes never straying far from her face.

Lucia found herself relaxing, mesmerised by the easy banter and the way the alphas' gazes occasionally drifted over her form. She knew they were aware of her heightened scent, her wolf, and despite being nervous, she couldn't help but revel in the feeling of being noticed and desired.

Declan's expression shifted, his brow furrowing slightly. "Lucia," he began, his tone apologetic. "I'm afraid I must ask you something, and I hope you don't mind."

Lucia's heart skipped a beat, her wolf tensing in anticipation. "Of course, go ahead," she replied, her voice soft.

"Who is your ex, and what happened between you two?" Declan asked, his eyes filled with concern.

Aiden's hand found Lucia's under the counter, giving it a gentle squeeze. The gesture was comforting, and Lucia took a deep breath before recounting the painful events.

“Alpha Ryder Blackwood of the Dark Moon pack. We mated five years ago, and after he became Alpha… It went downhill from there.”

As she spoke, Lucia could see the anger building in both Aiden and Declan's features. Their eyes darkened, and their jaws clenched tightly. She couldn't help but feel a surge of protectiveness from them, despite the vulnerability of the situation.

“He hit me. Abused me. Forced himself on me. The day I got away… I stole a kitchen knife, hid it under my pillow, and waited for him to try to force himself on me again. I managed to stab him in the side, and I said the words to reject him and break the bond as I ran.”

Tears spilled down her cheeks as the memories resurfaced, and before she knew it, Aiden had pulled her into his embrace. She melted into his warmth, the beating of his heart soothing her frayed nerves.

"Shh, it's alright," Aiden murmured, his hand stroking her hair. "You're safe here, Lucia. We won't let anyone hurt you again."

Lucia nodded, her fingers clutching the soft fabric of his shirt. The pain of her past was still raw, but in the comfort of their arms, she felt a sense of peace she hadn't known in a very long time.

Lucia slowly pulled back, looking up at Aiden with a small, grateful smile. His eyes were soft, any trace of anger replaced by a deep concern that made her heart flutter.

"Thank you," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "For everything. I don't know what I'd do without you and Declan right now."

Aiden's gaze drifted down to her lips, and Lucia couldn't help but feel the charged energy in the air. "It's nothing," he murmured, his thumb gently caressing her cheek. "You deserve to be taken care of, Lucia. No one should have to go through what you did, especially at the hands of their own mate."

Lucia's breath caught in her throat as she held Aiden's intense stare. She could see the desire simmering beneath the surface, but he remained still, waiting for her to make the move. Her wolf was definitely pleased to be the object of their attention.

Biting her lip, Lucia couldn't help but let her gaze drift to Aiden's mouth, her body burning with a mix of pain and longing. She noticed Declan's eyes darken as he watched the exchange, his nostrils flaring ever so slightly.

The temptation to close the distance between them was overwhelming, but Lucia knew she needed to take things at her own pace. These two alpha males were willing to let her lead, and she found comfort in that. For now, she would savour the connection, the knowledge that she was seen and cared for.

Gathering her courage, Lucia stepped forward and slowly raised herself up on her tiptoes, her arms winding around Aiden's neck. She searched his eyes, silently asking for permission, and when she found only understanding and desire, she pulled him down into a passionate kiss.

Aiden's strong arms encircled her waist, steadying her as she melted against him. He allowed her to set the pace, parting his lips as her tongue tentatively brushed against them. But the moment she deepened the kiss, Aiden took control, his mouth dominating hers in a heated exchange.

Lucia's heart raced, a mixture of excitement and apprehension coursing through her. The intensity of the kiss sent sparks through her body, but the sudden shift in power dynamics triggered a flicker of unease. She whimpered softly and pulled away, her breathing ragged.

Aiden's eyes searched her face with concern, and Lucia cursed herself for her reaction. "I'm sorry," she breathed, taking a step back and sinking into the nearest chair. Her knuckles were white from the force with which she gripped the seat, trying to ground herself.

"Don't apologise," Aiden said gently, his own gaze filled with understanding. "We're here for you, Lucia. Whatever you want or need, we’re here for you."