She woke in his arms.
The alpha's face was torn with worry, blood on his cheek, his shirt torn from the battle.
"You almost died," he growled, voice hoarse. "You don't just touch Lunaris relics, Aria. Not unless you're ready to become something else."
She blinked, still dazed. "Did I hurt you?"
"No," he said. "But you hurt them. You killed five rogues with a single pulse of magic. You don't even know how powerful you are."
Aria's throat tightened. "I'm scared."
He leaned in closer, brushing her cheek with the back of his hand. "Good. Power should scare you. But I'm more scared of what happens if they get to you again."
He paused.
"You're not just marked, Aria. You're awakening. And when it's complete… you won't be the same."
Their eyes locked, the moment heavy with everything unspoken.
"I don't care," she said softly. "As long as you're with me."
But the alpha looked away.
"Don't promise me things you might not be able to keep."