Kali I bite my lip hard, pushing back the fear creeping up my spine. How could I have been so fucking stupid? Chasing after those rogues like a clueless pup, without paying attention to my surroundings. I had lost sight of the stream's direction, failing to ensure I was still heading the right way. And now, I had walked straight into the lion's den I was seriously warned to avoid. Damn those rogues. The massive man in front of me-his scarred arms thick like tree trunks-glares down at me, holding my bag high above my head like a trophy. His dark eyes flicker with amusement, but his lips curl in disgust. "I don't want trouble," I say, raising my hands slowly. "They stole from me. I was just trying to get my bag back. Let me take it, and I'll leave peacefully. It was never my intention to step foot on your precious land." He scoffs, his lip twitching in irritation before his gaze darkens. "How dare a woman look me in the eye and talk back to me?" he hisses, his deep voice: laced with venom. "Do you even know who the hell I am? I'm a great warrior, one who has helped conquer packs and slaughter countless wolves." I want to retort, but I swallow the words down, knowing it won't do me any good. I keep my expression neutral, refusing to give this bastard the satisfaction of seeing fear in my eyes. "What's your name?" he demands. "What pack are you from? I bet it's some pathetic, lowlife pack-just like you. Your Alpha needs to be dealt with for failing to tame a pretty bitch like you." My fingers curl into fists, nails digging into my palms. "I don't belong to a pack," I say through gritted teeth. "And I don't want any trouble. Just give me my bag, and I'll