---- She wobbled theatrically, as if about to fall. Of course, Alan immediately reached out to steady her. The smug grin on her face made my blood boil. Watching their intimate exchange, I turned on my heel and walked away without hesitation. Alan called after me, but I kept moving. I wouldn't let anyone see just how shattered I was. The rain fell in torrents, soaking me through and through, but the blaze in my chest refused to be quenched. I wandered aimlessly until a group of Rogues closed in, trapping me ina dark, deserted alley. "Well, well, look who's come crawling back," the leader sneered, his scarred face splitting into a wicked grin. ''The pack's Luna, no less. Someone's definitely paid us well to give you a 'proper welcome.'" My body still ached from the fresh wounds Darian ---- had left. With trembling hands, I reached for my phone and dialed Alan's number. His gentle voice came through. "Leah, don't worry. I'm right here with you and the pups." "Alan! Please, you have to help me-" "Anna, I don't want to talk to you right now." The line went dead. I tried calling again, but his phone was switched off. Rain and tears mingled on my skin, sliding down my face as the bitter taste of despair coated my tongue. The werewolf who once vowed to protect me with his life wouldn't even answer my call now. "How tragic," the scarred werewolf sneered, stepping closer. The rancid stench rolling off him turned my stomach. "Looks like your Alpha's thrown you aside. Don't worry, we'll make sure you're not lonely." ---- His rough fingers grazed my cheek, trailing slowly down to my neck. I squeezed my eyes shut, nails digging into my palms as I prepared for the worst. All of a sudden, muffled thuds shook the air, followed by anguished cries. Trembling, I forced my eyes open. Before me, the Rogues lay sprawled across the ground, writhing in agony. My knees buckled, and I dropped down, my heart racing uncontrollably. At the far end of the alley, a tall silhouette emerged through the rain, his boots sending crisp splashes through the puddles. "Do you think you can stand?"