Helena's POV
My heart pounds against my ribs like a caged animal. That voice sends electricity racing beneath my skin, a sensation I know all too well.
Leo.
I spin around, uncertain who stands as friend or foe. My claws extend instinctively, prepared to strike, but he captures me effortlessly with one powerful arm, trapping my limbs against my torso. "Don't fight me," he growls low. "I'm not your enemy tonight."
I meet his gaze with defiance before drinking in his appearance.
My breath hitches. He looks destroyed. Beyond destroyed. His eyes have sunk deep into hollow sockets, shadowed by exhaustion. His typically immaculate shirt hangs in tatters, stained with rust-colored blood. His hands shake with a tremor he makes no effort to conceal.
His grip softens, fingers sliding down to capture my hand. Intertwining our fingers, he pulls me deeper into the forest. "Leo," I struggle against his hold. "Let me go."
